Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
or

Dakota T Heshelman

Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC

Verified by Psychology Today Verified by Psychology Today
1 Endorsed
7315 North Alpine Road, suite G, Loves Park, IL 61111
Let's Connect (815) 205-0859
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
I work with individuals across Illinois and Wisconsin and enjoy supporting people of all ages. Whether you’re facing challenges like trauma, depression, anxiety, or substance use—or simply hoping to grow and feel more joy—I meet you where you are. I’m known for thinking outside the box, often weaving in music, art, humor, and other creative, experiential tools to make therapy both meaningful and real.
With 14+ years in behavioral health, I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR, DBT, and play therapy. I have extensive experience working with trauma, substance use, veterans, first responders, and lgbtq+bringing a grounded, client-centered approach to every session.
I take a straightforward, supportive approach that helps individuals build insight and learn practical strategies for lasting change. I draw from a variety of techniques to support awareness, understanding, and skill development—tailoring each session to what works best for you.
Call or Dakota T Heshelman now for a free 15 minute consultation - (815) 205-0859

My Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

7315 North Alpine Road

suite G

Loves Park, IL 61111 map

(815) 205-0859
I offer evenings & some weekends available for in-person or telehealth, so support can fit into your life, not the other way around.
I specialize in Trauma and PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQ+ 
$200 Per Session, I accept insurance 
I see individuals and groups  
Let's Connect (815) 205-0859
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC

My Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

7315 North Alpine Road

suite G

Loves Park, IL 61111 map

(815) 205-0859
I offer evenings & some weekends available for in-person or telehealth, so support can fit into your life, not the other way around.
I specialize in Trauma and PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQ+ 
$200 Per Session, I accept insurance 
I see individuals and groups  

Finances

Fees

  • Individual Sessions $200

Payment Methods

Cash, Check, Mastercard, Venmo, Visa

Insurance

  • Aetna
  • Alliance
  • BlueCross and BlueShield
  • Cigna and Evernorth
  • Mercy Health
  • Optum
  • Quartz
"
I offer competitive rates and accept most commercial insurance plans. I'm happy to discuss payment options. Please reach out with any questions, I am happy to help.
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (815) 205-0859
"
I offer competitive rates and accept most commercial insurance plans. I'm happy to discuss payment options. Please reach out with any questions, I am happy to help.
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (815) 205-0859

Qualifications

  • Verified by Psychology Today Licensed by State of Illinois / 180.011840 Dakota T Heshelman
  • Education and Years In Practice

  • In Practice for 15 years
  • Attended Argosy University, MA, Graduated 2011
  • Additional Credentials

  • License: State of Wisconsin 11101-125 / 2024
"
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 14 years of experience. Safe Zone trained as well as trained in EMDR and DBT practices. Basically, a toolbox full of evidence based skills to help you heal, grow, and maybe even laugh a little along the way
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (815) 205-0859
"
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 14 years of experience. Safe Zone trained as well as trained in EMDR and DBT practices. Basically, a toolbox full of evidence based skills to help you heal, grow, and maybe even laugh a little along the way
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (815) 205-0859

Specialties and Expertise

Top Specialties

  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Addiction
  • LGBTQ+

Expertise

  • ADHD
  • Alcohol Use
  • Anxiety
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Borderline Personality (BPD)
  • Child
  • Coping Skills
  • Depression
  • Divorce
  • Dual Diagnosis
  • Emotional Disturbance
  • First Responders
  • Grief
  • Life Transitions
  • Mood Disorders
  • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
  • Self Esteem
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Stress
  • Substance Use
  • Transgender
  • Veterans
"
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like your brain won't give you a break? I help with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and all the "what now?" moments. I work with children, adults, LGBTQ folks, and veterans, especially around trauma and big life shifts. Therapy can be honest and affirming. While healing is hard, it doesn't have to be humorless or lonely.
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (815) 205-0859
"
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like your brain won't give you a break? I help with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and all the "what now?" moments. I work with children, adults, LGBTQ folks, and veterans, especially around trauma and big life shifts. Therapy can be honest and affirming. While healing is hard, it doesn't have to be humorless or lonely.
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (815) 205-0859

Endorsement

Carlina C Hart
Carlina C Hart
Clinical Social Work/TherapistLCSW
Dakota is a compassionate, skilled therapist who has a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding addiction and trauma. Their dedication to providing empathetic care, and their passion for helping others is truly inspiring.

Client Focus

Age

Children (6 to 10)
Preteen
Teen
Adults
Elders (65+)

Participants

Individuals
Group

Communities

Aviation Professionals
Bisexual Allied
Gay Allied
Lesbian Allied
Non-Binary Allied
Single Parent
Transgender Allied

Age

Children (6 to 10)
Preteen
Teen
Adults
Elders (65+)

Participants

Individuals
Group

Communities

Aviation Professionals
Bisexual Allied
Gay Allied
Lesbian Allied
Non-Binary Allied
Single Parent
Transgender Allied

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

  • Art
  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
  • EMDR
  • Music
  • Person-Centered
  • Play Therapy
  • Positive Psychology
  • Strength-Based
  • Trauma Focused
"
I use evidence-based treatments like EMDR, CBT, DBT, and experiential approaches (think music, art, play, or a metaphor or analogy). Sessions are straightforward, supportive, and tailored to you. Expect a mix of real talk, useful tools, and the occasional "aha" moment. Maybe even a laugh or two as we do the work together.
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (815) 205-0859
"
I use evidence-based treatments like EMDR, CBT, DBT, and experiential approaches (think music, art, play, or a metaphor or analogy). Sessions are straightforward, supportive, and tailored to you. Expect a mix of real talk, useful tools, and the occasional "aha" moment. Maybe even a laugh or two as we do the work together.
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (815) 205-0859

Location

Primary Location

7315 North Alpine Road

suite G

Loves Park, IL 61111

(815) 205-0859
"
I offer evenings & some weekends available for in-person or telehealth, so support can fit into your life, not the other way around.
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call for a free consultation now - (815) 205-0859
"
I offer evenings & some weekends available for in-person or telehealth, so support can fit into your life, not the other way around.
Photo of Dakota T Heshelman, Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Dakota T Heshelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Call for a free consultation now - (815) 205-0859