Sarah Hope
I have always been an intuitive, empathic, and inquisitive human and as corny as it may sound, helping to bring “world peace” has always been a consistent life goal of mine. However, from as early as I can remember, I was always held back in my personal and professional journeys because of the multitude of thoughts and panic feelings circling throughout my head and body. My personal struggles with anxiety and depression, brought me into confronting my own demons with the help of professionals, and through that process I realized that my talents and passions aligned with helping others work though their own internal struggles—my tiny, humble contribution to bringing that world peace, I so hope and wish to provide. I realized early on that a) there is no right way to be, b) and all humans are wildly perfect for every flaw, and imperfection society may throw at us. I believe in the simple truths of respect for one another, and believe in the value of human connection, regardless of any background. After graduating college and leaving the beautiful cocoon that is Boulder, CO, I found myself in a “quarter life crisis,” type place. I felt stuck, but ready for my next move. My passion for “bringing world peace” was still a constant thought in the back of my head. My work and passion for the homeless and individuals afflicted with addiction/severe mental illness brought me to New Delhi, India to work side by side with street children. While there, I learned to incorporate natural empathy, non-verbal communication and holistic spirituality to help nurture and teach these children daily life skills, while also building their self esteem. The trip was quite possibly the most eye opening experience of my life, and it taught me the power of trusting myself through the vulnerable experiences that life constantly throw at us. In 2012, after this life-changing journey in India, I found myself on a new journey, in Chicago, IL with the same passions for helping those who desperately needed a voice, or an advocate. In 2013, I started my Masters degree training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adler University, and found that social justice for all would be an underlying driving force for me throughout my career. I have experience working in Drug/Alcohol Rehabilitation centers, individual and group counseling on the West Side of Chicago with homeless clients, severe mental illness, and couples and family therapy. Upon graduating with my Masters degree in 2015, I started administering Neurofeedback, as well as counseling services in a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, IL. I have strong experience working with all age groups (6-75 yo), with a specialty in adolescence and young adulthood. I currently work closely with all age groups, and all degrees of mental illness, with a specialty in depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ community and have worked closely with starting a LGBTQ services website in the Chicago land area. I counsel from an integrative background, instilling Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, Existential ideals as well as humanistic validation throughout my sessions. I believe in establishing rapport through a combination of professional boundaries and establishing a learning journey together. I tend to incorporate humor, and self-disclosure of my own journey into my sessions as well. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have, and I look forward to tackling life’s challenges together.
Nicole Kough
Hi and welcome! My name is Nicole Kough and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been in the field since 2009. I live in the southern/central area of Illinois. I graduated from Lindenwood University in 2014. I have worked with clients with a range of symptoms which include depression, anxiety, marriage counseling and relationship issues. My counseling style is supportive and non-judgmental. I use a mixture of cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy which will help you work through thought processes and come up with solutions to your issues. I will listen to you and bring understanding and compassion to the therapy process, allowing healing to begin. I will personalize therapy to fit your needs.
