Life can seem like a wilderness with no recognizable clues telling you where you are or where you’re going. The situations in your life seem confusing and troubling when you’re filled with sadness, fear, and dread. You don’t want to give up but wandering around endlessly searching for answers to your problems isn’t helpful.

The Hofmann Tower Museum, a castle-like building, is Lyons’ most impressive landmark. When the landmarks in your life seem hard to recognize and difficult to reach, you naturally look for a knowledgeable guide. Talk to a counselor in the Lyons area for help finding your way.

This is Deanna Stacy's avatar and link to their profile

Deanna Stacy

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Taking the first step toward change can be scary, but we will work through it together! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 8 years experience. I hold an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University and additional credentials in Family Psychology and Stress Management. I regularly guide clients to develop coping mechanisms for their anxiety, depression, and a myriad of other struggles in life. My experience working with the foster care system assists me in supporting children, teens, and adults through many complex issues including abuse and trauma. I am also adept at helping couples build proper communication to strengthen marriages and relationships. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist others through the challenges life sometimes brings. I am a firm believer in meeting you where you are and not forcing a counseling template on you. I will work with you to create a therapeutic environment that is unique to your path. Life can sometimes become overwhelming, so there will definitely be a lighthearted and supportive tone to our communications. My goal is to give you the skills to excel through challenging times in life. Whether it's building better communication to strengthen relationships, or finding the courage to make a change, you have the power to begin the journey to a better you today. I look forward to providing you support and guidance during this transformation. About me: I live in the suburbs of Chicago with my overly attached pug, Thornton. I love reading anything I can get my hands on and am a life long learner so I love to hear stories from other people about their jobs and life experiences. I've wanted to be a counselor since I was 13 and realized I could use the natural tendency others have to share their feelings with me for a career.

This is Patti Hampsten's avatar and link to their profile

Patti Hampsten

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesEating disordersDepression
3 years of experience

I have a Master's degree in clinical psychology and am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in the field in one capacity or another since 1988, mostly in the community mental health arena which provided me the opportunity to develop skills in a variety of areas, even though I began my career as an addictions counselor. I am currently part of a private practice group as well as providing clinical supervision to our local problem solving court clients including participants in drug court, mental health court and veterans court. I believe that in order to help people make positive changes, one must first acknowledge and accept where they are without judgement or shame. I think people need to have their feelings validated and it must be understood that there is a logic and motivation behind every human behavior. A client centered approach is vital to building a trusting relationship to help people move from where they are to where they want to be. I use a variety of approaches along the way as people grow and change. I typically start off with a client centered approach and motivational interviewing. From there, I like to tailor the counseling to best fit the client's goals and what they want to achieve. The strategies I most commonly draw on are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and other skills building approaches. My counseling style is casual and inviting. I want for clients to feel comfortable and safe to discuss whatever they need to and to leave each session feeling like they at least received compassionate care and hopefully a new tool for their tool box of coping skills. I would be honored to embark on your healing journey with you and look forward to working with you to help you reach your goals!

This is Karen  OBrien's avatar and link to their profile

Karen OBrien

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience working with individuals, families, and couples. I encourage a therapeutic relationship based on respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Additionally, I encourage clients to utilize their strengths as tools to address their needs, life challenges, and enable progressions. Some common themes clients and I have worked through are depression, anxiety, communication skills, addiction, loss, grief, relationship issues, divorce, LGBTQ struggles and domestic violence. I approach therapy with an eclectic perspective by utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. While also incorporating my professional and academic background in trauma, addiction, crisis intervention, domestic violence, divorce mediation, and community mental health during the session. I strive to meet you where you are and collaboratively develop a treatment plan to address your needs. Taking the first steps toward change takes courage, if you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you!

This is Elzona Riedelsperger's avatar and link to their profile

Elzona Riedelsperger

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a social worker by trade (LCSW) and have 10 years of work experience in the field. I worked in hospice and transitioned into therapy over the last few years. I have worked with a variety of issues including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, motivation, symptoms of ADHD, parenting challenges, anticipatory grief, and bereavement. I like to get to know you as a person so I can have a thorough understanding of you and any problems you are trying to figure out. I will make an authentic, genuine connection with you. We will be a team collaborating to create a treatment plan that suits your lifestyle and personality. I create an environment where you will feel comfortable, relaxed, connected, heard, and validated. I spend time getting to know you so I can understand the issues you have been facing. I will move at a pace that you are comfortable with. The therapy styles I enjoy using are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. I want therapy to be something you look forward to!

This is Kathryn Douglas's avatar and link to their profile

Kathryn Douglas

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

I have worked in mental health since 2004. I have been employed in a variety of settings and worked with individuals struggling with addiction, chronic mental health issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, postpartum depression and anxiety. I work from a behavior context, largely utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and other behavioral techniques. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Psychology in 2004 from Quincy University, my Master's degree in Education in Counseling in 2007 from Quincy University, a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from Penn State in 2013, and a Master's degree in Sociology from Arizona State University in Spring of 2022.

This is Erin Bracken's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Bracken

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
21 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with twenty-one years of working with individuals and families. I provide counseling support to individuals struggling with a variety of life stressors, mental health issues, and unresolved feelings. I am genuine, empathetic, and supportive. I provide a compassionate ear, while providing feedback and suggestions to help you in your personal growth. My approach to therapy is client-centered and strength-based. I will listen to what you want to work on and then help set reasonable and attainable goals. I will meet you where you are at and help you identify, explore, and problem-solve what you need right now and in the long term. I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, drug and alcohol addiction, stress, relationship issues, family problems, and more. Reaching out for help through counseling can be difficult so please recognize that you have already made an important step. It is my hope I can provide the support that you may need during the challenges you are dealing with right now.

This is Jamie Benson's avatar and link to their profile

Jamie Benson

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

I'm so glad your here and that you are ready to start this journey with me. My name is Jamie Benson. I am licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Illinois. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse. My interventions utilize cognitive behavioral therapy/trauma -focused CBT, EMDR, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and various couples models. Being trained in Marriage and Family Therapy, I look at each case through a systemic lens. I understand that relationships can be complex and I approach each relationship I work with based on the individuals and couples needs and consider them within their environments. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. My background has allowed me to support divorcing couples, or parents looking to receive co-parenting therapy to improve their family dynamics. I love working with kiddos and have a back ground in ABA therapy, and play therapy interventions. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Colin Overton's avatar and link to their profile

Colin Overton

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficulties
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.

This is Shea Kamp's avatar and link to their profile

Shea Kamp

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Ann Matus's avatar and link to their profile

Ann Matus

Offering therapy in IL
AddictionsFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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 counseling in Lyons

Finding the best therapist close by in Lyons 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 Lyons. 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 Lyons, 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 Lyons 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 Lyons 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 Lyons, 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 Lyons area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lyons 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 Lyons 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 Lyons 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 Lyons, 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 Lyons 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 Lyons 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 Lyons 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 Lyons 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 Lyons 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 60534 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 Lyons 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 Lyons 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 Lyons, 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.

Lyons 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 Lyons.

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

60525, 60534

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist