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Sharon Koltis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
16 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with approximately 15 years experience. My primary focus has been working with children, teens, adults and families. I seek to establish a relationship with a client through a respectful, caring approach and help them identify their strengths and needs to achieve their goals. I also enjoy working with young adults making the transition from adolescence to adulthood and have worked with clients who are struggling with life changes, grief and loss. I begin with a client centered approach but also utilize behavioral & cognitive therapy and mindfulness activities to help manage stress, anxiety and anger. I have also worked with numerous families who have children diagnosed with ADHD, behavioral problems, anger and anxiety.

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Jordan Coleman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,C-SSWS
Anger management
5 years of experience

My name is Jordan Coleman. I have a black lab named Bruce Wayne. I attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for both my undergrad (B.S. Human Development and Family Studies 2012) and for my Master's in Social Work (MSW 2015). I have been a School Social Worker for 4 years but have always had a passion for helping others. I have worked with clients on a wide range of concerns including emotion management, trauma, family relationships, and beyond. I tend to be a positive, optimistic person and I very much value relationships with others. I feel that these attributes aid me in my practice. My treatment approach combines client-centered, mindfulness, solution-focused, with other approaches sprinkled in for good measure. My goal is to empathize with my clients and help you identify goals and move towards them, move to a more clarified version of life, or be a sounding board for when it is needed. I know times are especially trying right now, so I felt a calling to begin expanding my horizons with BetterHelp. I generally check messages on here a few times per day Monday-Friday and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. It can be very difficult to reach out for help, but I am glad you are taking that step. I would love to help you with this change and be there to support you!

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Kimber Brokaw

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Counselor License Type(s): LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

First let me say how happy I am that you are seeking counseling support. That takes a lot of courage and shows that you want more for yourself and your life! I've been in the social work field for 25 years working non-profit, in the schools and for the last 13 years in private clinical practice. I also serve as a Health and Wellness Coach for clients all over the United States as my own battle with an auto-immune condition led me to find a more natural path. My overall mission is to bring freedom through health – body, soul and spirit – because when we feel better, we do better! My overall areas of expertise are in helping people get “un-stuck” through a better understanding of how they are wired and how they’ve been wounded. I help clients discover the life they most desire to live and teach them how to get into alignment with that desire. I use cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, narrative therapy, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches but I love to use experiential exercises to help people get out of their head and into their heart to find the answers they need for moving forward into their fullest life. I look forward to working with you, Kimber

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Thomas Zimm

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker who graduated from Jane Addams school of Social Work where I obtained a Master of Social Work Degree. I have over 10 years of experience working with children and adults who have experienced abuse, neglect, domestic violence, separation, and loss, depression. Furthermore, I have refined my skills working with adolescents and families impacted by depression, bipolar, substance abuse, interpersonal violence, and homelessness., My years of expertise have taught me the importance of engagement, validating, and supporting those who have experienced pain, suffering, and loss. My approach is supportive, collaborative, and I focus on advocacy rather than diagnose or labels. My approach combines mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, feminist, attachment, and psycho-dynamic theories. It takes courage to see the need for therapy and perseverance to take the steps required to initiate therapy. I will be available to you for support, a witness to your experience, and a supporter of your journey toward your ultimate goal.

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Siobhan McCullough

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC,NCC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

