Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Peoria, IL

Photo of Kathy Renee Karouzos, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Kathy Renee Karouzos
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
I practice DBT, ACT, CBT, REBT, expressive therapies, psychotherapy and more.
These difficult and unprecedented times are causing an increase in anxiety and depression. I am a Christian who is a counselor. I work with people of all faiths as well as those who do not have any particular spiritual viewpoint. It is my aim to treat all of my clients with compassion and integrity. I will take the time to get to know you, and help you get to know yourself. Throughout the decades, I have practiced a variety of counseling techniques that we can tailor to suit your individual needs and personality. "Welcome to your life... only better!"
I practice DBT, ACT, CBT, REBT, expressive therapies, psychotherapy and more.
These difficult and unprecedented times are causing an increase in anxiety and depression. I am a Christian who is a counselor. I work with people of all faiths as well as those who do not have any particular spiritual viewpoint. It is my aim to treat all of my clients with compassion and integrity. I will take the time to get to know you, and help you get to know yourself. Throughout the decades, I have practiced a variety of counseling techniques that we can tailor to suit your individual needs and personality. "Welcome to your life... only better!"
(309) 305-3151 View (309) 305-3151
Photo of Sandi Cross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandi Cross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT) and certified in Clinical Child & Adolescent Anxiety Treatment (CCATP-CA).
Hi, My name is Sandi Cross. I hold a BS and MSW, both from the University of Illinois. I have spent my adult life working with children and families and am passionate about helping people identify and fulfill their goals while confronting the struggles along the way. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life, include anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, anger management, and low self-esteem, I can help navigate these challenges and assist you with building effective skills. I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults with a focus on anxiety, self-esteem, and behavioral concerns.
I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT) and certified in Clinical Child & Adolescent Anxiety Treatment (CCATP-CA).
Hi, My name is Sandi Cross. I hold a BS and MSW, both from the University of Illinois. I have spent my adult life working with children and families and am passionate about helping people identify and fulfill their goals while confronting the struggles along the way. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life, include anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, anger management, and low self-esteem, I can help navigate these challenges and assist you with building effective skills. I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults with a focus on anxiety, self-esteem, and behavioral concerns.
(224) 263-4763 View (224) 263-4763
Photo of Hannah Spencer, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Hannah Spencer
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Waitlist for new clients
Some of my favorite perspectives are psychoanalytic, existential, mindfulness-based, and DBT.
Life can feel out of control at times, and it can be difficult to slow down and pay attention to ourselves or make desired changes. We might feel like we are trying to survive what life throws at us, rather than living to the fullest. Maybe we find that certain patterns in our lives are creating problems or old coping strategies aren't working anymore. Perhaps after years of avoiding our emotions, they have become too painful and overwhelm us. I strive to create a collaborative, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore what you are going through with compassion and curiosity.
Some of my favorite perspectives are psychoanalytic, existential, mindfulness-based, and DBT.
Life can feel out of control at times, and it can be difficult to slow down and pay attention to ourselves or make desired changes. We might feel like we are trying to survive what life throws at us, rather than living to the fullest. Maybe we find that certain patterns in our lives are creating problems or old coping strategies aren't working anymore. Perhaps after years of avoiding our emotions, they have become too painful and overwhelm us. I strive to create a collaborative, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore what you are going through with compassion and curiosity.
(309) 955-5607 View (309) 955-5607
Photo of Angela Zumbek, LCPC, Counselor
Angela Zumbek
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
I use cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy approaches to help those who are seeking to make positive changes in their lives.
I know how challenging it can be to reach out and start the process of therapy. I enjoy working with clients who experience a variety of needs from their therapist. This includes processing traumas, minimizing depressive symptoms, more effectively managing symptoms of anxiety, and more! It is important to come into a counseling setting with an open mind, and to remember that therapy is a very vulnerable process. Developing trust within a counseling relationship is an important foundation to reaching your goals in the counseling setting.
I use cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy approaches to help those who are seeking to make positive changes in their lives.
I know how challenging it can be to reach out and start the process of therapy. I enjoy working with clients who experience a variety of needs from their therapist. This includes processing traumas, minimizing depressive symptoms, more effectively managing symptoms of anxiety, and more! It is important to come into a counseling setting with an open mind, and to remember that therapy is a very vulnerable process. Developing trust within a counseling relationship is an important foundation to reaching your goals in the counseling setting.
