This is Austa Murray's avatar and link to their profile

Austa Murray

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

Hello, my name is Austa Murray and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 24 years of experience bringing knowledge from a broad range of mental health settings. My work has included individual therapy, group therapy and family therapy with the purpose of starting our work together where the client wants. My intention is to move at a pace comfortable to you and to build a connection, so that you can receive the support you're seeking. I have worked with a diverse group of clients who've faced a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, career difficulties, parenting issues, relationship issues, sexual assault, emotional abuse, and other trauma. I have advanced training in working through an attachment and trauma based lens, as well as developmental expertise. My style is compassionate, non-judgmental, educational and insight based. I see my role as providing you with my experience and knowledge in a supportive manner to help you navigate the challenges that led you to seek support. This often involves addressing your presenting concerns with a combination of understanding, listening, skill development, and psychological concepts based on establishing insight. My approach is strengths-based, trauma and developmentally informed, combining cognitive behavioral and solution-focused counseling styles. Together, we will create a plan to meet your individual needs. I look forward to working with you.

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Rebecca Goldsborough-Marshall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
4 years of experience

I am a clinically licensed counselor in the state of Illinois. I have vast experience working with people who have depression, anxiety, trauma and anger concerns. I also have experience treating people with bipolar, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders. I believe our mental health is as important as our physical health and I take a holistic approach. I am excited to get to know you and to find out how I can help. I think through a lens of cognitive behavioral therapy and believe strongly in creating strong relationships with my clients based on trust and acceptance. I will not judge you, your behaviors or decisions but will support you the best I can and help you move into a space of self acceptance. If you are ready to move forward and to make healthy changes in your life, I'm ready to help you.

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Crystal Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hello, my name is Crystal Williams, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I have been a practicing clinician for 11 years and have worked in many capacities of my profession from community therapeutic setting to psychosocial groups to hospitals. I have had the privilege to work with a diverse population of clients and to execute individual, family, couples, and group counseling in my career. My clients ages ranged from neo-natal age to geriatric age group. I have also been able to work with clients from all different racial, ethnic, religious backgrounds. The clients I have had the fortunate to work with have come into services for varies reasons: Depression, Anxiety/ Panic Attacks, Stress management, Relationship issues, Parenting issues, Self- identity concerns, Moderate/Severe Mental health diagnosis with learning coping skills, LGBTQ, couples counseling, grief counseling etc… My goals for my clients are to stabilize and help clients make progress towards their goal(s) in treatment which then helps elevate their lives to be better. I pride myself as being a therapist who is open-minded and relatable with clients. I want clients to feel comfortable being expressive of their thoughts, feelings, ideas and most important to have a safe space to feel heard and understood. My goal to learn about my clients, build rapport, and help them to the best of my ability and expertise. My best treatment approaches are collage of multiple treatment modalities such as Cognitive behavior therapy/ psychodynamic therapy/solution focused/motivational interviewing, strength based, and client centered to name a few. I utilize couple base treatment approaches, as well family treatment approaches. Services and treatment plans are created to each individualized client. Taking the first step of recognizing that things in your life can be improved is a small victory already. I am a person committed to walk along the journey with you therefore, you are not alone for your next steps. If you ready, let’s get started and I look forward to having the opportunity to work you.

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Karen Henderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

I have had the pleasure of serving the community and individuals for over 20 years. I have a Masters Degree in Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have had the opportunity to lead a Hospice counseling team, teach at a community college, provide inpatient and outpatient counseling, and work along side an amazing team as Director of a counseling and foster care agency. My style is a strength based approach utilizing cognitive-behavioral and humanistic therapy to focus on rapport building and solution focused outcomes. Taking time to invest in yourself is critical to your overall health. Most people at some point in their life can benefit from having another person to share their experiences with along with sharing their reactions to those experiences. I look forward to meeting you, discussing your counseling goals, and working towards healthy next steps together. Counseling can be a path to a healthier you.

