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Brad Dobson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,LCAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoaching
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I view therapy as the journey to reconcile the story we have written for our life with the reality that exists. I am a licensed mental health and clinical addictions counselor in Indiana. I have acquired experience in a variety of settings that include: drug court, community mental health, university counseling center, and private practice. I have been an adjunct psychology professor for undergraduate and graduate studies at Marian University in Indianapolis, IN. I have expertise in treating addictions, mood disorders, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, self-esteem issues, and pornography addiction. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology from the University of Indianapolis. I trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic theory, dialectical behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, and motivational enhancement therapy. A therapist must perform good self-care in order to provide good care to others. I achieve my self-care by playing guitar, piano, fishing, and playing with my kids. I look forward to making progress with you on your journey to a healthier you!

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Monica Erk

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in Indiana with over 10 years of experience working as a psychocounselor and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a 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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Ashlyn Hopkins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW,PMH-C
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Ashlyn and I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been in the social work field for 10 years. I graduated from Indiana University. My experiences range from working with individuals with intellectual abilities, group facilitation, domestic violence advocacy, therapy and public health social work. I have worked with a variety of clients on issues ranging from stress management, anxiety, depression, postpartum, family and martial problems. I have a certification in perinatal mental health and currently working on certification in lactation consulting.  I am a firm believer in therapy and what it can do for the mind and the soul. I believe that our childhood trauma can be a huge impact on our adult life. It is resiliency that gets us through it. I have work with many individuals of all color, culture, religion, background and experiences. I use a variety of therapeutic frameworks such as solution focused, motivational interviewing, trauma focused, dialectical behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I am constantly learning and maintaining my competency of skills. I believe in meeting the client where they are. This is your journey and I am just here to help you shine the light on those dark places. It's okay to not be okay! There should be no shame because there is no judgement here. I am mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend. I was also a wife. So I know the pressures of life and its real! Whether you are a first time mom and you are struggling to make sense of it all, the pandemic has sent your anxiety through the roof, your marriage is falling a part or you just need someone to listen.  Allow me to help you on your journey! I am able to meet in whichever forum you prefer, text, phone, video or email. 

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Amanda Gibson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Have you felt like you’re just surviving and unsure how to create a different life for yourself? Life can be stressful, unpredictable, and even scary. You do not have to go through it alone. I make it a priority to provide a nonjudgmental space for you to share and process your pain, mistakes, fears and struggles, as well as your strengths and accomplishments. My goal as your therapist is to be a compassionate supporter in your life, helping you get through stress and challenging obstacles. Despite whatever uncertainty or chaos may be happening in your life, you can still experience peace, hope, love, and success. I have experience working with both adults and children in different areas. I am experienced in supporting clients with stress management, coping more effectively, improving decision-making, behavior management, and increasing self-awareness. I will try to make you feel as comfortable as possible in a safe, therapeutic environment by meeting you where you are and setting individualized goals. I am also a breast cancer survivor, and I would love to help others effected by cancer. It can be a tough journey, and I am honored to help navigate it with you! Are you ready to take the next step? I look forward to meeting you and growing with you!

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Benjamin Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello everyone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Indiana. For 28 years, I have worked in the field, gathering hands-on experience by working with various demographics in different capacities. My 18 years as an LCSW have allowed me to deal with concerns, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, anger problems, relationship issues, family conflicts, and parenting problems. Additionally, I enjoy working with individuals to improve self-worth, confidence, athletic performance, coaching, and communication. I promote a caring, positive, respectful, safe, and non-judgmental atmosphere to assist my clients. I utilize a strength-based and client-centered approach where the client is the expert. My therapeutic styles include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focus, and Motivational Interviewing. I truly understand the difficulty of opening up and sharing life struggles with others. I'm always honored when someone shows the courage to take the first steps towards changing and taking control of their lives. I am here, ready to your support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Christine Young

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

As a clinician, my goal is to assist clients in exploring and defining their truest self to allow for self-acceptance. By working from a strengths- based perspective, I hope to collaborate with my clients to equip them with individualized skills, so that they are able to achieve their personal goals. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, issues related to stress, and trauma. I have experience in providing services to children, teenagers, adults and older adults. I believe that we are the experts in our lives. My role is not to 'fix' my clients, but to foster a partnership that addresses their challenges and highlights their strengths. In my practice, I strive to create a setting in which clients can feel comfortable and safe to express themselves without fear of judgment

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This is Lisa Autry's avatar and link to their profile

Lisa Autry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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. 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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Jon Browning

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
40 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Indiana with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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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This is Josephine Martinez's avatar and link to their profile

Josephine Martinez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! Thank you for taking the time to read a bit about me! Finding a good fit in a counselor, to share your ups and downs with, is an essential component of feeling positive about your counseling experience. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over 25 years of experience. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Michigan State University. I have extensive experience working with clients, experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting struggles and challenging life transitions. I also have experience working with people in areas of motivation, decision making, career changes and professional development and leadership. My counseling style is collaborative, direct and compassionate. I enjoy working with people, to provide a comfortable and safe space to talk, so that you can be authentic, feel heard, overcome challenges and discover your strengths. In my experience, the openness and trust built between counselor and client is the key to feeling like you can fully be yourself and share openly, without fear of judgement or negative impact on your personal relationships. I see the counselor/client relationship as a team, in which honest communication builds confidence and empowers you, to face difficult circumstances or feelings. There are no two people exactly alike. I believe everyone is unique, valuable and amazing, just by being you! Because of that, there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy. I apply an integrative therapy approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Solution Focused Therapy to help clients work through their current rough spots. I am also well versed in other therapeutic styles and I am flexible to work together to meet your unique qualities and personality. Your preferred pace, comfort level and feed back will be respected. That is the best part about therapy. It is all about you! It’s a place where you can talk about you, your thoughts, your feelings, your fears, your accomplishments and whatever comes to mind and know that you will be listened to with respect and sensitivity. It takes courage to face tough things in life and to ask for help. Starting counseling can be a big leap into the unknown. I hope that you will give yourself a chance to experience the support and positive growth that you can gain from counseling. I would be honored to work together, as you take the next step!

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This is Brishen Lewis-Weir's avatar and link to their profile

Brishen Lewis-Weir

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Indiana with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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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How to find a therapist for counseling in River Forest

Finding the best therapist close by in River Forest 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 in River Forest 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 River Forest. 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 River Forest, 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 in the River Forest 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 River Forest 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 River Forest area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find River Forest 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 River Forest, elsewhere in Madison, or in the greater state of Indiana.

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 River Forest 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 River Forest 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 River Forest 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 River Forest may not take health insurance, some 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 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 River Forest online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in River Forest, 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. 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 River Forest 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 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 River Forest 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 River Forest 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. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified River Forest 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:

  • 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 River Forest 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 in River Forest?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a River Forest 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.

River Forest 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 River Forest 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 River Forest 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 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 46011 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 River Forest counselor?

Before seeing your River Forest 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 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 River Forest.

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 River Forest 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 River Forest 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 River Forest, 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.

River Forest 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 River Forest, 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 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of River Forest.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in River Forest:

46011

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