This is Mark Zinger's avatar and link to their profile

Mark Zinger

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the State of Illinois. Over the years I have worked in various settings such as hospital / crisis, residential treatment facilities, outpatient counseling setting, and inpatient psychiatric unit. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and history of trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectical-behavioral, and trauma focused therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek 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 your journey. I look forward to working with you!

This is Kristy Scholtes's avatar and link to their profile

Kristy Scholtes

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hello, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a passion for helping others. I have over 15 years experience with people of all ages, who come from various types of backgrounds and have struggled with many different types of challenges. Many of my clients have struggled with anxiety, stress, depression or trauma. I have a significant amount of experience working with young people on the Autism spectrum, with ADHD or with emotional disabilities. Supporting my clients as individuals, as parents or as a family through life experiences is my overall purpose. I strongly believe in building a strong connection first with clients. Our first session together will focus on your goals for treatment and the type of support you are looking for from a therapist. I have strong listening skills and an ability to support others towards whatever their goals may be. I am currently offering direct messaging and LiveChat sessions only. Video and phone session time slots are filled already, so I can not accept any additional clients with the preference for only those services. I know selecting a therapist can be a difficult decision and would be honored to work with you.

This is Michelle Curry's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Curry

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

Thank you for reaching out. It takes a ton of courage and strength to make that first step for additional supports. I am a licensed clinical social worker and have assisted others through their therapeutic journey for approximately 17 years. I am compassionate about others emotional well-being and strive to provide a safe place without discrimination or judgement. Everyone has a voice and their own story to share. I have worked with families and children with varying ages, abilities, disabilities, while conceptualizing mental health struggles that people experience on a daily basis. As a therapist, my role is to listen, provide empathy, support and the necessary tools to reach your goals. In time, you will gain a better understanding of yourself and the dynamics that impact your life. Remember that this journey takes time but I hope to have the opportunity to work with you.

This is Jennifer Wolf's avatar and link to their profile

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!

This is Megan Tostado's avatar and link to their profile

Megan Tostado

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois, Indiana and Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Tara Biarkis's avatar and link to their profile

Tara Biarkis

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Hello! I am Tara Biarkis, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with 11 years of professional experience. I have worked in a wide variety of settings from outpatient mental health, child welfare to healthcare. In particular my experience has included working with depression, stress and anxiety, family conflicts, perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, abuse or neglect and parenting issues. I consider myself a lifelong learner and am always challenging myself to learn new skills to help my clients. I believe that reaching out for help takes courage and I am here to support & empower you through the journey of change.

This is Ross Lafleur's avatar and link to their profile

Ross Lafleur

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) with 9 years of experience working directly with clients. I have worked in private practice and hospital settings with a very wide variety of populations. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. My approach is broadly cognitive-behavioral with a particular emphasis on mindfulness-based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I have personal experience in the performing arts so I do understand some of the unique concerns of artists as well. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Education: MS in Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

This is Tammy Frossard's avatar and link to their profile

Tammy Frossard

Offering therapy in IL
AddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and anger management. I believe that counseling is beneficial for everyone and that identifying and working through areas that may be difficult or having a negative impact on functioning is a positive step. It takes courage and strength and you are worth it.

This is Charlene Mabins's avatar and link to their profile

Charlene Mabins

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Pamela Ely's avatar and link to their profile

Pamela Ely

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical counselor in Illinois with over 25 years of professional work experience. My full time job is working with court ordered juveniles and their families, however I have also worked in a psychiatric unit and in an outpatient setting. My experience includes working with at risk children including abuse and neglect, sexual abuse, juvenile delinquency and substance abuse issues. I attend a minimum of 60 hours of continuing education per year including teaching at a local university. I believe that you are the expert of your story. I believe that you have many strengths and I hope to 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 toward a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey. In my personal life, I have been married for 30 years and have two grown children. I am an adoptive parent, love rescue dogs and enjoy helping others.

How to find counseling in Gifford

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Gifford 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 Gifford 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 Gifford 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 Gifford, 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 Gifford 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 Gifford 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 Gifford 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 Gifford 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 Gifford 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 61847 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 Gifford 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 Gifford 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 Gifford, 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.

Gifford 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 Gifford.

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

61847

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist