The village of Forest Park, Illinois is a small suburb of Chicago. The village was originally part of the larger suburb of Harlem but became independent in the early 1900s. Forest Park is often commonly referred to as being a village of cemeteries due to the fact that there are more deceased residents than there are living ones.

Sometimes it can feel like you’re being haunted by your own ghosts. To truly take charge of your own village of cemeteries, reach out to a licensed mental health professional near you today. They can help guide you through the darkness and into the light.

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Jessica Hamilton

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

When human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. While difficult and painful times are part of the human experience, it can feel intimidating and vulnerable to talk about these personal struggles and issues which are causing us distress. Many people also struggle with socialized beliefs and attitudes which stigmatize the seeking of outside resources which can further isolate the individual in silent suffering. These feelings of guilt, shame, embarrassment, or other feelings of inadequacy are certainly not uncommon. If you find yourself struggling with any of these feelings as you consider seeking services, I personally encourage you to give yourself the gift of shameless grace to do so. Regardless of what you have or have not experienced in your life, we all have individual strengths and weaknesses. I believe that each individual should never be defined by an illness or label. Whether your current distress stems from mental health issues or life circumstances, you are an individual, and we will explore what modalities work best for YOU, within my professional parameters. I have worked in a variety of settings as a licensed psychotherapist, the most recent serving as the Clinical Director overseeing a staff of master's level clinical providers. I use theory and techniques from ACT, CBT, DBT, Interpersonal Process Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Existential Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Psychoeducation, and Solution-Focused Therapy among other modalities. In addition to my current master’s level clinical licensure, I am also currently in the second year of my PhD program. I am heavily involved in continuing research and emerging evidence- based trends of therapy and present findings regarding new techniques and services. I am a dynamic psychotherapist, student, writer, public speaker, and passionate advocate in the areas of trauma, grief, PTSD, and post traumatic growth. I look forward to guiding you in a journey of mindful self-empowerment as you evaluate thought patterns which may be blocking your intrinsic value. Far too often, our perceptions of ourselves have been eroded by external life experiences, trauma, abuse, difficult situations, cultural, societal or religious standards; and other rigid self-imposed beliefs which can erroneously promote shame, guilt, or inadequacy to some degree. Together, we can explore issues which may be hindering your own strengths and personal growth. SIncerely, Jessica Hamilton

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Dr. Bernice Young

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
26 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in Illinois. I have worked in the field of counseling for 26 years. My experience is diverse in working with individuals, parents, individuals on parole and probation, and adults seeking strategies for change. I have held a dual career for nearly 20 years as a 911 operator and understand the challenges faced by first responders as well. I am a PhD candidate with research specific to African American men and strategies for success. My work as a psychotherapist include helping people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, parenting challenges, motivation and career challenges, race-based trauma, and beyond. I often work with high profile clients and understand the importance of your privacy in seeking therapy. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I truly enjoy helping people while treating everyone with respect and meeting them where they are. Together, we will establish goals that meet your needs. My counseling approach is based on the personality and need of the client, which include cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, existential therapy, reality therapy, client-centered, and solution-focused. I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Valerie Dixon

Offering therapy in IL
License: PhD, LMHC, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Greetings, I am Dr. Valerie E. Dixon, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida, and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois. I am also a National Certified Counselor and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have over 20 years of experience working in the counseling field in several capacities with clients from diverse socio-economic strata and a variety of presenting concerns. I earned my graduate degree in mental health and rehabilitation counseling from University of South Florida. I subsequently earned an Educational Specialist (Ed. S) from The Florida State University and a Ph.D. from Southern Illinois University @ Carbondale. I have developed and facilitated county-wide training for healthcare professionals, statewide and region-wide staff development/training initiatives for counselors. I have extensive experience working with underrepresented populations and advanced training in CBT, Trauma-Focused Resolution, Solution-Focused and Existential modalities. My life passion is helping others reach desired goals by providing them the proper tools to unlock their fullest potential. Are you ready to put in the work?

