Christian Therapists in Springfield, IL
Tell me your story. I will listen intently and compassionately with the therapeutic insights I have gained over 42 years in a successful private practice. I help people, just like you, solve problems, heal from past hurts, and grow to take hold of a brighter future. Our sessions will be tailor-made to fit you and your needs. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Narrative, Client Centered therapies and Christian Counseling. I will help you make connections to understand yourself more fully. You will discover and practice new ways of thinking and behaving so you can begin living the life you really want.
Tell me your story. I will listen intently and compassionately with the therapeutic insights I have gained over 42 years in a successful private practice. I help people, just like you, solve problems, heal from past hurts, and grow to take hold of a brighter future. Our sessions will be tailor-made to fit you and your needs. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Narrative, Client Centered therapies and Christian Counseling. I will help you make connections to understand yourself more fully. You will discover and practice new ways of thinking and behaving so you can begin living the life you really want.
Nikki Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701
Along with my education from Lincoln Christian University, I draw from my life experience as a teacher, 30 years of marriage and the joys and challenges of raising three children.
Struggling to find peace of mind amidst overwhelming anxiety or persistent sadness? Stuck in unresolved grief or overwhelmed by negative thoughts? You're not alone. Counseling can be your starting point towards healing and provide the support you need to navigate these challenges. I'm a faith-based, compassionate, and dedicated counselor specializing in helping teens and adults navigate life's challenges and past trauma. With a trauma-informed perspective and EMDR training, I focus on addressing anxiety, depression, OCD, and grief. I am delighted to offer faith-based counseling for clients seeking a clinical and Biblical approach.
Along with my education from Lincoln Christian University, I draw from my life experience as a teacher, 30 years of marriage and the joys and challenges of raising three children.
Struggling to find peace of mind amidst overwhelming anxiety or persistent sadness? Stuck in unresolved grief or overwhelmed by negative thoughts? You're not alone. Counseling can be your starting point towards healing and provide the support you need to navigate these challenges. I'm a faith-based, compassionate, and dedicated counselor specializing in helping teens and adults navigate life's challenges and past trauma. With a trauma-informed perspective and EMDR training, I focus on addressing anxiety, depression, OCD, and grief. I am delighted to offer faith-based counseling for clients seeking a clinical and Biblical approach.
Springfield Trauma Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC RI
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
My ideal client is an adult, adolescent, couple, or family that has history of emotional, sexual, physical, spiritual abuse and wants evidence-based treatment that works. They are tired of "talking". I work with clients that want to learn skills how to regulate their emotions and not have their emotions control them. I work well with clients that want to understand why their body reacts the way it does when present day events cause them to feel like they are not safe, and anxiety is out-of-control or anger predominates their relationships. The client feels like they are always on edge, waiting or watching or something bad to happen.
My ideal client is an adult, adolescent, couple, or family that has history of emotional, sexual, physical, spiritual abuse and wants evidence-based treatment that works. They are tired of "talking". I work with clients that want to learn skills how to regulate their emotions and not have their emotions control them. I work well with clients that want to understand why their body reacts the way it does when present day events cause them to feel like they are not safe, and anxiety is out-of-control or anger predominates their relationships. The client feels like they are always on edge, waiting or watching or something bad to happen.
Margie Wheelhouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Hope is better when it's combined with a plan. If you're having too many fights without resolution, I can help you. I help couples figure out how to resolve stuff once and for all. Even when you're successful in most areas of life, It's hard to be happy when problems are chronically unresolved. It's even worse when the past hangs over the relationship, or you feel like room-mates. If your relationship problems are weighing down your otherwise great life, then counseling can make a big difference.
Hope is better when it's combined with a plan. If you're having too many fights without resolution, I can help you. I help couples figure out how to resolve stuff once and for all. Even when you're successful in most areas of life, It's hard to be happy when problems are chronically unresolved. It's even worse when the past hangs over the relationship, or you feel like room-mates. If your relationship problems are weighing down your otherwise great life, then counseling can make a big difference.
Jessica Lauren Robinson
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Every person experiences emotions differently, and it can be scary. Therapy can help you to understand your emotions better and learn how to feel your emotions in a healthy way. Therapy isn’t just a therapist talking at you, it's a combined effort between you and your therapist. You are in control every step of the way and you get to define the progress that you make.