Mary Rodriguez
Hello There! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, I have worked in crisis intervention for the past 7years which includes working hospital settings. I have worked with clients with a wide range of crises including, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, OCD, PTSD, post-partum depression, and life challenges. My counseling style is open, and interactive, I believe that not everyone falls under one certain labels and I treat everyone with respect, and compassion. Of course I will tailor our treatment plan and discussions to meet your uniquely specific needs, but approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic, and solution focused therapy. Its a very empowering and rewarding moment that you want to take in order to live a more health life, and I am ready to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Jennifer Vandigo
My goal is to assist you in your journey to step into the power and truth of who you are. As you make this authentic transformation , you will develop skills to find the answers within, so that you can know your value. As a compassionate and loving person, I find joy in helping others improve their lives. I earned my Master of Social Work at Arizona State University in 1990. I have used my skills in so many settings. One of my significant experiences was my role as a Program Director at a residential treatment program for teens who had been in prison. I provided individual, group and family counseling and more. Another experience was my time in the Peace Corps in Jamaica working as a Medical Social Worker and then starting a Women's Crisis Center for domestic violence/sexual assault /and abuse. Most recently I completed a 2 year program in advanced spiritual psychology which has expanded the depth of my skills. I have provided counseling for a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, addictions, relationships/parenting issues, sexual assault and abuse trauma and more. Over the past years as a clinician, my experience has taught me that one of the most important aspect of counseling by far is the connection and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your personal challenges. As a very compassionate and loving person, I am able create a safe and supportive connection with the people that I assist. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you to create a more loving and peaceful life. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Family conflicts Depression Also experienced in: Trauma and abuse , Grief , Parenting issues , Anger management , Self esteem , Career difficulties , Coping with life changes , Coaching , ADHD , Abandonment , Attachment Issues , Blended Family Issues , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Codependency , Communication Problems , Control Issues , Dependent Personality , Divorce and Separation , Domestic Violence , Drug and Alcohol Addiction , Family of Origin Issues , Family Problems , Guilt and Shame , Impulsivity , Isolation/Loneliness , Life Purpose , Mood Disorders , Posttraumatic Stress , Self-Harm , Self-Love , Sexual Assault and Abuse , Social Anxiety and Phobia , Women's Issues , Workplace Issues , Young Adult Issues Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 15
Dr. Katherine Souza
I bring 23 years of experience as a therapist and 16 of these years in behavioral health leadership. I have taught at several university and trained new therapists. I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families. I am energized by this profession and look forward to many more years. My treatment philosophy is holistic, systemic and client centered. I utilize a holistic picture including consideration of mind, body and spirit. I involve clients in their treatment planning. I am responsive to individual needs respecting preferences and life experience. Along with my client, I address the current issues and look at how to resolve these.
LaDonna Miller
Oftentimes reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 8 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals! I have experience working with adults with depression, ADHD, anxiety disorders, panic disorders, multicultural issues, and complex trauma. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. My passion for mental health stems from personal experiences with myself and those around me. I grew up with family members living with mental illness and I have personally overcome some mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, the process for getting help can be overwhelming, and it can feel so frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I look forward to speaking with you to see if we are a good fit to partner in your journey!
Nneka Council
I am licensed in Illinois and Nebraska with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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. 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.
Sarah Seely
I am licensed clinical counselor in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients learn how to manage anxiety, depression, unhealed trauma and abuse, substance use and addiction, relationships and more. I also have 10 years experience working in crisis intervention: suicidal thoughts, self harming behavior and psychosis. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe its very cathartic to talk to someone in this space, to improve your insight and self awareness, empowering growth and change. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Carlton Hemphill
Hello and welcome! My name is Carlton Hemphill, a 32-year-old Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois who is also board certified (NCC). I received my Masters from University in Clinical Psychology-Counseling Practice with a concentration on child and families. I have been working in the field since 2015, and practicing as an independent clinician in my own private practice since June 2023. My therapy background is in behavioral and cognitive theories, which means I focus on how our experiences and beliefs shape our behavior. I help clients understand how their environment and interpretations of life events influence their current actions and behavioral patterns. Additionally, I help clients find meaning in life through existential questions, examining fundamental aspects such as purpose and personal values to foster a sense of direction and fulfillment. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where you are in control as I begin to learn of your unique experiences. I ask direct, thought-provoking questions to help you explore your thoughts and feelings more deeply, gathering important details that inform our work. My feedback is unbiased, aimed at helping you gain clarity and make informed decisions. This process is centered on you—your insights, your growth, and your journey. Working with me feels like a collaborative partnership where your pace and direction are always respected.
Kimberly Harris
I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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 Freeburg
Finding the best therapist close by in Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg. 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 Freeburg, 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg, elsewhere in St. Clair, 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Freeburg, 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 62221 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 Freeburg counselor?
Before seeing your Freeburg 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. Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg 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 Freeburg, 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.
Freeburg 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 Freeburg, 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 Freeburg 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- 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.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Freeburg:
62221, 62243