
Stacie Billingsley
Welcome to Better Help! My name is Stacie Billingsley, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I earned my Master of Arts degree, specializing in Human Development Counseling, from Bradley University in 2007. I've worked in different settings with individuals, couples, and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, addictions of all kinds, relationships/parenting and more. I understand that at times the stressors we face in life can become overwhelming and having someone to talk to or find support in can make a difference. I understand that at times the difficulties, stressors, and emotions that humans face can seem troublesome to overcome and having support during this time in life is important. You are welcome to message me anytime through BetterHelp. The frequency with which you can have access to a counselor to work through day to day emotions and problem-solving is extremely beneficial for most and a nice change from traditional outpatient counseling. I usually check messages twice each day Monday-Friday. I offer messaging, live chat, video, and phone sessions with availability Mondays-Thursdays morning, afternoon, and evenings. Please note that what you see in my calendar may not reflect my only availability, so feel free to check in with me to find a time that works well for you. One 30-45 minute live session a week through livechat or phone, followed by messaging back and forth on the platform tends to work well for many people; however, there may be times where this contact increases or decreases depending upon the person. I have experience in Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self-esteem, Career difficulties, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Grief, Depression and other areas. I look forward to working with you! Years of Experience: 16

Maria Conforti
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. My experience spans 16 years as a social worker in a variety of settings including private practice, group homes, incarceration, community resources, non profits, high profile cases, and many more. In those settings, I have had the privilege of working with a variety of children and family issues, specialized in pediatric adhd, provided couples therapy for a variety of sexually oriented couples, assisted in divorce mediation with a concentration on child well being and direction of co-parenting agreements, lead extensive integration programming for at risk young men, and group counseling for affluent young women experiencing self esteem issues and many other issues involving human interactions in various environments. My clinical background includes professional training in dialectical behavior therapy which I received as part of an intensive training through my work as a DCFS contracted provider in a group home for high risk children. I use an eclectic style of therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy to create a custom approach tailored for each client and their preferred styles. I pride myself in offering a judgement free zone, keeping in mind that I'm not going necessarily sugar coat what needs to be worked through. I use compassion and a tender approach knowing we are ALL just doing our best and at the same time, need to do better (based on the assumption that's what we are here for). I truly understand what it is like to feel isolated by friends and family and offer a unique perspective that helps each client figure out what's really at the root of things. I use psychoanalysis when it's appropriate to help understand the mechanics of how childhood experiences affect adult situations. I like to focus on solutions that make sense. Once we have identified the issues in the past, I prefer not to stay there but rather, make peace, offer forgiveness where needed and help my clients get on with their lives as they would like to live them. Often figuring out what we want is the most difficult part, but I like to think I can help guide my clients to a point of self satisfaction. I believe in collaboration. If I put in 100 % and my clients do the same, I have full faith in a positive outcome. My professional goal is to render myself obsolete by encouraging the skills and offering the tools needed to live a therapeutic life, not a life in therapy. The ideal client for me is going to be ready for change and willing to do the work. They will be open minded and willing to hear truths that are not necessarily easy to take but will lead to the outcome they are looking for. I am not for everyone, but for those clients that find my style helpful, I am confident will feel helped in the end. I have nothing but respect for anyone who is brave enough to take up the arduous task of self improvement and I do my best to gently stretch my clients out of their comfort zone. So anyone wanting to work with me should be aware that this is a critical part of the process and while I believe therapy to be a healing art, I must admit, it doesn't always feel as comfortable as we wish it could be. Having said that, I work hard to offer sincere compassion to the people I work with and do so with genuine respect for their right to self determination at every turn.

