James Clifton
As a licensed therapist in multiple states with more three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with particular expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress management, and life transitions. I offer compassionate support for individuals struggling with various emotions, communication challenges, isolation, and distorted thinking. My practice focuses on helping clients develop worth, worth, value, and dignity while discovering meaningful life purpose. I have experience supporting veterans, individuals facing discrimination, and those working through many of life's challenges. My therapeutic style is collaborative and adaptive, drawing from years of professional experience to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and move towards personal healing and empowerment. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and belief systems, committed to providing respectful, personalized care.
Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins
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.
Jean Hannigan
Background: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I graduated from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. Additionally, I have obtained certificates in Grief Counseling and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and/or grief related to their relationships or in their daily lives. I have an eclectic background working in the school system, social services, Early Intervention with the State of Illinois, and private practice. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement afterward. Using a non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy we will work together to find your strengths and utilize those strengths to meet your desired goals. Who I Treat: I work with adults, couples, and teens utilizing both client-centered and holistic approaches. My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, gender identity, and LGBTQ issues. I have a particular passion for working with those struggling with or recovering from Narcissistic Abuse. My Treatment Approaches: Client-Centered Therapy / Insight Oriented Therapy / Mindfulness/ CBT / Grief / Problem Solving
Laticia Georgie
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of Illinois and have 10+ years of experience in counseling. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings and have experience supporting clients with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, grief, self-esteem, and substance abuse. I have a strength-based perspective in my counseling approach and I believe that every human being has great worth/value and should be treated with respect, quality care, and compassion. Reaching out for support is a big and important step as well as a great start to your healing journey! There is HOPE! It brings me joy knowing that people reading this are considering reaching out for support. If you are interested in partnering with me on your healing journey, I am looking forward to hearing from you!
Brandi Northrup
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring over 25 years of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and significant life transitions. I specialize in addressing social anxiety, communication difficulties, and feelings of isolation. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to develop deeper self-understanding, rebuild connections, and rediscover personal meaning. I'm particularly passionate about supporting those struggling with mood disorders, caregiver stress, and navigating profound emotional experiences like guilt and shame. My practice is grounded in creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their inner world, develop healthier coping strategies, and cultivate self-compassion. I believe each person has inherent strength and wisdom, and my role is to help you uncover and trust your own resilience.
Yvette Medina
Welcome! My name is Yvette Medina and I am a bicultural Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with a sense of humor and a love for helping people. I have over 17 years experience working in the mental health field. I am so happy that you are taking the first step in taking care of yourself. I applaud you as you enter this journey. I understand that it is not always easy meeting with a stranger and sharing your fears and vulnerabilities, however, after a few minutes of introductions and exchanged pleasantries we will no longer be strangers. Allow me to help you onto your journey as you discover your inner strength. I will be your biggest advocate, and your support, we will laugh and celebrate accomplishments that you will make in our sessions together, from the biggest to the smallest. I believe in meeting you where you are at while providing you a safe space. I currently work for a non for profit agency with the focus of addiction treatment, anger management, homelessness, family reunification, and mental health issues. My areas of expertise are major depressive disorder, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse, prenatal and postpartum depression. I also have experience working with individuals that suffer from anxiety, intellectual/developmental disabilities, pervasive developmental disorders, and immigration/acculturation issues. I am also a proud advocate of individuals from the LGBTQ community. As a Latinex/bicultural counselor I am able to relate with you through many shared experiences. I am well versed in various theoretical orientations, such as, person-centered, motivational interviewing, brief solution-focused counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy and life coach techniques. In addition, I can apply more classical approaches to counseling and adapt to your current needs. I look forward to meeting with you and assisting you to reach your true potential. My hobbies are reading, traveling, knitting, baking (eating bake goods), photography (I will send an occasional picture when its relatable and appropriate,) painting, and watching soap operas (novelas). Self care is important for you and I. I will remind you to engage regularly in self care for positive mental health purposes as this will be included as part of your goals. At this time, I am only open during the weekends.
Aleksander Casas
Life stressors and managing different areas of our life can sometimes become heavy to hold alone. Many times, there is nothing "wrong" with us, we are just learning to navigate life and ourselves. It is beneficial when we have a designated time to devote to this process via a guided telehealth setting. Let's explore the unknown and get to the root of what you are feeling and thinking.
