I hope this finds you well. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in IL with many years of experience working in mental health counseling. I have worked with a diverse range of clients dealing with a variety of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem, as well as relationship concerns. I have also helped many clients experiencing minority stress and or minority trauma. I approach therapy with a sensitivity and predilection for multicultural factors. I have varied experience in multiple settings, including providing individual and group therapy at an inpatient hospital unit and an outpatient hospital unit; as well as providing individual and couples therapy at a private practice. I would describe my style as conversational, strengths based, insight-oriented, and fun. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for us to explore and gain insight while promoting self empowerment. My clinical approach draws from Gestalt therapy and also incorporates Solution-Focused and mindfulness interventions. With me you can expect to be challenged to explore the origin of your problems, develop new awareness, identify pattern behaviors, work through unfinished business and create new strategies for change. Overall, I want to meet you where you’re at and collaborate to make sure our time together works best for you and your needs. I value your courage in taking the next steps on your path to wellness. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey. "When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. " - Fred Rogers

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

Embarking on this journey together, we'll delve deep into understanding your essence. Through thoughtful questioning, we'll unravel the intricacies of your systems and behavioral patterns. Exploring your family roots will be a recurring theme, shedding light on your upbringing's influence. From discussing your sleeping habits to dissecting matters of the heart, no topic is off-limits, including the inevitable conversation about mortality. Our collaboration will peel back layers of your human experience, granting you the invaluable opportunity for introspection. Research underscores that the bond between therapist and client is paramount for therapeutic success. It transcends methodologies, emphasizing the therapist's ability to connect with you on a profound level. I aspire to be more than just your guide; I aim to be your confidant, your reflection, and your advocate. While I can provide direct feedback, my approach is imbued with warmth and empathy. I don't shy away from addressing trauma head-on; every individual, regardless of past experiences, deserves healing and growth. George stands out as one of the few mental health professionals in the entire country who also hold an MBA. This unique blend of knowledge provides a deep insight into both the psychological and business aspects of individual issues. He strives to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. His unique perspective, dedication to fostering personal growth, and healing have made him an invaluable asset to our practice and the clients we serve.

Hello! Janet Craig here. I come to Betterhelp with 30+ years of social work/advocacy/counseling experience. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked in a variety of settings (child welfare, hospice, and the schools), and am comfortable helping people of all ages explore what makes them tick, what causes them pain, and how they can best take care of themselves. Being a human being is hard work no matter your age or life experience. I am especially skilled in helping parents with a variety of parenting issues, and have a passion for working with parents of teenagers. Raising a family is one of life's biggest and most important challenges. I'm here to help parents navigate new territory as their kids grow through adolescence. As a bereavement counselor, I have helped individuals and families cope with loss and it's resulting aftermath. Grief can feel very lonely and overwhelming at times. Sometimes it helps to sort out thoughts and feelings with someone outside the family. That's where I come in. My approach is one of compassion, careful listening, and guiding individuals toward meeting goals that they set for themselves. I firmly believe that people have the capacity to heal themselves, and that no one has to make that journey alone. My approach to my life and profession is that of acceptance, respect and kindness. The bumper sticker on my car says, “Human kind (be both).” My life's motto. EXPERTISE parenting grief/loss stress management relationship issues self-esteem anxiety coping skills

I am a passionate yet pragmatic individual who brings a person-center, trauma-informed approach to the therapeutic relationship with each person I encounter. In my 22 years of practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have worked with persons struggling with anxiety, depression, inter-personal relationship struggles, life challenges including grief, addictions and complex trauma. I believe in unconditional positive regard for each person I encounter and support their journey to discovering their strengths using a solution focused approach, as well as journaling and coloring. Additionally I am a certified, advanced addictions counselor with over 25 years of experience. I look forward to working with you.

Hello, I am Heather Friend, a licensed clinical therapist, and I am glad you have come in for support. Reaching out takes courage, and a big part of my job is working to promote a safe and accepting space for you. My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, and open-minded, with a strong focus on helping you recognize your strengths and build a sense of confidence and emotional clarity. I strive to create a space where you feel respected, and free to be yourself, without judgment or pressure. Therapy with me is collaborative, thoughtful, and paced to meet your needs, because this is your healing space. I believe therapy works best when you feel understood and empowered. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or simply needing a place to process what you are carrying, we will work together to help you feel more grounded and capable in your day-to-day life. If you feel nervous about starting therapy, that is completely normal. We can take things step by step, at a pace that feels right for you, and focus on building comfort and trust along the way. I offer daily and evening sessions. I also offer sessions on the weekend. In addition to sessions, you are welcome to message me anytime for additional support. I typically respond within 24 hours. Live sessions are 45 minutes and can be scheduled easily through my calendar at times that work best for you. My goal is to make therapy feel accessible, supportive, and flexible. Please let me know if you have questions and looking forward to working with you!