Every person experiences emotions differently, and it can be scary. Therapy can help you to understand your emotions better and learn how to feel your emotions in a healthy way. Therapy isn’t just a therapist talking at you, it's a combined effort between you and your therapist. You are in control every step of the way and you get to define the progress that you make.
I believe that I work best with clients who are invested in getting well. I work best with clients who want to do the hard work of exploring their emotional and somatic (body) reactions to life's stressors and people. This is not talk therapy. I use art, sandtray, EMDR. and Sensorimotor therapy to provide opportunities for updating coping skills and teaching clients how to regulate one's nervous system which in turn empowers a client to realize he/she/they can bring themselves to calm. You will learn what is triggering in both body memory and emotional memory which often keep you living in fear or anxiety.
I believe that I work best with clients who are invested in getting well. I work best with clients who want to do the hard work of exploring their emotional and somatic (body) reactions to life's stressors and people. This is not talk therapy. I use art, sandtray, EMDR. and Sensorimotor therapy to provide opportunities for updating coping skills and teaching clients how to regulate one's nervous system which in turn empowers a client to realize he/she/they can bring themselves to calm. You will learn what is triggering in both body memory and emotional memory which often keep you living in fear or anxiety.
Everyone struggles. Happiness, fear, joy, sadness, and anger are all part of the human experience. Sometimes, we need help navigating through life's trials. Finding healthy ways to express ourselves and communicate what we actually want and need is crucial to our overall well-being. As a mental health professional, I strive to create a safe, healthy environment where individuals, couples, and families can process through life's challenges.
Everyone struggles. Happiness, fear, joy, sadness, and anger are all part of the human experience. Sometimes, we need help navigating through life's trials. Finding healthy ways to express ourselves and communicate what we actually want and need is crucial to our overall well-being. As a mental health professional, I strive to create a safe, healthy environment where individuals, couples, and families can process through life's challenges.
With a multicultural perspective, I embrace the value of diverse experiences, cultures, and identities. My approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity, empathy, and understanding, creating a safe and welcoming space for individuals from all walks of life. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking personal growth, or confronting challenges, I'm committed to walking alongside you on this journey, honoring your unique story and the courage it takes to share it. Let's work together to uncover new possibilities, healing, and transformation.
With a multicultural perspective, I embrace the value of diverse experiences, cultures, and identities. My approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity, empathy, and understanding, creating a safe and welcoming space for individuals from all walks of life. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking personal growth, or confronting challenges, I'm committed to walking alongside you on this journey, honoring your unique story and the courage it takes to share it. Let's work together to uncover new possibilities, healing, and transformation.
Ashley N Mesey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. I have been in the mental health field for some time, and in my journey I have found a passion for helping others, especially when there are many things to consider: physical health, mental health, spiritual health, recovery from addiction, etc... It's my belief to look at the person as a whole rather than a list of concerns.
Hello and welcome. I have been in the mental health field for some time, and in my journey I have found a passion for helping others, especially when there are many things to consider: physical health, mental health, spiritual health, recovery from addiction, etc... It's my belief to look at the person as a whole rather than a list of concerns.
Sarah Ann Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Accepting new clients starting in August. I operate from a trauma-informed and person centered therapy approach with individuals of all ages, with a specialty in play therapy for children who have experienced trauma or complex stressful experiences. This means that I believe each individual has what it takes within them to be in charge of their own healing, and some people just need help along the way. That also means that you get to come exactly as you are and be accepted and cared for. We will take time to build a positive and authentic therapeutic relationship, which will hold the healing powers of safety and connection.
Accepting new clients starting in August. I operate from a trauma-informed and person centered therapy approach with individuals of all ages, with a specialty in play therapy for children who have experienced trauma or complex stressful experiences. This means that I believe each individual has what it takes within them to be in charge of their own healing, and some people just need help along the way. That also means that you get to come exactly as you are and be accepted and cared for. We will take time to build a positive and authentic therapeutic relationship, which will hold the healing powers of safety and connection.
