The daily problems you face are easy to manage when your mind is clear and your emotions are steady. When your thoughts become confused and unsettled, you lose the stability that once made you strong. Your emotions take a nosedive, and you feel like you’ll drown in sadness and worry.
Waterloo is known for its nearby Fountain Creek Bridge, a beautiful old limestone arch bridge. If your bridge of mental health is in disrepair, you need help shoring it up. You can do it. Talk to a counselor in the Waterloo area to rebuild your bridge of mental strength.
Nicole Bebiak
Welcome! My name is Nicole and I am a licensed counselor in Illinois (LCPC) and Indiana (LMHC). I want to congratulate you for having the courage to take this first step. It can be difficult to realize we need assistance and asking for it means you are ready to move forward, so good for you! I am honored that you are willing to include me in your journey. My purpose is to help others find ways to manage their issues or problems and lead safe, successful lives. I have always loved helping others and have been blessed with the opportunity to provide that help in different ways and different environments. I graduated with my Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 1999. I have been practicing as a counselor since 1999 and have worked at a domestic violence center, crisis lines, community mental health agencies, and a private behavioral health hospital. I have experience assisting others manage issues such as depression, anxiety/panic attacks, unhealthy relationships, self-esteem, social skills, emotional/physical/sexual abuse and trauma, suicidal ideation, self-harm, coping skills, family conflict, grief, communication, problem-solving and those every day issues that can build up over time. My core therapeutic approach is and will always be client-centered, but I considered myself eclectic when it comes to working with a client. So, what does that mean? I believe that you must meet a person where they are and see the whole person not just their mental health or behavioral issues. I act as a guide, support, sounding board, and sometimes a devil’s advocate. I provide a safe space where problems and issues can be discussed and worked through without judgement or fear of repercussions. While many of us would love to have someone tell us exactly what to do to make our problems go away, I feel that takes away a person’s power and pride in their own emotional growth and success. I won’t give you the answers, but I will stand with you every step of the way during the highs and lows to find your own answers. Having 20+ years of experience working with different populations has allowed me to gather a lot of tools for my therapeutic toolbox. I have learned that there really isn’t a text book case, at least I have not met one yet, so I use different techniques from many therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Mindfulness, Dialectic-Behavioral (DBT), Solution- Focused, Play Therapy - it’s not just for kids, Sand Tray, Psychoeducation, Crisis Intervention, and of course empathy to name a few. I am always interested in learning different ways to help people because what works for one person will not always work for another because we are all unique. I believe our differences make us special and need to be understood to help ourselves and our relationships. I look forward to working with you!
Christopher "Chris" Dueker
I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping individuals, couples, and families seeking help to resolve some of their problems with conflict, adjusting to life event stressors, recovering from trauma to become survivors and not victims. Furthermore, I like to help others with addictions of practically every kind to change their habits with replacement thoughts, behaviors, and actions that improve their sense of purpose in life and handling their emotions rather than avoiding them with their maladaptive behaviors. A majority of my training and experience has been on helping clients incorporate positive communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and improve upon their ability to stop negative thinking habits that tend to interfere with change.
Doriece Choy
Hello, my name is Dori Choy and am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the social work field for 20 years, have been a therapist for the past 12 years. My approach is realistic, strengths based and confidence building. I believe that there is value in every life and that hope can be found in any situation. My preference is to work alongside my clients, allowing them to explore their own thoughts and feelings week to week. Feeling heard, supported and understood is the foundation needed to build healthy habits and work through difficult seasons in life.
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.
Mark Beiser
I have been working at helping people since 1988. I received a Masters in counseling in 1995 and got the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certificate in Illinois in 2002. I'd like to begin by saying I feel very fortunate to be able to walk with people on their path to healing. I will try to engender trust with you by being genuine and respectful. I've had some success at helping people overcome trauma, depression, and anxiety. Mostly I start by helping people change their choices a little at a time. The hope is that these changes will lead to changes in thoughts; and eventually changes in feelings. Along the way, we often work through resolving issues of motivation and confidence. To accomplish all of this we will likely use a number of proven tools such as Mindfulness Practice, breathing meditation and thought regulation. My goal is to help you make changes as we go along working with you to guide the process and help you develop and accomplish your goals.
