Psychologist David Vaccaro providing different types of therapy in Makanda

David Vaccaro

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW,CADC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years offering treatment

Experienced therapist with over 10 years of experience working with a wide range of client issues. I specialize in several mental health therapies for depression, anxiety and panic, self esteem, trauma and obsessive compulsive disorder. I have also worked with clients from adolescent age, to adult and geriatric. Therapy specializations include client centered therapy, trauma focused therapies (TFCBT), mindfulness based therapies, cognitive behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, crisis counseling, and brain injury therapies. In addition to mental health treatment, I also specialize in substance use treatments such as mindfulness based sobriety and harm reduction counseling. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from Southern Illinois University and went on to receive my graduate degree in mental health social work. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and cat (Molly), running, and traveling to new places. It takes courage to seek out counseling and I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Psychologist Jennifer, "Jenny" Marder providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Jennifer, "Jenny" Marder

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
9 years offering treatment

I obtained my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential in 2016. I have 24 years of experience in social work. My experience includes working with adults, children, teen parents, and teens who face challenges in their lives to reach their fullest potential. My belief is therapy is a safe space to explore and work toward positive outcomes, assisting clients to achieve their therapeutic goals and alleviate stress. I have worked with clients regarding domestic violence, co-dependence, anxiety issues, and parenting topics. In the past I have advocated on behalf of clients which allows the client and families obtain greater success toward their goals. As your therapist, you and I will build a relationship of trust and understanding to work through the issues that are important to you. My work in client home settings, as well as a behavioral hospital and in clinical assessment have included several modalities. I am proficient in Cognitive Behavioral theory, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma work, Stress Management, complicated grief interventions.

Psychologist Carolyn Cole providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Carolyn Cole

Clinician
License Type(s): LCPC,LMFT,NCC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

Do you notice yourself feeling as though something is just missing in your life? Maybe work feels unsatisfying or relationships feel unfulfilling. Your inner critic may be constantly yapping away, where you start to question if you even like yourself anymore, and you may find yourself trying to constantly distract yourself to escape the voice of the inner critic. You may feel more stressed, anxious, depressed, or even angry. Maybe you also notice patterns that keep - on - repeating, and you just don't know how to get out of this cycle. You may find yourself getting stuck in cycles of shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, or frustration or anger. Everything you've been trying to get ahead just simply isn't working. You may wonder "when will things ever change?" You may even feel a bit stuck or lost, or perhaps as though you feel an urge to "find yourself" again. If this resonates for you, this means you are my ideal client and I am here to help you! I love working with clients on the process of self discovery, self love, and uncovering a way to live a life that feels authentic to you! Let's work together to get you back on track to living a life that feels happier and more fulfilling. I have been working as a therapist since 2011, though my career in the mental health field began in 2000 when I worked as a case manager at a day program helping those diagnosed with persistent mental illness. I loved this experience so much, which is what inspired me to return to school so I could practice as a psychotherapist! My favorite areas to help my clients with are managing depression and anxiety, navigating relationship issues, healing from break-ups, coping with career challenges. exploring life purpose, enhancing self love, improving self esteem and self compassion, self discovery, and finding more meaning in life. My therapy style is warm, conversational, and collaborative, and I would be honored to help you on your journey. 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'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and National Certified Counselor. I am licensed to provide clinical services to those residing in Illinois. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Dr. Benjamin Lough providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Dr. Benjamin Lough

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping clients to cope with life changes as they navigate the big questions of life. My therapeutic approach is integrative, with a focus on existential-humanistic, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapy methods. I operate on the understanding that each person is unique, and that different approaches work best for different people. My counseling style is interactive and holistic. We will work on resolving your present challenges by looking at schemas or "life traps" that you developed in your past but continue to carry into your current ways of thinking about the world. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I look forward to working with you as you navigate your journey.

Psychologist Julianna Murphy providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Julianna Murphy

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Eric Forster providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Eric Forster

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Parenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoachingCompassion fatigue
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have extensive experience in helping clients navigate the medical system, as well as with parenting issues, career difficulties, & executive and professional coaching. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Arielle Valentine providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Arielle Valentine

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyDepression
3 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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. 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.

Psychologist Kathy Branning providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Kathy Branning

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Susan Mellema providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Susan Mellema

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, 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.

Psychologist Molly Litwicki providing different types of therapy in Makanda

Molly Litwicki

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
4 years offering treatment

Hi, I’m Molly! I know reaching out for therapy can be a big step, and my goal is to make the process as welcoming and effective as possible. My style is warm, supportive, and action-oriented—I don’t just listen; I help you make real, lasting changes. I specialize in working with adults who feel stuck—whether that’s in habits, addiction, motivation struggles, anxiety, or depression. If you’ve tried therapy before and felt like just talking didn’t help, you’re in the right place. I use TEAM-CBT, a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps you identify what’s holding you back and gives you practical tools to move forward. My style includes holding patients accountable—with self-help assignments and therapy homework between sessions—so you can get the most out of your time and see real progress. I also bring experience working with individuals across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Initial sessions are held via secure video to assess your needs and ensure we're a good fit. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’d be honored to support you on your journey.

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Types of therapists available to clients in Makanda

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Makanda that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform

Mental health therapists in Makanda available through BetterHelp are accredited to help individuals and couples. Makanda therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Makanda therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Makanda region and in the state of Illinois.

How a therapist can help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want 

Therapists in Makanda can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Makanda may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 

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