I have always been an intuitive, empathic, and inquisitive human and as corny as it may sound, helping to bring “world peace” has always been a consistent life goal of mine. However, from as early as I can remember, I was always held back in my personal and professional journeys because of the multitude of thoughts and panic feelings circling throughout my head and body. My personal struggles with anxiety and depression, brought me into confronting my own demons with the help of professionals, and through that process I realized that my talents and passions aligned with helping others work though their own internal struggles—my tiny, humble contribution to bringing that world peace, I so hope and wish to provide. I realized early on that a) there is no right way to be, b) and all humans are wildly perfect for every flaw, and imperfection society may throw at us. I believe in the simple truths of respect for one another, and believe in the value of human connection, regardless of any background. After graduating college and leaving the beautiful cocoon that is Boulder, CO, I found myself in a “quarter life crisis,” type place. I felt stuck, but ready for my next move. My passion for “bringing world peace” was still a constant thought in the back of my head. My work and passion for the homeless and individuals afflicted with addiction/severe mental illness brought me to New Delhi, India to work side by side with street children. While there, I learned to incorporate natural empathy, non-verbal communication and holistic spirituality to help nurture and teach these children daily life skills, while also building their self esteem. The trip was quite possibly the most eye opening experience of my life, and it taught me the power of trusting myself through the vulnerable experiences that life constantly throw at us. In 2012, after this life-changing journey in India, I found myself on a new journey, in Chicago, IL with the same passions for helping those who desperately needed a voice, or an advocate. In 2013, I started my Masters degree training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adler University, and found that social justice for all would be an underlying driving force for me throughout my career. I have experience working in Drug/Alcohol Rehabilitation centers, individual and group counseling on the West Side of Chicago with homeless clients, severe mental illness, and couples and family therapy. Upon graduating with my Masters degree in 2015, I started administering Neurofeedback, as well as counseling services in a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, IL. I have strong experience working with all age groups (6-75 yo), with a specialty in adolescence and young adulthood. I currently work closely with all age groups, and all degrees of mental illness, with a specialty in depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ community and have worked closely with starting a LGBTQ services website in the Chicago land area. I counsel from an integrative background, instilling Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, Existential ideals as well as humanistic validation throughout my sessions. I believe in establishing rapport through a combination of professional boundaries and establishing a learning journey together. I tend to incorporate humor, and self-disclosure of my own journey into my sessions as well. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have, and I look forward to tackling life’s challenges together.

My name is Sofia Dickey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. Additionally, I am a Certified Addictions Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in residential and outpatient treatment centers for youth with behavioral concerns and adults with various mental health issues. I have also helped a wide variety of individuals from different backgrounds to better manage issues with depression, anxiety, addictions, and trauma. My counseling style is that of acceptance and compassion while using the approaches of cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies as well as motivational interviewing. I am here to listen to you without judgment, and I am here to help. One of the benefits of online therapy involves the added daily support that may not be available through regular outpatient counseling. Therefore, I encourage you to message me at anytime as I check my messages at least once a day every day of the week. I also offer messaging, live chat, phone sessions and video sessions. Although I encourage video sessions, I am available through the means that make you feel the most comfortable. I look forward to working with you and helping you reach your goals.

Hello. Do you find yourself struggling with something you feel like no one else will understand, or perhaps there is no one you can confide in for fear of being judged? Keeping things bottled up creates interpersonal conflict, affects our relationships, and hinders the ability to change.  I believe that individuals want to be heard and understood, all the while respecting their unique differences.  My name is Alisa Cates, LCPC and I have been licensed in the State of Illinois since 2013.  I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental health agencies, inpatient hospitalization, intensive outpatient programming, corrections, and private practice treating a broad range of issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, life transitions, relationship and family issues, self-esteem, anger management, stress management, interpersonal conflict, and career planning.   I would appreciate the opportunity to assist you as you move forward in this ever- changing life and believe that building a strong rapport with my clients is the fundamental aspect which promotes growth and change.  I practice from a person-centered approach and integrate treatment modalities most beneficial to each client including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical-Behavior Therapy. I look forward to meeting you and discussing what's on your mind!

Welcome! First I would like to commend you on reaching out for help, as I know this can be the most challenging part. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and struggles. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 13 years of experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with families, children and teens, in residential substance abuse, private practice, adoption preservation and corrections. My style can be described as client centered, strength based and solution focused. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused therapy, mindfulness and solution - focused therapy. If you have any questions feel free to reach out by message through Better Help. I look forward to working with you soon.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and in Wisconsin and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Iowa. I am currently accepting clients to work with in both of those states. My experiences come from direct mental health and behavioral health counseling for adults aged 18 and older with a variety of presenting issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, grief as well as coping with physical health concerns, chronic diseases and illness. I approach the therapeutic relationship with sensitivity and respect for people of all cultures. I strive to the therapeutic relationship, and you, with compassion, respect, and warmth. I hope that after each session you have felt heard and understood. My clinical experiences include working in community agencies and private practice. I have worked in healthcare for 30 years with my beginning experience working in a hospital. My therapy style and approach are person centered and strengths-based drawing influence from Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. I help clients design treatment goals specific to them as each person is unique and different approaches work for different people. Whether working towards gaining insight into specific circumstances, symptom relief, improved function, it is my hope we can work collaboratively to achieve it. It takes a lot of strength to work towards finding a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are willing to take that step, it would be a privilege if you would allow me to walk beside you. I will do my best to respond to messages within 24 hours on my days of availability. Currently my hours of availability are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Wednesdays from 8:00 am until 12:00 pm. I am not available on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays for appointments or to respond to messages. **Please note I am fluent in English only. I do not speak any foreign languages."

