Life can be like a river. It can run smoothly, or be raging. When you're on a river, you may feel like no one can help rescue you when the currents are rapid. There is hope, and that hope comes in the form of a counselor based in Saint Charles. 

Saint Charles has a motto, which is “Pride of the Fox.” The Fox is the Fox River, which runs around town. You can learn to enjoy the rivers of your own life and be the best person possible. However, it's important to speak with a counselor first if you want to benefit. You can be a better person. 

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Jenifer Pittman

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and Illinois. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of settings. Life comes with many challenges and we often find ourselves overwhelmed by what has come our way. Together we can identify concerns and find ways to move through life challenges. Through exploring and learning ways to manage emotions, I feel there are opportunities for growth. I believe it is important to identify individual strengths and will guide you towards positive self worth. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term counseling, I will work with you to achieve a greater self-fulfillment. I believe in blending therapeutic approaches and tailoring them to fit each individual's needs. It is important to me that clients feel heard and understood. I create a safe, collaborative environment where clients can explore issues and concerns without fear of judgement. I frequently utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused and mindfulness techniques. My experience includes working with individuals and families through significant life transitions, relationship issues, coping with loss, general emotional distress, anxiety, and addiction. I want to help clients reach their goals by focusing on strengths, identifying thoughts and behaviors that are interfering with their happiness and developing coping skills to improve their quality of life.

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Traci Wilt

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
24 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of social work experience. I received my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois. My life's work has been focused on assisting young people to find their voice, advocate for themselves, work on coping skills when they are struggling with anxiety, depression or difficult life situations as well as assist with ADHD and focusing. I am client centered and use an eclectic approach to therapy, depending on the needs of my clients.

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Parinben Shah

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Change is the only constant and it can be difficult to embrace these persistent ups and downs. Sometimes we need a little help navigating ways in managing our challenging emotions. Hence, I take a warm, empathetic, and “real” approach to therapy. I believe maintaining a personable and professional relationship helps build a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I've found that creating a safe non-judgemental space has empowered my clients to regain control of their lives. My clients come from all walks of life. Each with their own unique experiences. I recognize therapy varies from person to person, therefore, I utilize a variety of person-centered modalities through a culturally competent lens. My primary experience has been with adolescents and adults suffering from domestic violence, sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, and sexual kinks in individual and group settings.

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Tzu-Ping Cheng

Offering therapy in IL
License: MS,LCPC
LGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Tzu-Ping, and the pronunciation sounds close to Su-Ping. I am from Taiwan and am licensed in Illinois for the past 12 years. Here are some stories about me, and hope to share about yours! Since childhood, I have always been curious about different parts of the world and people’s lives in various cultures. I started to live in the United States in 2008 and have experienced many moves and life transitions since then. I began to have first-hand experiences and more understanding about what it means to have interruptions to the comfortable familiarities and breaks of the sense of self, struggles, isolation, uncertainty, and doubts are all part of these adjustments. However, it’s also because of these life transitions, I believe that the preferred self and new developments in life also grow from these challenging and seemingly unstable times. Therapy can be a journey to new territories of meaningful developments and exploration of how we want to be in this world. My therapy approach is narrative and collaborative, and I care deeply about equity and respect for diversity. I also believe in the multi-facet of an individual and the possibilities of life that labels would not define. Our conversations aim to support you toward your preferred direction in your life journey. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Rakhi Shingala

Offering therapy in IL
License: Rakhi,Shingala,LCPC, BC-DMT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Rakhi Shingala, Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) and Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT). Rakhi has received a double masters degree, she has MA in Counseling psychology from Mumbai India and Masters in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling from Columbia College Chicago. Rakhi has over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional and over 10 years of experience working as movement therapist. Rakhi has worked with kids, adolescents, adults and older adults. Her expertise includes working with clients who may have anxiety, depression, history of trauma and abuse. Rakhi has also worked with clients who have eating disorder, ADHA, OCD and other behavior difficulties. Rakhi uses a client-centered approach and collaborates with client to develop treatment plans in a safe, open and trusted environment. Building creative intervention within traditional cognitive-behavior techniques, Rakhi encourages emotional expression and mind-body connection to facility change and healing.

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Khalisha Wesley

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW,LPHA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

My name is Khalisha D. Wesley and I am a fully Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Born and raised in the windy city, Chicago, Illinois. My experience dates back to 2011, where I worked with adults suffering from chronic and severe mental Illinois for an outpatient Behavioral Health facility. Since then, I have worked with a host of populations. As a LCSW, I am able to assess, diagnose, treat and prevent mental illness, emotional and other behavioral disturbances. I specialize in patients across the lifespan (0-99) experiencing trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, life transitions couples/family therapy, teen issues, life after institutionalization, and many others. I believe that mental health is a right and not a privilege. Everyone should have access to adequate services no matter their age, gender, socioeconomic status, criminal background, etc. Addressing mental health should not be uncomfortable nor embarrassing. At some point in all our lives we need this support and I want to be this for you.

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Dr. Valerie Werner

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with parenting issues. 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.

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Jacqueline Maffett

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp! I am Jackie Maffett. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern University and have been in professional practice for almost 10 years. I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community mental health centers, and schools. I provide counseling to adults, couples, and families, with a particular interest in treating those in early adulthood, teen years, and adolescence.   I would consider myself an integrative therapist, meaning that I pull from different theoretical orientations based on my clients’ particular needs. I most often use cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to help clients change intrusive thought patterns and develop healthy behaviors. I also use a psychodynamic focus to help my clients develop insight into the origin of their presenting problems. I am a solution-focused therapist and aim to foster practical change in my clients’ lives. I value my clients’ strengths and try to assist them in discovering those natural abilities to help bring about desired change. Finally, I whole-heartedly believe in the importance of creating a safe, trusting, and judgment-free space for my clients and I work to establish a warm, collaborative therapeutic relationship in which feedback is welcomed.   My clinical interests include: depression, anxiety, stress management, early adulthood life-stage transitions, grief and loss, low self-esteem, relationship issues, conflict management, and divorce and blended families. I have a passion for working with adolescent and young adults, particularly issues related to identity formation, self-esteem, and relationships. You have taken the first step to make changes in your life by reaching out and that takes courage! I am glad you are here and I forward to supporting you in that process.

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Megan Rose

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

I am licensed therapist in Illinois with 7 years of clinical therapy experience. I received my Master's Degree from Bradley University in 2016. My degree is Human Development Counseling with a focus in Clinical Mental Health. Since obtaining my degree I have worked in a variety of settings, from inpatient psychiatric care to private practice. Throughout my experience I have worked with children as young as 5, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Working in Specialized Foster Care and Inpatient Psychiatric Units has provided me with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to working with the variations of Family. Overall, I have been privileged to work with families for over 12 years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My style is open and receptive. My treatment approach is a combination of cognitive-behavioral, trauma informed, and person centered. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Erin Harris Smith

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.

How to find counseling in Saint Charles

Finding the best therapist close by in Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles. 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 Saint Charles, 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles, elsewhere in Kane, 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 Saint Charles area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles, 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles 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 60175 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles, 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.

Saint Charles 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 Saint Charles.

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

60174, 60175

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