Julie Tucker-Ponder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, MAATP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
I am the co-president of a Psychiatric Assoc. Of Central Illinois and the founder of Pastures of Hope and J. Ponder Counseling & Coaching. I have been an LCSW and a certified addiction counselor in Illinois for over 27 years. Most recently, I have earned my certification as a life coach and am the behavioral specialist at Losin’ It with Sonya Jones.
I am the co-president of a Psychiatric Assoc. Of Central Illinois and the founder of Pastures of Hope and J. Ponder Counseling & Coaching. I have been an LCSW and a certified addiction counselor in Illinois for over 27 years. Most recently, I have earned my certification as a life coach and am the behavioral specialist at Losin’ It with Sonya Jones.
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Successful clients want change and I help people make real changes with the powerful and amazing tool of self-hypnosis. I have been practicing as a hypnotist/hypnotherapist since 1997 while also serving as a Pastor of several churches. My clients want to overcome fears, test anxiety, smoking habit/addiction, overeating, lose weight and increase confidence.
Successful clients want change and I help people make real changes with the powerful and amazing tool of self-hypnosis. I have been practicing as a hypnotist/hypnotherapist since 1997 while also serving as a Pastor of several churches. My clients want to overcome fears, test anxiety, smoking habit/addiction, overeating, lose weight and increase confidence.
J. Graham Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703 (Online Only)
I am the only fully Certified Gottman Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gottman therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
I am the only fully Certified Gottman Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gottman therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
Barb C. Sherman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Genuine, realistic help. What meeting with me will be like? This will very much be decided by me and you together. We will chart a journey toward what “better” could look like for you and what tools and skills we can build together to get you there. Above all, I want you to feel welcomed and comfortable. I have worked hard to create a setting that feels inviting, warm, and safe.
Genuine, realistic help. What meeting with me will be like? This will very much be decided by me and you together. We will chart a journey toward what “better” could look like for you and what tools and skills we can build together to get you there. Above all, I want you to feel welcomed and comfortable. I have worked hard to create a setting that feels inviting, warm, and safe.
I often work with clients of all ages who desire to determine how to FEEL better through other options, such as using their breath during a breathwork session or utilizing the Safe and Sound Protocol. Both modalities support clients with anxiousness, depression and post traumatic stress disorder, to name a few. The modalities offered start with the feelings first through breath and music, then we discover the why afterwards. Often, you will not need to speak too much, but rather simply trust your body and what it wants to express, release and be recognized, while I guide your through the recognition process in a safe space.
I often work with clients of all ages who desire to determine how to FEEL better through other options, such as using their breath during a breathwork session or utilizing the Safe and Sound Protocol. Both modalities support clients with anxiousness, depression and post traumatic stress disorder, to name a few. The modalities offered start with the feelings first through breath and music, then we discover the why afterwards. Often, you will not need to speak too much, but rather simply trust your body and what it wants to express, release and be recognized, while I guide your through the recognition process in a safe space.
David Bova
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LPC-MH, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711 (Online Only)
David Bova, LCPC, NCC, works with adolescents and adults on a wide variety of issues. He is passionate, enthusiastic, always supportive of patients working through difficult decisions, and gives guidance towards long-term change. He believes that the journey starts with where the patient is at and that there is no such thing as slow progress. David recognizes how developing new skills and philosophies about the self can have profound effects on the rest of one’s life. He believes that therapy should be flexible and emphasizes the therapeutic alliance above all else.
David Bova, LCPC, NCC, works with adolescents and adults on a wide variety of issues. He is passionate, enthusiastic, always supportive of patients working through difficult decisions, and gives guidance towards long-term change. He believes that the journey starts with where the patient is at and that there is no such thing as slow progress. David recognizes how developing new skills and philosophies about the self can have profound effects on the rest of one’s life. He believes that therapy should be flexible and emphasizes the therapeutic alliance above all else.
My desire is to help people cope with issues that limit their ability to live life to the fullest. This includes anxiety, depression, relationship issues and OCD tendencies. My approach to therapy involves building a trusting relationship with my clients and working together to create a plan of care. Throughout the therapy process, I consistently work with my clients to evaluate how their plan of care is progressing and make any adjustments as they are necessary.
