This is Debbie Hayes's avatar and link to their profile

Debbie Hayes

Offering therapy in IL
License: MAC, LCPC, QMHP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am a counselor licensed in Illinois with over 10 years of combined experience working as a caseworker and as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including grief, depression, anxiety,anger issues, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced bi-polar disorder and schizophrenia. My education included a vast array of specialties, including multicultural counseling. I continue my education by completing additional trainings so that I can stay on top of the latest research and best practices. In this way, I can be a better support to you. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in being judgemental. My approach combines client centered, strengths based, existential, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am happy to incorporate Christian based counseling into our sessions. As a Christian myself, I find utilizing a Christian based approach to be one of the most valuable and successful modes of therapy. If you are interested in Christian based counseling, please let me know and we will incorporate this approach into our sessions! It takes great courage to seek assistance in order to have a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change! If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you and to embark upon that journey with you! One step at a time, we can work towards making the changes you need to live a happier, more fulfilling life. I look forward to working with you soon. Debbie Hayes MAC, LCPC, QMHP

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Ricci Oppenlander

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LPC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I believe in a goal-oriented approach to therapy by helping clients build on their strengths and values distinct to them. I encourage clients to see themselves as unique, creative, and responsible individuals; capable of striving for self-improvement and self-fulfillment. As a therapist, I see a variety of people, focusing on adults with depression and anxiety and the struggles that come along with those feelings. I am passionate about helping everyone find happiness, direction and fulfillment. I see clients with a holistic approach, emphasizing a trusting, respectful relationship, developing and empowering proactive behaviors, while appreciating their individual qualities. I believe fostering effective change is developed with openness and honesty during our sessions- focusing on individual concerns, questions and frustrations and working from there. I realize sometimes it is difficult asking for help, therefore, believe it shows how much clients understand the importance of making intentional efforts to have good health and happiness in life.

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Kenita Perry-Bell

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have many years of experience working within the  experienced health field, including providing services to individuals dealing with substance abuse. My experience includes working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, anger management, and grief and loss. I am also a breast cancer survivor and welcome women/family members who are experiencing or have experienced breast cancer and need to talk. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with compassion, and respect. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and holistic using an integrative approaches such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic therapies. I am client centered and will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to address your specific needs. It takes a lot of courage to seek help and want to make a change. If you are ready, I am here to help, guide, assist, empower and support you. **Currently I am only accepting clients who are interested in utilizing the chat feature.** I look forward to working with you! Kenita Perry-Bell, MSW, LPHA, LCSW

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Dominique Horton

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dominique and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings where I have served youth and families, young adults and for the past 10 years school-aged children. While I served young people in this role, services to their adult caregivers were key to client success. I earned my Master’s in social work from Southern Illinois Carbondale and I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis’ Brown School of Social Work. I have also had the wonderful opportunity to serve as a White House intern under the Obama Administration, developing a deeper understanding around the complexities of social issues within the United States. I would describe my therapy style as non-judgmental, empathetic, friendly, supportive, and warm. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, and I work collaboratively with the client to achieve their desired goals through a variety of tailored evidence-based treatment modalities. I believe: -Cultural humility, as well as compassionate and confidential care, are essential to effective counseling -Clients voices should be heard, and their needs validated -Clients possess the power and the ability to make necessary change in order that they may live abundant, peaceful, and purpose-filled lives. I am so very happy that you have taken the step to find support in reaching your goals for overall wellness and I am grateful for the opportunity to support you in your journey.

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Dr. Wanda Parker

Offering therapy in IL
License: EdD,CADC,LCPC
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in the State of Illinois as a License Clinical Professional Counselor , but also hold a state and national certification in Addictions. I have 20 years of experience providing addiction and mental health services. I see the therapeutic relationship as a partnership and would like to assist you on your journey to wellness, empowerment, healing and peace. My therapeutic approach is cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, rational-emotive, solution focused and trauma informed. I believe in individualized treatment to meet your specific needs. Taking the first steps towards change can be courageous. If you are ready to take that journey towards wellness, I will be here to support, validate, and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Paula Alvarez

Offering therapy in IL
License: EdD,LCSW,MBA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.

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Malissa Watters

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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Susan Flynn

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional counseling work experience, numerous years in the corporate world with many years of life experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

This is Dr. Bianca Clark's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Bianca Clark

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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.

This is Najah Hawkins's avatar and link to their profile

Najah Hawkins

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

How to find counseling in Essex

Finding the best therapist close by in Essex 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 Essex. 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 Essex, 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 Essex 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 Essex 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 Essex, elsewhere in Kankakee, 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 Essex area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Essex 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 Essex 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 Essex 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 Essex, 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 Essex 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 Essex 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 Essex 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 Essex 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 Essex 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 60935 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 Essex 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 Essex 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 Essex, 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.

Essex 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 Essex.

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

60935

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