Photo of Sarah Malak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Sarah Malak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charleston, IL 61920  (Online Only)
If you're looking to work through trauma that is making it hard for you to breathe, to function, to know and be yourself, you've come to the right place. I often treat individuals who are recognizing how past ways of functioning just aren't working for them anymore and want to make real and lasting change. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression or mood disorders, dissociation, and possibly some ADHD too, I'm here for you. Together we can work through the things that are bothering you and get you to a place where you can truly feel that your past is in your past and you have the skills and strength to keep moving forward.
If you're looking to work through trauma that is making it hard for you to breathe, to function, to know and be yourself, you've come to the right place. I often treat individuals who are recognizing how past ways of functioning just aren't working for them anymore and want to make real and lasting change. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression or mood disorders, dissociation, and possibly some ADHD too, I'm here for you. Together we can work through the things that are bothering you and get you to a place where you can truly feel that your past is in your past and you have the skills and strength to keep moving forward.
(217) 615-2944 View (217) 615-2944

Online Therapists

Photo of Aaron Poppy, Psychologist in Charleston, IL
Aaron Poppy
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Dr. Poppy’s approach to psychotherapy develops client-centered foundations of empathy, acceptance, and support with clients to facilitate cognitive-behavioral and family systems therapies. His assessment interest areas include attention, mood, personality, developmental disorders, autism, and learning. His interest areas for therapy include child behavior, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, life adjustment, and couple and family relationships. He welcomes opportunities to recognize and support diversity.
Dr. Poppy’s approach to psychotherapy develops client-centered foundations of empathy, acceptance, and support with clients to facilitate cognitive-behavioral and family systems therapies. His assessment interest areas include attention, mood, personality, developmental disorders, autism, and learning. His interest areas for therapy include child behavior, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, life adjustment, and couple and family relationships. He welcomes opportunities to recognize and support diversity.
(309) 220-5130 View (309) 220-5130
Photo of Maria Gorecki Nowak Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Maria Gorecki Nowak Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Savoy, IL 61874
I use some evidence-based approaches: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavior Therapy (DBT), or Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
My name is Maria (or Marysia); I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have experience working with a variety of populations in a variety of settings, ranging from residential/restorative to outpatient. I have 10+ years of experience addressing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, religious trauma, and relationship challenges. I am interested in working with adults, adolescents, and older children. I emigrated to this country as an older child. Following hardships emigration presented, my practice is strongly trauma affirming. I focus on the impact of trauma, current and generational. I recognize the
I use some evidence-based approaches: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavior Therapy (DBT), or Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
My name is Maria (or Marysia); I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have experience working with a variety of populations in a variety of settings, ranging from residential/restorative to outpatient. I have 10+ years of experience addressing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, religious trauma, and relationship challenges. I am interested in working with adults, adolescents, and older children. I emigrated to this country as an older child. Following hardships emigration presented, my practice is strongly trauma affirming. I focus on the impact of trauma, current and generational. I recognize the
(217) 418-4199 View (217) 418-4199
Photo of Keona Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Keona Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Savoy, IL 61874
Feeling sad, drained, overwhelmed, or repeating the same behavior patterns and want things to change? Is your youth struggling emotionally or behaviorally and need additional support? Dealing with day-to-day struggles and/or past hurts can be emotionally taxing for you or your youth. It prevents us from being the person we want to be and live the life we want to live. The good news is you or your youth don’t have to navigate life’s complexities alone.
Feeling sad, drained, overwhelmed, or repeating the same behavior patterns and want things to change? Is your youth struggling emotionally or behaviorally and need additional support? Dealing with day-to-day struggles and/or past hurts can be emotionally taxing for you or your youth. It prevents us from being the person we want to be and live the life we want to live. The good news is you or your youth don’t have to navigate life’s complexities alone.
(217) 909-9052 View (217) 909-9052
Photo of Angi Chasensky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Angi Chasensky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
I use an integrated approach to therapy which may include trauma-informed techniques from various counseling approaches, including (but not limited to), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Therapy, Polyvagal Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and Humanistic Psychology.
My empathetic approach meets the individual where they are, to explore their concerns without shame, guilt, or judgment. Everyone faces challenges and difficult times in their life. The way we receive information from the people, places, and things in our environment is rooted in experience, belief systems, and our personality. We respond and interact with others based on our defined relationship with ourselves and our experiences. My goal is to create a safe environment, to cultivate an authentic relationship with yourself. We will work together to develop attainable treatment goals based on your needs and wants.
I use an integrated approach to therapy which may include trauma-informed techniques from various counseling approaches, including (but not limited to), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Therapy, Polyvagal Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and Humanistic Psychology.
My empathetic approach meets the individual where they are, to explore their concerns without shame, guilt, or judgment. Everyone faces challenges and difficult times in their life. The way we receive information from the people, places, and things in our environment is rooted in experience, belief systems, and our personality. We respond and interact with others based on our defined relationship with ourselves and our experiences. My goal is to create a safe environment, to cultivate an authentic relationship with yourself. We will work together to develop attainable treatment goals based on your needs and wants.
(309) 869-8033 View (309) 869-8033
Photo of Dr Sara Bahn Behavioral Health Center Of Illinois, Psychologist in Charleston, IL
Dr Sara Bahn Behavioral Health Center Of Illinois
Psychologist, PsyD, MAAT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
My specialty areas and past professional experiences in the behavioral sciences have included treating depression, anxiety, grief/loss, SAP Evaluations, PTSD, addictions, medical life concerns (fibromyalgia, chronic pain) autistic spectrum disorders, aspergers, ADHD,cultural identity, adjustment issues, interpersonal problems at work or with intimate partner.
