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Brittany Vaughn

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp. Life events can cause anyone to experience symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. How you respond to these symptoms makes all the difference in your overall health. Together we will work to identify your goals of managing these symptoms and develop steps to reduce their affect on your day to day life. Sometimes these life events are traumatic, which can cause much longer term effects on your health. Processing trauma, no matter how long ago it happened, is vital to moving forward past the traumatic event. A little bit about me personally. I am a Southern Illinois native. I attended SIU and completed my Bachelor’s of Social Work in December of 2012. After taking a semester off, I moved forward to obtain my Masters of Social Work which I completed in May of 2014. Since completing my education, I have worked as a therapist with adolescents with extreme trauma in a residential setting. I then worked with the public schools in Williamson County to provide therapy in the schools to students with a variety of disorders, including behavior disturbances. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in an outpatient setting for the past 3 years. I have found that therapy is my passion and I look forward to helping you discover how therapy can improve your quality of life.

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Kennedy Shenberg

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and I hold Masters Degrees in Clinical Counseling (MS) and a Masters in Clinical Social Work (MSW). I have Doctorate work in Disability and Equity in Education. I have worked as an Adjunct Professor teaching Graduate students for the Adler School of Professional Psychology, and I have supervised interns/externs. I have been a supervisor for investigations for the Illinois Department of Children and Family services for 10 years and worked also with the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Mental Health and Education, as well as teaching self defense. I was the Chief Clinician at Maryville Academy in 2012-2016 St. Vincent program. In 2014 I was ranked 9th in the United States in Shuri Ryu Karate. I have been certified with AFAA, I was a Diplomat with the National Institute of Sports Division of Counseling. I would describe my therapeutic approach as open, using humor, as I recognize therapy sessions should not solely focus on negative feelings. My clinical orientation is eclectic and I can fluidly merge multiple approaches such as behavioral, cognitive, relational, psychodynamic and Maslow theory. I specialize in treatment of trauma, and working with children, adolescents, alternative lifestyles, LGBTQ, and have Jungian dream analysis training. I prefer open ended and free flowing approaches that will include multiple modalities in sessions such as movement, games and artistic expressions. Besides fitness and karate as hobbies, I also enjoy creating art.

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Cory Bedtke

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
8 years of experience

Hi there! I am a licensed clinical social worker with 7 years of experience, currently licensed in Illinois, Tennessee, and Maine. I have a Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Education from Illinois Wesleyan University. Much of my practice has been as a school social worker, providing therapy to students as well as support to their families, but I have been working with BetterHelp since April 2021. In my BetterHelp practice, I enjoy working with individuals in the college and young adult range, as well as folks in middle adulthood. The clients I have served have presented with a wide range of social, emotional, and psychological concerns including social challenges, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, and parenting challenges. I have also worked with people with different neurodivergent classifications such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities as well as other mental health disorders . I have helped many families and individuals who have experienced emotional and physical abuse, a variety of traumas, and stressors stemming from disabilities as well as financial strains. My counseling style is relaxed, yet attentive and compassionate. I have a strong belief that a therapist should be approachable and that the therapeutic environment should be an inviting setting, particularly for those who are newer to therapy. Throughout the duration of a counseling relationship, I value respectful and direct interactions and enjoy using humor to put my clients at ease. My clinical approach is a combination of the following: client-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-focused therapy. Though I've received formal education and training in these different approaches, I value making therapeutic concepts and theories simple to understand and easy for clients to apply to their own lives. For whatever reason you are seeking out therapy, I am here to take the journey with you and I look forward to taking those first steps together.

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Aillen Ford

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Hi, I am Lynn Ford. I am a licensed clinical social worker who utilizes a variety of evidenced based strategies to provide you with the tools you require to address your treatment goals. My belief is that therapy should be client-driven and goal oriented. I have over a decade of experience working with people of all ages, including children, but my focus has recently been on 18-45 year olds with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, ADHD and communication issues in regards to relationships and parenting. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, unbiased environment to empower individuals to explore their beliefs and concerns while gaining or enhancing skills to address your therapeutic needs.

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Dr. William Robison

Offering therapy in IL
License: PsyD,MDiv
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
35 years of experience

I consider myself an optimist and seek to find the best in the people I meet. I have an out-going nature. I love people and I love life and seek to help others find the same joy, even in bleak circumstances. When asked to help, I pitch in. I dislike saying “no” and would rather say “yes” to tasks and assignments. I think of myself as a “can do person” and am always looking for how good things can be made to happen. Finally, I would like to note that I can be comfortable in most environments, working with most age groups and mental health conditions. I began my professional career some 30 years ago. In additional to my Psychology Doctoral degree, I also hold a Master of Divinity degree and a Post-degree Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy.

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Karen Roach

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over 20 years experience working with kids, adults, and families. My passion is helping you resolve stress and anxiety that impacts your day to day life. I especially love supporting women, moms and educators to better understand the behaviors and emotions of kids that causes disruption to the family or school environment. My therapeutic approach is understanding, non-judgmental and collaborative. I lean into my expertise of the stress response system and use a variety of modalities to help balance the stress response while also building a client's toolbox of strategies. Other professional work includes school social work and teaching graduate level students in a Master of Social Work program. As a full-time school social worker, my general availability for phone and video sessions will be early mornings and mid to late afternoons during the typical school year. Messaging is also convenient and accessible throughout each day! I'm excited to get to know you and support you on your journey!

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James Seminaroti

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
17 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with 17 years of professional work experience in a multitude of settings with different populations. I have worked with clients dealing with various stressors, depression and anxiety, substance use concerns and other addictions, trauma and abuse, and working through grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the steps to begin therapy can be a very difficult decision for some people. I pride myself on creating a safe place for you to share, heal, and grow.

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Brianna Butler

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. This is a journey and growth does not happen over night! I am here to support you as you become the best version of yourself.

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Dr. James (Jimmy) Clifton

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW,Master of Science in Psychology,Doctor of Ministry in Biblical Counseling
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

My name is Dr. James W. Clifton. I am licensed in the State of Indiana as a Mental Health Counselor and as a Clinical Social Worker. I am also licensed in Idaho (LCPC), Vermont (LCMHC), Utah (CMHC), New Mexico (PCMHC), New Hampshire as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have a Master of Science in Psychology from California Coast University, a PhD from Bethany Divinity College and Seminary where I studied various therapeutic modalities, and a Doctor of Arts in Theology and Chaplaincy from JJBIHL. I teach clients how to change their thinking, be responsible for their feelings, and make better choices. I look forward to working with you. I focus on the present and behaviors and not on the past and feelings. I do not work with anyone under the age of 25 or relationship issues, or family issues, or addiction issues of any kind.

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Deanna MacDonald

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with over 10 years of professional work experience in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, low motivation, & self-esteem struggles. I believe in a collaborative approach to counseling, as well as treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. I look forward to working together to create a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

How to find counseling in Milledgeville

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville, 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 Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville 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 61051 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 Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville, 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.

Milledgeville 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 Milledgeville.

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

61051

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