Having poor mental health can feel like being trapped in a forest late at night. Everyone feels like they’re out to get you. It feels as though you’ll never find the way out. There is no light anywhere you go. A counselor based in Rockford can help you. 

Rockford is known as the Forest City. Forests can be beautiful and be a great place to spend your time in, but when you can’t figure your way around the forest, it can be a challenge. Luckily, a counselor can help. Speak to a counselor based in Rockford today. 

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Marsha Perfetti-McIntosh

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC,MA,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Your personal growth and your well-being are important! I am so glad that you are willing to take the first step by seeking out a licensed therapist to help you on this journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a MS in Health and an MA in Counseling with more than twenty years teaching experience in the areas of health and human sexuality. For nearly thirty years while working for a non-profit agency, I aided individuals between the ages of 18 and 50 as they faced major life changes and role adjustments. If you are seeking clarity in some areas of your life, if you want to learn new techniques to cope with difficult situations, or if you'd like to focus on personal growth~ counseling is a positive choice! I utilize evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I have helped those facing adjustment disorders, dealing with chronic stress, struggling with relationship challenges and coping with both anxiety and depression. Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to supporting and encouraging individuals as they address concerns, build on their strengths, and reach their goals. I treat everyone with sensitivity, compassion, and respect. My response time for initial first contact is within 24 hours of request and live sessions are available Monday through Friday between 9am and 3pm. I look forward to working with you!

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Peggy Garrett

Offering therapy in IL
License: Peggy Garrett LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years of experience

Hello, my name is Peggy Garrett and I have over 20 years of clinical experience . I attended the University of Indiana and graduated with my Masters in 2000. Soon after, I started my career and worked toward my clinical license. Since that time, I have counseled many individuals. I have a wide knowledge base that allows me to work with men, women, couples and teens. I do not make assumptions or judgment about individuals or their choices. I provide a warm therapeutic and safe space for you to work on your concerns and voice your thoughts. I utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral therapies and solution focused therapies. My style is to help you facilitate change and be the best that you can be. My areas of specialty is trauma and past abuse but I am comfortable and competent in all areas of mental health. If you think we would be a good fit then please reach out to me. I am ready and willing to help you facilitate change and be the best that you can be. I look forward to working with you.

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Helen Woodrum

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and have provided outpatient individual therapy for 10 years. I spent the first half of my career providing therapy in community mental health centers; and the second half in an outpatient behavioral health clinic within a hospital. I developed an interest in the area of trauma treatment early on, and have focused much of my post-graduate learning on understanding the effects of complex trauma on individuals, and learning ways to help individuals reprocess their traumatic experiences. Some modalities I frequently use include EMDR, Polyvagal techniques, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal therapy, and Internal Family Systems; and incorporate self-care for mind and body into therapy. I believe in starting with what is most concerning to the client right now, and empowering individuals to find the techniques and self awareness needed to overcome life's struggles, develop resilience, and learn to care for themselves. I value my Master's in Social Work degree, because of the consideration given to social systems and environmental factors, in developing a treatment plan and tailoring the therapy to address each individual's needs. I have an ongoing passion for learning and empowering others to learn and apply aquired knowledge and self-awareness to their personal experiences. I enjoy providing a therapeutic environment that includes safety, predictability, respect, humor, support, and connection.

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Tamela Polanin

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

Hello, Thank you for taking the first step in better living. Our mental health is very important. My name is Tamela, I would love to be your therapist. I look forward to working with you. Just a little about me to help break the ice, I am a mom of 3 boys, one is grown and moved out the other 2 are 12 and 13. I am married to my second husband now for 14 years. We live in the country and raise registered pygmy goats. I have worked in mental health for 17 years. We all want to live our best life. I know trauma on a personal level and treating trauma has become my passion. I use a client centered approach where you are the master of your own life; I am merely here to walk beside you as a guide. My hope is to empower you to work through your trauma and life’s challenges. I provide trauma-focused, client-centered therapy to all ages and all backgrounds. I am well versed in EMDR, TF-CBT, and Reproductive loss Counseling. I believe that trauma is a journey and not one person’s journey will be the same as the next. You are not alone. I will traverse this journey beside you.