Tamela Polanin
Hello, Thank you for taking the first step in better living. Our mental health is very important. My name is Tamela, I would love to be your therapist. I look forward to working with you. Just a little about me to help break the ice, I am a mom of 3 boys, one is grown and has a son of his own, the other 2 are 16 and 15. I am married to my second husband now for 17 years. We live in the country and raise registered pygmy goats. I have worked in mental health for 20 years. We all want to live our best life. I know trauma on a personal level and treating trauma has become my passion. I use a client centered approach where you are the master of your own life; I am merely here to walk beside you as a guide. My hope is to empower you to work through your trauma and life’s challenges. I provide trauma-focused, client-centered therapy to all ages and all backgrounds. I am well versed in EMDR, TF-CBT, and Reproductive loss Counseling. I believe that trauma is a journey and not one person’s journey will be the same as the next. You are not alone. I will traverse this journey beside you.
Robert Mount
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.
Marianne Costales-Roman
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring nearly three decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on creating affirming, culturally responsive spaces for diverse communities, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, stress, anxiety, and LGBTQ+ experiences. I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate personal growth, relationship dynamics, and intersectional identity challenges. My approach honors each person's unique journey, focusing on building self-love, improving communication, and addressing issues like isolation, workplace stress, and multicultural experiences. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including supporting individuals through life stages such as young adulthood, midlife transitions, pregnancy, and family dynamics. I offer empathetic guidance for those experiencing trauma, relationship difficulties, and personal transformation, always centering the client's inherent strengths and resilience.
Deanna Childers
I am licensed in Illinois with nearly 10 years of professional work experience. This experience includes internship, post graduate training, and licensure. I have experience in helping clients with Autism, ADHD, stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, depression and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Kristin Agnew
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Tara Whitecotton
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, life challenges, relationship issues, etc. I bring a compassionate, holistic approach to therapy, focusing on areas such as coping skills, communication skills, social connections, and personal growth. I see you as the expert of your life and I am here to help guide you in finding solutions that work for you My therapeutic work spans a wide range of experiences, from addressing workplace stress and relationship difficulties to supporting individuals through significant life changes. I'm particularly passionate about creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal insights. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I strive to offer personalized, empathetic guidance that honors individual experiences and strengths. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, seeking to improve relationships, or working through personal transitions, I'm committed to walking alongside you with understanding and professional support.
Susan Zacharias
I accept that we all bump or run into rough patches in our life journey. It can be easy or difficult to match up with a person to work through these rough patches. I have been in health care for 40 years and professional counseling for 20 years. I have witnessed a great deal of suffering and spiritual and emotional growth, in others and myself. I take time to learn about the person who comes my way. I believe not every "technique" fits every person. I find using EMDR or guided imagery to reveal a person's deeper concerns fairly quickly, but I draw from other techniques and educational approaches as seems best fit. I am someone who embraces the effectiveness of 12 step programs for a possible solution to addictive compulsions but I totally accept those sorts of approaches are not for everyone .I will forward handouts I think might be helpful to you to guide a session or for later review by you. I look forward to meeting you at this time in your life journey.
Rachel Keefer
I have over 10 years of experience as a dual licensed therapist and psychiatric registered nurse. In addition to helping with depression, anxiety, coping, and focus, I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing the challenges associated with chronic illness, pain, debilitating fatigue, end-of-life, hospice, rehabilitation, elder care, dementia, and psychiatric issues. I am able to provide support, insight, and education regarding health, wellness, and navigating the complex and oftentimes confusing world of health and psychiatric care. My passion is helping people integrate mind-body and holistic health integration, including goal setting and integrating healthy habits into life. 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.
Sarah Broida
As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating stress, anxiety, career challenges, and professional burnout. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on helping clients develop resilient coping strategies and meaningful personal growth. With a deep understanding of the complex emotional landscapes people encounter, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, build emotional strength, and discover practical pathways forward. My therapeutic work centers on empowering individuals to understand their unique strengths and develop effective tools for managing life's challenges. I am committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine care as they work towards their personal and professional goals.
Find a Therapist Near You in Waterloo , 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 Waterloo.
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.