I 've worked over 30 years working and consulting with children, adolescents, parents, couples, families, adults, corporations and military personnel. My focus encompasses a holistic, integrative, and strength based perspective and worldview. Through a combination of various healing modalities and psychotherapeutic approaches I focus on research based setting with each individual's specific needs and goals. I help individuals with personal growth, health and wellness, and the journey of self examination as well as symptom relief. View community education by Dr. Bahn on Channel 17, Channel 20 local news, and Mind, Body, Radio.
My specialty areas and past professional experiences in the behavioral sciences have included treating depression, anxiety, grief/loss, SAP Evaluations, PTSD, addictions, medical life concerns (fibromyalgia, chronic pain) autistic spectrum disorders, aspergers, ADHD,cultural identity, adjustment issues, interpersonal problems at work or with intimate partner.
I 've worked over 30 years working and consulting with children, adolescents, parents, couples, families, adults, corporations and military personnel. My focus encompasses a holistic, integrative, and strength based perspective and worldview. Through a combination of various healing modalities and psychotherapeutic approaches I focus on research based setting with each individual's specific needs and goals. I help individuals with personal growth, health and wellness, and the journey of self examination as well as symptom relief. View community education by Dr. Bahn on Channel 17, Channel 20 local news, and Mind, Body, Radio.
(217) 909-9097 View (217) 909-9097
Photo of Sedellia Strobel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Sedellia Strobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Accepting new clients! My passion is working with children and adolescents that have experienced trauma and assisting them in identifying their strengths to achieve progress. I additionally assist with behavioral struggles, ADHD, anxiety, and many others. I also work with parents and families to build knowledge, education, and support for child!
Accepting new clients! My passion is working with children and adolescents that have experienced trauma and assisting them in identifying their strengths to achieve progress. I additionally assist with behavioral struggles, ADHD, anxiety, and many others. I also work with parents and families to build knowledge, education, and support for child!
(217) 795-8616 View (217) 795-8616
Photo of Heather Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Heather Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821  (Online Only)
I can provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Rational-Emotive Therapy, Existential-Humanistic Therapy, and DBT.
Reaching out is the first step, I'm glad you're here. My work ranges from treating stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, to other specific personal and relational issues. I am passionate about adolescent neural development, embracing neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, etc.), body acceptance, attachment theory, and working to break family cycles of trauma. I will work with you to establish goals that are driven by you, for you. I am an active listener who is also willing and ready to offer insight and point out potential problem areas with permission. You will make the change-I can help you see it.
I can provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Rational-Emotive Therapy, Existential-Humanistic Therapy, and DBT.
Reaching out is the first step, I'm glad you're here. My work ranges from treating stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, to other specific personal and relational issues. I am passionate about adolescent neural development, embracing neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, etc.), body acceptance, attachment theory, and working to break family cycles of trauma. I will work with you to establish goals that are driven by you, for you. I am an active listener who is also willing and ready to offer insight and point out potential problem areas with permission. You will make the change-I can help you see it.
(847) 416-8516 View (847) 416-8516
Photo of Jacob Holthoff, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charleston, IL
Jacob Holthoff
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Jake typically utilizes an individualized, person-centered approach with cognitive behavioral techniques, with an emphasis on remaining highly flexible.
It is no secret that mental distress can be a devastating roadblock in life. It is my hope that together, we can create a completely safe and understanding environment in which we can work together toward achieving balance, implementing healthy coping strategies, and navigating life’s many obstacles toward growth. Therapy can be quite a daunting step to take for many, but I have no doubt in my mind that together, we can lay the foundation for personal growth.
Jake typically utilizes an individualized, person-centered approach with cognitive behavioral techniques, with an emphasis on remaining highly flexible.
It is no secret that mental distress can be a devastating roadblock in life. It is my hope that together, we can create a completely safe and understanding environment in which we can work together toward achieving balance, implementing healthy coping strategies, and navigating life’s many obstacles toward growth. Therapy can be quite a daunting step to take for many, but I have no doubt in my mind that together, we can lay the foundation for personal growth.
(217) 290-1629 View (217) 290-1629
Photo of Chase Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Chase Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
My treatment approach is based around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma focused.
I specialize in working with youth ages 12 and older, parents, and family dynamics. I also work with adults. The mental health issues I specialize in are: depression and suicidal thoughts/ideation, self-harming behaviors, anxiety, trauma history or disorders, oppositional defiance, ADHD, parenting, peer relationships, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and sexually problematic behaviors. I also specialize in family reintegration and boundary setting. Therapy should be about improving yourself and learning the tools to do that effectively.
My treatment approach is based around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma focused.
I specialize in working with youth ages 12 and older, parents, and family dynamics. I also work with adults. The mental health issues I specialize in are: depression and suicidal thoughts/ideation, self-harming behaviors, anxiety, trauma history or disorders, oppositional defiance, ADHD, parenting, peer relationships, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and sexually problematic behaviors. I also specialize in family reintegration and boundary setting. Therapy should be about improving yourself and learning the tools to do that effectively.
(217) 292-6237 View (217) 292-6237
Photo of Irina Podolsky, Psychologist in Charleston, IL
Irina Podolsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, IL 62837
I provide psychological assessment of cognitive, personality, emotional and behavioral functioning of children, adolescents and adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience. If you are motivated to advance in life and overcome the obstacles that may potentially hinder your personal, social and professional development, I will be the right person for you to work with.
I provide psychological assessment of cognitive, personality, emotional and behavioral functioning of children, adolescents and adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience. If you are motivated to advance in life and overcome the obstacles that may potentially hinder your personal, social and professional development, I will be the right person for you to work with.
(618) 226-2164 View (618) 226-2164
Photo of Ken J Summers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charleston, IL
Ken J Summers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
I use an integrated approach to therapy, including, but not limited to, the Word of God, Trust-Based Relational Interventions (TBRI), Attachment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Experiential Therapy, Marriage Mentoring and Couples Coaching, Theraplay, EMDR and Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.
