Teletherapy for Illinois
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
Shira Behal is a therapist with experience, who knows how to weave different approaches together to find the right one for you. Shira is someone who listens, and also educates and guides. Someone to help you reach your goals and grow into a life that matches your values. Someone ready to do the deep work, and stay with you through the long work. Shira is a therapist who knows that healing takes a balance between the intellect, the emotional mind, and the body.
Shira Behal is a therapist with experience, who knows how to weave different approaches together to find the right one for you. Shira is someone who listens, and also educates and guides. Someone to help you reach your goals and grow into a life that matches your values. Someone ready to do the deep work, and stay with you through the long work. Shira is a therapist who knows that healing takes a balance between the intellect, the emotional mind, and the body.
I practice interpersonal psychoanalytic psychotherapy, which means I learn about you by examining your relationships while gaining insight as to how you relate to the world and yourself. My approach to therapy is rooted in harm reduction, intersectionality, and awareness of systemic oppression. I like to work with adults and have special interest working with the LGBTQIA2S+ population, trauma survivors, religious trauma survivors, couples, neurodivergent individuals, and those who are struggling with substance misuse.
I practice interpersonal psychoanalytic psychotherapy, which means I learn about you by examining your relationships while gaining insight as to how you relate to the world and yourself. My approach to therapy is rooted in harm reduction, intersectionality, and awareness of systemic oppression. I like to work with adults and have special interest working with the LGBTQIA2S+ population, trauma survivors, religious trauma survivors, couples, neurodivergent individuals, and those who are struggling with substance misuse.
Garrett R. Pluhar-Schaeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
We all are in relationships with others, and these relationships affect and change who we are. I look forward to exploring these relationships, past and present, and how they have shaped you. I’m interested in helping my patients gain insight into their relational patterns. I utilize a psychoanalytic theories in psychotherapy. I have received a certificate from the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute in child psychoanalytic psychotherapy where I am also a candidate in the psychoanalytic education program.
We all are in relationships with others, and these relationships affect and change who we are. I look forward to exploring these relationships, past and present, and how they have shaped you. I’m interested in helping my patients gain insight into their relational patterns. I utilize a psychoanalytic theories in psychotherapy. I have received a certificate from the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute in child psychoanalytic psychotherapy where I am also a candidate in the psychoanalytic education program.
Jx Heithmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community. I work with folks around trauma healing, gender and sexual identity exploration, developing healthy conflict and attachment styles (poly and kink affirming,) combating addiction, and building sincere connection to self and others. I center my practice around queer theory, feminist theory and critical race theory. I aim to recognize any power dynamic in a therapeutic alliance and work towards cultivating a space that is egalitarian. Finding balance and stability through struggle is a primary focus of mine in my practice.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community. I work with folks around trauma healing, gender and sexual identity exploration, developing healthy conflict and attachment styles (poly and kink affirming,) combating addiction, and building sincere connection to self and others. I center my practice around queer theory, feminist theory and critical race theory. I aim to recognize any power dynamic in a therapeutic alliance and work towards cultivating a space that is egalitarian. Finding balance and stability through struggle is a primary focus of mine in my practice.
I became a clinician for a myriad of reasons, one being that I understand the desire to search for identity. As a queer, genderfluid individual who uses she/they pronouns, this search reflects in my work to help others who are searching for insight into themselves. I acknowledge that others are the experts in their own lives and that I am a therapeutic conduit toward insight, healing, and empowerment. I am dedicated to working with those in marginalized communities, particularly those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I became a clinician for a myriad of reasons, one being that I understand the desire to search for identity. As a queer, genderfluid individual who uses she/they pronouns, this search reflects in my work to help others who are searching for insight into themselves. I acknowledge that others are the experts in their own lives and that I am a therapeutic conduit toward insight, healing, and empowerment. I am dedicated to working with those in marginalized communities, particularly those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Iggy V Ladden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, RYT
Not Verified Not Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
As a clinical psychologist, my approach is collaborative, intentional, and custom fit to meet the needs of clients searching for support/guidance in improving their overall emotional well-being. I view each client as the expert of their own experiences and work with them to find a life and way of living that is congruent with their values and current goals.
As a clinical psychologist, my approach is collaborative, intentional, and custom fit to meet the needs of clients searching for support/guidance in improving their overall emotional well-being. I view each client as the expert of their own experiences and work with them to find a life and way of living that is congruent with their values and current goals.
I believe that even the littlest of moments can be deeply meaningful, that mistakes are sometimes the best way to learn, and that we have the power to create our own destinies. It is my belief that change happens at the level of movement, making therapy an active, conscious process. As a therapist, I view my role as that of a co-pilot. Together, we will navigate your therapeutic journey in a way that is empowering and right for you. I specialize in school-aged children/teens, emotional and behavioral disorders, LGBTQ youth, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder.