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Sofia Dickey

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

My name is Sofia Dickey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. Additionally, I am a Certified Addictions Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in residential and outpatient treatment centers for youth with behavioral concerns and adults with various mental health issues. I have also helped a wide variety of individuals from different backgrounds to better manage issues with depression, anxiety, addictions, and trauma. My counseling style is that of acceptance and compassion while using the approaches of cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies as well as motivational interviewing. I am here to listen to you without judgment, and I am here to help. One of the benefits of online therapy involves the added daily support that may not be available through regular outpatient counseling. Therefore, I encourage you to message me at anytime as I check my messages at least once a day every day of the week. I also offer messaging, live chat, phone sessions and video sessions. Although I encourage video sessions, I am available through the means that make you feel the most comfortable. I look forward to working with you and helping you reach your goals.

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Melinda Osborn

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Melinda Osborn is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Springfield, IL. Melinda has earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work with a minor in Sociology from Illinois State University in Normal, IL, and later went on to earn a Master of Arts in Community Agency Counseling from Bradley University in Peoria, IL. She developed a particular interest in healthcare casework and counseled the sick, dying, and bereaved in a hospice facility. Other areas of experience include life stage transitions, self worth / value, general anxiety, and situational and chronic stress and depression. Melinda is familiar with addressing a client’s psycho/social /spiritual wellness, and takes a systems approach to info gathering. A lifelong Christian, Melinda also has further training with integrating faith based & religious strengths with psychology to work through challenging situations for clients who so choose. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is an approach that challenges cognitive distortions and behaviors and works to chage them to improve a person's emotional regulation and develop personal coping strategies going forward.

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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.

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Dr. Katherine Souza

Offering therapy in IL
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
26 years of experience

I bring 23 years of experience as a therapist and 16 of these years in behavioral health leadership. I have taught at several university and trained new therapists. I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families. I am energized by this profession and look forward to many more years. My treatment philosophy is holistic, systemic and client centered. I utilize a holistic picture including consideration of mind, body and spirit. I involve clients in their treatment planning. I am responsive to individual needs respecting preferences and life experience. Along with my client, I address the current issues and look at how to resolve these.

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Rachel Brace

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, I am Rachel Brace, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois. I am also a National Certified Counselor. I received my Masters of Arts from Governors State University with a focus on Marriage and Family in the year of 2012. In my studies and experience; I have worked with individuals who have experienced a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family problems, and career and life changes. I have also worked with individuals who have experienced significant life traumas that have led to chronic behavioral health situations and diagnoses. I have been in the professional counseling field for approximately ten years and in that time have come to understand that the human spirit is amazingly strong and the need to nurture that spirit is paramount for daily functioning. I have had the opportunity to utilize many modalities of treatment to include Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho-dynamic, Family Systems, Play Therapy, Attachment-Based, and Existential therapies when working with individuals, couples, and families. I believe that all aspects of the varying therapy modalities are important to utilize depending on the presenting problems that an individual may be experiencing. Many of the situations that are experienced and left unresolved lead to many of the current issues individuals live with and they may or may not be aware of how those situations impact their daily life and decisions that are made. My style of counseling is one that comes from a non-judgmental stance and I believe in allowing the individual to share what is causing discord in their lives. Utilizing various modalities; I believe exploring the different areas of a person’s life and their experiences within a safe environment allows for genuine rapport to develop and with that; the hope of understanding oneself. Through this journey; a person may then begin to understand the reasons they could be experiencing difficulties. Exploring a new way of thinking that will bring peace and developing healthy coping skills as the individual, couple, and/or family continue to navigate through life in any circumstance is the overall goal. I appreciate the time spent reading some information about myself and I look forward to meeting with you and/or your family.

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Michelle Wong

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
6 years of experience

Hello, I am licensed in Illinois with over 6 years of therapy experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with 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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Katherine Nolan

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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 Forest Park

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Forest Park 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 Forest Park 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 Forest Park 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 Forest Park, 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 Forest Park 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 Forest Park 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 Forest Park 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 Forest Park 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 Forest Park 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 60130 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 Forest Park 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 Forest Park 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 Forest Park, 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.

Forest Park 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 Forest Park.

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

60130, 60682

Popular cities near Forest Park, IL

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