(309) 305-8494 View (309) 305-8494
Photo of Susan Wilhelm, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Wilhelm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
My name is Susie Wilhelm and I am an LCSW located in Illinois. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, and client-centered. I believe in the process of building rapport and trust during the beginning phases of therapy so that my clients feel comfortable before sharing their concerns or struggles. I let my clients take the lead during our sessions, and I take an empathetic and non-judgmental stance while I listen and support. I commonly use therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).
My name is Susie Wilhelm and I am an LCSW located in Illinois. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, and client-centered. I believe in the process of building rapport and trust during the beginning phases of therapy so that my clients feel comfortable before sharing their concerns or struggles. I let my clients take the lead during our sessions, and I take an empathetic and non-judgmental stance while I listen and support. I commonly use therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).
(773) 694-9198 View (773) 694-9198
Photo of Amy Fischer, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Fischer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Waitlist for new clients
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
(309) 247-8323 View (309) 247-8323
Photo of Kerry Stephens, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerry Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques including CBT, DBT, IFS, mindfulness, solution focused therapy, and client-centered therapy.
Immediate appointments available! Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you trying to overcome adversity or traumatic experiences? You have just taken the first step in the process of reaching your full potential. Not sure where to go from here? That's okay. I'm here to help. I am committed to walking with you in that journey by building a safe, nonjudgmental environment and helping you to find the answers within you.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques including CBT, DBT, IFS, mindfulness, solution focused therapy, and client-centered therapy.
Immediate appointments available! Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you trying to overcome adversity or traumatic experiences? You have just taken the first step in the process of reaching your full potential. Not sure where to go from here? That's okay. I'm here to help. I am committed to walking with you in that journey by building a safe, nonjudgmental environment and helping you to find the answers within you.
(309) 790-3582 View (309) 790-3582
Photo of Deborah K Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah K Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61604
I have been trained in EMDR, use neurofeedback, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and parts work, some somatic work, and DBT skills training.
“Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as Breathing is!” We all need to know that we deserve happiness even if we aren’t used to it. I have been a Social Worker for 28 years. In that time, I have worked in Community Mental Health, Rehab to home and long-term care, and hospice. I believe creating an environment of trust and safety is the most important part of the therapeutic relationship. I have experience with grief, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and trauma.
I have been trained in EMDR, use neurofeedback, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and parts work, some somatic work, and DBT skills training.
“Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as Breathing is!” We all need to know that we deserve happiness even if we aren’t used to it. I have been a Social Worker for 28 years. In that time, I have worked in Community Mental Health, Rehab to home and long-term care, and hospice. I believe creating an environment of trust and safety is the most important part of the therapeutic relationship. I have experience with grief, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and trauma.
(309) 777-0813 View (309) 777-0813
Photo of Venus Evans-Winters, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Venus Evans-Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma expert, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g., cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip-hop generation, she helps clients from diverse backgrounds cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers on culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a significant influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma expert, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g., cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip-hop generation, she helps clients from diverse backgrounds cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers on culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a significant influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
(309) 362-0501 View (309) 362-0501
Photo of Nadjeh Awadallah, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nadjeh Awadallah
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61603
It is important to talk through the different therapy strategies with a client to determine what suits them and meets their expectations of treatment. I like using different modalities of treatment (like Dialectical Behavioral Treatment, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Client-Centered Interventions) and feel it is important to educate the client on these options so they can decide on what will work well for them. Regardless of the treatment modality they choose, setting realistic treatment goals is so important and will allow clients to see change as they work through treatment.
It is important to talk through the different therapy strategies with a client to determine what suits them and meets their expectations of treatment. I like using different modalities of treatment (like Dialectical Behavioral Treatment, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Client-Centered Interventions) and feel it is important to educate the client on these options so they can decide on what will work well for them. Regardless of the treatment modality they choose, setting realistic treatment goals is so important and will allow clients to see change as they work through treatment.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Corey Hopson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Corey Hopson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61605
TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention), DBT (Dialect Behavior Therapy) and family systems theory to name a few.