I believe that even the littlest of moments can be deeply meaningful, that mistakes are sometimes the best way to learn, and that we have the power to create our own destinies. It is my belief that change happens at the level of movement, making therapy an active, conscious process. As a therapist, I view my role as that of a co-pilot. Together, we will navigate your therapeutic journey in a way that is empowering and right for you. I specialize in school-aged children/teens, emotional and behavioral disorders, LGBTQ youth, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder.
Dr. Breanne Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, Postdoc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201 (Online Only)
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment free of judgment or pretense, where you may feel empowered to voice thoughts, express feelings, and be curious about yourself in a way you may not have elsewhere. I believe that each person has the ability to create their own meaning in life, and I am passionate about helping my clients uncover their unique purpose and potential. Together, we will work to address any limiting beliefs or patterns, as well as examine how past experiences and cultural factors have shaped your worldview and prevented you from living a more fulfilling life.
I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment free of judgment or pretense, where you may feel empowered to voice thoughts, express feelings, and be curious about yourself in a way you may not have elsewhere. I believe that each person has the ability to create their own meaning in life, and I am passionate about helping my clients uncover their unique purpose and potential. Together, we will work to address any limiting beliefs or patterns, as well as examine how past experiences and cultural factors have shaped your worldview and prevented you from living a more fulfilling life.
Life rarely goes as planned. When we stumble on our journey it can often be difficulty to get back up on your feet without a little extra help– and that’s what I’m here for. Counseling with me is a deeply collaborative process. Together we will explore your values, meaning, and goals in life to help you live the way you desire. You are the expert of your own experience. I will help you to gain insight, make helpful changes, and express yourself in ways that make you feel heard and authentic.
Life rarely goes as planned. When we stumble on our journey it can often be difficulty to get back up on your feet without a little extra help– and that’s what I’m here for. Counseling with me is a deeply collaborative process. Together we will explore your values, meaning, and goals in life to help you live the way you desire. You are the expert of your own experience. I will help you to gain insight, make helpful changes, and express yourself in ways that make you feel heard and authentic.
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it. I am dedicated to creating a culturally responsive and inclusive environment for healing. My approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed, aimed at fostering a safe and compassionate space where everyone feels recognized and empowered on their healing journey. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ADHD, and Trauma. I support individuals in exploring and understanding their gender identity.
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it. I am dedicated to creating a culturally responsive and inclusive environment for healing. My approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed, aimed at fostering a safe and compassionate space where everyone feels recognized and empowered on their healing journey. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ADHD, and Trauma. I support individuals in exploring and understanding their gender identity.
See more therapy options for Illinois
Online Therapists
Is online therapy as effective as in-person?
Numerous studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to determine if online therapy provides the same benefits across all client populations. Individuals with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or those who may benefit from in-person check-ins, like those with eating disorders, may not experience the same level of benefit from online therapy. Nonetheless, the success of online therapy, much like in-person therapy, often hinges on the quality of the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client rather than the specific modality of therapy used.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of therapy conducted online?
One of the main advantages of online therapy is its convenience for both clients and therapists. It also allows clients who require specialized therapy to access a wider range of professionals than they could with only in-person sessions. Additionally, online therapy may be a more affordable option in some cases and often offers the same insurance benefits as in-person therapy. However, online therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who value face-to-face interaction with a therapist. Therapists may find it more challenging to assess clients accurately in an online setting due to reduced nonverbal cues on camera. There is also the increased risk that disruptions caused by external factors, such as technology malfunctions, can hinder the therapy session. For these reasons, many therapists offer a "hybrid" therapeutic approach, alternating between seeing clients in-person and online.
Is online therapy suitable for children and adolescents?
Just like with adults, the accessibility and convenience of online therapy can greatly benefit children and adolescents. In fact, children and adolescents may be more accustomed to navigating online platforms than older adults, making online sessions feel more natural for them. Teens might also be interested in using additional online tools, such as therapist-recommended apps, as an adjunct to online therapy sessions. Apps for developing CBT skills, practicing mindfulness exercises, or tracking thoughts and moods can be helpful for teens receiving therapy. However, it's important to note that not all therapeutic modalities are well-suited to online therapy, especially those used with younger children. For example, play therapy, which helps younger children express their emotions, often requires in-person sessions to be fully effective.
Can I receive prescriptions and medication management with online therapy?
The ability for psychiatrists to prescribe medications through online therapy varies based on the medication and the states where the medical professional and client are located. While many prescribing regulations were relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic, some states still enforce rules, especially concerning controlled substances, which may mandate an in-person visit before prescribing. Generally, however, medical professionals can prescribe non-controlled substances through online therapy sessions just as they do during in-person sessions.