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Megan Heary

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
4 years of experience

Hello! My name is Megan Heary. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor who graduated from Adler University with my masters in counseling and a specialization in forensic psychology. Additionally, I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a former Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC). Since becoming a therapist, I have worked in a number of treatment settings including outpatient treatment, drug court programs, and residential treatment facilities. In addition to treating substance use disorders, I am passionate for treating compulsive behaviors of any kind and have experience working with patients who struggle with eating disorders, self-injury, OCD, trichotillomania, as well as sex and love addictions. My primary work experience is at the residential/inpatient level of care and I have worked in a number of trauma-informed facilities performing individual, group, and family therapy. I have treated adolescents, young adults, and adults and has a particular passion for treating patients who live with co-occurring disorders. My well-rounded experience make me a perfect fit if you are seeking support for post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, substance use, personality disorders, and mood disorders. I continue to expand on my education and experience and I am interested in becoming a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). When treating addictions, I incorporate modern 12-step concepts as I understand that the Big Book is limited in it’s approach to supporting persons of color and female identifying persons. Additionally, I have a strong DBT and ACT theoretical orientation incorporating evidence-based skills of mindfulness and emotion regulation in all my sessions. For those seeking treatment for eating disorders, I am an advocate for the Health at Every Size movement and follows an All Foods Fit model. I combine humor and laughter with unwavering empathy and support in each session while creating a safe environment for personal growth and change to take place.

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Jack Richey

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help! You may be wondering how this works and whether it would be right for you. My name is Jack Richey. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I earned my Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Interpersonal Communication and Change from the University of Iowa. I founded and directed an outpatient mental health clinic. I have worked on an inpatient behavioral healthcare unit. I had a private mental health counseling practice. I retired in August of 2021 after thirteen years of providing out patient mental health counseling services in a psychiatric wing of a local clinic under the direct supervision of a psychiatrist. I've worked with individuals, couples, and families who have had to address a variety of issues. These have included employment difficulties, depression, anxiety, stress, anger, family and relationship issues, self-esteem, divorce recovery, and parenting problems. My counseling style combines Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems, and Solution focused approaches. I do not have a “cookie cutter” or “one size fits all” approach. Each person is unique with specific needs. I try meet clients "where they are". I believe we can all grow through challenging experiences by increasing self-awareness. Sometimes another person who isn't directly involved can offer a new perspective. Having additional support can guide people through a difficult situation when they feel stuck. People all want to be able to share their personal experiences, be accepted, and feel understood. I believe it's very important to be open-minded and non-judgmental when people share their personal stories or experiences. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Your life and your goals are important. If you are ready to take that step toward change, I am here to support, encourage, and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Timothy McIntyre

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

I began private practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 1991, helping people find their individual voice within themselves and their relationships. My work with people is relational and focuses on the thoughts, beliefs, and patterns in thinking that cause us distress in our daily lives. I work with individuals to explore how they have adapted to life and what works, as well as what no longer serves them. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Missouri. I am also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have been providing psychotherapy for a wide variety of issues and populations for over 20 years. I graduated from Loyola University of Chicago with a Master in Social Work. I have been working as an Independent Therapist in private practice and group practice settings as well as in a corporate environment which has broaden my understanding of work related stressors.

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Lisa Neuweg

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. My speciality skills include a certification in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), extensive training and experience working with self-harm issues in adolescents, skilled in mindfulness and self-compassion practices, trained in providing grief counseling to individuals who have experienced pregnancy loss, and trained in using yoga, mindfulness, and basic nutrition to treat trauma. I strive to use an integrative approach in my work with clients, with an emphasis on CBT and mindfulness, based on evidence-based practices and appropriate treatment for each client. I have an excellent ability to build therapeutic relationship and facilitate growth with my clients. I am well respected by my peers in the field and passionate about continuing to provide effective treatment. I believe 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.

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Elizabeth Newman

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
5 years of experience

I am an experience clinician who is dedicated to treating teens and adults deal with and overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. My philosophy is client-centered, Mindfulness based, trauma informed, and goal oriented. I have training and experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness. My areas of focus include trauma, attachment issues, and difficulties with distress tolerance and emotional regulation. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC in Illinois), and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC in Washington State). I want perspective clients to know I genuinely care about the people I work with and have a passion for joining people on their journey to a new self. The fact that you are searching for a therapist shows you would like something to change. This is very brave. We can often lose perspective about situations and how we deal with them. We can also struggle with things we have buried from our past, or relationships that did not support us in the way we need. I will give you a safe and supportive place to look at your unwelcome patterns and find a way to make your journey more fulfilling. Your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are what make you who you are. As we work together to understand these parts of you, we will find a way to alter those thoughts that no longer work for you and strengthen those that are helping you become who you wish to be.

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Jon Bormann

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with more than 15 years of professional work experience. I have have been helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the challenges you presently face. It takes tremendous courage to seek out a more fulfilling and satisfying life and you have already taken those first steps toward change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Rebecca Scandell

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Oregon, Massachusetts and Nevada with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Katrina Covington

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and North Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. As a Marine Corps spouse of 23 years, I have had the pleasure of gaining professional experience in a variety of therapeutic settings working with both military and civilian populations. My experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults in many areas to include substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, conduct and behavior problems, self-esteem, motivation, relationship and communication issues, parenting, children with special needs, intensive alternative family treatment, intensive in-home therapy, emotion regulation, and anger management. I believe the counseling relationship is both powerful and delicate. With this in mind, I truly value the time spent working with clients in a collaborative effort to achieve therapeutic goals.

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Kristal Shelvin

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). 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.

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Zhong Zi Tan

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

I am licensed clinical professional counselor and registered Art Therapist in Illinois. I have five years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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. 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 counseling in Hometown

Finding the best therapist close by in Hometown 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Hometown. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Hometown, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Hometown or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Hometown area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Hometown, elsewhere in Cook, or in the greater state of Illinois.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Hometown area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Hometown therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Hometown due to a higher cost of living. 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 Hometown 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Illinois you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Hometown, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Hometown 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 lead by a therapist in Hometown helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Hometown 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Hometown therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist 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 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 Hometown 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 lot of people in IL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 60456 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Hometown counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Hometown 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Hometown, 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.

Hometown has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of 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 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 Hometown.

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

60456

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