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Kimber Brokaw

Offering therapy in IL
License: LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

First let me say how happy I am that you are seeking counseling support. That takes a lot of courage and shows that you want more for yourself and your life! I've been in the social work field for 25 years working non-profit, in the schools and for the last 13 years in private clinical practice. I also serve as a Health and Wellness Coach for clients all over the United States as my own battle with an auto-immune condition led me to find a more natural path. My overall mission is to bring freedom through health – body, soul and spirit – because when we feel better, we do better! My overall areas of expertise are in helping people get “un-stuck” through a better understanding of how they are wired and how they’ve been wounded. I help clients discover the life they most desire to live and teach them how to get into alignment with that desire. I use cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, narrative therapy, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches but I love to use experiential exercises to help people get out of their head and into their heart to find the answers they need for moving forward into their fullest life. I look forward to working with you, Kimber

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Thomas Zimm

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker who graduated from Jane Addams school of Social Work where I obtained a Master of Social Work Degree. I have over 10 years of experience working with children and adults who have experienced abuse, neglect, domestic violence, separation, and loss, depression. Furthermore, I have refined my skills working with adolescents and families impacted by depression, bipolar, substance abuse, interpersonal violence, and homelessness., My years of expertise have taught me the importance of engagement, validating, and supporting those who have experienced pain, suffering, and loss. My approach is supportive, collaborative, and I focus on advocacy rather than diagnose or labels. My approach combines mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, feminist, attachment, and psycho-dynamic theories. It takes courage to see the need for therapy and perseverance to take the steps required to initiate therapy. I will be available to you for support, a witness to your experience, and a supporter of your journey toward your ultimate goal.

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Dr. Penny Brower

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
34 years of experience

In this giant Carnival of Life, are you on the Roller Coaster full of ups and downs, on the repetitive slow-motion Carousel, on the Tilt-A-Whirl feeling unbalanced and squashed by outside forces, in the House of Horrors where every view is distorted and you can hardly find the exit, or on the Raging River where everyone else stays dry while you get drenched? Are you here by choice and enjoying the adventure, hanging on for dear life and fearing disaster ahead, or confused about how someone was able to drag you here against your better judgement? Though everyone's Carnival visit is unique, if you invite me to join this part of your journey, I can help you explore the decision-making processes and life events that have led you to this place. I will assist you in building skills and finding resources to thrive beyond the dangerous curves, the jarring stops and reverses, and the nauseating spins and loops. You will be empowered to choose and create more positive, adaptive ways forward, to better enjoy the ride and have a more fulfilling adventure. Because the best outcomes are achieved with a good client/counselor fit, I always welcome feedback regarding what has been helpful, as well as not helpful, so that methods can be adapted to achieve the best results. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my doctoral degree from The University of Iowa and I have worked for over 30 years helping individuals and couples become more intentional and response-able in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I began my career doing in-home therapy with complex, multi-problem families, and I have worked in Community Mental Health Centers and Private Practice settings. In addition, I worked for 8 years with the Air National Guard, helping to institute a new program that focused on reducing suicide risk and increasing resilience, while reducing the stigma of using mental health services to maximize personal functioning. When describing people, my least favorite word is NORMAL. I believe that each individual is unique, and deserves to be treated in caring and respectful ways that help them grow, versus being treated like a diagnostic label that needs to be fixed. It is the difference between: "It sounds like you may be struggling with depressed feelings. Let's explore the conditions that seem connected to when those feelings hit really hard, compared to when they seem to lighten up." versus "You are depressed. Here is what you need to do to change."

