Mary Jennifer Meister
About Me Hi, I’m MJ. I’m an individual, family, and marriage counselor licensed in Illinois, and I’ve been doing this work for over 20 years. In that time, I’ve helped people navigate just about everything—depression, anxiety, stress, relationship ups and downs, parenting challenges, career changes, ADHD, and all the messy parts of life in between. I also work a lot with people who’ve experienced trauma, whether sexual, physical, or emotional. I often tell clients, “If you can tell me something I haven’t heard before, I’ll give you my Mickey Mouse watch.” And let me tell you, Mickey is still sitting right on my wrist—so you can imagine the stories, struggles, and victories I’ve walked through with people. **How I Work** My approach is warm, down-to-earth, and interactive. I’m a big believer in looking at the whole person—your emotional world, your physical well-being, and your sense of meaning or spirituality—because all of those pieces matter. That might sound fancy, but really, it just means I want to help you feel at home in your own skin and help who you are on the inside match how you show up in the world. I don’t do judgment or labels. I do respect, compassion, honesty, and a whole lot of common sense. (Truly—common sense might be my strongest therapeutic orientation!) I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused work, EMDR, and humor when it fits. Sometimes a small shift in perspective—and maybe a laugh—can open the door to real change. **A Bit About EMDR** I also offer EMDR, which is a powerful method for processing trauma, reducing emotional triggers, and moving past old patterns that keep you stuck. If you’ve tried “talking it out” and still feel something lingering, EMDR can help your mind and body finally let go. **What Telehealth With Me Is Like** Reaching out takes courage. Truly. And choosing to let someone into your world—especially through a screen—can feel strange at first. But once we get going, most people find telehealth surprisingly comfortable and personal. This platform works more like email, so responses aren’t instant like texting. I usually reply within 24 hours. If you prefer phone or video sessions, those are available by appointment. I’d love to walk alongside you as you make the changes you’re ready to make. Looking forward to working with you, MJ
Susan Haarman
So, you've already done the scariest part of this whole process, which is deciding that you want support and taking action. That takes incredible strength and humility, even if you may not feel that way right now. From here, it's my job to work together with you to find ways to channel that strength towards the goals you have and help reframe the way you're approaching challenges through support, humor, and compassion. I have experience working with adults and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, identity development, and navigating major life changes. As a queer therapist committed to social justice, it's my mission is to create a space in therapy where all folks feel affirmed and heard, especially if that is not their experience in daily life. My practice is client centered and I believe that mental health and wellness also includes finding ways to include your passions and priorities into treatment. We can also incorporate meditation or spirituality into therapy if that's important to you. You've done the hardest part by starting this process
Jean Hannigan
Background: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I graduated from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. Additionally, I have obtained certificates in Grief Counseling and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and/or grief related to their relationships or in their daily lives. I have an eclectic background working in the school system, social services, Early Intervention with the State of Illinois, and private practice. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement afterward. Using a non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy we will work together to find your strengths and utilize those strengths to meet your desired goals. Who I Treat: I work with adults, couples, and teens utilizing both client-centered and holistic approaches. My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, gender identity, and LGBTQ issues. I have a particular passion for working with those struggling with or recovering from Narcissistic Abuse. My Treatment Approaches: Client-Centered Therapy / Insight Oriented Therapy / Mindfulness/ CBT / Grief / Problem Solving
Loren Buford
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief, and self-esteem concerns with compassionate, culturally responsive care. I specialize in supporting individuals through nuanced personal growth journeys, focusing on areas like self-love, communication skills, life purpose exploration, and healing from codependency. My approach honors each person's unique experiences, with particular sensitivity to blended families, caregiver stress, and aging-related transitions. Drawing from a deep commitment to understanding human experiences, I create a supportive therapeutic environment that empowers clients to develop meaningful insights and sustainable emotional wellness. My work is grounded in respect, empathy, and a belief in each individual's inherent capacity for positive transformation.
Sarah Paul
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical counselor and have been providing therapy for adults, children, and families for more than 20 years. I feel truly privileged to have been able to share in the journey of all my clients. Let's face it folks, life can be so painful at times. It may feel as if peace, joy, and satisfying relationships have become foreign experiences. We all need and deserve a dependable hand to partner with us in getting through our journey. Whatever you're facing, whatever you're experiencing, and no matter the struggle- you don't have to do it alone. I think one of my favorite quotes exemplifies the foundation of who I am as a therapist: "The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen." Copyright: Elisabeth Kubler-Ross Family Limited Partnership. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross I have extensive training and experience post licensure that have honed my skills as a well rounded therapist. My toolbox of interventions can be tailored to meet the unique needs of my clients. We can work together to design strategies that will assist you in meeting your goals and living a more satisfying life. I am a trauma informed therapist, but this does not limit my work to only trauma related clients. I believe it enhances my work with all clients as I can utilize a variety a frameworks to meet the needs of my clients including and not limited to; CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Based, ACT, and Somatic Based. I also have experience working with all ages, genders, and diagnoses which has greatly added to my knowledge base.
