Dr. Pamela Vernon Stewart
Hello, I am pleased to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Pamela Vernon Stewart. I hold a doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a minor in Health Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in the State of Illinois. I am well experienced in individual therapy with adults 18 years and older. I earned my degrees (B.S., M.A. and Psy.D.) at Loyola University and the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. Some of my experience includes hospital practice, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. I have five years of intensive experience covering a wide range of concerns. These include trauma (emotional and physical), grief, depression, anxiety, alcohol and substance abuse, stress, neglect, discrimination, cultural identity difficulty, personality disorders, eating disorders, OCD, ADHD, college issues, and health issues including chronic pain, AIDS, Lupus and Diabetes across genders and age groups. In addition, I have experience working with individuals for anger management, communication problems, and relaxation and meditation for stress reduction. I enjoy working with people of all cultures. I believe in a holistic biopsychosocial approach to assessment and treatment that attends to the client’s mind, body and spirit. My therapy style is integrative (motivational interviewing, psycho-dynamic, behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, DBT, EFT, and so on) collaborative and client-centered at the core. I also have clinical training and experience in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming (EMDR). My therapeutic style is interactive and driven by warmth, sensitivity and empathy. Stalwart ethical principles guide me. Together we will develop your unique treatment plan, one that will meet your specific needs. I applaud you for seeking help. This takes strength and courage. If you are ready to take the first step, I am here to empower you and help you reach the fulfillment of a happier life. I look forward to a rich clinical therapeutic experience with you. With great enthusiasm, Pamela Vernon Stewart, Psy.D., CADC, LCPC
Deborah Beard
My name is Deborah Beard. I am trained in Marriage & Family Therapy and have served as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 25 years. I graduated in 1996 with a Masters degree in Science: Family Therapy from Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. My previous work experience as a Human Resource Manager and a Professor of Education bring relatable life skill experiences into each of my sessions. I have served as a counselor in both public and private mental health agencies, primarily for those seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma and abuse recovery, relationships, and parenting skills. Any client who has the courage to seek counseling is someone worth celebrating. With gentleness and warmth, I try to focus on each of my clients' strengths to help them in the areas they desire to change. I utilize counseling tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Systemic Therapy as appropriate. Each client's faith and moral values are recognized as a wonderful foundation for their desired growth. I look forward to meeting you!
Carla Dumas
I am licensed in Illinois with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Beverly Smith
Beverly (Ann) Smith Bio In addition to being a therapist, I am a licensed clinical social worker (MSW, LCSW), certified dementia practitioner and former Baccalaureate trained nurse. This unique background enables me to empower others in multiple ways. My over 20 years of experience includes working in hospitals, clinics, adoption/foster care agencies, assisted living facilities, and teaching as an adjunct professor at local junior colleges. I have counseled children, teens, foster parents, grandparents, young parents, members of the LGBTQ community, and cisgender adults using cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy. I believe that good outcomes with therapy are significantly linked to being matched with the therapist best suited for you. My goal is to be caring, honest, compassionate, committed and effective.
Erika Luhn
As a licensed therapist in Illinois with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship dynamics. I bring deep expertise in helping clients work through issues like isolation, guilt, shame, body image concerns, and interpersonal struggles. My approach is compassionate and tailored, with a particular commitment to supporting women, young adults, and individuals experiencing life transitions. I understand the intricate ways trauma, mood disorders, and family dynamics intersect, and I'm dedicated to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing and growth. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I offer a nuanced, empathetic approach that honors each person's unique journey. Whether you're dealing with relationship challenges, processing past experiences, or seeking to enhance personal resilience, I'm here to provide thoughtful, professional guidance.
Krystal Kemp
As a licensed therapist in Kansas, I bring 17 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients to cultivate self-love, navigate interpersonal challenges, and develop resilient coping strategies. I specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, workplace stress, and multicultural experiences. My approach honors each person's unique journey, with particular sensitivity to women's issues, young adult challenges, and the nuanced experiences of marginalized communities. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their deepest struggles and strengths. Whether you're managing social anxiety, processing grief, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise. My background reflects a deep understanding of diverse human experiences, and I'm passionate about supporting individuals as they rediscover their inherent worth and potential for growth.
Marianne Costales-Roman
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring nearly three decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on creating affirming, culturally responsive spaces for diverse communities, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, stress, anxiety, and LGBTQ+ experiences. I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate personal growth, relationship dynamics, and intersectional identity challenges. My approach honors each person's unique journey, focusing on building self-love, improving communication, and addressing issues like isolation, workplace stress, and multicultural experiences. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including supporting individuals through life stages such as young adulthood, midlife transitions, pregnancy, and family dynamics. I offer empathetic guidance for those experiencing trauma, relationship difficulties, and personal transformation, always centering the client's inherent strengths and resilience.
Patricia Schofield
I'm a therapist licensed in clinical social work with 30 years of professional work experience. In practice I have been successful in helping clients coping with addictions, relationship issues, marriage and family conflicts, grief and loss issues, parenting problems, anger management, motivation and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I see my clients in the light of their capabilities, talents, visions, and hopes. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am here to help you get started.
Glen Ensinger
I am licensed in Illinois , Colorado and Georgia with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dr. Wende Pannell
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice specializes in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and self-esteem development. I focus on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore personal growth, address communication barriers, and work through challenging emotional experiences. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, whether they're struggling with social anxiety, workplace stress, life transitions, or deeper emotional wounds. My therapeutic work emphasizes holistic healing, helping clients develop self-compassion, rebuild connections, and rediscover their inner strength. I'm committed to walking alongside individuals as they develop healthier coping strategies, process difficult experiences, and create meaningful pathways toward personal transformation. I specialize in supporting older adults and individuals experiencing midlife transitions, chronic health challenges, and complex emotional landscapes. My goal is to provide empathetic, personalized guidance that honors each client's individual experience and potential for healing.
David Petersmark
I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Camille Jones
As a licensed therapist with nearly three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients work through challenges including stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, and significant life transitions. I am certified in meditation and Ayurvedic wellness and coaching. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, supportive environment where individuals can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My approach centers on empowering clients to build self-love, improve communication, and discover their life purpose. With extensive expertise in addressing social anxiety, workplace challenges, relationship dynamics, and midlife transitions, I offer a nuanced and understanding perspective. I particularly enjoy working with individuals experiencing complex emotional experiences, including those dealing with grief, attachment challenges, and personal transformation. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I believe in honoring each person's strengths and supporting them as they develop resilience, self-understanding, and emotional well-being.
Hannah Herrin
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive experience in working with juveniles and individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Specializing in both adolescent development and addiction recovery, I combine evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a compassionate, client-centered approach. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by young individuals in vulnerable situations, I am committed to helping clients navigate complex emotions, build resilience, and achieve lasting recovery.
Erin Osborn
I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Chicago, Illinois
Finding a therapist near you in Chicago, Illinois starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Illinois is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Illinois, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Illinois, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Illinois
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Illinois, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Illinois
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Illinois
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Illinois, including residents in Chicago.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Illinois do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Chicago, Illinois
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Chicago and the surrounding IL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.