Lake Forest is a small town in Northeastern Illinois on the shore of Lake Michigan where the citizens like to hang out on their days off. They also enjoy their natural areas and have 700 acres of parks with over 12 miles of hiking trails. All in all, Lake Forest really is a great place to live. 

However, if you are trying to deal with a mental illness, it is hard to enjoy anything. You may feel isolated or alone, confused, angry, anxious, and depressed. Luckily, Lake Forest has many of the top mental health care experts in the state. Talk to one today about getting help.

This is Grant Barlow's avatar and link to their profile

Grant Barlow

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Greetings, and thank you for considering me as your counselor! My name is Grant Barlow, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor living and working in the Chicago-land area. First, a bit about my experience. During my six years in the mental health field I’ve worked with a wide variety of clients, all with different backgrounds and unique concerns. Some of my more recent experience has been working with individuals who have few resources or external support. From this experience, I’ve learned how critical it is to draw out a person’s inner-strengths and abilities to help them reach their goals or manage their concerns. I believe that each individual is, in many ways, the chief expert on themselves. It’s my goal to align with them, so I can better coach and guide them to find solutions. Secondly, some information about my approach. With each client, I approach using a person-centered model. This means I work hard to foster a trusting relationship as we identify areas of specific focus. My approach tends to be solutions-oriented, while also drawing quite a bit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I’ve also received training in adopting different modes of spirituality into counseling, if this is something that is of interest to you. Whether you’re dealing with recent stressful life transitions, anxiety or depression, relational concerns, addiction, trauma, or any other challenges -- I’ve found that having a counselor present can be monumental in helping a person regain purpose, joy, and vitality in life. The first step can oftentimes be the most intimidating, so again I say thank you for your courage and willingness to take that first step. I look forward to working with you soon.

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Michael Biederman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi there! I’m Mike (he/him/his) and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and educator practicing in Chicago, IL. I have 12+ years of experience working with adults and adolescents in a variety of mental health settings--including, clinical, residential, and urban education. My experience has allowed me the privilege of working with clients from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life dealing with issues such as chronic stress, mood disorders, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, family struggles, and more. In recognizing that no 2 people experience the same obstacle in the same way, I take a person-centered eclectic approach to working with clients. This means that I strive to provide a safe, inclusive, and confidential space that encourages vulnerability and openness, where I can meet people where they are and understand what they want to get out of therapy. In supporting clients, I draw from a variety of therapeutic frameworks, including (but not limited to) Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solutions-Focused Therapy, while basing my practice on a trauma-informed foundation of Multicultural Counseling. Whether a client is looking for healing, growth, and/or change, I believe forming an authentic, collaborative, and trusting client/counselor relationship is the cornerstone to therapeutic success, and the first step in helping clients acquire the skills they need to help themselves.

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Alanna Goestenkors

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): M.S, Ed.S., LCPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Alanna Goestenkors and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 22 years licensed experience in the medical and mental health field providing services for children, adolescents and adults. I have worked in the fields of medical and community mental health. Some of my experience includes treating issues relating to grief and loss, end of life issues, depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders and stage of life transitions. My counseling style is warm and empathetic with roots based in trust and respect. I utilize a client centered, strength based, and solution focused approach to promote a positive therapeutic climate and build trust. I use an integrative perspective, utilizing cognitive behavioral and psycho-dynamic therapies, tailored to your particular needs and goals of counseling. I believe the goal of therapy is to see your own goals met and therefore I individualize treatment planning to meet your specific needs. Choosing to involve oneself in the counseling process is a step toward growth and reaching your full potential in life and I look forward to assisting you in this important journey.

