Mary Jennifer Meister
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
Leah Pavela-Mullins
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!
Liala Slaise
I am licensed in Illinois with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Ramona Hickey
I am a licensed Illinois therapist with seven years of professional experience. I have a heart for helping clients navigate stress and anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and family conflicts. As a Christian therapist, my approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and the belief that healing and growth are possible through both clinical insight and spiritual support. Therapeutically, I take an eclectic approach—blending evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address unhelpful thought patterns, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to build emotional regulation and interpersonal skills, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients align their actions with their deepest values. When clients desire, I also incorporate spiritual reflection and Christian principles as part of the healing process, fostering both inner peace and personal growth. Meaningful change takes time, care, and collaboration. Therapy isn’t a quick fix—it’s a process of building trust, exploring patterns, and learning practical tools to create lasting transformation. I take time to build a strong foundation with each client because lasting progress begins with safety and understanding. As we move forward, I integrate evidence-based strategies to help you reframe unhelpful thoughts, strengthen emotional awareness, and develop healthier ways of responding to life’s challenges. If you’re looking for meaningful change, you’ve come to the right place. In our work together, I will help you clarify what matters most to you and assist in creating goals that reflect your values and the life you want to build. I will gently challenge you when needed and support you as you take practical steps toward growth and lasting change. Personal growth happens in stages, and my role is to walk alongside you through each one—helping you gain clarity, build confidence, and reconnect with a renewed sense of purpose along the way. Taking the first step toward a more peaceful and purposeful life takes courage. I’m here to walk alongside you in that journey with care and encouragement.
Marilyn Traynor
As a seasoned therapist with four decades of clinical experience in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, grief, and significant life transitions. I offer compassionate, depth-oriented counseling for adults seeking understanding and healing. My approach is particularly attuned to issues affecting midlife and older adults, including caregiver stress, aging-related concerns, chronic health challenges, and emotional well-being during major life changes. My therapeutic work addresses a wide range of emotional experiences—from workplace stress and relationship dynamics to trauma recovery and self-esteem building. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult feelings, develop resilient coping strategies, and rediscover personal strength and purpose. I'm committed to providing thoughtful, individualized care that honors each person's unique journey and supports meaningful personal growth.
Michelle Wong
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique journey, with a deep commitment to addressing stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma recovery. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive perspective to therapy, particularly focusing on women's experiences, multicultural concerns, and the nuanced challenges of midlife and aging. My practice emphasizes self-love, healing attachment wounds, and helping clients rediscover their sense of purpose and inner strength. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, family dynamics, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
James Michehl
Licensed since 2008, James earned his master’s degree in education from DePaul University in Chicago. Upon graduating he was accepted into the community counseling program at DePaul University. James has worked with children (5-12), adolescents (13-18), young adults (19-24), adults, families, and couples. He has facilitated groups for Autism spectrum patients. He supports first responders including Firefighter Behavioral Health which assist in suicidal prevention for first responders. In addition, he works assisting police departments with Critical stress debriefings. As a trained mediator through DePaul University, James can assist couples who may have differences which require more than just couples’ therapy. James believes therapy is a joint effort between therapist and client. He has a proven track record of success as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and as your therapist, he is committed to provide you the best care possible. Every person is unique which is why there are many different treatments approaches available to you. James is committed to make every effort to provide effective care, your commitment is needed as well to achieve success. Together you and James will create a treatment plan that will be a roadmap to your successful journey. Any barriers to success will be discussed and the plans adjusted as needed. You and James will discuss progress and challenges in an honest, trusting, and confidential manner in order to achieve your desired outcome. James is a certified hypnotherapist and can help with the cessation of smoking, anxiety reduction, weight loss, and gaining confidence. In his spare time James is a wildlife artist and wood carver. His work is displayed in art galleries and online.
Lily Shinn
I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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 can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Jenelle Hoyt
Hello, My name is Jenelle Hoyt, I am an award winning Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 10+ years of experience in the helping profession. Thank you for beginning this journey with Better Help. As a therapist, I am proud that you've decided to take steps that you believe will enhance your life and allow yourself to heal. I would like to assure you the counseling process is here to foster your growth. I will listen to you as you share your struggles and your strengths and challenge you to identify whether your thoughts are positively serving you so that you can view life more positively. We will process strong emotions and certain aspects of experiences that you have not dealt with to obtain a greater awareness. My primary focus is to assist clients with developing strategies and tools to perhaps re-frame your story to cope with the past and create a bright future. As a therapist, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem and career challenges, as well as emotional and physical trauma to cite a few. I specialize in helping individuals who are not only feeling the stressors of life but also unsure of how to cope with or change these stressors in a positive way. We will work together to create attainable goals that will be reviewed and assessed consistently to ensure that they align with the vision of who you are and want to continue to be. I maintain a judgment-free space that is challenging, encouraging and enlightening. I believe in a process that is positive and retrospective. My approach integrates a multiplicity of practices such as Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing and Psychodynamic interventions. I personalize each treatment to meet your individual need. Congratulations on taking time to empower yourself by employing therapy to make significant changes in your life. I look forward to working with you.
Christianna Sullivan
I am licensed in Illinois with over 20 years of working with children and families both professionally and personally. I have over 10 years of volunteer experience working specifically with divorce recovery and family/ adjustment issues and years of professional work experience in various capacities. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. I utilize several therapeutic approaches and I strive to provide an empathetic environment for all individuals. I provide cognitive behavioral therapy and my style is client driven and and solution focused. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Eric Crawford
I am licensed in Illinois with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
Denise Mercherson
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
Maureen Fitzmaurice
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey, with expertise in addressing stress, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem challenges. I focus on helping clients work through diverse experiences, including workplace dynamics, relationship transitions, caregiver stress, and personal growth. My practice centers on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and rediscover their inner strength. Drawing from years of clinical experience, I'm committed to walking alongside my clients as they confront challenging life moments—whether dealing with midlife transitions, young adult uncertainties, or personal healing. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, self-compassion, and meaningful personal transformation. I understand that seeking support takes courage, and I'm dedicated to providing a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop powerful strategies for emotional well-being.
Kathleen Kaufman
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, (LCSW), in the state of Illinois, with 24+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, abuse and parenting issues. Additionally, I work with both women and men and have an understanding of their unique issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs, focusing on actionable problem-solving and support toward goal achievement. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage...and I am proud of you for getting started!
Find a Therapist Near You in Tolono , 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 Tolono.
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.