My desire is to help people cope with issues that limit their ability to live life to the fullest. This includes anxiety, depression, relationship issues and OCD tendencies. My approach to therapy involves building a trusting relationship with my clients and working together to create a plan of care. Throughout the therapy process, I consistently work with my clients to evaluate how their plan of care is progressing and make any adjustments as they are necessary.
Julia Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Hi, I am Julia. I have a passion for working with young adults and women who strive to enhance personal insight and use their strengths and values to become more confident and self aware. Are you ready to begin the journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing? I have experience working with anxiety and stress relief, trauma, self-worth/body image, high-achievers, people pleasing, grief and relational stress. I hope to provide an environment for you to heal emotionally, gain personal insight, and harness skills to be your best self within everyday life-at your own pace.
Hi, I am Julia. I have a passion for working with young adults and women who strive to enhance personal insight and use their strengths and values to become more confident and self aware. Are you ready to begin the journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing? I have experience working with anxiety and stress relief, trauma, self-worth/body image, high-achievers, people pleasing, grief and relational stress. I hope to provide an environment for you to heal emotionally, gain personal insight, and harness skills to be your best self within everyday life-at your own pace.
Sarah Spurling (she/they) is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, holding an MSW from the University at Buffalo, SUNY. With a commitment to cultural sensitivity and supporting LGBTQ+ populations, Sarah's practice is grounded in an identity-affirming, anti-oppressive framework that respects and validates diverse lived experiences. Drawing from a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, humanistic, existential, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Sarah tailors her approach to each individual's unique needs and circumstances.
Sarah Spurling (she/they) is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, holding an MSW from the University at Buffalo, SUNY. With a commitment to cultural sensitivity and supporting LGBTQ+ populations, Sarah's practice is grounded in an identity-affirming, anti-oppressive framework that respects and validates diverse lived experiences. Drawing from a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, humanistic, existential, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Sarah tailors her approach to each individual's unique needs and circumstances.
Rachel Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Now accepting new clients! I have a passion for working with children who have been through trauma, and who struggle with maladaptive behaviors, anxiety, ADHD, & relational issues. I also work with parents to build knowledge, communication, & a plan that works for both child & parent.
Now accepting new clients! I have a passion for working with children who have been through trauma, and who struggle with maladaptive behaviors, anxiety, ADHD, & relational issues. I also work with parents to build knowledge, communication, & a plan that works for both child & parent.
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Christian Therapists
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
Therapists and clients don’t need to share the same belief system or background to be able to work effectively together, but a therapist whose training includes a focus on cultural competence may be better able to form a therapeutic bond with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as they will have experience in tailoring their approach to each client—and will be prepared to acknowledge and consider the effects of culture, religion, and other factors on each individual.
Why is it important to find a therapist sensitive to Christian values?
Each person brings a unique history and background to therapy, making it important to find a licensed therapist who is trained in a broad range of treatment modalities. In addition, for people who grow up in a faith tradition that strongly influences the way they conduct their everyday life, finding a therapist who understands or shares that background can ease the disclosure of sensitive information and facilitate the therapeutic process. For some clients, a Christian therapist is likely to incorporate faith-based principles into emotional healing techniques.
How do I recognize an effective Christian therapist?
Christian therapists are licensed mental health professionals—holding a master’s or doctoral degree in medicine, nursing, psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy—who are also familiar with Christian beliefs and values. They have an understanding of the importance that Christian principles play in the lives of individuals and families, which allows them to be especially sensitive to the kinds of struggles that can affect daily functioning. Like all effective therapists, a Christian therapist will have undergone training and certification in a variety of treatment modalities that help people through crises and enable them to master the challenges of life.
Why might someone feel comfortable with a Christian therapist?
While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, research has long established that a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic success. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who not only is responsive to questions and concerns but also shares a client’s faith and values. Sensitivity to spiritual matters as well as to everyday struggles can provide a welcome sense of safety and contribute to the bond between client and therapist, both of which support the therapeutic process.
Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Christian therapists?
The directory of Christian therapists includes professionals who have shared their background in their profiles. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. The directory also shows therapists who indicate that they have extensive experience working with Christian clients, regardless of their own background or religious affiliation.