When seeking mental health support in Merrillville, IN, you will find a variety of services offered by licensed mental health counselors. These professionals provide support for individuals dealing with anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and domestic violence. Local facilities like Awakenings Counseling Center and Lake County Community Corrections offer comprehensive family services and resources for those in need.
Therapists in Merrillville focus on helping clients achieve personal growth and manage child's behaviors effectively. Additionally, they offer specialized care for those involved in the foster care system or residential treatment programs.
Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.
Megan Rockwood
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile! The field of psychology and behavior has been my academic and career path for over 10 years. My work is my passion and I enjoy watching others grown and flourish on their paths. I completed my Bachelors of Science in Psychology with concentrations in clinical rehabilitation and psychology of addictions in 2006 through Purdue University. While pursuing this degree, I aided in a longitudinal research study focused on intelligence and information processing through the Purdue Institute for Behavioral Sciences. While earning my Master’s, I volunteered for Riley’s Children Hospital as a behavior therapist with autistic children. During the same time, I also completed two practicums and internships (university setting and corrections), focusing my skills aiding adults with intense personal struggles and family dysfunction. While working with adults, I found my passion in those struggling daily with emotional concerns and addictions. My Master of Arts in clinical psychology was completed in 2008 at University of Indianapolis with a concentration in mental health counseling. Since then, I have worked in outpatient as well as inpatient settings, while also teaching psychology part-time as adjunct faculty for a local college. Thank you again for taking the time to learn some history about me and I look forward to sharing more of what I have learned through experience with you on your journey.
Angel Johnson
I actively work as a School Social Worker in Illinois. I am a LCSW in Illinois and Indiana. Prior to the COVID crisis , I worked as a subcontractor for providing home based therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Working in the school realm has provided me with the opportunity to be a crisis interventionist, a change agent, and a community liaison. Yet working as a therapist allowed me strengthen my case-management skills, utilize various interventions, and individualize treatment for each client served. Abandonment, neglect, abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, undiagnosed mental health disorders, domestic violence, and substance abuse are some of the challenges faced by the clients' I have served. I believe in the importance of building a rapport, setting boundaries, and developing a therapeutic alliance. I am a great listener, genuine, and empathetic to my clients' needs. I was born to be a Social Worker! I do not take the calling on my life to help others for granted. I am so excited to take this journey with you. I believe that remote treatment is going to revolutionize mental health.
Sara Veldhuizen
I studied and received a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in behavioral sciences in 2009. I have been in private practice for 8 years and have work with a variety of presenting issues, such as depression, anxiety and behavior related problems. I primarily focus on cognitive behavioral therapy but am open to different approaches as the need arises. I grew up in a nontraditional household and learned very early on the benefits of a therapeutic relationship and have chosen to dedicate my life helping others.
Dr. Kimberly Martin
Dr. Kimberly has her doctorate from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois, master’s degree in Community Psychology from Martin University, and an undergraduate degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences from Indiana University at IUPUI. Dr. Kimberly is an Adlerian psychologist, an Individual, and holistic therapy which emphasizes the individual, community, and the interplay between mind and body. She has additional certifications in Mind-body medicine, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Brainspotting, and yoga. Dr. Kimberly also integrates Buddhism and principles of Buddhist psychology in therapeutic settings. Her goal as a holistic provider is to bring awareness of the interconnection between mind-body medicine and psychological care. She has over 25 years of experience working with several populations and clinical settings. She enjoys helping clients discover their true potential and tailors her approaches to the client and their presenting concerns. As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Kimberly helps individuals understand the root cause behind the manifestation of mental health symptoms and determines the most effective and accessible ways to reduce these symptoms for individuals regardless of economics, gender, social or cultural status. In addition to private practice, Dr. Kimberly serves on the Social Justice Task Force for the North American Society for Adlerian Psychology and is an Advisory Board member with the Center for Adlerian Practice and Scholarship. She facilitates conversations throughout the city related to mental wellness, intersectionality, diversity, and inclusion. Listen to Dr. Kimberly on the podcast: Dr. Kimberly: Tea and Therapy.
Dr. Rashid Raja
I am licensed as a clinical psychologist in Indiana as well as in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & 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 have a diverse clinical experience. urdu is my spoken language. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Allison Gale
Thank you for reaching out. My name is Allison and I am a licensed therapist in the states of Illinois and Indiana. I look forward to meeting you and learning more about your individual needs. My hope for you is that you will find our sessions to be a safe space where you can share, feel supported, and grow. I enjoy incorporating art and mindfulness into sessions and am able to provide exercises for you to work on outside of our session time. I have six years of counseling experience helping clients manage depression, anxiety, career changes, relationship issues and goals, parenting and postpartum struggles and complex trauma healing. I believe you are the expert of your story and look forward to meeting you exactly where you are in this present moment. Your feelings and experiences are valid; reaching out for support shows your strength. When I am not working I enjoy reading, hiking, and working on art projects. I look forward to connecting with you!
John "David" Reid
Hello! My profile says John, but I prefer to go by my middle name, David. I am a licensed therapist in Virginia and Indiana with 17 years of professional work experience. I have extensive experience working with clients with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. As a veteran and former first responder, I also understand the unique life experiences of those populations, and greatly enjoy serving those who serve their community and nation. I am comfortable supporting the style of communication that works best for you, but I'm a firm believer in at least occasional video sessions. Being connected to people is vitally important to our mental wellness, even if it's over a video link. I do ask all my clients to participate in a video session early during our work together, and at least periodically after that. I believe that YOU are the expert on you! I am here to listen, guide, explore, support, and empower you on your "wellness expedition". I'm proud of you for starting this journey, because it takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards a change.
Christopher Edlin
I am licensed in Indiana with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Matthew Frymire
I am licensed in Indiana with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & 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.
Susanne Baughman
I am licensed in Indiana with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, motivation, LGBTQ+ related issues, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Merrillville
Finding the best therapist close by in Merrillville 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 with therapists in Merrillville that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Merrillville. 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 with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Merrillville, 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 for therapists. 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 therapists able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Merrillville region and in the state of Indiana. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Merrillville or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Merrillville therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Merrillville area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Merrillville 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 Merrillville, elsewhere in Lake, or in the greater state of Indiana. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Merrillville area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Merrillville therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Merrillville due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Merrillville may not take health insurance, some therapists in the state of Indiana may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Indiana you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Merrillville online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Merrillville, Indiana 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Merrillville psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Merrillville 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 while working with BetterHelp therapists. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Merrillville helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched with one of BetterHelp's therapists today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Merrillville 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.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Merrillville therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Merrillville?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Merrillville 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions in Merrillville therapy sessions.
Merrillville therapists 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 Merrillville 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 Merrillville 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in IN, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 46410 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Merrillville counselor?
Before seeing your Merrillville 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. Merrillville therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Merrillville.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Merrillville 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 with a Merrillville counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Merrillville, Indiana 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.
Merrillville 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Merrillville, Indiana
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 Merrillville 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 to customer service 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Merrillville:
46307, 46410, 46411