The struggle is real but through hope, growth, faith and transformation we heal. We all have a story to tell. No persons story is any better or worse than anyone else's. I can attest to the struggle to reach out for help and the need to be vulnerable. I am someone who is there to help guide you through those tough times. The courage and strength that it takes to reach out for help is the first step and a critical component to healing. The willingness to seek help and be vulnerable is actually a sign of strength. Let me help you on that journey!
TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention), DBT (Dialect Behavior Therapy) and family systems theory to name a few.
The struggle is real but through hope, growth, faith and transformation we heal. We all have a story to tell. No persons story is any better or worse than anyone else's. I can attest to the struggle to reach out for help and the need to be vulnerable. I am someone who is there to help guide you through those tough times. The courage and strength that it takes to reach out for help is the first step and a critical component to healing. The willingness to seek help and be vulnerable is actually a sign of strength. Let me help you on that journey!
(309) 250-2967 View (309) 250-2967
Photo of Shyann Etnier, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shyann Etnier
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
My approach may include the incorporation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.
My approach is not just about providing therapy, but about creating a collaborative and empowering space. Together, we will navigate life’s challenges, setting treatment goals that are unique to your needs and desires. It would be a privilege to support you on this journey. I often support a diverse range of individuals, including: -those who have experienced trauma -parents -children aged 10 to 17 with various needs -young adults navigating life transitions
My approach may include the incorporation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.
My approach is not just about providing therapy, but about creating a collaborative and empowering space. Together, we will navigate life’s challenges, setting treatment goals that are unique to your needs and desires. It would be a privilege to support you on this journey. I often support a diverse range of individuals, including: -those who have experienced trauma -parents -children aged 10 to 17 with various needs -young adults navigating life transitions
(309) 220-5657 View (309) 220-5657
Photo of Theresa Patton - Theresa Patton, LCPC, CRC, LCAC, CAADC, MAC
Theresa Patton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC, LCAC, CAADC, MAC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61604  (Online Only)
I find it especially rewarding to work with BIPOC individuals, families, LGBTQ+ individuals, seniors, and disabled persons. My experience in assisting people from all walks of life has taught me how to be a better listener, communicator, and problem-solver. I strive to provide quality care to all my clients, as everyone deserves access to it.
I find it especially rewarding to work with BIPOC individuals, families, LGBTQ+ individuals, seniors, and disabled persons. My experience in assisting people from all walks of life has taught me how to be a better listener, communicator, and problem-solver. I strive to provide quality care to all my clients, as everyone deserves access to it.
(309) 248-6723 View (309) 248-6723
Photo of Kendra Belk, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Kendra Belk
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615  (Online Only)
"Surviving keeps you from living." Often times we are faced with a part of us that refuses to pause and work through those feelings or issues that can be causing discomfort. Instead, it tells us to press on and keep going. The idea that in order to function we must suppress our feelings or emotions tends to have longterm negative effects. If you are tired of just surviving, waking up and pushing through, then it is time for you to learn how to fully live in your truth.
"Surviving keeps you from living." Often times we are faced with a part of us that refuses to pause and work through those feelings or issues that can be causing discomfort. Instead, it tells us to press on and keep going. The idea that in order to function we must suppress our feelings or emotions tends to have longterm negative effects. If you are tired of just surviving, waking up and pushing through, then it is time for you to learn how to fully live in your truth.
(309) 250-3566 View (309) 250-3566
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(309) 204-9552 View (309) 204-9552
Photo of Bonnie Lansing, LCPC
Bonnie Lansing
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603
I believe that everyone has inherent strength. While I can be direct and to the point, I understand that this conversation is about your life, not mine. I come from an inclusive feminist background and am comfortable working with all genders. I also believe in the power of laughter and that everyone is capable of living their best life. We are not broken and do not need fixing. However, there are times in life when we need a safe space to focus on where to go next. Addressing trauma, depression, PTSD, and CPTSD doesn’t always mean reliving past experiences or sharing every detail. My goal is to support you in moving beyond.
