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Dr. Brad Burklow

Offering therapy in IL
License: MS, LCPC, LPHA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issues
25 years of experience

Welcome. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 30 years of continuous experience as a mental health therapist, program manager, clinical supervisor, trainer, and clinical director in various settings, including primary care and a community mental health agency. After being with Better Help for about 5 years, I have found that this process works best when it is client driven, and my general therapeutic philosophy is that honest self exploration is the engine of good therapy. I may give direction at times and even advice if it is solicited, but usually the client holds the key to better life satisfaction and mental well-being. I see my role as a partner and facilitator of that process. It takes a surprisingly short amount of time to cover the main issues and develop some sort of strategy going forward by applying what we know works in mental health and relationship therapy. Modern brain science demonstrates that by being aware and mindful of our own automatic patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and changing the focus of our attention...as well as HOW we attend to our inner and outer worlds, we can quite literally change and alter the neural pathways in our own brain to improve well-being. I do think Better Help is unique in the way that it maximizes convenience and quality mental health services at the same time. So many people don't have access to competent, quality, affordable mental health care. I truly love getting to do this on a daily basis. I have had the privilege of talking with men and women all over the world about their stories, each unique in their own way, and yet I find the same psychological themes no matter what country or culture they come from. I love working for Better Help because even after all of the traditional therapy I have done in the past, I still have learned so much from my online clients and have been inspired by their courage and resilience displayed in the face of life’s challenges.

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Kelly Fein

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 14 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting struggles, career challenges, OCD ,ADHD, eating disorders, and bipolar disorder. I also helped many people who have experienced past trauma and abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship as I believe it is the most important element of facilitating change. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Stormy Harrison

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in the state of Florida. I am also licensed in Illinois where I was born and raised. I have 14 years experience providing individual and group substance and mental health counseling. I have worked in both adult and juvenile prison settings. I completed my practicum at a local community-based mental health and substance use treatment facility. After my practicum, I was hired by the same organization and worked there until I relocated to Florida. Currently I provide services to the geriatric population in Assisted Living Facilities, as well as provide services through this platform in the evening. I am very experienced in addictions counseling and have worked with many clients who are dealing with co-occurring disorders. I have also done crisis counseling. My therapeutic approach is laid-back, which allows me to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to make clients feel at ease to share, learn, and grow. I emphasize assisting individuals to learn skills including setting healthy boundaries, learning to communicate their wants and needs, and to cultivate healthy relationships. I believe it is imperative to have a strong, trusting, therapeutic relationship that includes the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to empower clients to live the best life they can. I look forward to working with you!

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Caleb Davis

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I graduated with a masters degree in social work in 2011. However, my education in human psychology began much earlier. Growing up, I lived a rather transient life; being moved around the country, and never staying in one place for very long. I was exposed to children of all kinds and had a natural curiosity about people. This curiosity allowed me to easily make friends with people from various walks of life. Working as a counselor is a natural fit for me. Prior to my college education, I served in the U.S. Army for 4 years as an engineer diver. I am currently married with two children and living in Illinois. My approach to therapy is much the same as my approach to satisfying my childlike curiosity about people. I start from a place of non-judgemental curiosity about the person and the problem. My goal is to enhance a client’s insight by eliciting a good problem description that includes the problem’s influence on the client as well as the client’s influence on the problem. My ultimate goal as a counselor is to ask people questions about themselves that they never thought to ask themselves. So be prepared to learn something about yourself! I consider this process to simultaneously be an assessment and an intervention because this new knowledge and awareness can give people greater power in finding solutions to problems. As well, this process inherently changes the way people think, which is a core feature of many forms of psychotherapy. A majority of my experience is with hospitalized medical patients. I have been a counselor in this type of setting for over 6 years. I deal with both chronic and new medical conditions, injuries, and major life changes. This of course involves a wide range of related and co-occurring problems like relationships, grief, substance use issues, etc.. I provide coping skills training as needed. I am knowledgeable about breathing exercises and mindfulness practices. I consider myself to be a spiritual person, but not necessarily religious. I am very open minded about all religions and believe that perhaps every religion has something true to say about God. I'm always willing to incorporate your religious beliefs into therapy. I'm looking forward to helping you along your journey.

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Kendra Riley

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

Hi, my name is Kendra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Indiana and Illinois. I graduated from the Indiana University School of Social Work. I have over 10 years of experience working with clients who are having difficulty coping with various life stressors, including anxiety, depression, loss/ grief, and relationship challenges. My approach is to listen, provide support, and motivate clients to discover their strengths. Everyone is unique, so I don't believe in a cookie cutter approach. I know that it's not always easy to reach out for help but it's one of the bravest things that one can do. I'm here to support you whenever you're ready. I am available for appointments Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays in the evenings and Sundays in the afternoons and evenings.

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Janea Meeks

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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This is David Myford's avatar and link to their profile

David Myford

Offering therapy in IL
AddictionsGriefAnger management
16 years of experience

I am licensed in several states and 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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!

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This is Alyson Hu's avatar and link to their profile

Alyson Hu

Offering therapy in IL
Self esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois. Since entering the social work profession 17 years ago, I have worked in the areas of healthcare, schools, and early childhood programs. For the past 3 years, I have focused on behavioral health. I have experience in helping clients who are coping with stress, life changes, chronic disease & compassion fatigue. 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.

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This is Kristen Brundage's avatar and link to their profile

Kristen Brundage

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, and anger management. I also have experience working with 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 and build on your already existing strengths to lead healthy whole lives. 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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Kathy Branning

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. 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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How to find counseling in West City

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed West City 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 City 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 City 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 City, 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 City 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 City 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 City 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 City 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 City 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 62812 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 City 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 City 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 City, 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 City 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 City.

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

62812

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