Aurora 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 trying it online, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change 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 treatment.
Aurora, IL, part of the Chicago metropolitan area, is known as the City of Lights. It was one of the first cities in the United States to use an all-electric public lighting system. It can be hard to figure out how to forge ahead in our lives without someone to help us shine a light on the path. If you need help with life's challenges, talk to a therapist in Aurora, IL.
A therapist can help people of all ages identify and learn to manage a variety of behaviors. Whether you attend your appointment in person or online, a compassionate therapist will help you build a trusting relationship in a friendly environment. Therapists, licensed professional counselors, and licensed clinical social workers can work with you in your recovery to help change problematic human behavior, learn how to stay focused on goals, and treat mental health conditions like anxiety or mood disorders.
If you want to find someone committed to helping you light up your life, connect with an Aurora-based therapist to get started.
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Kristen Kasperek
Hi, my name is Kristen Kasperek and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and a National Certified Counselor. I have 8 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples in individual and group settings. I worked as a Psycho Social Rehabilitation Therapist for quite some time where I became certified in OCD as well as PTSD. I have vast experience working with those who suffer from chronic mental illness including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I also have a wealth of experience working with those struggling with self-esteem, self-worth, poor relationships, and grief. I enjoy providing support in a variety of ways to my clients to help remind them of how important they are. I currently work with undergraduate and graduate students helping them to discover their true selves through the help of MBTI and Strong Interest Inventory and putting that into play by aiding them in selecting individually appropriate degree programs. I have learned in my years as a Career Counselor that people often stay in ill fitting jobs because they don't see a way out. I love nothing more than to help someone recognize their passion and guide them towards making it a reality. I enjoy assisting my clients with self discovery, the job search process, as well as resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, and negotiation tactics. No matter where you are in your life, I believe you should be doing what you love and I want to help you get there. My approach is to develop a relaxed, non-threatening, and non-clinical professional relationship with my clients. I recognize that the first step to a better life is often the most difficult. I help my clients with that first step and the path that follows. Together, we develop individualized strategies that produce results and lead to a more fulfilling life. In terms of my education, I earned my Master's Degree in Community Counseling with a focus in Mental Illness as well as Career Counseling. My undergraduate degree is in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. If you are searching for direction, inner peace, or need help getting past an obstacle in your personal or professional life, I would welcome the opportunity to work with you.
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Troy Johnson
Welcome! Are you ready for a truly transformative therapy experience? I’m Troy—a therapist who “gets it.” In a world often shaped by heteronormative expectations and conservative viewpoints, I offer a refreshingly affirming and queer-centric approach to therapy. Rooted in inclusivity and guided by a socially conscious, non-religious framework, I specialize in helping clients find authenticity and empowerment. Whether you're navigating personal challenges, exploring your identity, or working through systemic barriers, my practice is a space where you can feel safe, valued, and understood. What I Offer: I work with individuals seeking clarity, growth, and empowerment. My areas of focus include: Exploring and affirming queer identities Addressing anxiety, depression, and life transitions Supporting polyamorous relationships and alternative lifestyles Gender Dysphoria Assessments and Letters of Support for gender-affirming surgery (available through my private practice) My Approach on BetterHelp: I use BetterHelp as a way to meet new clients and introduce myself in a safe, no-commitment environment. It’s an opportunity for us to see if we’re a good match for longer-term work together. My focus here is short-term, goal-oriented care, typically lasting anywhere from 2 to 6 sessions. I don’t provide long-term care on BetterHelp because my availability on this platform is limited; I only accept new BetterHelp clients once or twice a year. If we both agree that continued work together would be beneficial, I’ll help transition you to my private practice, where we can develop a personalized, in-depth approach tailored to your needs. Transition to Private Practice: For long-term therapy, I offer comprehensive services in my private practice, including: Flexible cash rates comparable to subscription costs Insurance options, including United/Optum, BCBS, and Aetna A limited number of discounted session rates for those who qualify Access to my full therapy schedule for greater flexibility To learn more about my private practice, visit www.queertalktherapy.com. About Me: Beyond my professional expertise, I bring warmth, understanding, and a deep commitment to creating a space where you can feel truly seen and heard. My clients describe me as approachable, insightful, and someone who genuinely "gets it." Whether you're working through a challenging time or simply looking to better understand yourself, I’m here to guide you with empathy and evidence-based strategies. Let’s work together to make meaningful, lasting change. I look forward to connecting with you!
