This is Andrew Mercer's avatar and link to their profile

Andrew Mercer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I'm so happy you're here and so happy that you're taking an important step towards positive change in your life. Nothing brings me more joy than to be able to be a part of your journey while we work towards your goals. I've been partnering with adults for the past 8 years in private practice as a licensed therapist and 3 years as a life coach working with college-aged adults. Former and current clients appreciate my honest straightforward approach to counseling as well as my ability to patiently and compassionately hold space for answers to emerge. The struggles of life are not meant to be all-consuming or overwhelming and as self-sufficient as most of us are, we all need help at some point. I know I've benefitted from being able to talk through my worries and concerns with the help of a trained therapist and know what the experience is like in either seat. I was trained in pastoral counseling and at Loyola University in Chicago and can assist if your concerns are more spiritual in nature and when they are not take a more traditional approach. I draw from relational schools of thought- psychodynamic, humanistic and Adlerian but apply them in a straightforward pragmatic fashion to keep the process brief and effective. Having been trained and educated in diverse settings, I have experience working with many different types of people with many different concerns. In particular, spiritual and religious questions, LGBT issues, anxiety and coping with grief and loss are areas that I can support you the most. I look forward to working with you as we take the next steps in your journey together.

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Marissa Harris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,BCD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with specialization in addictions (substance use and sexual disorders), trauma and emotional conditions, LGBTQ concerns, depression, anxiety, relationship and parenting concerns, vocational challenges, legal issues, and serious mental health illnesses. Since I started in the field in 1998, I have always known I would be a counselor. Growing up, it came naturally to me to be compassionate, empathetic, and to listen with a non-judgmental stance. Over the past 20 years, I have helped hundreds of individuals improve their lifestyles through my work and passion for helping. What I love the most about working as a therapist is being apart of those quantum change insights; the ones that involve a shift in perception and the realization of a new life. It can be as simple as looking at ones self in a positive light, realizing they are capable of change. Recovery is about self-discovery, rediscovering the parts that you believe have become disconnected or lost. Authentic recovery allows you to achieve peace and satisfaction with your life. This starts with positive connections. I am here to guide you in the path of healing the root cause of your stress. With positive and loving connection, I will honor your path towards fulfillment. Currently as of 5/14/2020, I am no longer taking new clients due to a full schedule.

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Gina Spielman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile. I'm glad you're reaching out and seeking resources. You're currently on your way to having your best life. A little about me: I have 25 years of clinical experience, and always give my clients the time and attention they deserve. I have a holistic approach which usually includes working with mind, body, and spirit (certified in mental health integrative medicine). In my personal life I'm quite spiritual and tend to bring that aspect into my work. My clients typically experience profound changes and personal growth during therapy with me and beyond as they go on with their life journeys. I'm so grateful to be able to assist in those experiences! I look forward to any questions you may have about counseling, my approach, or this process. I would love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out at any time with questions or concerns, as it is easy to do on this platform. As you can probably see, it’s a really innovative program, like we have our own private virtual therapy room! It's a great resource for so many people and I'm really glad you found it. Please note that I check messages and respond on a daily basis on most weekdays. However, nights, weekends, and holidays I'm usually not working. I take time off to enjoy life, spend some family time, and recharge. Therefore, I do not respond to messages or offer live sessions during night, weekend, or holiday times. **View my Private Practice Website at www.ginaspielman.com** If you have any technical questions or questions/concerns about your account subscription or billing, contact Betterhelp directly. I'm really looking forward to hearing from you. Always remember to take good care and be kind to yourself.

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Srimayi Devulapalli

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Srimayi Devulapalli and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. I speak English, Hindi, Urdu and Telugu. I have over 11 years of experience in providing individual therapy to diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults and older adults. I specialize in providing therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, adjustment issues, relationships problems and mood disorders using cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and client centered approach and I also incorporate other models of therapy to meet the needs of the clients.

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Michele Petersmark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
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!

This is Kenneth Vick's avatar and link to their profile

Kenneth Vick

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & relationship issues. 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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Jean Hannigan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Background: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I graduated from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. Additionally, I have obtained certificates in Grief Counseling and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and/or grief related to their relationships or in their daily lives. I have an eclectic background working in the school system, social services, Early Intervention with the State of Illinois, and private practice. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement afterward. Using a non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy we will work together to find your strengths and utilize those strengths to meet your desired goals. Who I Treat: I work with adults, couples, and teens utilizing both client-centered and holistic approaches. My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, gender identity, and LGBTQ issues. I have a particular passion for working with those struggling with or recovering from Narcissistic Abuse. My Treatment Approaches: Client-Centered Therapy / Insight Oriented Therapy / Mindfulness/ CBT / Grief / Problem Solving

This is James (Jimmy) Clifton's avatar and link to their profile

James (Jimmy) Clifton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,Master of Science in Psychology,Doctor of Ministry in Biblical Counseling
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

My name is James W. Clifton. I am licensed in the State of Indiana as a Mental Health Counselor and as a Clinical Social Worker. I am also licensed in Idaho (LCPC), Vermont (LCMHC), Utah (CMHC), and New Hampshire as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have a Master of Science in Psychology from California Coast University. I teach clients how to change their thinking, be responsible for their feelings, and make better choices. I look forward to working with you. I focus on the present and behaviors and not on the past and feelings. I do not work with anyone under the age of 25 or relationship issues, or family issues, or addiction issues of any kind.

This is Charlene Mabins's avatar and link to their profile

Charlene Mabins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. 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!

This is Liliana Amador's avatar and link to their profile

Liliana Amador

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Dakota
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Dakota

Finding the best therapist close by in Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota. 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 Dakota, 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota, elsewhere in Stephenson, 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Dakota, 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 61018 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 Dakota counselor?

Before seeing your Dakota 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. Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota, 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.

Dakota 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 Dakota, 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 Dakota 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 Dakota.

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

61018

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