As an experienced therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional well-being. My practice centers on addressing depression, anxiety, life stressors, and multicultural concerns with a compassionate, culturally responsive approach. I bring two decades of clinical experience working with diverse populations, focusing on women's issues, social anxiety, mood disorders, and family dynamics. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding individual experiences, particularly around identity, life purpose, and personal growth. My approach is deeply rooted in creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their challenges, develop resilient coping strategies, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. I'm committed to honoring each person's unique journey with empathy, respect, and professional expertise.

I am a clinical psychologist with 38 years of experience. I have worked with couples, families, individuals, groups, forensic clients including those in the criminal system as well as clients who are involved in the family court system. My core approach is to quickly appraise the psycho-social, biological, and spiritual components of my client's lives, seeking to target and move towards solutions seeking to ameliorate the suffering that their symptoms reflect. I am a non-judgemental therapist, who seeks to build an alliance with my clients to create a sense of safety and respect. I look at symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, as multi-modal, including early childhood attachment problems as well as cognitive dysfunctions and biological influences. I seek to view people wholistically, not as people who have problems, but instead as courageous individuals who have done the best they could as a result of what has happened to them. Most clients that I have worked with consider me as easy to talk to while also conceptualizing their issues well and intervening effectively. I would love to work with you in a collaborative effort to solve and lessen the pain that you may be struggling with.

Hello! I am Sara Rivera. I am a clinically licensed bilingual (English/Spanish) social worker licensed in the state of Illinois and Wisconsin. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service in New York City, where I am from. I have over 14 years experience in various parts of the field of social work: Child welfare advocacy, substance use disorders, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, sexual assault response advocacy and hospice/grief counseling. I have worked within a variety of settings with diverse individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, educational and other diversified backgrounds, including LGBTQ. In my work as a clinician, I ensure my clients are free from judgement in a safe environment in which they can safely process their feelings while I help to guide them on their journey to healing and/or helping them reach their goals. My focal point is ALWAYS meeting my clients where they are at in life and not where I would like them to be as this is their journey not mine. I utilize a variety of combine clinical approaches that are individualized to each client's needs, all treatment plans are developed together and with the approval of the clients I work. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to beginning our work together soon! With care and attention to all that matters to you, Sara

I am a compassionate and friendly therapist with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical approach centers on helping clients develop deeper self-understanding and resilience while addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in supporting individuals working through social anxiety, trauma recovery, attachment issues, and mood disorders. My therapeutic style emphasizes compassionate exploration, helping clients build self-love, improve communication skills, and overcome feelings of isolation or shame. My work is deeply rooted in creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation. I believe each person has inherent strength and wisdom, and my role is to help you reconnect with your inner resources and move toward a more fulfilling life. Through evidence-based practices and a trauma-informed lens, I collaborate with clients to develop personalized approaches that honor their unique journey and support sustainable emotional well-being.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in Illinois, with 4 years of professional therapy experience and 14 total years in the mental health field. I have experience helping clients with stress, depression, anxiety, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

As a licensed therapist serving clients in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping people develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome challenges related to social anxiety, attachment, and personal growth. Drawing from a trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach, I work collaboratively with clients to address stress, addiction, self-esteem concerns, and career difficulties. My therapeutic style emphasizes compassionate exploration and empowerment, creating a safe space where clients can authentically engage with their healing journey. My background as a therapist of color allows me to bring nuanced understanding and genuine connection to our work together. I'm committed to honoring each client's unique experiences and supporting their path toward holistic well-being and personal transformation.

As a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional issues. My practice focuses on helping clients address depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions with compassion and expertise. I am particularly passionate about working with women, older adults, and individuals experiencing anxiety, isolation, or life transitions. My approach centers on fostering self-love, exploring life purpose, and developing resilient coping strategies. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past challenges, and cultivate personal growth. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I'm committed to providing personalized, empathetic guidance tailored to individual needs. My therapeutic work emphasizes understanding caregiver stress, women's issues, and the nuanced emotional experiences that emerge during significant life stages. I believe in empowering clients to develop deeper self-understanding and meaningful strategies for emotional well-being.