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Dr. Rashid Raja

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed as a clinical psychologist in Indiana as well as in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I have a diverse clinical experience. urdu is my spoken language. 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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Juanette Plato

Offering therapy in IL
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Leah Rybakowski

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
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, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, confidence and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will your treatment 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! Schedule and Hours I'm available Monday-Friday 8am - 5pm. **Evening appointments are limited. **I do not work on Saturday or Sunday. I will respond to messages or requests the following business day. Sessions are 30-minute or 45-minutes. I am available to you in many different ways: messaging in the chat in the counseling room, live phone sessions, live chat sessions and live video sessions. Please let me know your preference of communication or if there are any ways you would not like to communicate. I usually try to respond to messages and requests within 24-hours. I generally try to respond at least once in the morning and once per evening, sometimes more! Consent Forms and Forms As a client, you will fill out different forms. BetterHelp (or specialty site!) has you fill out a Member Information Form. I have my own consent form that you will have to read, complete and electronically acknowledge. You will do this via chat before scheduling an appointment with me. Emergency and Crisis Situations Please remember that BetterHelp (or specialty site!) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or in immediate need of support. In crisis situations, please call 911 or local emergency services. You can also call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to someone right away!

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Shannon Keleher

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

In a world where women are expected to "have it all," sometimes society's unrealistic demands and expectations lead to unfathomable levels of stress. You start to wonder how others manage to do it all, and whether you're doing something wrong if you don't live up to those expectations. You even start to question whether you are enough. When I was younger, anxiety ruled my life. I know on a very personal level how it affects everything from relationships with the people you love, to your self-confidence, and even to the goals you hope to achieve. After my undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago, I served as an AmeriCorps volunteer for two years. I worked with so many people who were suffering from anxiety like myself, and learned that I was not alone in my struggles. After working with the amazing people in that community, I knew that therapy was my calling in life, that it really always had been, and so I went to graduate school at Boston University and earned my Master's degree in Social Work. Since then, I have worked with women, children, and families in various settings. After a number of years, I realized I could make the greatest impact working with individuals in a telehealth setting, where people would have greater access to care. Every day I go to work I am excited and inspired by the people that I partner with. I absolutely love collaborating with people who struggle with anxiety because they tend to be insightful, caring, and ambitious. They can move mountains once their anxiety is managed. I find myself growing as much as those I serve, because they teach me so much about courage, resilience, and grit. I know how difficult the road to change can be—I've been there myself. That's why I became a therapist: to empower others to rebuild their confidence and to live a full and meaningful life. The areas I'm most experienced in include stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. You're ready to move beyond a life consumed by anxiety, and you are prepared to make big changes. You deserve to feel strong and live a vibrant life. **Please note: I currently only have times available Monday-Friday 10:00-1:00 (last session starting at 12:00). ***

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Christine Chariton

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorder
27 years of experience

My name is Chris Chariton, I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist practicing in the state of Illinois & Indiana with 27 years of professional work experience in helping clients with numerous life challenges, i .e: ADHD, Anxiety, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Conflict Resolution, Caregiver Stress, Death & Dying, Emotional Regulation, FEAR, Family Turmoil/Conflicts, Grief/Loss, Hoarding, Intellectual Challenges: Autism Spectrum, Aspergers, Developmental Disabilities, Mental illness, Trauma and Abuse... I can help you to learn to express your feeling in appropriate manner & to help communicate better so you can get your needs met. Based on my believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths. I will assist you in overcoming challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey working at your pace & comfort level in confidential, compassionate, nurturing respectful & supportive manner. I am dedicated to bringing high quality mental health services to all those in need. I was honored by NASW Region 1 in 2009 as Social Worker of the Year for my role in reuniting families who experienced trauma & needed help connected to much needed services. My staff & I developed a program that address our clients & their caregivers comprehensive needs & helped transitions our clients back into the community. I was also recognized by Eli Lilly as Hero in the Fight, advocating for quality care for all regardless of their race, socio-economic status, gender, ability to pay & helped to reduce or remove barrier to seeking & receiving correct care.

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Joseph Vargo

Offering therapy in IL
Addictions
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of licensed professional work experience. My entire professional career revolves around treatment for both mental health and substance abuse. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions. 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. 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 Gloria Sanchez's avatar and link to their profile

Gloria Sanchez

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

How to find counseling in Lexington

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lexington 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 Lexington 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 Lexington 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 Lexington, 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 Lexington 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 Lexington 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 Lexington 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 Lexington 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 Lexington 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 61753 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 Lexington 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 Lexington 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 Lexington, 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.

Lexington 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 Lexington.

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

61753

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