Lawrence "Larry" Westenberg
Please note that I do not accept insurance because billing an insurance company requires that I diagnose/label you with a major mental illness so I can bill them for your "treatment. They also demand a complete focus on symptoms of this "illness" and force every question to fit their disease model and justify your continued therapy. This means 80% of your time in treatment is me staring at my computer screen, checking little boxes saying I asked you all the disease questions, and then an AI puts it all together into something for which they will HOPEFULLY reimburse me. Perhaps you have experienced this when you visit your Primary Care Physician, and he/she stares at their tablet the entire time, rushing you through the questions as they tap each question on the list. I work under a strengths/solutions model in my counseling. I help you find the resources to make positive changes in the direction YOU want to go. ABOUT ME: Thank you for sharing information about yourself here. I'm glad that you reached out for help. My name is Larry Westenberg, and I am a licensed therapist with over 40 years of experience in counseling. You can read more about my background, education, experience, and therapy approach by clicking on my name on this page. I started out on a 'back ward' of a state mental hospital, counseling extremely mentally ill people and helping them to access their resources, use their strengths and improve the quality of their lives. It was a tremendous challenge. At that time, I had my bachelor’s degree in psychology, and no other training. The State system allowed people to do counseling who had no training in counseling whatsoever. In fact, many of them had never been to college. I discovered the 'uneducated counselors' were usually MUCH more effective at helping their clients. They were not 'full of themselves' and their degrees. Instead, they used what they knew about helping people, did what they could, and learned to help people by figuring out what worked as they went along. They also expected the same from the people they were counseling - that they would use the resources they had, do their best, and get better at improving their lives. Meanwhile, the majority of the 'professional therapists' were lost in their long explanations and mythologies that tried to explain the patient's behavior, and they often developed bizarre theories and treatment methods they imagined would make the patients get better. When you make a connection to another person in counseling, you offer them a safe space to "step out of themselves," and discuss their own behavior from a different perspective of detached observation. Recognizing their own skills and the tools they have can help them make meaningful changes strategically, that utilize their own abilities. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and panic, ADD, relationships and finding meaning in life. I have extensive training in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) - which is bashed as unscientific non-sense on the internet. This criticism is thrown from the allegedly "Scientific field" of psychology which is founded on the idea of repressed urges of the id and wanting to kill your father to take possession of your mother. Not the best scientific theory for validating your experiences of life. I am a published author in the field of Belief Change, Ericksonian Hypnosis and NLP. I enjoy helping others uncover treasure within themselves. I don't work with lab rats. I work with people. I would appreciate the opportunity to work with you. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization and crisis intervention treatment. I have worked with LGBTQ+ individuals since long before we had an acronym. I have supported individuals in compartmentalizing alternative lifestyles so that they don't embarrass themselves at work or in social situations. I help some people accept the fact their family may be a toxic gaggle of illnesses and it really is okay to not be in contact. I help others discover how they create anxiety in themselves and teach a variety of skills for managing emotional states. My passion is helping people find insights into HOW they do the behaviors they do, so they can more easily shift the behaviors to get the same results - or different results. I also like helping people discover how past traumas and negative events can "echo" into present interactions and circumstances. Rather than label this a disease, I show people how to notice these connections and respond less to the resonance in the present. I laugh frequently and I may even tease about symptoms as an attempt to help you shift your perspective on your issues. I do not make fun of problems. I take my work seriously, but I will never take LIFE seriously - because it has this surprise-ending feature. I would be delighted to meet with you and find out if I can support you in making the shifts and changes that will help you build the life you desire.
