About Me Hi, I’m MJ. I’m an individual, family, and marriage counselor licensed in Illinois, and I’ve been doing this work for over 20 years. In that time, I’ve helped people navigate just about everything—depression, anxiety, stress, relationship ups and downs, parenting challenges, career changes, ADHD, and all the messy parts of life in between. I also work a lot with people who’ve experienced trauma, whether sexual, physical, or emotional. I often tell clients, “If you can tell me something I haven’t heard before, I’ll give you my Mickey Mouse watch.” And let me tell you, Mickey is still sitting right on my wrist—so you can imagine the stories, struggles, and victories I’ve walked through with people. **How I Work** My approach is warm, down-to-earth, and interactive. I’m a big believer in looking at the whole person—your emotional world, your physical well-being, and your sense of meaning or spirituality—because all of those pieces matter. That might sound fancy, but really, it just means I want to help you feel at home in your own skin and help who you are on the inside match how you show up in the world. I don’t do judgment or labels. I do respect, compassion, honesty, and a whole lot of common sense. (Truly—common sense might be my strongest therapeutic orientation!) I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused work, EMDR, and humor when it fits. Sometimes a small shift in perspective—and maybe a laugh—can open the door to real change. **A Bit About EMDR** I also offer EMDR, which is a powerful method for processing trauma, reducing emotional triggers, and moving past old patterns that keep you stuck. If you’ve tried “talking it out” and still feel something lingering, EMDR can help your mind and body finally let go. **What Telehealth With Me Is Like** Reaching out takes courage. Truly. And choosing to let someone into your world—especially through a screen—can feel strange at first. But once we get going, most people find telehealth surprisingly comfortable and personal. This platform works more like email, so responses aren’t instant like texting. I usually reply within 24 hours. If you prefer phone or video sessions, those are available by appointment. I’d love to walk alongside you as you make the changes you’re ready to make. Looking forward to working with you, MJ

I hope this finds you well. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in IL with many years of experience working in mental health counseling. I have worked with a diverse range of clients dealing with a variety of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem, as well as relationship concerns. I have also helped many clients experiencing minority stress and or minority trauma. I approach therapy with a sensitivity and predilection for multicultural factors. I have varied experience in multiple settings, including providing individual and group therapy at an inpatient hospital unit and an outpatient hospital unit; as well as providing individual and couples therapy at a private practice. I would describe my style as conversational, strengths based, insight-oriented, and fun. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for us to explore and gain insight while promoting self empowerment. My clinical approach draws from Gestalt therapy and also incorporates Solution-Focused and mindfulness interventions. With me you can expect to be challenged to explore the origin of your problems, develop new awareness, identify pattern behaviors, work through unfinished business and create new strategies for change. Overall, I want to meet you where you’re at and collaborate to make sure our time together works best for you and your needs. I value your courage in taking the next steps on your path to wellness. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey. "When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. " - Fred Rogers

Hello! Im glad you’re here! As a Certified Trauma Treatment Professional and a licensed therapist in both Florida and Illinois, I look forward to helping you navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, grief, and major life transitions. With over 20 years of experience, I am trained in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) trained clinician, and hold the MCAP (Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional) credential. My style is warm, steady, and non-judgmental. I want therapy to feel like a safe place where you can be honest without fear of criticism or pressure. You don’t need to have everything figured out — you just need a space to breathe and someone who understands what it feels like to carry too much for too long. I use a trauma-informed, individualized approach that often includes CBT, solution-focused strategies, and mind-body techniques. With ART, I can help you process distressing memories and emotional triggers in a gentle, accelerated way that many clients find effective when they’ve felt stuck for years. know reaching out for support can feel intimidating, especially if you’re used to being the strong one. You deserve support, too. I’ll meet you with respect, compassion, and practical tools to help you feel more grounded and in control. Together, we’ll work toward healing and toward the life you want to build — at a pace that feels right for you. Whenever you’re ready, I’m here. I look forward to working with you.

Hello, I am pleased to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Pamela Vernon Stewart. I hold a doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a minor in Health Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in the State of Illinois. I am well experienced in individual therapy with adults 18 years and older. I earned my degrees (B.S., M.A. and Psy.D.) at Loyola University and the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. Some of my experience includes hospital practice, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. I have five years of intensive experience covering a wide range of concerns. These include trauma (emotional and physical), grief, depression, anxiety, alcohol and substance abuse, stress, neglect, discrimination, cultural identity difficulty, personality disorders, eating disorders, OCD, ADHD, college issues, and health issues including chronic pain, AIDS, Lupus and Diabetes across genders and age groups. In addition, I have experience working with individuals for anger management, communication problems, and relaxation and meditation for stress reduction. I enjoy working with people of all cultures. I believe in a holistic biopsychosocial approach to assessment and treatment that attends to the client’s mind, body and spirit. My therapy style is integrative (motivational interviewing, psycho-dynamic, behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, DBT, EFT, and so on) collaborative and client-centered at the core. I also have clinical training and experience in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming (EMDR). My therapeutic style is interactive and driven by warmth, sensitivity and empathy. Stalwart ethical principles guide me. Together we will develop your unique treatment plan, one that will meet your specific needs. I applaud you for seeking help. This takes strength and courage. If you are ready to take the first step, I am here to empower you and help you reach the fulfillment of a happier life. I look forward to a rich clinical therapeutic experience with you. With great enthusiasm, Pamela Vernon Stewart, Psy.D., CADC, LCPC