Dr. Penny Brower
In this giant Carnival of Life, are you on the Roller Coaster full of ups and downs, on the repetitive slow-motion Carousel, on the Tilt-A-Whirl feeling unbalanced and squashed by outside forces, in the House of Horrors where every view is distorted and you can hardly find the exit, or on the Raging River where everyone else stays dry while you get drenched? Are you here by choice and enjoying the adventure, hanging on for dear life and fearing disaster ahead, or confused about how someone was able to drag you here against your better judgement? Though everyone's Carnival visit is unique, if you invite me to join this part of your journey, I can help you explore the decision-making processes and life events that have led you to this place. I will assist you in building skills and finding resources to thrive beyond the dangerous curves, the jarring stops and reverses, and the nauseating spins and loops. You will be empowered to choose and create more positive, adaptive ways forward, to better enjoy the ride and have a more fulfilling adventure. Because the best outcomes are achieved with a good client/counselor fit, I always welcome feedback regarding what has been helpful, as well as not helpful, so that methods can be adapted to achieve the best results. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my doctoral degree from The University of Iowa and I have worked for over 30 years helping individuals and couples become more intentional and response-able in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I began my career doing in-home therapy with complex, multi-problem families, and I have worked in Community Mental Health Centers and Private Practice settings. In addition, I worked for 8 years with the Air National Guard, helping to institute a new program that focused on reducing suicide risk and increasing resilience, while reducing the stigma of using mental health services to maximize personal functioning. When describing people, my least favorite word is NORMAL. I believe that each individual is unique, and deserves to be treated in caring and respectful ways that help them grow, versus being treated like a diagnostic label that needs to be fixed. It is the difference between: "It sounds like you may be struggling with depressed feelings. Let's explore the conditions that seem connected to when those feelings hit really hard, compared to when they seem to lighten up." versus "You are depressed. Here is what you need to do to change."

Amber Johnson
Hello and welcome! My name is Amber and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois. I bring 7 years of professional work experience, working with clients across the life cycle (3 years old to 80+ years young)! I understanding that finding a "good fit" in a therapist is much like finding that perfect pair of shoes. You may have to try on several before you find the ones meant for you. Reading through these profiles can be a part of that "try on" process. As a therapist I believe that my role in the relationship is to assist you on your journey to wellness through compassionate care and genuine empathy. I utilize a client-centered approach and include my clients in every part of the planning process. I have experience in helping clients with navigating depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with life changes. 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!

Dr. Cheryl Affrunti
Greetings and welcome! My name is Cheryl Lee Affrunti (I go by “Lee”), and I am a Florida-based clinical psychologist with more than 13 years of experience assisting clients of all ages. I have been privileged to work with clients struggling with a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, stressful life transitions, bipolar disorder, ASD, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, schizoaffective disorder, learning disabilities, parenting problems, and relationship concerns. I am especially honored to have helped veterans, first responders, and others experiencing the harmful effects of physical and emotional trauma. As a person-centered therapist, I believe you deserve to be treated with empathy, respect, dignity, and compassion. I offer a judgment-free zone where you can count on my commitment to provide a safe and welcoming environment during our time together. I don’t profess to have the specific answers you seek, but I fervently believe you have those answers within you, and I will focus our time together by listening to you and helping you discover your richest and most meaningful path forward. My theoretical orientation is based primarily on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and includes cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, mindfulness-based, and solution-oriented approaches depending on your unique challenges, preferences, and situation. I appreciate the courage it took for you to reach out to someone to improve the quality of your life. Yes, you absolutely can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life, and I offer to you my services as your guide who will strive to enlighten, empower, and support you on your journey. I hope we can travel this part of your journey together!

Lindsay Hager
I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, eating disorders, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Tracy Smith
I am licensed in Illinois with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Stephanie Weinblatt
I am licensed in New Jersey with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. 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.

James Michael Mannion
I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with psychological crisis, stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with loss/grief, and career & executive professional development. I offer a multicultural, accepting, respectful, compassionate approach for all, and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in your journey.

Nathan Cash
I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, depression, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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!
Find a therapist serving clients in Illinois
Types of therapists available to clients in Plano
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 Plano 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 Plano available through BetterHelp are accredited to help individuals and couples. Plano 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, Plano therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Plano 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 Plano 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 Plano may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.