Darwin Allen
I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, and abuse, & as motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe in finding the root issues behind the problems and resolving them. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Thomas Buckner
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey, with expertise in addressing depression, trauma, self-esteem challenges, and mood disorders. Please note that Better Help (or any specialty site) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or require immediate support. In such situations, please contact 911 or local emergency services. Alternatively, you can call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with a crisis counselor immediately. I offer a supportive space for exploring life's most profound challenges, including social anxiety, relationship dynamics, personal growth, and healing from past experiences. My therapeutic style centers on understanding individual strengths and creating meaningful pathways toward emotional wellness. My practice embraces diverse experiences and perspectives, with a commitment to providing affirming, respectful care. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship transitions, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I believe in the power of collaborative healing, where we work together to uncover your inherent resilience and develop practical strategies for sustainable emotional well-being. My goal is to help you cultivate self-understanding, build meaningful connections, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
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.
Renita Willis
Hello, and welcome! My name is Renita Willis, and I am a licensed therapist based in Illinois. Deciding to seek therapy is a brave and important step. I want to say how proud I am of you for pondering on this journey toward emotional health and well-being. I have the privilege of helping clients experiencing depression, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, and navigating life transitions. Life can be overwhelming, filled with unexpected changes, deep sadness, and / or persistent worries. It's difficult facing these moments alone. My goal is to offer you the tools, resources, strategies, understanding, and compassionate support you need to regain a sense of equilibrium and fulfillment. In our sessions, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space where you feel heard, seen and accepted. I believe that trust is the foundation of effective therapy, so I focus on building an authenic connection with my clients. With me, you can explore your thoughts and feelings without being judged or criticized. Whether it’s unpacking complicated emotions or learning new ways to approach hardships, I’m here to walk this journey with you. I use a collaborative approach to therapy by incorporationg your unique experiences, strengths, and feelings. We’ll work together to identify your goals, develop coping strategies, and create a treatment plan that aligns with your personal core values and aspirations. My role is not to dictate to you what to do but to support you in discovering your insights and empowering you to make the changes you desire in your life. I use an intergrative approach to therapy incorporating modalities including emotionally focused individual therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy. I know that the decision to start therapy can feel overwhelming. It’s not always easy to open up to someone and be vulnerable, especially if you’ve been carrying your struggles alone for a long period of time. But I am here to remind you that it’s okay to walk this journey at your own pace, and it’s normal to connect with a therapist for help. As a matter of fact, seeking support in therapy is a sign of strength, resilience, and hope. Let’s travel on this journey together, creating a space where you can heal and grow. If you’re ready to take that first step or just want to learn more about how therapy can benefit you, I’m here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. I will be honored to be a part of your healing journey. Come on, let's get started.
Susan Blanchard
Life can change in an instant. Whether you are grieving the loss of a loved one, struggling with anxiety or depression, or facing a difficult life transition, it can feel overwhelming to carry those burdens alone. My goal is to provide a compassionate, supportive space where you feel safe to share your story, process your experiences, and move toward hope, healing, and meaning-making at your own pace. I specialize in grief and loss, helping adults navigate the complex emotions that accompany loss, change, and uncertainty while rediscovering hope and purpose in the midst of life's challenges. I work with adults of all ages, including senior adults and members of the LGBTQ+ community. In addition to grief, I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, communication and connection issues, and periods of feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Together, we identify strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful steps toward the life you want. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. Drawing from person-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), solution-focused, and body-centered approaches, I help clients develop practical coping skills, deepen self-understanding, and create lasting change. Healing begins when you feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted.
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.
Terry Schnoll
I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, executive coaching, professional coaching, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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!
Noah Nelson
My name is Noah Nelson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my masters of social work from The University of Michigan, and have 15 years of experience working with various age groups, ethnicities, and backgrounds, all the way from Elementary school age children to adults. I work with the LGBTQIA+ population as well, and pride myself on taking a non-judgemental approach with each individual that I work with. I work primarily with severe trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and body image. I am a trauma informed therapist and primarily use elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in my work. My approach to therapy is very empowerment based, and I make sure to meet each individual where they are currently with no pre-conceived notions or thoughts, and my goal is to help you navigate through your therapeutic journey with me to accomplish your goals. I am very open-minded, encourage individuality and embrace what makes us unique, and promote being our true and vulnerable selves. I know that therapy is a journey, and there is not always a right or wrong way to solve a problem, but through this therapeutic journey, we will work to find a way to navigate through when there doesn't feel like there is a solution. Clients can expect to feel supported, valued, and that they have been heard and respected during each session. My goal is to help you better process and understand how to manage your mental health, not to tell you what you are doing wrong, or how to live your life. I want to empower you to take the important steps to accomplish your goals with me as your therapeutic tour guide.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Durand, Illinois
Finding a therapist near you in Durand, 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 Durand.
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 Durand, Illinois
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Durand and the surrounding IL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.