I believe that everyone has inherent strength. While I can be direct and to the point, I understand that this conversation is about your life, not mine. I come from an inclusive feminist background and am comfortable working with all genders. I also believe in the power of laughter and that everyone is capable of living their best life. We are not broken and do not need fixing. However, there are times in life when we need a safe space to focus on where to go next. Addressing trauma, depression, PTSD, and CPTSD doesn’t always mean reliving past experiences or sharing every detail. My goal is to support you in moving beyond.
(309) 955-5349 View (309) 955-5349
Photo of Shanna J Muir, LCPC, CCMHC, MA, Counselor
Shanna J Muir
Counselor, LCPC, CCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615  (Online Only)
You want a therapist that is different. You've tried therapy before and it felt like a waste of time. You know you need help but taking the first step is terrifying and hard. You’re scared of opening up and talking about things that most people don't understand. You don't want to waste your time with the same old therapy talk. You need someone who can provide some immediate relief, is safe to talk to, and will work at your pace. You are an expert on your own experiences, I am a professional who understands diverse ways of life. Tell me what you can, when you can, and I will be right here for you.
You want a therapist that is different. You've tried therapy before and it felt like a waste of time. You know you need help but taking the first step is terrifying and hard. You’re scared of opening up and talking about things that most people don't understand. You don't want to waste your time with the same old therapy talk. You need someone who can provide some immediate relief, is safe to talk to, and will work at your pace. You are an expert on your own experiences, I am a professional who understands diverse ways of life. Tell me what you can, when you can, and I will be right here for you.
(309) 306-7016 View (309) 306-7016
Photo of James Gibb, MA, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH, AMTP, Counselor
James Gibb
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH, AMTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
It was Irvin Yalom who said something to the effect that "psychotherapy is like a dress rehearsal for life". With this said, it is my intention to not only offer you support in therapy but to also help you generalize the skills you learn in therapy and apply them in your outside life and relationships. I specialize in anger and anxiety management for adults and adolescents. I hold an Anger Management Certification. I also enjoy working with highly intelligent adults and teens who have a difficult time adjusting and adapting socially. This includes working with individuals on the high functioning end of the Autism scale.
It was Irvin Yalom who said something to the effect that "psychotherapy is like a dress rehearsal for life". With this said, it is my intention to not only offer you support in therapy but to also help you generalize the skills you learn in therapy and apply them in your outside life and relationships. I specialize in anger and anxiety management for adults and adolescents. I hold an Anger Management Certification. I also enjoy working with highly intelligent adults and teens who have a difficult time adjusting and adapting socially. This includes working with individuals on the high functioning end of the Autism scale.
(309) 716-3874 View (309) 716-3874
Photo of Morgan Fulton-Gorham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Fulton-Gorham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Everyone seeks counseling for different reasons. Maybe you have recently experienced a major life event and are looking for an ally to assist you in processing your emotions or thought patterns. Maybe you're looking to shed behaviors that you no longer find useful or healthy, and you believe could use help with the process. Maybe you're seeking new skills that will help you better understand and manage a recent change or diagnosis. No matter your reason for seeking help, my hope is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space of trust where you are able to do the work you need to take back control of your life.
Everyone seeks counseling for different reasons. Maybe you have recently experienced a major life event and are looking for an ally to assist you in processing your emotions or thought patterns. Maybe you're looking to shed behaviors that you no longer find useful or healthy, and you believe could use help with the process. Maybe you're seeking new skills that will help you better understand and manage a recent change or diagnosis. No matter your reason for seeking help, my hope is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space of trust where you are able to do the work you need to take back control of your life.
(309) 271-2178 View (309) 271-2178
Photo of Pat Poertner, LCPC, Counselor
Pat Poertner
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
As a counselor, my heart's desire is to help people find hope, as hope is the one thing that can help us get through the darkest of times. My personal journey is one of many losses restored, and reaching out with a listening heart is my joy and passion. I would welcome the opportunity to walk with you through your journey of pain and loss to healing and growth. Counseling is provided to adolescents and adults.
As a counselor, my heart's desire is to help people find hope, as hope is the one thing that can help us get through the darkest of times. My personal journey is one of many losses restored, and reaching out with a listening heart is my joy and passion. I would welcome the opportunity to walk with you through your journey of pain and loss to healing and growth. Counseling is provided to adolescents and adults.
(309) 455-8053 View (309) 455-8053
1
Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.