Beth Tabbert
I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings and have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, career struggles, stage of life transitions, & trauma and abuse. 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 sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Tiara Banks
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Ohio with experience supporting adolescents, adults, and families through trauma, stress, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm. My professional background includes child welfare, crisis intervention, behavioral health, and clinical leadership, which has given me extensive experience working with individuals navigating high stress environments, family conflict, grief, trauma, and complex life experiences. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel safe, supported, and genuinely heard, not judged. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and strengths based. I understand that opening up can be difficult, especially when you have spent so much time carrying things on your own. Together, we will work to identify patterns, build healthier coping skills, improve emotional wellness, and help you move toward a version of yourself and your life that feels more balanced and fulfilling. I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, anger management, self esteem concerns, relationship stress, and emotional burnout. I am passionate about helping people regain confidence in themselves while creating practical strategies for healing and growth. Taking the first step toward therapy requires courage, and I would be honored to support you in that journey.
Carrie Wallace-Onifade
I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. 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.
Heather Oosterhoff
I am a licensed, clinical therapist in Illinois and Indiana with 32 years of professional experience. I specialize in assisting clients with issues such as stress, anxiety, grief, loss, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Additionally, I have expertise in helping individuals navigate life transitions and recover from trauma. My therapeutic approach is warm and engaging. I strive to foster an open and safe environment where clients can express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My methodology integrates Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Dialectical Behavior therapies. I will customize our discussions and treatment plans to address your unique needs. Seeking a more fulfilling and joyful life is a courageous step, and if you are ready to make that change, I am here to empower and support you. I look forward to working with you!
Heather Stample
When was the last time someone truly asked, “How are you really doing?” Maybe you’ve been carrying more than most—chronic illness, nervous system disfunction, ADHD/autism, exhaustion, uncertainty—while still trying to show up for life and the people you love. If you feel worn down or like you’re barely holding it together, please know you’re not failing and you’re not alone. There is space here to breathe, process, and find steadiness again. You deserve support as you navigate both the emotional weight and physical realities of what you’re facing. Life was never meant to be carried alone—we heal best when we walk together. I specialize in therapy for chronic illness, hypermobility, and nervous system dysregulation. My heart is to ensure you feel seen, supported, and cared for as a whole person. Together, we’ll take life one step at a time, trusting that God can bring purpose, healing and growth amidst the pain (Gen. 50:20; Rom. 8:28) I strive to create a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space—one where accountability and kindness go hand in hand. I listen carefully and invest deeply in the relationship, so you have a steady place to turn when life feels overwhelming. Many clients leave sessions feeling lighter, renewed, and better equipped to face life again with hope and strength.
Shelly Scamardo
Hi, I’m Shelly! I’m a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping clients build confidence, manage emotions, and reach their full potential. For over 20 years, I’ve supported individuals through challenges such as anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, and life transitions—helping them find healthier ways to cope and connect. After earning my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Michigan State University, I moved to Chicago and attended the Illinois School of Professional Psychology, where I earned my master’s degree in 1999 and my doctorate in 2004. From the beginning, my work has focused on understanding the emotional world of the clients that I work with and helping strengthen communication and resilience. I believe every one of us has the inner strength to grow and thrive. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I work closely with you to uncover what’s behind the emotional or behavioral struggles and to develop tools that foster understanding, balance, and confidence. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood—and where you feel guided and empowered. Reaching out for therapy is a courageous step, and I’m honored to walk alongside you on this journey toward healing and growth.
Sophie Niemaszyk
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience supporting children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related needs. My work is rooted in a trauma-informed approach, and I am passionate about helping young people feel safe, understood, and empowered to navigate challenges in healthy ways. I have extensive experience working with children who struggle with anxiety, emotional regulation, behavioral challenges, trauma, and school-related stress. I use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness strategies, and trauma-informed interventions to help children develop coping skills, build confidence, and improve relationships. In addition to working directly with children, I value strong collaboration with families. I believe parents and caregivers are essential partners in the therapeutic process, and I work closely with families to develop practical tools and strategies that support success across home, school, and community settings. My goal is to create a supportive and engaging space where children feel comfortable expressing themselves, learning new skills, and building resilience.
Find a Therapist Near You in Richmond , Illinois
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Illinois can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Illinois is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Illinois, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Illinois (IL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Illinois, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Illinois with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Illinois
When searching for a therapist near me in Illinois, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Illinois, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Illinois.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Illinois want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Illinois without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Illinois (IL)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Illinois
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Illinois, including residents in Richmond.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Illinois do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.