It is easy to become sidetracked from the things we value most by the busyness of life. Has your relationship with your spouse lost its spark? Are you angry with little hope for a positive future? Do you feel defeated when trying to interact with your teen/child with everyday battles? If you are a person of faith and long to be your best, I can help! As a Christian Licensed Therapist, I have helped hundreds of families work through personal & relational conflict and challenging circumstances.
I use an integrated approach to therapy, including, but not limited to, the Word of God, Trust-Based Relational Interventions (TBRI), Attachment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Experiential Therapy, Marriage Mentoring and Couples Coaching, Theraplay, EMDR and Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.
It is easy to become sidetracked from the things we value most by the busyness of life. Has your relationship with your spouse lost its spark? Are you angry with little hope for a positive future? Do you feel defeated when trying to interact with your teen/child with everyday battles? If you are a person of faith and long to be your best, I can help! As a Christian Licensed Therapist, I have helped hundreds of families work through personal & relational conflict and challenging circumstances.
(309) 328-6651 View (309) 328-6651
Photo of Gregory Franklin Jenkins, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Gregory Franklin Jenkins
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children ages 5 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more.
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children ages 5 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more.
(309) 865-5242 View (309) 865-5242
Photo of Angela Johnson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Angela Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
(224) 970-2777 View (224) 970-2777
Photo of Evonne Stephenson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Evonne Stephenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
(618) 984-6872 x1 View (618) 984-6872 x1
Photo of Kristin Smith, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Kristin Smith
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Smith utilizes an integrative approach, with skills in Dialectal Behavioral Tx, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential, Holistic, Client Centered, health, and wellness in group private practice .
Kristin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She received her Master's Degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. She has a wide range of clinical experience working with individuals, children, teens, and families experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse), life changes and transitions, relationships, grief and loss, and substance abuse/ addictions. Ms. Smith has worked in outpatient and residential settings both at Memorial and SIU.
Smith utilizes an integrative approach, with skills in Dialectal Behavioral Tx, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential, Holistic, Client Centered, health, and wellness in group private practice .
Kristin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She received her Master's Degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. She has a wide range of clinical experience working with individuals, children, teens, and families experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse), life changes and transitions, relationships, grief and loss, and substance abuse/ addictions. Ms. Smith has worked in outpatient and residential settings both at Memorial and SIU.
(217) 269-1684 View (217) 269-1684
Photo of Victoria Adams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charleston, IL
Victoria Adams
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
In working with you, my goal is to build trust and offer you a safe place while valuing the unique perspective you bring. Together, we can tailor therapy to fit your aspirations. My services include working with individuals, couples, teens, and adults.
In working with you, my goal is to build trust and offer you a safe place while valuing the unique perspective you bring. Together, we can tailor therapy to fit your aspirations. My services include working with individuals, couples, teens, and adults.
(309) 760-6103 View (309) 760-6103
Amber Estes
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, IL 60953
Your internal voice is relentlessly mean and critical. And sometimes you have so many thoughts and BIG feelings that you feel exhausted and drained. You are left asking yourself, why can't I just get over it, why am I like this, why am I so stuck? It can be hard to describe what you are thinking and feeling to your family and friends. You are searching for clarity and something different, but you aren't sure what that is exactly. Oftentimes healing is on the other side of self-doubt and not knowing - and you deserve healing and liberation.
Your internal voice is relentlessly mean and critical. And sometimes you have so many thoughts and BIG feelings that you feel exhausted and drained. You are left asking yourself, why can't I just get over it, why am I like this, why am I so stuck? It can be hard to describe what you are thinking and feeling to your family and friends. You are searching for clarity and something different, but you aren't sure what that is exactly. Oftentimes healing is on the other side of self-doubt and not knowing - and you deserve healing and liberation.
(815) 332-0075 View (815) 332-0075
Photo of Molly Thinnes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Molly Thinnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
Molly Thinnes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who completed her graduate degree in Social Work at Simmons University. During her time at Simmons, Molly completed two clinical internships where she worked with at risk youth and adults struggling with substance abuse. Molly then worked as a therapist in a residential treatment facility with teenagers who presented with a host of complex, trauma related symptoms. Molly has spent the past three years in private practice working with a variety of people and presenting problems.
Molly Thinnes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who completed her graduate degree in Social Work at Simmons University. During her time at Simmons, Molly completed two clinical internships where she worked with at risk youth and adults struggling with substance abuse. Molly then worked as a therapist in a residential treatment facility with teenagers who presented with a host of complex, trauma related symptoms. Molly has spent the past three years in private practice working with a variety of people and presenting problems.
(217) 403-9352 View (217) 403-9352
Photo of Jillian Schlomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Jillian Schlomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Savoy, IL 61874
My passion lies in building meaningful connections with clients of various ages, helping them through life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. From childhood to adulthood, I’m here to support you through the highs and lows, whether that is addressing trauma, managing everyday stressors, or celebrating the positives. I’m particularly dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for my clients, where they can feel respected, validated, and empowered to be their authentic selves. Your journey is uniquely yours, and I’m honored to walk alongside you as we navigate it together.
My passion lies in building meaningful connections with clients of various ages, helping them through life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. From childhood to adulthood, I’m here to support you through the highs and lows, whether that is addressing trauma, managing everyday stressors, or celebrating the positives. I’m particularly dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for my clients, where they can feel respected, validated, and empowered to be their authentic selves. Your journey is uniquely yours, and I’m honored to walk alongside you as we navigate it together.
(217) 778-5220 View (217) 778-5220

