Therapists in Douglas County, IL

Welcome, I’m glad you’re “here”—taking steps to make your mental health a priority. Perhaps you are familiar with the feeling life is moving at a pace you can no longer manage? Perhaps you are adjusting to a life change or caregiver/parenting role that has served to create new, or worsen existing mental health concerns. Know that you are not alone!

I believe in transformation - yours (and mine), and that the draw towards the good is irresistible. Whatever challenges you face, there’s a way forward. How you see yourself - and those around you - can make all the difference. I want to know your story, how you tell it, and where you hope it will go. You’ll have a partner as you navigate life transitions and circumstances, learn to better manage difficult thoughts and feelings, change patterns that no longer serve you, and improve relationships. As your unfoldment happens (and yes, it's always messy), you’ll have an ally in this incredibly difficult yet doable work.

I enjoy working with all ages-- children and adults. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, Bipolar, trauma, and many other issues. I believe that even the good things can be hard sometimes and that everyone could use somewhere to unpack and process through life’s challenges and changes. I thoroughly enjoy being a part of the journey someone finds themselves on when they commit to walking through the door for their first therapy session. I am committed to creating a judgement free, comfortable, and safe environment for people in all seasons of life to process their struggles and celebrate their strengths.

Hello. My name is Michelle Hessler and I am, after having worked in public education for over 27 years, pursuing the passion of my professional heart which has always been linked to supporting clients in the intimate setting of private practice. My career began immediately after I completed my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) which included an emphasis on School Social Work. I worked in a school setting, supporting both Special Education and Regular Education students for approximately 18 years before deciding to return to school myself to complete a second Master's degree in School Leadership (administration).

If you're ready to make a change and move in a new direction or if you're just looking for extra support and guidance with daily stressors, I can assist you in making changes toward a positive direction. Whether it is relationship, divorce or marriage issues, anxiety/depression, grief/loss or parenting problems, we can help. As a nationally licensed, clinical therapist, I use evidence based treatments to help you learn healthy life choices for a healthy balance! Today you are one step closer to a new you, on a path to health, well-being and life balance.

I started my journey as a family therapist in 2017. I have been providing direct care in a variety of settings to children, adolescents and adults. My approach includes modalities that are attachment based, experiential, and trauma informed. I have experience working with clients battling with anxiety, family challenges, life transitions, and parenting.

Life does not always go how we think it should. It's often helpful to have the viewpoint of someone who is outside of our situation. I've got experience working with people who have been through traumatic events, both physical and emotional.

Ruth Bartman, LPC, is non-judgmental, providing a safe and healing space for clients to explore life's challenges. Compassion, empathy, and respect is incorporated, building therapeutic and trusting relationships. She focuses on client's strengths and resilience to assist with creating a healthy, happy, and productive life. Ruth aids clients age 5 and above with grief, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, transgender, and more. She's skilled with end of life concerns with focus on quality of life. Ruth is skillful supporting adolescents and adults with complex trauma.

My approach to psychotherapy is culturally responsive, collaborative, and evidence based. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, depression, burn out, relational stress, and difficulty coping with change, you are not alone. Together, we will work to set measurable and realistic goals that align with your values and cultural beliefs. I am licensed in California and Illinois.

Monica Cherry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters of Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She specializes in child and adolescent behavioral issues including coping skills, depression, and suicide-ideation. She also has extensive experience working with people on the spectrum, Mood and Thinking Disorders as well as Psychotic Disorders and medication management. She works with individuals and families and her treatment approach includes: Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Family Systems.

It can feel very overwhelming to start therapy, whether it’s your first time or looking to work with a new therapist. Every reason for starting the therapy process is valid and it takes self-awareness and vulnerability to reach out for support. I take a collaborative approach, partnering with you to identify goals, process and better understand emotions, to help establish change and healing. Your goals will be addressed at a pace that’s comfortable and in an environment that is non-judgmental. The step you are taking today is often the most difficult part and I'm here to walk alongside to help you on your journey to a healthier you.