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

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

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

 

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Pyol Thompson

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a non-binary pansexual fem presenting queer multiracial therapist. I am driven to work with and am familiar with populations that have been marginalized in our society and culture. This includes but is not limited to LGBTQ, Polyamory, and Kink communities as well as individuals that are living in a multiracial home and existence. Living on what feels like the border of society is stressful, even more if your close family and loved ones don’t accept who you are. I want to provide a safe space to address the unique and regular concerns of individuals that are unheard. I provide motivational talk therapy, CBT, and I am certified in basic EMDR therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. My goal will be to empower you so that eventually you reach the point of coping without intervention from myself. This doesn't happen overnight; it is a process that takes investment from both of us to make small changes that will create a long-standing difference. I became a therapist due to a desire to help those who have survived trauma, to demonstrate compassion and provide a non-judgmental space. Showing individuals that they have value and are valued. We all deserve a space to be safe, express our concerns and be validated. I look forward to seeing if we are a good fit for each other.

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Edilberto (Bert) Bibat

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA, LCPC, NCC
AddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Bert Bibat. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I have been working in the field of counseling and psychotherapy for over 25 years and continue to find my work personally rewarding. I currently maintain a private practice in DesPlaines, Illinois where I provide Individual, Couples, Family and Group therapy for those suffering with chemical and behavioral addictions, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship and family issues, anger management, and parenting skills therapy/training. Although my professional education and training have provided me with the intellectual skills and theoretical constructs which guide me in my work, I see myself as a therapist who counsels from the heart. I draw inspiration from my own life experiences and my own spiritual journey; both positive and negative. In providing a safe, supportive, and genuinely caring environment, you are free to openly express your concerns without fear of judgement. When trust is nurtured and established in the client/therapist relationship, insight and change happen. It is then that true emotional and spiritual healing can begin. I hope to gain your trust! I look forward to hearing from you.

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Nichole Molnar

Offering therapy in IL
License: MS.,LCPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I have extensive experience helping those with depression, anxiety, trauma, and behavioral issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who works with individuals, groups, couples, and families. I have a lot of expertise in helping my clients with stress management, self-esteem issues, communication skills, peer conflict, women's issues and men's issues. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship and I approach each client individually to determine their course of treatment. I use Cognitive-behavioral therapy/behavioral modification. Both have been researched and supported for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. I also use Mindfulness techniques to help individuals be present in the moment and learn to take a step back and empower themselves to handle any situation. My philosophy is that clients already hold the skills/tools necessary to improve. I work collaboratively with the clients to help them to achieve their goals. I prefer to see clients as quickly as I can.

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Sally Herschman

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over 12 years of experience working with young children, adolescents, adults and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including abuse, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges. I have also helped people with organization methods and daily routines that help lead to desired outcomes. My practice style is warm and interactive. I have profound respect for my clients and approach my work with compassion, non judgement, authentic curiosity, and a genuine interest in your well being. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness. I am a sex positive, strengths based therapist. I will co-navigate our time together, and will work to ensure your needs for healing are being met. Most of all, you will not be in this alone! It takes so much courage to even consider talking with someone about challenges (large and small) and I am here to support and empower you. I truly look forward to meeting with you and learning more about what you are hoping for.

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Rebecca Murray

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

My name is Rebecca Murray, and I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois for 8 years. My experience is working with individuals struggling with grief and loss, compassion fatigue/burnout, low self-esteem, boundaries, anxiety and depression, and anger management. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and tie in person-centered therapy. I believe that every person has the capacity for positive change, and that everyone deserves a safe and compassionate place to work through issues in their life.

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Dr. Susan Hanson

Offering therapy in IL
License: Doctorate Social Work,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hello and welcome, My name is Dr. Susan Hanson. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. As a parent and a therapist, I understand the need for teens and adults to continue to seek counsel & guidance as they navigate challenges in life. This is the beginning of your journey, a safe place, for you to overcome complex behavioral concerns. A place where you can focus on successfully developing the skills needed to create the productive life that you want. I offer Premiere Telehealth Treatment & Behavioral Health in a supportive environment. I specialize in mood & anxiety disorders, trauma recovery, military & first responders, family & relationship topics; boundaries, family roles, healthy communication, and more. I refer out clients who have drug & alcohol addictions, and clients with suicidal thoughts, as their primary diagnosis or are a large part of their current lifestyle. Additionally, I do not provide any third parties or any of your information to third parties, nor can I write any letters to individuals on your behalf for any reason, court, custody, DUI, etc. For that, you need to be working with the courts and with an in-person therapist and with the therapist's consent. I have worked with thousands of clients over the years, and every one of them has had their own story to tell. No two people are in the same situation. The most important factor in effective therapy is when the therapist and client collaborate and create a sense of meaning and hope. I will help you learn how to successfully manage symptoms, overcome challenges, and develop the skills needed to return to the productive life that you want. I am here to help you through this difficult time. Start your journey now.

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James Michehl

Offering therapy in IL
License: M.Ed. LCPC
Relationship issues
10 years of experience

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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Julie Wechsler

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Melissa McHenry

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have a master's degree in adult psychology and a master's degree in child psychology. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression, self-injurious behavior, PTSD and domestic violence. 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!

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Alexia newbern

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. Life can be hard! However, I believe that we are all capable of developing a mindset that promotes healing, self-love, and overall fulfillment. With a person-centered approach, I allow you to take the wheel as we journey through your individual therapeutic goals. Therapy is what you make it and it is my honor to share space with you.

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How to find counseling in Aurora

Finding the best therapist close by in Aurora can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Aurora. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Aurora, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Aurora or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Aurora area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Aurora, elsewhere in Kane, or in the greater state of Illinois.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Aurora area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Aurora therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Aurora due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Aurora may not take health insurance, some in the state of Illinois may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Illinois you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Aurora, Illinois working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Aurora above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Aurora helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Aurora therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Aurora therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Aurora therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in IL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 60519 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Aurora counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Aurora licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Aurora, Illinois can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Aurora has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Aurora.

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

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

Popular cities near Aurora, IL

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