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

David Galarza

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 18 years of experience working in private practice and as a school counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also have helped many people who desire to integrate their faith during the counseling process. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and solution-focused counseling. I believe in a collaborative process when designing a treatment plan in order to meet your specific needs. I commend you on taking the first step to healing. It takes courage to do so and you should be proud of yourself. I look forward to walking this road of healing with you.

This is Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins

Offering therapy in IL
License: PhD,LCMHC,CCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, CCMHC, LCAS, CCS, SAP, MAC. I am a board certified clinical mental health counselor and addiction counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in behavioral health. I am licensed as a clinical counselor in the states of North Carolina, Illinois, and Alaska. I have a PhD in General Psychology from Northcentral University. I also have a master's degree in Community Counseling and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Chicago State University. I have worked in an adult inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient behavioral clinic, community-based mental health services, and residential substance abuse treatment programs. My counseling style is person-centered. I have a diverse therapeutic approach to counseling. However, my primary approach includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I specialize in mood disorders, anger management, addictions education, and relapse prevention. I believe that everyone has a story to tell; and I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. It would be my honor to work with you to assist you in reaching your healthy goals. Please let me know if you would prefer weekly sessions, and I will do my best to accommodate.

This is Rachel Rivera's avatar and link to their profile

Rachel Rivera

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with a diverse background in a variety of clinical, educational, and community service settings. My professional experience has included working with diverse individuals to identify their unique core values and build lives of purpose, creativity, and meaning. I offer a warm, accepting approach which emphasizes thinking through options, coping with uncertainty, and finding balance. I engage my clients from a strengths-based perspective. I specialize in helping individuals who have experienced trauma, are facing difficult decisions, stress, family concerns, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I will work with you to identify your values and construct dynamic, practical ways to break old patterns, develop resilience, and solve problems. I have a holistic, integrative approach which views mental and emotional health grounded in a daily practice of self-care. I invite my clients to consider their lives and relationships as works-in-progress. It takes a great amount of courage to reach out for support. I expect you will have questions. The counseling process can offer you hope, renewed energy, and harmony in your life. Service provided through BetterHelp is not intended for crisis situations and urgent needs. In a crisis situation, call 911 or local emergency services, or visit the nearest emergency room. Information shared is confidential except in the following circumstances: If you present as a danger to yourself or others, mandated reporting of abuse of children or elders, or if you sign a release. I look forward to working with you!

This is Lori Cheek Gilroy's avatar and link to their profile

Lori Cheek Gilroy

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Hello! You have taken a courageous step towards making changes in your life. Asking for help can be hard and I would be honored to walk with you in your journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have 26 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I have helped people with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, life transitions, trauma and caregiver stress. I have worked in several settings over the years including a child welfare program, family counseling clinic, family birthing center, crisis intervention agency and mental health clinic. My counseling style is client-centered, utilizing a holistic approach which addresses mind, body and spirit. I work from a Christ-centered philosophy, knowing that true and lasting healing comes only with God's help. Regardless of your background or beliefs, I believe you have value and I strive to communicate with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. You are the expert in your life and my role is to guide you to find the answers that are already within. I work from a solution-focused, systemic perspective. We will work together to develop treatment goals that meet your unique and specific needs. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you.

This is Christine Young's avatar and link to their profile

Christine Young

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

As a clinician, my goal is to assist clients in exploring and defining their truest self to allow for self-acceptance. By working from a strengths- based perspective, I hope to collaborate with my clients to equip them with individualized skills, so that they are able to achieve their personal goals. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, issues related to stress, and trauma. I have experience in providing services to children, teenagers, adults and older adults. I believe that we are the experts in our lives. My role is not to 'fix' my clients, but to foster a partnership that addresses their challenges and highlights their strengths. In my practice, I strive to create a setting in which clients can feel comfortable and safe to express themselves without fear of judgment

This is Ji Min Kim's avatar and link to their profile

Ji Min Kim

Offering therapy in IL
Intimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress, intimacy-related issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert on 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!

This is Cristy Bixler's avatar and link to their profile

Cristy Bixler

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. With more than 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients experiencing depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, unresolved grief, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with those that self harm and struggle with self defeating behavior as well as adults and children with intellectual disabilities and their families. My therapy style is person centered and strengths based. I believe in meeting the client "where they are at" and utilize Motivational Interviewing, active and empathetic listening as well as CBT and DBT therapies. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Melissa Aaron's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Aaron

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. 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 Lori Gordon's avatar and link to their profile

Lori Gordon

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

*Temporary Notice: Due to schedule limitations, I am currently only taking EAP members and members looking for brief behavioral health consultations. I am licensed in Missouri and Illinois with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Christina Meads's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Meads

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have professional experience working in a variety of settings and am experienced in working with children, teens, and adults. I obtained my Master's degree in Clinical/Community Mental Health from Western Illinois University. I have worked with a variety of issues including (but not limited to) stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, divorce, coparenting, family issues, codependency, self esteem, and life transitions. I strive to create a safe, trauma informed, collaborative, and supportive environment in which you can process and address your concerns and goals.

How to find counseling in Oakwood

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood, 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 61858 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood, 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.

Oakwood 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 Oakwood.

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

61858

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