Life’s challenges are everywhere, and many of us can benefit from therapy at some point in our lives. When looking for a therapist, Rockford, IL can be a better place to find someone than surrounding rural areas due to a higher population. However, finding the right therapist for you can be a challenge even in a metropolitan area. 

One of the reasons for this is that there are a number of evidence-based treatment approaches when it comes to psychotherapy, that are more or less effective depending on what they’re treating. Applying complementary therapy approaches such as visualization or play therapy may be helpful for treating anxiety, but may not be as effective for treating complex personality disorders. The counseling services available in your area may not be able meet your needs. 

With online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, you get access to a wider variety of choices. BetterHelp has over 30,000 mental health professionals that provide services in a number of specializations whether you’re looking for a solution focused therapist to help resolve challenges in your life, or an EMDR practitioner to treat post traumatic stress disorder. By filling out an online questionnaire, BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because therapy is a collaborative approach based on the important relationship between client and counselor, if at any time you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

For many, one of the challenging problems of seeking mental healthcare is attending in-person therapeutic sessions. Some may lack accessibility, others time, and still others may not feel comfortable or safe going into a clinic or office environment. BetterHelp’s online sessions can be a convenient solution for all of these situations. Online sessions can fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options you can talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

If you’ve been thinking about starting therapy for any reason, from guidance for improving relationships to honing your leadership skills, BetterHelp can connect you to a licensed professional that can help. Reach out to get started on your self-care and wellness journey.

This is Angela Colville's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Colville

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LMSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! I am glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Michigan. I have helped and supported people to cope with and effectively manage anxiety, depression, stress, life changes, aging and grief - improving and maintaining quality of life throughout the life spectrum. My professional experience has been in assisting individuals and families dealing with chronic and terminal illnesses – issues directly related to these situations – and separate issues altogether. I am warm, empathic with a sense of humor. I am an attentive, non-judgmental and compassionate listener. I believe in a collaborative approach as you move toward achieving your life goals and improving your emotional well-being - in your professional and personal life. I utilize psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and humanistic counseling with a strengths-based perspective. I am so glad you are here. Life is a journey and I am here to support and empower you on the path. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Joan Paradis's avatar and link to their profile

Joan Paradis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My counseling style is relaxed and conversational and one of meeting someone where they are on their path. I recognize it takes courage to seek therapy and implement changes and would love to assist you on your journey of discovery. I understand that it may be difficult to open up and talk to someone and I pride myself on being an active and nonjudgemental listener. I am genuinely interested in helping everyone I come in contact with thrive in all aspects of their personal and/or professional lives. I will constantly work to promote an empathetic experience where an individual’s needs, concerns, and personal values are met with compassion and respect. I am devoted to creating a safe place that both fosters and aids emotional growth and healing.

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This is Loni Nolte's avatar and link to their profile

Loni Nolte

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome to betterhelp, I am so excited for this opportunity to work with you. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 13 years of experience. I have worked with people of all ages from 3- 90 and with a wide variety of struggles, such as grief, chronic pain, adjusting to new life circumstances, woman's issues, parenting challenges, ADHD, teen independence, LGBTQ, anxiety and depression. I believe in speaking honestly and directly while meeting people where they are at in life. While I bring experience and knowledge no one knows you better than yourself so my aim is to understand the challenges you are facing and help you overcome them. Life is full of tests and challenges for which we can become stronger with the tools and resilience to master. I have a strong creative side and look for fun ways that are unique to you to make a tailor fit approach.

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James Michehl

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed. LCPC
Relationship issues
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Licensed since 2008, James earned his master’s degree in education from DePaul University in Chicago. Upon graduating he was accepted into the community counseling program at DePaul University. James has worked with children (5-12), adolescents (13-18), young adults (19-24), adults, families, and couples. He has facilitated groups for Autism spectrum patients. He supports first responders including Firefighter Behavioral Health which assist in suicidal prevention for first responders. In addition, he works assisting police departments with Critical stress debriefings. As a trained mediator through DePaul University, James can assist couples who may have differences which require more than just couples’ therapy. James believes therapy is a joint effort between therapist and client. He has a proven track record of success as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and as your therapist, he is committed to provide you the best care possible. Every person is unique which is why there are many different treatments approaches available to you. James is committed to make every effort to provide effective care, your commitment is needed as well to achieve success. Together you and James will create a treatment plan that will be a roadmap to your successful journey. Any barriers to success will be discussed and the plans adjusted as needed. You and James will discuss progress and challenges in an honest, trusting, and confidential manner in order to achieve your desired outcome. James is a certified hypnotherapist and can help with the cessation of smoking, anxiety reduction, weight loss, and gaining confidence. In his spare time James is a wildlife artist and wood carver. His work is displayed in art galleries and online.

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This is Tabitha Martin's avatar and link to their profile

Tabitha Martin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW,Tabitha Danielle Martin
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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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This is Dr. Margarita Lopez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Margarita Lopez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictions
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois and South Dakota with 8+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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This is Arielle Valentine's avatar and link to their profile

Arielle Valentine

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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. 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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This is Deborah Taylor's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Taylor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
47 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 47 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. 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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This is Alyson Hu's avatar and link to their profile

Alyson Hu

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Self esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois. Since entering the social work profession 17 years ago, I have worked in the areas of healthcare, schools, and early childhood programs. For the past 3 years, I have focused on behavioral health. I have experience in helping clients who are coping with stress, life changes, chronic disease & compassion fatigue. 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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This is Cyd O'Neal's avatar and link to their profile

Cyd O'Neal

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. 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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How to find a therapist for 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 in Rockford that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

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 in the Rockford region and in the state of Illinois. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor 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, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Rockford 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) about therapists and mental health services

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 with a therapist 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Rockford 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 Rockford psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, 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, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 in Rockford?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Rockford 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.

Rockford therapists 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 Rockford 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in IL, therapists 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 61104 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists 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 Rockford 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Rockford.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. 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 with a Rockford counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Rockford, Illinois

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 to customer service 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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