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Kristen Wilson

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida with 8 years of clinical experience. I graduated with my Master's degree in Social Work 14 years ago and have spent most of my professional career as a school social worker. Since residing in Florida, I have provided psychotherapy to adults and children while offering clinical supervision to candidates seeking licensure in Florida as a qualified supervisor. I have worked with students and adults with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, drug and alcohol dependence, grief and loss, and Bi-Polar Disorder. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Crystina Wells

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Utah with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions & parenting issues. 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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Tabitha Martin

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW,Tabitha Danielle Martin
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hi! My name is Tabitha and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges and enhancing sports performance mindset. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is individualized and direct. I am committed to meeting my clients where they are and providing an individualized treatment plan based on my education and training as well as what is sustainable for the client. My goal is to provide a real- life approach to connect with clients and empower them to see they are their one and only healer. Approaches I prefer to use when working with clients are but not limited to psychodynamic and insight- oriented therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family systems work, stress management, and mindfulness, I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to breakthrough any barriers and trauma that maybe preventing them from living as their true self. I look forward to working with you!

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Danielle Washington

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

As a natural helper, I have committed myself and my knowledge towards helping others manage mental health symptoms & improve overall functioning in a safe & healthy way. My ideal client is one who is committed to achieving goals and is willing to work towards prioritizing him or herself toward positive change. Everyone is different, & as a therapist I do not believe there is a quick fix prescription for symptoms & diagnosis. I use a strength based approach to empower and encourage each client towards the achievement of their goals. As a LCPC (licensed clinical professional counselor) with over 10 years of experience in the field of counseling, I have found that it is most important to facilitate the best environment for change. If you are reading this, I commend you for taking a major step toward changing your life for the better. I strive to partner with my client to discover inconsistencies and plan for solutions through evidence and faith based interventions. With my formula to decrease your unwanted symptoms and increase your coping skills, I will help you to become the best version of yourself. My faith in God is what has been a cornerstone in my life and I have overcome many obstacles that seemed impossible and unbearable. I believe God has equipped me with several gifts and allowed to me combine the expertise of mental health counseling with biblical truths, and prayer to help improve of the lives of His children. I use proven mental health modalities along with Christian counseling (when requested) to provide a treatment plan with realistic and timely goals. *Graduated 2012 - Masters of Arts in Community Counseling - Argosy University Chicago *Licensed Clinical Professional Counseling - State of IL - #180013083

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Jason Robershaw

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with 12 years of experience. Currently, I serve as Clinical Director at a community mental health agency. Also, I facilitate a parenting group which is extremely rewarding. I am a Managing Adaptive Practices Certified Therapist, a Triple P Parenting Group Certified Instructor, a Teen Mental Health First Aid Certified Instructor, and Youth Mental Health First Aid Certified. My training and experience enables me to help clients with depression, stress and anxiety, 0-12 age parenting skills, and motivation and confidence. I am most knowledgeable and passionate about brain development, self-regulation, thought patterns, and quality parenting strategies. My training exposure is varied and my treatment philosophy is eclectic. However, I lean towards a strengths-oriented, solution-focused approach. Although I do take my work seriously, I try not to take myself too seriously. My hope is to have a genuine and positive impact in your life. I look forward to meeting you, listening to your story, and supporting you in your goals.

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Jennifer Moon

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, my name is Jennifer Moon. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/Indiana & Illinois) with over twenty years of experience working in the Helping Professions. I developed a deep affinity for counseling others at a very young age. As a teenager, I began serving the elderly population in my community and in my early twenties I provided support to those living in Mexico, the Netherlands, and West Africa. After completion of my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, I pursued attainment of an advanced degree in Social Work in order to operate at my optimal level to assist individuals like you with achieving needed change. I believe change is constant and inevitable and that a small change can lead to a bigger one. I can assist with the provision of a non-judgmental, warm, and accepting space in which to share your personal thoughts and feelings. I have provided a copy of my Informed Consent (a.k.a. "Membership Form") on the platform which you will be asked to review and sign upon accepting me as your therapist. Within this form, my on-boarding instructions found under REQUIRED INFORMATION will help guide you in taking the next steps. I typically integrate the Strengths perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Psychotherapy into my sessions which are proven methods for achieving success in many of our individual journeys. I believe every person is unique, and we have the inherent strength and resources to help ourselves. Together we can develop, explore, create, and co-author an evolving story of possibilities and opportunities for you! So let's get started...

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How to find counseling in Rockford

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Rockford 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 Rockford 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 Rockford 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 Rockford, 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 Rockford 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 Rockford 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 Rockford 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 Rockford 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 Rockford 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 61102 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 Rockford 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 Rockford 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 Rockford, 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.

Rockford 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 Rockford.

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

61101, 61102, 61103, 61104, 61105, 61106, 61107, 61108, 61109, 61110, 61114, 61125, 61126

Popular cities near Rockford, IL

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