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Dr. Joyce A. Griffin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): PhD, LPC (MO), LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My approach to counseling is often didactic and is solution oriented. It is my opinion that clients come to counseling because they can not figure out what to do. So “teaching counseling” offers them new skills to use in their situation, as well as ideas to assist in coping in their world. I am somewhat eclectic in my approaches, realizing that everyone is unique, and one size does NOT fit all. I find a Cognitive Behavioral approach often encourages clients to set their own solution-focused path. I give feedback and assign homework tasks. I ask clients to join me in making a sort of treatment plan, and we work together on problem-solving. I periodically consult with trusted professional colleagues on a confidential bases, who practice outside of our local area. It is not my style to see what others have reported about their own work. I march to my own drummer and do what I believe is right in each situation. It’s fine with me if I am the only one doing it the way I do it.

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This is Duncan Hall's avatar and link to their profile

Duncan Hall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
26 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Michell Roberts

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Harper Rothschild

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with several years of experience helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and phase of life concerns in hospital, residential, and outpatient settings. In 2012, I completed my clinical training at the University of Chicago where I specialized in serving LGBTQ+ and older adult populations at Center on Halsted and at Rush University Medical Center. I offer supportive, person-centered counseling and my practice is integrative, including humanistic, CBT, ACT, and psychodynamic modalities. My personal style is warm and strengths-based. I enjoy learning about cultures from all over the globe and in my spare time I like to cook, listen to music, and play with my cats. If you’re struggling with your moods or your relationships, would like support during a difficult transition, or want to talk through a challenging problem that’s preventing you from moving forward in life, I am honored to be a part of your healing process. Together we can craft an empowering roadmap focused on your personal values and goals that will enable you to be your best, most authentic self. Building a more fulfilling life requires courage and tenacity; I am happy to support you on the journey.

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This is Christine Baggiani-Floros's avatar and link to their profile

Christine Baggiani-Floros

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

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This is Joanna Bifone's avatar and link to their profile

Joanna Bifone

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am committed to providing a safe, supportive and non judgmental space for clients to explore what is impeding life satisfaction, to increase self awareness, and to build coping skills to navigate life challenges. Everyone needs assistance at times, and I believe that therapy can provide the space and foundation to better understand ourselves, to heal, and to move forward with a more grounded sense of self. My specialties include assisting individuals who are coping with depression, anxiety, difficulties with self worth, relationship/marital issues, pregnancy/parenthood, fertility, young adult and life transition issues, cancer, grief and loss, as well as the chaos, upheaval and isolation associated with world events during the past few years. In addition to my clinical experience, graduate work and licensure, I have additional training in couples/marital therapy through the Gottman Institute, and have completed their Bringing Baby Home program. I am also trained in Promoting First Relationships, and hold an Infant Mental Health Certificate through the University of Washington. At this time, I am only able to see residents of Washington and Montana, due to state licensure guidelines.

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This is Katrina Haywood's avatar and link to their profile

Katrina Haywood

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical therapist in Illinois with over 10 years of experience in the helping field, as a psychotherapist and clinical director. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, inter-personal relationship issues, substance misuse, mood disorders, trauma, and emotional dysregulation to name a few. My therapy style is warm and inviting. I believe the road to healing and homeostasis, alone can be both challenging and a barrier to change. My goal is to cultivate an environment that fosters the space and tools to create the change you want and deserve. I don’t ascribe to stigmatizing labels. My therapeutic approach combines person centered, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and narrative 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 change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Lake Forest

Finding the best therapist close by in Lake Forest 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 in Lake Forest that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Lake Forest. 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 Lake Forest, 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 in the Lake Forest region and in the state of Illinois. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Lake Forest or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Lake Forest area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest, elsewhere in Lake, or in the greater state of Illinois.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Lake Forest area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Lake Forest online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Lake Forest, 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 Lake Forest psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Lake Forest 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Lake Forest 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 in Lake Forest?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Lake Forest 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.

Lake Forest therapists 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in IL, therapists 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 60045 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Lake Forest counselor?

Before seeing your Lake Forest 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Lake Forest.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Lake Forest 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 with a Lake Forest counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Lake Forest, 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.

Lake Forest 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Lake Forest, Illinois

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 to customer service 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 Lake Forest.

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

60045

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