Highwood, Illinois was long occupied by the Pottawattomie Tribe. The Native Americans stayed on the land until the area was ceded to the United States, but a few Native Americans faithfully returned to their beloved hunting grounds. Highwood gets its name because it was the highest ground between Chicago and Milwaukee and it was covered with trees. We all want to live the high life, but we all have days where mental health drags us down.

You don’t have to feel like you’re living the low-life. Licensed treatment specialists in the Highwood area know just how to help you get back to enjoying your beloved friends and family. Match with a counselor today.

This is Bob Zima's avatar and link to their profile

Bob Zima

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I provide collaborative counseling services to individuals and couples whose lives have been ripped apart due to anger, relational conflict, loss/grief and shattered dreams. Unresolved pain and fear from "doin' life" fuels anger and other behaviors that destroy relationships and turn life into a cardboard dirt sandwich with a side of sawdust. Get started on your healing today. Reach out. Schedule a session. Sometimes that first session can change your world. I collaborate with individuals and couples looking to improve the quality of their life by understanding how their story (narratives of their past, present and future), personality, and temperament influence their psychological fitness skill-sets (coping, problem solving, and communicating) and overall mental wellness. Using Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral, and Client-Center Therapy techniques and psychoeducation, I help individuals and couples identify and accept their personality traits, temperament characteristics, life story, and personally defined wants & needs. Then, we craft new, future-focused narratives and begin the healing process.

This is Pat (Patrick) Granada's avatar and link to their profile

Pat (Patrick) Granada

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

Hello my name is Pat Granada I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. I am licensed in Illinois. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Truman State University and a Master’s Degree from The University of Illinois School of Social Work. I have worked in many disciplines and populations of Social Work working with children, the physically disabled, the chronically and severe mentally ill, and people with medically induced life changes such as dialysis, and people in hospice. When working with my clients, I provide a warm, supportive and welcoming space that is free from judgement or rejection. I am often told that I am easy to talk with. I enjoy helping individuals meet their desired outcome and I would be delighted to help you reach yours. I have trained social workers to work in the clinical field as well and emphasize the importance of client self change with therapeutic assistance. My therapeutic approaches include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Modification, and Mindfulness. These modalities have proven to be highly effective throughout my years of helping others. "This first message may seem very formal, but it is absolutely necessary that I share with you your legal rights for self-care should you experience a crisis or need a higher LOC (level of care). It includes my availability to you to support you along your counseling journey; and, discusses your HIPPA rights which ensure and protect your right to privacy and confidentiality. These therapeutic requirements for Informed Consent and Duty to Warn are a part of the development of the therapeutic relationship; and, although it may not necessarily apply to you I am required to share this information immediately (Informed Consent) in the event the steps outlined below become necessary so that you understand your rights, feel validated, and know what steps to take: -I am committed to responding to you within 24 hours–I do check my messages at least twice a day, but cannot provide sessions until the evening— with the exception of weekends and holidays; as I am committed during the AM hours to work in my private practice. I will respect your personal time with not interrupting you after 9pm CST daily. If you decide to schedule a live video/phone/chat session with me, you are able to schedule your appointments based on my availability schedule from your dashboard as well under the “SCHEDULE’ tab; I will receive a notice anytime that you schedule an appointment ;It is strongly encouraged that we discuss a time to meet. I cannot guarantee that I can make an appt if not agreed upon by us together. -The platform or dashboard where we communicate for services is open 24 hours a day/7 days a week, with asynchronous messaging where you can chat-in at any time. Please keep in mind that I will respond to you within 24 hours, in the evening at the latest., except on weekends and/or holidays, however, you can respond or initiate contact for when it is convenient to you; -Sharing ‘Duty to Warn’ with you is part of your Informed Consent as it is an ‘ exception’ to your rights to privacy and confidentiality. This means that I am required to inform you that you should call 911 to report an emergency if you are having or begin to have thoughts of suicide or if you are planning suicide. Suicidal Ideation or Planning is an emergency for us both because it involves preservation of your life; my professional and therapeutic duty is to first preserve life. You should inform your love ones and your Emergency Contacts so that they can support you in accessing the help you may need to engage level of care within your community for crises of any nature. “Duty to Warn” also includes thoughts or plans of Homicide (killing or hurting someone else); and, the Abuse or Neglect of the Elderly or Children including indecency or other sexual acts; -If you share any information with me (verbally or written) that falls under the guidelines of “Duty to Warn,” I am required, by Law, to inform the legal authorities and possibly your Emergency Contact immediately if you have not communicated intent to do so or have not already done so. In some cases, if you do have experiences which fall under the “Duty to Warn’ guidelines, you may be required to submit your follow-up evaluation of receiving adequate care within your community to BetterHelp for continued counseling via LOC Tele-therapy; **-Finally, because we are not a crisis center, we can’t provide the counseling services/support that are required in a crisis situation. You can dial 911, 211, or 411; and/or, also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The following website can be accessed, as well, to help you if you are in need of immediate support: http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ ***This is the end of your Informed Consent and Duty to Warn for me as your Therapist; please let me know if you have any questions as we prepare to move forward in your counseling journey…" I applaud you for taking the first step on your path to improving your emotional well being. I look forward to working with you along the way.

