Therapists in Illinois

Welcome! My name is Thérèse Fletcher, I have dedicated my life to the service of helping others. About Me: The majority of my career has been focused on working with extremely vulnerable communities in urban settings. I enjoy helping all types of people with problems big and small. Relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, emotional stress, and chronic illnesses, are among the many areas that I have helped my clients effectively deal with and overcome. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and it's my responsibility to meet a client where they are and to help them set appropriate, beneficial goals for themselves. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am a licensed independent clinician with more than 11 years in medical and social services fields. I also have supervised and trained other social workers. I believe a successfully therapeutic relationship is one based on respect. I believe in a strength based approach which uplifts confidence and empowers you as an individual. My approach includes working together to develop specific methods and perspectives that will not only help you resolve your current issue, but give you the tools to make your life from today onward more fulfilling and satisfying. I know that the decision to seek professional help can often be a very difficult one. If you are trying to make that decision right now, it may help you to know that I am someone who is not here to judge you, and who really believes that there is a way out for you that together we can find. You have already taken the most important step by acknowledging that, for now, this is something you cannot handle alone. So if you feel overwhelmed or unfulfilled, your online search has brought you to the right place. I can help you with emotional issues such as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, anger, and stress. I also help you with other areas of your life that become affected by these issues such as relationships, communication, work or your education. I can provide accountability as you work through the growth process. I can provide short-term solution oriented treatment as well as long-term emotional processing. Your treatment goals and how much you will benefit from services are completely up to you but I will be here to guide you every step of the way. I'm grateful to BetterHelp for giving a therapeutic resource to people that may otherwise not have access to counseling services, and I applaud individuals that are currently looking to make changes they need in their lives. It takes a lot of strength and courage to critically think about what you need. You’ve already taken the first, and most difficult step, so contact me if you are ready to start the course towards a better You. I look forward to helping empower you to live your best life!

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.

Greetings citizens of the universe my name is Aaron Swerdlove and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Chicago Illinois. In 2003 I completed my Masters degree at The University of Illinois-Chicago, Jane Addams College of Social Work. Over the years I’ve learned a few things, for instance sometimes the best advice is the advice not given. Another thing I’ve learned is to not be so judgmental of others. Indeed I have begun a counseling/therapy practice and I do offer support, guidance, and understanding. My approach is integrative because there is not a one size fits all when it comes to problems and difficulties in life. The client’s prerogative is super important . Adversity, difficulties, rough patches, problems, failures, etc are bound to happen in life and sometimes people need assistance to get through and understand what it is they are experiencing. I think therapy and counseling can be very useful in this endeavor. Making a little bit more space internally can result in more freedom and peace within. Changing the narrative of our storylines or understanding our experience in a different way can be liberating. Therapy/counseling can definitely help accomplish this. Go for it you are worth it. I’d love the opportunity to help.

My name is Deborah Beard. I am trained in Marriage & Family Therapy and have served as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 25 years. I graduated in 1996 with a Masters degree in Science: Family Therapy from Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. My previous work experience as a Human Resource Manager and a Professor of Education bring relatable life skill experiences into each of my sessions. I have served as a counselor in both public and private mental health agencies, primarily for those seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma and abuse recovery, relationships, and parenting skills. Any client who has the courage to seek counseling is someone worth celebrating. With gentleness and warmth, I try to focus on each of my clients' strengths to help them in the areas they desire to change. I utilize counseling tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Systemic Therapy as appropriate. Each client's faith and moral values are recognized as a wonderful foundation for their desired growth. I look forward to meeting you!

I have dedicated my career to assisting people reach their goals and lead a happier, healthier life. As a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois for the last 25 years, I've enjoyed working with diverse individuals with a wide spectrum of needs and concerns. Much of these concerns include issues with depression, anxiety, and LGBTQ+ challenges. I also help many people who have experienced trauma. As a therapist, I recognize that many factors contribute to the level of care a person may need, therefore, I don't use a cookie cutter approach. I try to adapt my style to the individual. Sometimes a person is stuck in a certain stage of life or career or needs validation on the approach they are choosing. I work with that person on breaking open the barriers and providing support for their next step. My counseling style is person-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach includes motivational interviewing and is trauma informed, in addition to cognitive-behavioral therapy. Addressing personal issues, transitions, and change can be stressful but you don't have to address them alone. I can assist you in moving confidently towards your goals so that you can experience a happier and more fulfilling life. I look forward to working with you!

I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. 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 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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. 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.

Robert Allanson is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified in Drug and Alcohol Counseling (CADC) and holds his Certification as an Integrative Mental Health Provider (CIMHP). He received his undergraduate degree in Education from Elmhurst College as well as his Master’s Degree in Community Counseling from the National Louis University. Robert has worked with a diverse population of adolescents and adults within the inpatient hospitalization as well as outpatient substance abuse and mental health settings. Robert’s areas of focus have been addictions, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and life transitions/adjustment related issues among many more. While taking a very client centered approach, he utilizes techniques from Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solutions-Focused Therapy. Using these therapeutic approaches he strives to empower clients and their families to take an active role in recovery employing their own strengths and resources in addition to learning how to modify and adapt them to the ever evolving seasons of life. Patient Care Philosophy My approach to patients is very much based on empowerment and collaboration. I believe each individual holds the tools and resources for healing within them. I strive to work with them to clarify these strengths and learn or problem solve strategies for adapting them. I integrate various evidence-based therapeutic approaches to foster not only healing, but wellness and a true sense of fulfillment. Therefore it is critical to take a holistic approach that emphasizes flexibility and adaptability to the ever changing seasons of life. How I Stay Well: Balancing my life with a wide range of activities has been very helpful for me. I feel it is very important to get a sense of accomplishment each day in as many of my valued areas of life as possible, within reason. With that I try to pick up a pencil and draw, sketch, or doodle something every day to keep my creative juices flowing. I also have made it a point to set specific time aside each day to play with my boys, whether that be going on epic adventures, building Lego masterpieces, or Jedi and lightsaber training in the backyard. Maintaining that sense of wonder and imagination has been a much needed treatment to balance out the stressors of work and life.

I am licensed in Illinois and Kansas with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, anger management, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.

Hi, I’m Molly! I know reaching out for therapy can be a big step, and my goal is to make the process as welcoming and effective as possible. My style is warm, supportive, and action-oriented—I don’t just listen; I help you make real, lasting changes. I specialize in working with adults who feel stuck—whether that’s in habits, addiction, motivation struggles, anxiety, or depression. If you’ve tried therapy before and felt like just talking didn’t help, you’re in the right place. I use TEAM-CBT, a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps you identify what’s holding you back and gives you practical tools to move forward. My style includes holding patients accountable—with self-help assignments and therapy homework between sessions—so you can get the most out of your time and see real progress. I also bring experience working with individuals across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Initial sessions are held via secure video to assess your needs and ensure we're a good fit. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’d be honored to support you on your journey.