
Dr. Charmaine Jake-Matthews
Hi, I am looking forward to getting to know you & the ways in which I can support and assist you. Prior to beginning my work as a counselor in the state of Illinois in 2007, I worked as a psychology professor (teaching & conducting research). Since 2007 I have used a variety of therapeutic techniques to help individuals, couples & families. I specialize in working with those dealing with anxiety, mood disorders & relationship issues. My approach to counseling is interactive and solution focused. When I am not working, I enjoy baking and singing.

Dr. Tina Lott
Dr. Tina Lott Dr. Lott is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois, Colorado, Maine, Washington and Arizona. She is also a Certified Addictions Counselor (CADC) and Advanced Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Dr. Lott also holds the BC-TMH (Board-certified Tele mental health) credential. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in addiction from Chicago State University. She went on to earn a Master’s degree at Governors State University in 2011 and earned her Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Governors State University in 2018. Dr. Lott belongs to several professional organizations. They include the Illinois Counseling Association (ICA), National Certified Counselors (NCC), and the American Counseling Association (ACA). She is a Board Director on NBCC's CCE Board. Dr. Lott is passionate about working with the mental health community. She is a Core Professor in the School of Counseling at a top-notch university where she teaches counseling to master's and doctoral-level students. Dr. Lott specializes in working with those with co-occurring disorders in the community. She is an advocate for social justice and has a personal and professional goal of addressing issues related to stigma. The stigma associated with mental illness and addiction harms the recovery of the members that she works with. Dr. Lott is helping to increase awareness about stigma through her post-dissertation research endeavors. Dr. Lott’s family consists of 2 Kids, ages 16 and 10, and her wife, Tina. When she is not working, Dr. Lott enjoys working out, painting, traveling, reading, and most of all, spending time with family.

Susan Sparks
Through my life I have worked with children of all ages in a variety of settings. I have always had a passion to care for and help others. I have worked and volunteered in the community for over 35 years. I saw many things in the community that concerned me especially in the area of mental health. I wanted to make a difference by helping others make a difference in our world. I achieved my Master Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois in 2011 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2013. As a therapist I work with children, young adults, individuals, and families using a life approach tailored to the unique needs of each person. I use therapeutic strategies to help with behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and anger management, to name a few. I use research based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Mind fullness practice and Holistic Therapies. I believe that each person has the capabilities to meet and manage the challenges they face, some requiring more guidance than others. I believe everyone no matter what age has strengths that they can draw on. I offer support for individuals to overcome obstacles and to realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy and productive lives.

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.

Jonna Phelps
I graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago with a M.A. in Clinical Psychology. I received my LCPC in 2001. I am also a Certified Care Manager with the National Academy of Care Managers. I have focused my attention on treating adults with anxiety and depression. I believe in learning coping skills and positive communication to deal with significant life events. The goal of treatment is validation through re-focusing on individual strengths in order to improve overall quality of life. . “Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life.” ― Shannon L. Alder How can I help?

Washington Cisco
I began working with children and youth in 1986 and continued until 2003. As indicated on my resume, I returned to working with a client base providing therapy to the children, and adult population in 2013 at an outpatient mental health facility. Presently, I am employed in the prison system where I am working with the adult population, 19 years old to 70 years. As therapist, I use a caring and supportive style with my clients, believing that they are coming because they need assistance in being able to function and cope with various stressors impacting each lives. My treatment approach is one of understanding and not judgmental. I understand that the client's self-determination is most significant in the counseling relationship. I believe that the client is the most important person in the session and hence in order to help, I need to listen to rather than to tell each what to do.

Vicki Marcum
I am a licensed clinical social worker with two Master's degrees, one in Community Health and one in Social Work! I have 40 plus year of clinical experience. I am a registered play therapy supervisor with extensive training in the use of Play therapy with all age populations. I have had clinical training and certification in EMDR. I have worked in every clinical setting, inpatient psychiatric, outpatient community mental health. In outpatient community mental health I have worked in Emergency/Crisis Intervention Services. I have been a Qualified Examiner. I have worked with Adults with chronic mental illness in Outpatient Day treatment and Extended Day Treatment Programs. I have worked Case management with Adults and Children and Families. addressing parenting, developmental growth and development and behavioral problems. i have worked Ih-home programs and in private practice. . I have provided services in Emergency rooms, school settings, churches, social service agencies and community settings. I have worked with all age populations, birth to Seniors in individual, family and group therapy in community mental health and in the child welfare system. My initial style is client centered until a trusting relationship has developed and then will switch to whatever theoretical approach which addresses the treatment issue and what fits your personality and understanding. I am compassionate, supportive, and sensitive to you but when that right moment comes I will challenge your belief system. I do not fix people and tell them what to do. You are in charge of your treatment. I help people explore their options and find their own way. We will laugh a little, cry a little and disagree at times but you will feel better.

Sara Gonzalez
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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.

Will Smith
I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Artrice Brewer
As a licensed therapist in Illinois with over 15 years of professional experience, I am passionate about helping individuals, teens, and families navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in supporting clients dealing with stress, anxiety, PTSD, depression, family conflicts, trauma, and grief. I believe you are the expert of your own story and have the strength to overcome obstacles, grow, and heal. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I am here to support you on your journey. Let’s work together toward positive change.
Find a therapist serving clients in Illinois
Types of therapists available to clients in Dakota
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Dakota that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Dakota available through BetterHelp are accredited to help individuals and couples. Dakota therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Dakota therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Dakota region and in the state of Illinois.
How a therapist can help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want
Therapists in Dakota can help 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 therapist in Dakota may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.