Life is a trip down the river. When the river is calm, the ride can feel relaxing and easy to do. However, when the river is overflowing, journeying down it can be overwhelming and you can feel like your boat is about to crash at any second. Luckily, a counselor based in Des Plaines can help you. 

Des Plaines is named after the Des Plaines river. As it flows through the suburb, you can flow through your life with ease. A counselor can be that boat that helps you. Speak to a counselor today and see how they can help. 

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Peter Agostino

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesCompassion fatigueADHD
10 years of experience

I believe that each and every individuals has the tools to make their life better and it is my job as a therapist to help my clients learn how to use those tools and so each client can help themselves. I have worked with a very diverse population and pride myself in being truly understanding of all people and all lifestyles. I like focusing on a client's strength's and and getting to know a client fully. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, the LGBTQ community, relationship issues, multicultural issues, religious and anti-religious issues, issues of race and feminist issues. I am a very open therapist that believes each client deserves a positive ear to talk to. I also believe in reality therapy. If something in your life is not working for you we are going to talk about it and try and figure out how we can develop new and better reactions to different situations.

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Dr. Robin Chamberlain

Offering therapy in IL
License: DMin,LCPC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
30 years of experience

You are courageous in reaching out for counseling. Counseling is a healing/growth/and development process you undertake for yourself. I'm grateful to journey with you. I believe every person holds worth, dignity, and value as someone created by God. There is no one like you! You are special! While you may not believe that, it is important that you know my approach toward you - that is how I view you. I have been a licensed clinical professional counselor for nearly 30 years and a Doctor of Formational Counseling - explicitly Christian counseling - for over 10 years. I serve individuals and families who are seeking counseling from a Christian perspective as well as individuals who are seeking traditional counseling. I have over 30 years of experience in serving children, families, and individuals in various capacities and settings; both urban, rural, and internationally. I look forward to connecting with you on this part of your journey through life.

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Erin Taylor

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a professional counselor independently licensed in Illinois after moving back and practicing in Arizona for nearly a decade. I have over 15 years of experience in a wide range of services and populations both in Arizona and Illinois. I have both experience in crisis intervention and outpatient therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, abandonment, abuse, bullying, parenting problems, grief, addiction and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked with schools, DCFS, foster parents, Emergency Rooms, Police/Fire, Psychiatric Hospitals, Psychiatrists, Probation. My internship was completed at a shelter that provided counseling for women in need of therapy for domestic violence situations and sexual assault trauma. I completed an additional internship that focused on substance abuse and addictions. I served working with juveniles on probation/parole initially in Arizona and then entered the crisis world. I then changed to outpatient work with individuals and families for over 5 years before moving back to Illinois. I have been working in a combination of crisis work and outpatient therapy for almost 5 years now. My style is warm, empathetic, supportive and a little humor at times. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I have worked with all populations, including children, adults, LGBTQ+, people of various backgrounds, spiritual beliefs and appreciate diversity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, crisis intervention, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, humanistic, client centered and rational-emotive counseling. I will ensure the treatment plan is unique to you and your specific needs, so this is a team effort. I want you to feel heard, valued, and our interactions to feel genuine and promote your growth and wellness. I know this is difficult and I applaud you for reaching out to take care of yourself, it is so important to take care of mental health and learn tools and ways to carry with you the rest of your life.

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Kimberly Bordner

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Twists and turns are a part of life, but having an impartial voice that lends a new perspective can make navigating them easier. We all have our own struggles, experiences, and obstacles. We also have our own strengths, talents, and resources. Realizing how to utilize your own unique strengths to discover ways to overcome obstacles is my passion. We all have our own differences and it is those differences that give us strength as individuals, couples, families, and communities. Has someone ever asked you "how are you doing" and you answered "fine" even though you knew deep down inside you were feeling anything but? Do you feel pressured to say "I am okay" when you are really not? As a therapist, I am here to let you know that it is okay to not be okay. You don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. You don't have to fight your battles alone. Ask yourself this question: If you could wake up tomorrow and change one thing about your life, what would that be? What would that change look like? No one should feel forced to build their own happiness without the right tools. I am here to help you obtain those necessary tools so that you can start making those changes today. I am a professional clinical counselor licensed in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a clinician. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and PTSD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm, honest, and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, My approach combines all modalities of treatment. I do not believe in an "all fits one" treatment. We are all individuals with different personalities and I will tailor our sessions to fit your unique needs. Throughout our sessions, I will be committed to helping your overcome your obstacles. Life is meant to be lived, so why no start living? I am here to stand by you, as you start your journey to a new you! It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Brian Wortel

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois with over twenty years of experience working with people making changes in their life. I have worked with people challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, intellectual disabilities, social/emotional, and life-changing situations. I am also an Army veteran with a passion for working with those with PTSD. My approach is solution-focused, client-centered, and strengths-based drawing heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Theory and Rational Emotive Therapy. When working with clients I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, positive, respectful, and safe. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in doing great things and overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am excited to meet you and work together to identify your goals and make plans to achieve them. I prefer the first session to be video chat and after that phone or messaging.

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Kathryn Douglas

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

I have worked in mental health since 2004. I have been employed in a variety of settings and worked with individuals struggling with addiction, chronic mental health issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, postpartum depression and anxiety. I work from a behavior context, largely utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and other behavioral techniques. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Psychology in 2004 from Quincy University, my Master's degree in Education in Counseling in 2007 from Quincy University, a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from Penn State in 2013, and a Master's degree in Sociology from Arizona State University in Spring of 2022.

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Alexandria Aasen

Offering therapy in IL
AddictionsRelationship issuesSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Nevada with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, & motivation, self esteem, confidence, and so much more. People seeking help are some of the strongest people I know. Making a plan to work towards your goals and overcome challenges will help you get to your destination with fewer delays. Making changes is not easy but it is possible with effort and helpful interventions.

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Julie Bailey

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Jennifer Wolf

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoachingADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & executive and professional coaching. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Lawrence Haas

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Illinois with 3 years of experience specializing in addressing a wide range of mental health and personal development concerns. My expertise includes providing effective support to individuals dealing with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and career difficulties. I firmly believe in a strengths-based approach, viewing each client as the expert of their own life story. I am dedicated to helping you harness your unique strengths and abilities to overcome challenges and embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and happier life. Taking that crucial first step towards personal growth and positive change requires courage, and I am here to provide support throughout your journey.

How to find counseling in Des Plaines

Finding the best therapist close by in Des Plaines can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Des Plaines. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Des Plaines, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Des Plaines or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Des Plaines area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Des Plaines, elsewhere in Cook, or in the greater state of Illinois.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Des Plaines area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Des Plaines therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Des Plaines due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Des Plaines may not take health insurance, some in the state of Illinois may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Illinois you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Des Plaines, Illinois working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Des Plaines above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Des Plaines helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Des Plaines therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Des Plaines therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Des Plaines therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in IL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 60018 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Des Plaines counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Des Plaines licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Des Plaines, Illinois can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Des Plaines has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Des Plaines.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Des Plaines:

60016, 60017, 60018, 60019

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