Falling in love is an amazing ride but sometimes your relationship may be more work than you expect it to be. That’s right, relationships are hard but if you are serious, relationship counseling can help a lot. Luckily, there are many counselors in West Chicago trained and experienced in relationship counseling. 

West Chicago is a nice peaceful town that is a great place to raise a family. If you and your significant other is having trouble in your relationship, call one of the dedicated mental health counselors in West Chicago who can help you both, so you can move on to the next phase of your relationship. 

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Rachele Maheu

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost a decade of experience working with parents, young adults, and families with a variety of concerns. Adapting to life changes, parenting challenges, anxiety and depression, self harming thoughts and behaviors, trauma/abuse history, family conflict, and ADHD are areas that I feel most comfortable working with. I take a client-centered, holistic approach using evidence based techniques that are solution focused and attachment based. I use mindfulness techniques to help clients and families feel calm and centered in their lives. I offer support in the moment during therapy sessions as well as help build techniques to use in your day to day activities. I believe therapy can be effective when both the client and therapist are committed to the process and the end goal. In therapy I am warm, understanding and non-judgemental. I can appreciate and respect your unique choices and goals and will support you through your journey, wherever that may be. I'm so glad you've decided to take this step to seek help in your life at this time. Sometimes taking the first step is the hardest. I believe with gentle support and determination, anything is possible. I look forward to meeting you!

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Charles Beard

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

I am trained in Marriage and Family Therapy and have served as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 25 years. I have served in both public and private mental health agencies, primarily for those seeking help with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addiction and domestic violence. Any client who has the courage to seek counseling is someone worth celebrating. With gentleness and warmth, I try to focus on each of my client's strengths to help them in the area they desire to change. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Systemic Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy as appropriate. I will tailor my dialog and treatment plan to meet the client's concerns. Each client's faith and moral values are recognized as a foundation for their desired growth. I look forward to meeting you.

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Erin Lee

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I have been a therapist in Illinois for 20 years working with clients struggling primarily with anxiety, depression, family conflict, parenting, ADHD, and grief/loss. I have a Master's in Social Work degree from University of Illinois at Chicago as well as an additional certification in mindfulness. My therapy approach involves creating a compassionate, calm space where clients can delve into the barriers that make life difficult to manage. Using a solution-focused based therapy infused with dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness training, clients are able to reflect on changes they want to see and make small steps in a positive direction. We all have good intentions but sometimes our busy and overwhelming lives keep us from forming better habits. I encourage clients to access mindfulness and positive self care strategies that are easy to implement for noticeable and effective change so life can be lived to the fullest!

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Nneka Council

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Nebraska with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Rita Singh

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
25 years of experience

Real help starts here... Life can be hard so you deserve GOOD THERAPY with the RIGHT THERAPIST! Unfortunately, not everyone will have a good therapy experience or know what to expect. Good therapy includes feeling safe, accepted (not judged), supported and listened to. Good therapy will help you move forward with your needs and goals in mind a little bit every session and, if you don't know what those goals are, you should be assisted in sorting that out. Good therapy is not about just talking or wanting you to take the lead all of the time. Good therapy is a collaborative process. I strive to provide the people I work with that model of good therapy. I want you to feel like we are a good fit, that you feel connected and safe in talking with me, that you feel you are striving for something important for yourself and working your way to it, that you feel understood and never judged, that you are being educated on issues and given specific scientifically and clinically backed tools to address those things, and that you feel supported and cared about along the way. I like to think of therapist and client as Sherpa and traveler. You have a destination in mind to try to get to and I, as your Sherpa, am there to guide you and get you there as quickly and safely as possible since I know the terrain and pathways. Don't settle for less. You deserve to find your happiness! With my 25 years of professional work experience and have run my own private practice since 2006. I would love to be your therapist Sherpa for your personal journey. Please reach out to see if we are a good fit and, if not, I will be happy to help you figure out who might be better suited for you. Feel free to schedule yourself in any opening I have. If none of the times/ days work for your schedule just message me and we can find an alternative time that I can schedule you in between my private practice insurance and self-pay clients. I hope to hear from you soon. Best to you on your journey!

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Dr. Suzanne Degges-White

Offering therapy in IL
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and Indiana, with 22 years of professional work experience. I am also a licensed clinical addictions counselor in Indiana. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Each of us holds the power to make choices that will enhance our lives and move us closer to our goals. Sometimes we are able to move towards change with deliberation and intent and other times we find ourselves in situations and circumstances where we feel an urgent need to change our thoughts, behaviors, or feelings. Change can be difficult, but my role is to provide you with the support you need to manage planned and unplanned transitions and changes. I believe that enhancing wellness and increasing a client’s sense of empowerment to make better choices will help clients become more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Helping clients learn to better manage life stressors and develop strategies for coping with developmental transitions and relational challenges are emphases in my work. In our work together, I may employ a variety of therapeutic techniques to encourage you to take new perspectives and engage in new behaviors that will help you better manage the challenges that have brought you into my office. Using a humanistic framework, and depending on the nature of the concern, I may use techniques from cognitive and behavioral therapy, existential counseling, choice theory, and feminist theory. I often incorporate client homework assignments into therapy including bibliotherapy, journaling, or other brief writing assignments.

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Jill Egizio

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersAnger managementDepressionCompassion fatigue
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, anger management, & depression. 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.

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Rose Havens

Offering therapy in IL
GriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, depression, & 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. Welcome, I look forward to talking soon!

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Roslyn Pursley

Offering therapy in IL
License: LPCC,MS Counseling Psychology
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

I believe that changes take place through healing relationships. My job as your counselor is to listen and understand what you are going through and what changes you are seeking. I offer to hold hope for you when times are dark or you feel lost or confused and to share in your progress too! I work from a person centered approach and use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Based Perspective to help you learn and grow and make the changes you want to make. I also work with people who have been through a traumatic event and help them go from feeling like a victim and being afraid to learning how to live with it and experiencing growth. I work individual all of all ages from 3 to 100! I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology and have been practicing since 2007. I also have a heart for First Responders and have experience with that population. I have experience working in a wide variety of settings with people of all ages and requests for help in a wide range of things. I'd like to help you find your purpose in life and have deeper more meaningful relationships. Some of the issues that I help with include trauma, loss of a pregnancy, loss due to suicide, adjusting as a widow(er), adjusting to moves due across country, loss of independence due to aging, and response to tragedy such as a sudden loss of life in the family. and healing from physical and sexual abuse or domestic violence. I consider myself a moderate individual who is considerate of all spiritual beliefs. I will help you explore your personal value system. I will help you find meaning and joy again after trauma.

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Sarah Stiefel

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, & 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.

How to find counseling in West Chicago

Finding the best therapist close by in West Chicago 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 West Chicago. 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 West Chicago, 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago, elsewhere in DuPage, 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 West Chicago area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed West Chicago 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago, 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago 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 60186 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago 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 West Chicago, 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.

West Chicago 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 West Chicago.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in West Chicago:

60185, 60186

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