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Nearby Behavioral Issues Therapists Searches for Charleston

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Behavioral Issues Therapists

What happens in therapy for behavioral issues?

No matter the type of therapy, individuals form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is often therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Individuals learn to identify situations that are especially troublesome for them and acquire new patterns of thinking and behaving. In therapy for ADHD, one of the most common behavior issues for children, individuals learn how to improve frustration tolerance, control impulsivity, manage attentional focus, and gain skills of self-organisation.

What therapy types help with behavioral issues?

Many types of therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Perhaps best-known and most widely tested is cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT), in which individuals learn new behavioral strategies and curb reactivity to frustrating or distressing situations that trigger disruptive behaviour. Anger, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control problems are commonly addressed in CBT. Family therapy or parent management training is often helpful to reduce parent-child conflict and behavioral difficulties at home.

How long does therapy last for behavioral issues?

Among popular approaches to treating behavioral concerns, CBT is considered a short-term therapy intended to be administered in 15 to 20 weekly sessions. Parent training in behavior management, often used when the underlying cause of behavior issues is ADHD in children under 12, usually occurs in weekly sessions for 8 to 16 weeks. When behavioral issues stem from persistent aggression or defiance, therapy may last for months, and usually targets both children and their parents.

How effective is therapy for behavior issues?

Studies show that therapy for behavior issues in children is highly effective and may prevent the development of antisocial behavior later in life. Family intervention—parent management training or family therapy, both of which involve parents and children together—is considered most effective, notably for children under age 12 who persistently engage in aggressive, defiant, rule-breaking or other disruptive behavior. Whether provided alone or in combination with medication, CBT is highly effective in helping people regulate their emotions, and for people with ADHD, it addresses impulsiveness, hyperactivity and attentional focus.