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Charley Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Counselor License Type(s): MA LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and addiction. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and patient-centered therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Charley

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Wendy Gilchrist

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC, MBA, MAAT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

I come to BetterHelp with personal maturity, shared humanitarian values, and clinical practice in varied settings. My professional career began as a not-for-profit entrepreneur following an MBA. I have developed organizations assisting homeless boys and abused women as well as creating business opportunities for disadvantaged populations to become economically self-sufficient. Since beginning my education as a License Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC MAAT and YTT), I have worked as a therapist with individuals of all ages, with families and in group settings, and have in-depth exposure to clinical contexts involving trauma and loss. I have worked as a therapist in hospitals in the psychiatric unit and lately in a recognized trauma informed program.

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April Lacey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Welcome! My name is April Lacey and I am a licensed counselor in Illinois. Taking the first step to seeking a happier and fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you through that process. My vision for therapy is to create a safe and encouraging space for clients to share their experiences while recognizing their strengths to cope with life's challenges. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings such psychiatric units, crisis lines, community mental health working with youth and families impacted by the juvenile justice system, and group practice. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, and parenting concerns. I use an integrative approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered, Trauma- Focused, Mindfulness, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help my clients. My approach focuses on fostering a strong collaborative relationship with clients to reach their goals. I value genuineness and believe in meeting clients where they are, treating everyone with respect and compassion.

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Allison Gale

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

Thank you for reaching out. My name is Allison and I am a licensed therapist in the states of Illinois and Indiana. I look forward to meeting you and learning more about your individual needs. My hope for you is that you will find our sessions to be a safe space where you can share, feel supported, and grow. I enjoy incorporating art and mindfulness into sessions and am able to provide exercises for you to work on outside of our session time. I have six years of counseling experience helping clients manage depression, anxiety, career changes, relationship issues and goals, parenting and postpartum struggles and complex trauma healing. I believe you are the expert of your story and look forward to meeting you exactly where you are in this present moment. Your feelings and experiences are valid; reaching out for support shows your strength. When I am not working I enjoy reading, hiking, and working on art projects. I look forward to connecting with you!

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David Myford

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
AddictionsGriefAnger management
16 years of experience

I am licensed in several states and 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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!

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Heather Freed

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Forest City
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
14 years of experience

Heather Freed, LCSW: Unlock Your Potential Welcome! I'm Heather Freed, LCSW, and I specialize in helping individuals like you find peace, balance, empowerment, and fulfillment in life. With over a decade of experience, I'm here to guide you on a transformative journey towards well-being and your higher purpose. Why Choose Heather Freed's Therapy Practice? Personalized Approach: Your life, your story. I'll work with you to create a custom plan that resonates with your values and unique circumstances. Holistic Healing Techniques: Combining evidence-based therapy, mindfulness, and spirituality, we'll unlock new paths of healing and personal growth. Safe Space for Exploration: Judgment-free zone! Feel free to explore your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs to gain deeper insights. Professional and Life Expertise: From stress and anxiety, major life transitions to relationship and career challenges, I'm here to provide compassionate guidance tailored to your needs. Services and Specializations: -Stress, Anxiety and Depression Management -Relationship Counseling -Career Guidance and Life Purpose -Self-Esteem and Personal Growth -Meditation and Spiritual Insights The Journey with Heather Freed: We'll embark on a collaborative path that merges therapeutic techniques, spiritual insights, and meditation to empower you. Together, we'll create a harmonious life that ignites your true potential. Take the First Step Today! Your journey towards a more fulfilling life is just a message away. Reach out to schedule a session and let's begin our transformative work together.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Forest City

Finding the best therapist close by in Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City. 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 Forest City, 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City, elsewhere in Mason, 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Forest City, 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 61532 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 Forest City counselor?

Before seeing your Forest City 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. Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City 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 Forest City, 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.

Forest City 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 Forest City, 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 Forest City 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 Forest City.

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

61532, 61567

Popular cities near Forest City, IL

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