This is Chris Muscatello's avatar and link to their profile

Chris Muscatello

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
10 years of experience

Stress in its many forms is an inevitable part of life, and there will be waves. So I say, if you gotta ride the waves, you might as well choose your surfboard. Unfortunately people aren’t usually taught what to do when the waves come, and I hope to guide and support you as you learn to surf. I may be a therapist, but I’m a human first; I just know different things and ask different types of questions. I believe great therapy relies primarily on the relationship, and so I’ll make it a priority for you to feel comfortable, accepted, and emotionally safe. And even though therapy can and should be tough at times, my hope is that you’ll laugh and smile a little on the way. Officially a family therapist, I always have the overall system in mind and believe that everything and everyone influences everything and everyone else. Problems in relationships, diagnoses, and internal struggles are often manifestations of reactions to stress. I’ll help you understand what’s happening in the brain when you are triggered and teach you a set of skills to help you to think clearly, be your best self, and make good decisions you can be proud of, even when stressed. I have worked in a variety of environments, with people of all ages, and with many different presenting problems, including those rooted in trauma. Aside from working plenty with adults, supporting children and families gives me a unique perspective and experience to help you in your current stage of life’s journey. As a therapist, I utilize models such as solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, and trauma-informed approaches, all present-centered and strengths-based. I offer you a relationship and experience that may help you access quick solutions and become more effective in all other relationships – with yourself, with others, with life. Not only will I bear witness to your life experience as an objective, yet understanding and empathic third party, I will also help you identify, access, and act upon your values – what is truly most important to you. I commend you for taking this step, it’s not an easy one. Know this – small steps can leave significant footprints.

This is Jenifer Regennitter's avatar and link to their profile

Jenifer Regennitter

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC,LMHC,MSEd
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Hello! My name is Jenifer, and I am a licensed therapist in both Illinois and Iowa. I have a Masters of Science in Education in Counseling and a Bachelors degree in psychology from Western Illinois University. I have worked as a Masters-level clinician in behavioral health since 2000, and have experience working in virtually every level of care--from residential, to inpatient, to outpatient, to community mental health. This has given me the opportunity to work with individuals at various levels in their mental health journey. I see adults of any (or no) spiritual background, but can offer Christian Counseling for those seeking a safe place to discuss their faith as it relates to their life struggles. Whatever you are at spiritually, emotionally, or mentally, I meet you where you're at! In terms of my counseling approach, I primarily practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Art Therapy and Trauma-Centered therapy. I provide counseling for those stuck in depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, or unhealthy coping patterns. Effective counseling is a collaborative experience; that means you and I will work together to identify opportunities for growth and healing, as well as the strengths you already have. I do give homework assignments from time to time so that you can continue your healing work outside session. My passion is helping people see what is possible so they can live life with more joy, peace, and wellness. I look forward to working with you!

This is David Nilsen's avatar and link to their profile

David Nilsen

Offering therapy in IL
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

Welcome, Requesting help is a huge first step. Here is a little bit about me. I served my country in the Army for 20 years, and was able to see much of the world during my service. During my tour of duty, I was able to stop smoking 3 packs of cigarettes, while simultaneously kicking my habit of drinking 12 cans of beer daily. 26 years later, I live a sober and cigarette free life. I currently live 30 miles away from the Crazy Horse Monument. I received a bachelor’s degree in 2005, physical education and health. I subsequently worked as an addictions counselor for 5 years. Wanting more from life, I returned to school and received my master’s degree in Social Work in 2014. Currently, I work at the VA helping with veterans with PTSD, addictions, anxiety, depression. I have been trained in several evidence-based approaches: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational interviewing (MI). We will develop a treatment plan together in a learning style that best suits you.

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

Mark Mikyska

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am an individual /group therapist licensed in Illinois with over 17 years of experience working as a therapist and crisis worker in the Chicago area. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, family issues and veteran issues. I also helped many people who have experience trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity and empowering my clients to become their own therapist. My approach combines mindfulness therapy, psychodynamic therapy, trauma focused therapy, existential therapy and internal family systems. It takes courage to seek 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.

This is Kimberly Ramsay's avatar and link to their profile

Kimberly Ramsay

Offering therapy in IL
AddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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 Deborah "Debbie" Aimone's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah "Debbie" Aimone

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and North Carolina with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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 Mirical Saddler's avatar and link to their profile

Mirical Saddler

Offering therapy in IL
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Illinois and Washington with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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 angelika rupp's avatar and link to their profile

angelika rupp

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Angelika Rupp and I am a licensed therapist with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, depression and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, self esteem, body image and confidence. I work both with individual clients, couples and groups. In working together, I utilize a collaborative approach to therapy, with the understanding that each person is distinctive and individual. I have experience with many issues ranging from mild to severe and utilize techniques from many therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Mindfulness, Dialectic-Behavioral (DBT), Solution- Focused, Psychoeducation, Crisis Intervention, and of course Client Centered. 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 and look forward to working with you!

How to find counseling in Highwood

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Highwood 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 Highwood 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 Highwood 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 Highwood, 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 Highwood 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 Highwood 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 Highwood 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 Highwood 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 Highwood 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 60040 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 Highwood 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 Highwood 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 Highwood, 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.

Highwood 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 Highwood.

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

60040

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