Aurora, IL, part of the Chicago metropolitan area, is known as the City of Lights. It was one of the first cities in the United States to use an all-electric public lighting system. It can be hard to figure out how to forge ahead in our lives without someone to help us shine a light on the path. If you need help with life's challenges, talk to a therapist in Aurora, IL. 

A therapist can help people of all ages identify and learn to manage a variety of behaviors. Whether you attend your appointment in person or online, a compassionate therapist will help you build a trusting relationship in a friendly environment. Therapists, licensed professional counselors, and licensed clinical social workers can work with you in your recovery to help change problematic human behavior, learn how to stay focused on goals, and treat mental health conditions like anxiety or mood disorders.

If you want to find someone committed to helping you light up your life, connect with an Aurora-based therapist to get started.

 

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Sheila Funk-Jansen

Offering therapy in IL
License: LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sheila Funk-Jansen. I am a licensed clinical therapist in Iowa and Illinois. I graduated with my MSW in social work in 2003 from University of Missouri-Columbia. I have worked with a variety of courageous people in my journey to help them be more vulnerable, brave, and resilient. For the last 25+ years, I I have worked with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, family conflicts, and many other areas of life. I believe people have the resiliency to move the barriers that life presents to us. Life is all about learning. Learning about ourselves and giving up our comforts in life are scary even if they are unhealthy. Each person is unique and I am here to start where you are at in your journey. I utilize therapy approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focus Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing along with utilizing other modalities. The client and therapist's alliance is crucial in providing a safe, non judgmental space to be open and vulnerable to see their potential and resiliency to grow when experiencing hurt and pain. I see people through the week along with some weekends. I work with schedules as much as I can to help get people in sooner when needed. I look forward in working with you. Sheila

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Shariece Hastings

Offering therapy in IL
License: MS,CRC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and life strategist. My expertise is with clients who have wide varieties of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, parenting problems, mental health, and co-occurring disorders. I have experience assisting many people who have experienced crises in an array of settings (schools, communities, correctional facilities, and hospitals). As a Children and Family Services Advocate and Substance Abuse Counselor, I've worked with both children and adults. My experience highlights but is not limited to working with individuals suffering from mental health, substance abuse, parenting issues, and many other immediate crisis challenges. My counseling style is empathetic and interactive. I offer a judgement free, genuine environment. Active listening and unconditional positive regard are incorporated in every session. My clinical approach combines client-centered, Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Solution-Focused counseling. I will meet you where you are and assist you in getting to where you want to be. My motto is I'm here to HELP YOU HELP YOURSELF. You've made the first steps, don't stop here. Are you ready to walk a new path in your life? Great, I am here to help!

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Lynda Savage

Offering therapy in IL
License: MFT,LCPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issues
30 years of experience

“I will comfort you, I’ll take your part when darkness comes and pain is all around.” Simon and Garfunkel’s lyric in “Bridge Over Troubled Water” describes tough times and the very present and healing support offered to provide comfort - the comfort necessary to overcome tough times. Everyone has troubled water – troubled times where you need to find a safe place to “ease your mind;” a place where your voice will be heard, and your story valued. Reaching out to find this safe place and support can feel scary and vulnerable, but it can also lead to exciting growth, self-knowledge, and the power to create a better life. I am committed to listening to my client’s stories without judgment or assumptions, and meeting them exactly where they are in their life journey. I listen carefully and actively, and provide thoughtful feedback so we can explore the concerns, and develop strategies together; strategies that are unique to the client and their life story, and that empower the client to make their own best choices for their life journey. I have a master’s degree from University of Illinois-Springfield, and a Marriage and Family Therapy Endorsement from the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. In addition, I completed the Clinical Education in Psychosocial Care program through Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. I have a keen interest in working with individuals and families as they negotiate major life changes such as family building, relationships, grief, and aging. I am motivated to help each client reach their own potential, and to create their best life. My personal approach to therapy is to develop synergy with the client, a collaborative process that creates a safe, positive, and empowering environment for creating meaningful change. Through this, the client can safely explore, question, discuss, and learn without being judged. Join me as we venture into your life’s journey and create the story you envision.