Welcome! I am a person, who like many other human beings, has skills and talents. As a qualified mental health care provider with a doctorate in Clinical/Community Psychology, I have been using my talents to help people afflicted with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychological disorders. While I appreciate the wide-range benefits of an eclectic approach, I prefer and tend to apply cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and sociocultural models in counseling and therapy sessions. I view life as a journey in which we, as human beings, use our mind, body, and spirit to solve problems, overcome adversity, and enjoy life. Besides helping people alleviate symptoms derived from mental illness, I provide support for personal growth within the context life coaching and wellness sessions. The span of my career is more than twenty years. The local and global scopes of my vision as a healer, have led me to provide community psychology services in Chicagoland, numerous cities in other parts of the United States, and Ghana (Africa). These community-wide services entail conducting presentations at community health fairs, disseminating information for various type of awareness campaigns (examples: suicide prevention, domestic violence, PTSD, HIV/AIDS, smoking cessation, substance abuse, and Covid19). Moreover, I have imparted information about mental health through the media. I love providing psychological services! I am grateful to be gifted as a healer! Furthermore, I look forward to serving you! Enjoy balance in body, mind, and spirit, Dr. Athena Porter

Greetings and Salutations! I am Jessica Brumfield, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Being proactive by seeking help during challenging times is an act of strength. As we progress through life, our perspectives, needs and goals change, which can cause stress, even lead to feeling unfulfilled. Experiencing difficulties in relationships, at work, pressure from family or being uncertain about the future are common issues that often lead people to therapy. You are not alone. Many clients seek to learn coping skills, how to foster healthy relationships, become motivated or want to figure out how to strike a balance in their lives. Therapy has a learning curve and it requires effort, patience, and openness. Results are reflective of the work that is put into it. The goals and pace of sessions will be by your design. I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space and partnering with you to explore your challenges, build on your strengths and make progress towards the changes that you want to see. I look forward to learning more about you and working together. ;)

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in Illinois with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey, with expertise in addressing depression, trauma, self-esteem challenges, and mood disorders. Please note that Better Help (or any specialty site) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or require immediate support. In such situations, please contact 911 or local emergency services. Alternatively, you can call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with a crisis counselor immediately. I offer a supportive space for exploring life's most profound challenges, including social anxiety, relationship dynamics, personal growth, and healing from past experiences. My therapeutic style centers on understanding individual strengths and creating meaningful pathways toward emotional wellness. My practice embraces diverse experiences and perspectives, with a commitment to providing affirming, respectful care. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship transitions, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I believe in the power of collaborative healing, where we work together to uncover your inherent resilience and develop practical strategies for sustainable emotional well-being. My goal is to help you cultivate self-understanding, build meaningful connections, and move toward a more fulfilling life.

I am licensed in Arizona and Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have helped clients with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.

I'm Brenda Rice, LCSW, and I've spent more than three decades helping people heal and reclaim their lives. I began my career in 1987 working with teen mothers, and soon discovered a deep calling to support children, adolescents, and families navigating ADHD, behavioral challenges, trauma, and crisis situations. Since 2007, my work has centered on adults overcoming anxiety, depression, and the lasting impact of trauma-the area I'm most passionate about and consider my true expertise. I believe healing starts with empowerment, and from our very first session, you'll know that you set the pace. My role is to walk beside you with compassion, empathy, expertise, and genuine care, never to push you where you're not ready to go. Helping people release shame, rebuild self-worth, and step into a life of confidence and peace is both my purpose and my honor. I'm grateful for the opportunity to know you and support you on your healing journey.

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. 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.

I am an Illinois licensed clinical social worker with over 12 years of experience helping individuals coping with grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, family conflicts, improving motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and addictions. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am pleased you chose to place your trust in us. I take a person-centered approach when working with my clients. This means that our work is collaborative and based on your goals for the specific areas you'd like to focus on. I collaborate with clients to explore their entire person: your physical and mental health, your core beliefs and history, your living and working environments, and what gives your life meaning and purpose. I endeavor to meet my clients where they are. I do not view my clients as "having problems" or worse, "being a problem". Rather, we are just human beings having human experiences - and, because humans are social beings, we often need to turn to others for help. Healing is a process of discovery and change. The support and guidance of a therapist can help bring out the best in you. Together we embark on a path of exploration and discovery. We identify your strengths, and confront and learn to cope with challenges. Your best self emerges, and you'll discover that creating and maintaining meaningful relationships, and enhancing your enjoyment of life is not only possible, it is an adventure.

Hello! I'm Corey (she/they), and I genuinely appreciate you taking the time to be here. I identify as AuDHD, queer, and someone living with chronic illness. My heartfelt passion is supporting individuals in embracing their authentic selves while respecting every part of their unique journey—past, present, and future. Beginning counseling can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first experience or if your family isn’t fully familiar with mental health topics. That’s completely understandable. I utilize a strength-based approach, emphasizing the resilience you've shown even during challenging times. Together, we can work to transform that resilience into your personal strength. Part of our work may include engaging your nervous system with gentle movement and body awareness, honoring your experiences along the way. Additionally, I often like to start sessions by having you share something like a TikTok, meme, photo you took, artwork, or song that resonated with you recently—it's a nice way for us to connect and help you find your center. You might notice I wear rose-colored glasses during our sessions—it's a special tint that offers a little extra help for migraines and light sensitivity. Feel free to use any of your accommodations, including ESA's, whenever we meet. Your determination truly deserves recognition. I hope we can create a safe and supportive space where you feel comfortable being your true self—without masks or judgment. I’m here to support you on your journey toward growth and well-being. If you feel ready, consider scheduling a session—I would be glad to connect with you!