PLEASE NOTE: I currently have daytime hours available for live sessions during the week. I am not offering evenings or weekend times. Hello! I’m really glad you found me. Seeing that you are reading this page, that means that you have taken the hardest steps in your movement towards wellness. Researching and reaching out to a counselor is usually one of the most challenging steps in one’s journey and you’re here! Finding the right therapist fit can make a world of difference in your counseling experience. That being said, I’d like to tell you a little bit about myself to see if I’m the right match for you. My name is Siobhan (pronounced Sha-vaughn) and I prefer she/her/hers pronouns. I received by bachelors of science degree in Psychology and my masters of science degree in Community Counseling. I am double Board Certified in Counseling and as a Tele-Mental Health Provider through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I have worked in the field of psychology since 2006 and have been providing direct counseling care since 2009. During that time, I have worked with clients in community, private practice, and hospital based settings. At this time, I primarily work with adults (18+) in Illinois. Over the last decade I have had the privilege of assisting individuals struggling with a wide variety of concerns and diagnoses; however I mostly focused my care on those who struggled with depression, anxieties, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive behaviors, self-compassion, chronic pain, mania, hypomania, codependency, control issues, life changes, as well as grief and loss. While we will be working together, you will be in the driver seat and I’ll help navigate. We work at your pace and on topics of your choosing. I am a self-admitted nerd for learning and have enjoying gaining knowledge in a variety of different counseling disciplines over the years. I have a variety of techniques at the ready to help us along the way. There may be times that you want to work on finding techniques to manage your symptoms…Let’s do it. There may be times you want to vent about an issue…I’m listening. There may be times you want to dig a little deeper and find some roots…Let’s get our gloves on. Overall as a human, I have an inquisitive mind and an open spirit. I value all life paths and I welcome you as you are! I am a sex positive, kink supportive, ethical polyamorous affirming, and LGBTQIA+ safe counselor. You're free to be you. After reading though more information about who I am, do you think we’re a good match? If not, that’s ok! I wish you well as you continue to look for the best fit for you. If I am a good match, I look forward to your message so we can get started! Let’s get you moving towards the life you want to be living.

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Richard Watson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Counselor License Type(s): MA, NCC, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I believe that in the therapeutic relationship, the therapist is the professional but the client is the expert. It is through empowerment, understanding, and collaboration that people can best heal and reach their goals. My areas of expertise include mood disorders (i.e., depression and anxiety) and substance use disorders. I take a trauma-informed approach, respecting the differences in life experiences and resiliency that we all have. For therapy to be effective, there must be trust, openness, and authenticity. As therapy can be quite uncomfortable, and even painful, one must be willing to lean into the discomfort to find growth. My practice is based largely on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches. I guide individuals as they practice identifying, challenging, and replacing unhealthy ways of thinking and behaving that have contributed to the development, and perpetuation, of their problems. One of the most difficult things to do is to put our hand up and admit that we need help. Whether we are struggling with loneliness, sadness, or uncontrollable worry, it can be challenging to talk about the thoughts and the feelings we are experiencing and I respect the difficulty one faces in asking for help. May you find peace, happiness, and wholeness.

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Amy Allen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
18 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with over 18 years of hands-on experience. My clients come to me for help with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I offer a unique perspective having worked in the school setting with individual students on a variety of topics that address personal and social/emotional issues along with executive functioning skills that directly drive increased success in the academic setting. In addition to counseling, I work with my clients to expand their horizons through career planning including tailored education and training for alternative work environments. Together with my clients, we create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings are shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you on that journey.

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Michele Petersmark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Leslie Salmon

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Illinois with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, grief, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Francesca Cooley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Altamont
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Indiana, Georgia,Minnesota, and Texas with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Altamont

Finding the best therapist close by in Altamont 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 Altamont 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 Altamont. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Altamont, 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Altamont region and in the state of Illinois. 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 Altamont 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 Altamont 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 Altamont area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Altamont, elsewhere in Effingham, or in the greater state of Illinois. 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 Altamont 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 Altamont 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 Altamont 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 Altamont may not take health insurance, some in the state of Illinois may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Illinois you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Altamont online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Altamont, Illinois working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. 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 Altamont 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 professional, including the therapists in Altamont 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 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 today.

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

BetterHelp's verified 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 is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used 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 - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this 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 Altamont 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 Altamont?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Altamont 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.

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 Altamont 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 Altamont 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 IL, 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 62411 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 Altamont counselor?

Before seeing your Altamont therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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 or feel unsure about what to talk about. Altamont 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.

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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Altamont 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 with a Altamont 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 Altamont, Illinois can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Altamont has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 Altamont, Illinois

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Altamont 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 Altamont.

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

62411

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