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Neal Harris

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
36 years of experience

Neal Harris is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology. He has practiced the art of psychotherapy for the past 36 years. He is also the managing director of a holistic education and services center and has been a workshop leader in the holistic health and self-enrichment fields since 1985. Neal’s experience stems from training in the United States, China and India. In 1986, he was a member of the first bodywork team invited to China to study Tuina, a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine and massage. In 1991, he traveled to India to study with the meditation master and sage, H.W.L. Poonja (Papaji). Neal has been teaching traditional Usui, Japanese, and Tibetan Reiki for over 20 years and been providing Reiki therapy for over 30 years. He is also a certified Karuna® Reiki instructor and Usui Holy Fire Karuna® Master instructor. As a certified Quantum-Touch® practitioner for 21 years and instructor for 18 years, he provides both classes and individual sessions. He is the author of the book, Pocket Stress Manager & Labyrinth Guide, as well as the relaxation CD, Exit The Storm. Neal as well as his work at the education center has been featured on national television including WTTW, Fox, NBC, Discovery Channel and more. He has also been featured in several national magazines including Better Homes & Gardens, Spa Finder, New Age Magazine, Utne Reader and others. In 1997, Neal was the originator of the Earth-Wisdom Labyrinth; Illinois’ first permanent outdoor labyrinth located in Elgin. He has been a consultant on, and the creator of other public labyrinths, fabric traveling labyrinths, wood and plastic finger labyrinths (including his patented brain balancing, communication enhancing double finger labyrinth design known as the Intuipath®) and manuals for creating outdoor labyrinths. Neal leads labyrinth workshops around the country and is both a founding member of The Labyrinth Society and has been a Certified Veriditas Facilitator since 1999. In his private therapy practice, Neal assists those individuals who are experiencing a variety of concerns including life-affirming conditions such as Diabetes, Cancer, Heart Disease as well as anxiety and more general concerns. To promote healing on many levels, he uses relaxation and meditation training, EFT, Reiki, Quantum-Touch® as well as his own modality “labyrinth counseling” (using his patented Intuipath® double finger labyrinth design). This work explores integrative medical options, as well as the psychology and spirituality of illness and recovery. Neal also headed up a 4-year national research study to determine the behavioral effects of his Intuipath® design on children and adolescents with ADHD.

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Richard Watson

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA, NCC, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

I believe that in the therapeutic relationship, the therapist is the professional but the client is the expert. It is through empowerment, understanding, and collaboration that people can best heal and reach their goals. My areas of expertise include mood disorders (i.e., depression and anxiety) and substance use disorders. I take a trauma-informed approach, respecting the differences in life experiences and resiliency that we all have. For therapy to be effective, there must be trust, openness, and authenticity. As therapy can be quite uncomfortable, and even painful, one must be willing to lean into the discomfort to find growth. My practice is based largely on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches. I guide individuals as they practice identifying, challenging, and replacing unhealthy ways of thinking and behaving that have contributed to the development, and perpetuation, of their problems. One of the most difficult things to do is to put our hand up and admit that we need help. Whether we are struggling with loneliness, sadness, or uncontrollable worry, it can be challenging to talk about the thoughts and the feelings we are experiencing and I respect the difficulty one faces in asking for help. May you find peace, happiness, and wholeness.

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Jasmine Webster

Offering therapy in IL
Self esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working as a psychotherapist with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and chronic illnesses. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My integrative practice approaches of cognitive-behavioral, motivational Interviewing, psychodynamic and solution-focused. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Carrie Ryberg

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I believe that we all go through things in life. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples who are going through divorce, death/loss, financial issues, relationship issues, traumatic events, abuse, or deployment/transitional issues. As a former military spouse, I also have experience with military life and the demands of the military lifestyle on individuals and their families. As a counselor with 10 years of experience, I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, work related issues, relationship issues, and various life changing issues. Sometimes we just need some support during our difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining. I enjoy supporting clients during their stressful events in life to help them find Hope, Healing, Empowerment, and Enrichment.

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LaToya Bragg-Finch

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Madison Brawley

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri, Utah, and Idaho with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with 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. I specialize in EMDR, women’s issues, and LGBTQ+ populations. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Note: I only have live sessions available on Friday afternoons. If this does not work with your schedule, please rematch with another therapist. Thank you!

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Megan Tostado

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois, Indiana and Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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.

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How to find counseling in Aurora

Finding the best therapist close by in Aurora 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 Aurora. 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 Aurora, 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 Aurora 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 Aurora 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 Aurora, elsewhere in Kane, 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 Aurora area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Aurora 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 Aurora 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 Aurora 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 Aurora, 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 Aurora 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 Aurora 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 Aurora 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 Aurora 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 Aurora 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 60506 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 Aurora 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 Aurora 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 Aurora, 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.

Aurora 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 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 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 Aurora.

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

60502, 60503, 60504, 60505, 60506, 60507, 60519, 60568, 60569, 60572, 60598, 60599

Popular cities near Aurora, IL

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