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Theresa Presley
Hi, I am Theresa Presley and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and Kansas. I have been practicing social work for 14 years. I have worked in a variety of settings to include inpatient/outpatient mental health, domestic violence and private practice. I work with a variety of ages and various populations. Much of my experience has been working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and the challenges of parenting. I work with a Strength-based theory using elements of Cognitive Behavioral Theory. I try to build a strong, trusting relationship with each client and help them understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings and actions. The feedback I receive from clients is that they find me to be caring, warm, empathetic, nonjudgmental and a good listener. Life can sometimes be tough; sometimes, we have to ask for help. I understand that this is hard; but together we will focus on your strengths to get you through this difficult time and come out even stronger.
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Siobhan McCullough
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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Kaneesha Craig
My name is Kaneesha Craig and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years. I have worked with many clients with a range of concerns ranging from the chronically mentally ill in a hospital setting to clients adjusting to life circumstances in a community agency setting. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I am a person centered counselor who believes in treating people with respect while helping them own their behaviors. My clinical approach is cognitive behavioral. My ultimate goal is to help you reach your desired level of wellness in life. I believe in a clinical partnership and I look forward to being your partner to help you navigate through life. I look forward to working with you soon.
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Keeley Lawriw
I am a licensed social worker in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, confidence, coping with life changes, and executive functioning challenges. I also have experience working with students with Autism, ADHD, anxiety. We work through the many strategies they can put into practice for more effective daily living skills. 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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Andrienne Horton-Smith
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am adept in the implementation of individual & group counseling, life coaching, and mentoring, specifically focusing on the importance of understanding one’s concept of self-worth. My expertise is in helping clients with processing emotional stressors triggered by anxiety, depression and unresolved generational trauma. I believe that you are the expert of your life story with many strengths and emerging strengths that will assist you in processing the emotional stressors that challenge you. Taking the first step towards seeking a more fulfilling and joyous life takes courage. I am here to support you in that journey, and I look forward to working with you!
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Zhong Zi Tan
I am licensed clinical professional counselor and registered Art Therapist in Illinois. I have five years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.
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Dr. Rebecca Michel
I have my doctorate in Counseling and I am licensed in Illinois with 16 years of professional work experience. I am also a Gallup Cerified Strengths Based Coach and Daring Way Certified Coach. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting and relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I help clients identify and build on their strengths in order to overcome challenges in their lives. I look forward to supporting you to reach your personal and professional goals.
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Phillip Hawk
I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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!
How to find a licensed therapist serving clients in Aurora, Illinois
Finding the best therapist close by in Aurora can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area. You can get connected with a clinician 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. 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, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp
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 clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Aurora 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 professional working through their own in-person therapy practice in Aurora or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A 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 Aurora area offering therapy for:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use
- Couples
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 Aurora, elsewhere in Kane, 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 licensed therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Aurora area can be found below:
How does the cost of an in-person therapist compare to BetterHelp?
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 Aurora 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:
- With a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- With therapists: $100-300
- With a clinician: $100
While many psychologists in Aurora 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
Read more about this cost related question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How are therapists on a Aurora online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in 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.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Aurora psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
Read more about this license question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How does BetterHelp online therapy 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 professional, including the therapists in Aurora 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 for in person sessions.
Through BetterHelp, 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, and more. Get matched today.
Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
What mental health issues can a therapist address?
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.
Aurora therapists' specialties available through the BetterHelp platform
- Cognitive behavioral
- Behavior
- EMDR
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders counselor
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment with a counselor
- Career
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD counselor
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transition
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 provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain.us, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
Read more about this psychotherapist question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Is BetterHelp right for me?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.
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 therapy in Aurora 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 therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of 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 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 60507 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 around or in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
Read more about this family question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Aurora therapist?
Before seeing your therapist near you, 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. therapists near you 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 how to best help and support you.
Read more about this first session question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Should I find a Aurora 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 Aurora 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 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.
Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Is therapy 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. An experienced clinician 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 licensed clinician in Aurora, 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.
Counseling with an online Aurora provider
Do therapists judge you in therapy?
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 BetterHelp, the leading therapist platform serving the population of Illinois
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 BetterHelp 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.
- Thehotline.org - National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Suicidepreventionlifeline.org - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisistextline.org - Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veteranscrisisline.net - Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Thetrevorproject.org - Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- Samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline - SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- Nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline - National Eating Disorder Association Helpline :1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Childhelphotline.org/resources-for-teens/ - Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- Fraternallaw.com/help-us-stop-hazing - National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physiciansupportline.com - Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Rainn.org - Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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