I am a compassionate and caring counselor who loves to help people navigate through difficult times. Through CBT, emotional and solution focused based therapies, I can help you create and achieve milestones one small step at a time to recognize your own potential. I have 15 years experience with a wide range of clients from all areas of life. For example I have volunteered and worked paid positions for individual counseling, groups therapy as well as teaching with the homeless in shelter programs, male ex felons at a prison ministry and regularly serve at a local food pantry. I have ran specific counseling programs as well as supervised other counselors. I also have my own private practice on the side and am currently supervising a counselor in internship with Walden University. I am a respectful counselor with a good listening ear that encourages clients to incorporate self reflective and stress management activities in between sessions. I am creative at problem solving and love counseling. Hope to support you to achieve milestones soon!

I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working as a psychotherapist with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and chronic illnesses. 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 integrative practice approaches of cognitive-behavioral, motivational Interviewing, psychodynamic and solution-focused. I will tailor our dialogue 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!

I am licensed in Illinois with 12 years of clinical experience; most recently specializing in addictions for the past 6 years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Solution Focused Therapy. I work closely with my clients to create goals based on the achievements they are looking to attain and to identify techniques which can change their debilitating thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I play a very active role in therapy by listening and offering empathic feedback. 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.

I am licensed in Illinois with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, life transitions and motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience in career counseling, counseling persons experiencing divorce and working with persons experiencing mental illness and their families. I have had the personal experience of dealing with mental illness in two family members, divorce and grief in the loss of one of my children. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am qualified to incorporate spirituality into the counseling if the client desires. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Need someone to truly listen and understand what you’re going through? Seeking a therapist who offers more than just listening? Ready to try therapy, but not sure where to begin? If you're looking for someone to truly listen and understand what you're going through, I'm here to help. I know that finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure where to start or what to expect. My approach to therapy is about more than just listening—it's about actively working with you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and supportive space. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate complex emotions, trauma, anxiety, relationships, and personal growth. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply need a space to process what's on your mind, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where you can express yourself freely. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, where we work together to identify your goals and create a plan that feels right for you. Whether you're dealing with specific challenges or seeking to understand yourself better, I'm here to guide you through the process at your own pace. You don't need to have everything figured out before you start—sometimes, just taking that first step to reach out is the most important part. If you're ready to begin, I'm here to help you navigate this journey, offering support, understanding, and practical strategies to help you move forward. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences. Are you nervous about therapy? It’s actually more common than you might think to feel uncertain and anxious to begin therapy. Many people worry about opening up or wonder if they’re doing it "right." Remember, therapy is a journey, and it's okay to take it one step at a time. I’m here to help promote a sense of acceptance and comfort from the very first session. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel safe to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. My goal is to make sure you feel supported and understood as we work through whatever challenges you’re facing. Life can be overwhelming, challenging, and intensely painful. Through my experience with hundreds of clients with a variety of needs, I've developed a deep insight and understanding. Let's embark on your healing journey together, where I listen, understand, and walk beside you every step of the way. I'm here to support people from all backgrounds as they navigate life's ups and downs. Since 2011, I've been helping children, teens, adults, and families overcome challenges like trauma, stress, significant life changes, anxiety, and more. Think of our therapy sessions as a safe space where you can share your thoughts and begin healing. Whether you're facing tough times or seeking hope and direction, I'm here to help you find your inner strength and move forward. We'll work together to improve your life, focusing on your unique story and finding positive ways to face any challenge. I am looking forward to supporting you on this healing journey. If you're ever in a crisis and need immediate support, the following hotlines and services are available 24/7: **Crisis Services:** - Call or text 988 - Call 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text "TALK" to 38255 **National Hotlines:** - National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) - National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 - National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 - Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453 - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 - Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, PRESS 1 or text 838255 - CDC National HIV and AIDS Hotline: 1-800-232-4636

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety issues, coping with substance use addictions, trauma and abuse also coping with grief and loss. I have experience working with depression, relationships issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am here to support and empower you.

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & 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.

I am licensed in Illinois and New York with 15 years of professional work experience. My pronouns are she/her/hers and I have expertise in working with Black communities. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & 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. 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.

I am a current Licensed clinical social worker in Wisconsin with more than 5 years of professional work experience. I specialize in working with clients who may struggle with anxiety, depression, substance use, persistent mental illness, LGBTQ+ related issues, & trauma and abuse. I truly believe everyone deserves compassion and a safe space to land. Therapy sessions are all about what you need and how I can facilitate you reaching your goals! I’m here to support & empower you in your ongoing journey of creating a life worth living.

I am licensed in Illinois and Indiana with 30 years of professional work experience. As a Solution Focused Coach and Therapist I believe that you are the expert of your story. I support you to find the solutions that you want. In addition, to the years of clinical and coaching experience, the spiritual values of each person is honored. This value is often the key to what ultimately helps you to arrive at your desired outcome. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!