Therapists in Peoria, IL
Leslie Perera
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, ASAT, EMDR, CFRA, ERCEM
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Struggling to adjust to civilian life? Haunted by memories from your service? Feel drained by thoughts you can't shut off, or isolated because no one understands what you've been through? Have you turned to alcohol, drugs, or other behaviors to cope? If you're a veteran, first responder, or the partner of one struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, anger, or relationship strain, I can help. I served 20 years in the Navy as a sonar technician aboard ships and submarines, retiring in 2006. I understand the culture of stoicism and self-reliance that makes it hard to ask for support. You don't have to face this alone — I'm here to help.
Struggling to adjust to civilian life? Haunted by memories from your service? Feel drained by thoughts you can't shut off, or isolated because no one understands what you've been through? Have you turned to alcohol, drugs, or other behaviors to cope? If you're a veteran, first responder, or the partner of one struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, anger, or relationship strain, I can help. I served 20 years in the Navy as a sonar technician aboard ships and submarines, retiring in 2006. I understand the culture of stoicism and self-reliance that makes it hard to ask for support. You don't have to face this alone — I'm here to help.
I offer online therapy to provide flexibility within your daily schedule and no driving time to an office to see me. I believe therapy should be a non-judgmental space where my clients feel seen and heard. I specialize in helping adult women who have experienced trauma, attachment wounds, stress in relationships, parenting struggles, betrayal, work stress and who want to see different outcomes as they navigate life’s challenges. My style of interaction with you will be warm, compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative. If you are ready to take the next step in feeling more balanced and confident, I am here to help.
I offer online therapy to provide flexibility within your daily schedule and no driving time to an office to see me. I believe therapy should be a non-judgmental space where my clients feel seen and heard. I specialize in helping adult women who have experienced trauma, attachment wounds, stress in relationships, parenting struggles, betrayal, work stress and who want to see different outcomes as they navigate life’s challenges. My style of interaction with you will be warm, compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative. If you are ready to take the next step in feeling more balanced and confident, I am here to help.
Life is meant to be lived well, yet it presents constant changes and challenges which can cause us to feel overwhelmed. Whether you are seeking relief from stress, depression and anxiety, trying to resolve some relationship issues, or understanding your children's concerns, I can help. If you have experienced a loss and would like to take the journey toward recovery so you can experience joy again, I can help. With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and Writing for emotional healing, I will help you find the path to inner peace. Call/text (309) 472-0798.
Life is meant to be lived well, yet it presents constant changes and challenges which can cause us to feel overwhelmed. Whether you are seeking relief from stress, depression and anxiety, trying to resolve some relationship issues, or understanding your children's concerns, I can help. If you have experienced a loss and would like to take the journey toward recovery so you can experience joy again, I can help. With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and Writing for emotional healing, I will help you find the path to inner peace. Call/text (309) 472-0798.
Shawn is passionate about working with diverse populations, including military veterans, first responders, and individuals involved in adoption or foster care. His approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each group, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth.
In his personal time, Shawn enjoys the thrill of hockey, both as a fan of the NHL and in supporting youth hockey. His hobbies and interests include spending quality time with loved ones, exploring new activities, and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Shawn is passionate about working with diverse populations, including military veterans, first responders, and individuals involved in adoption or foster care. His approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each group, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth.
In his personal time, Shawn enjoys the thrill of hockey, both as a fan of the NHL and in supporting youth hockey. His hobbies and interests include spending quality time with loved ones, exploring new activities, and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Maybe you’ve reached a point where you know something needs to change.
You’re tired of repeating the same patterns. Tired of carrying experiences from the past into relationships, decisions, and the way you see yourself today. Maybe you’ve spent so much time surviving, achieving, caring for others, or simply getting through the day that somewhere along the way, you lost touch with the person you actually are.
Your light hasn’t disappeared. Sometimes we just need help finding our way back to it.
Maybe you’ve reached a point where you know something needs to change.
You’re tired of repeating the same patterns. Tired of carrying experiences from the past into relationships, decisions, and the way you see yourself today. Maybe you’ve spent so much time surviving, achieving, caring for others, or simply getting through the day that somewhere along the way, you lost touch with the person you actually are.
Your light hasn’t disappeared. Sometimes we just need help finding our way back to it.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 2014 and have worked with many different types of clients. I understand that life Is full of challenges, and we all need a little help at times. I come from a broken home as an only child of divorce, with an alcoholic father who was absent most of my life. I had to fend for myself when I was in my teenage years. I understand drug abuse domestic violence/sexual assault, and other traumatic events. I have been there as well as those who come to me for help. I know what it is like to struggle, and it takes bravery to admit that you need a bit of help.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 2014 and have worked with many different types of clients. I understand that life Is full of challenges, and we all need a little help at times. I come from a broken home as an only child of divorce, with an alcoholic father who was absent most of my life. I had to fend for myself when I was in my teenage years. I understand drug abuse domestic violence/sexual assault, and other traumatic events. I have been there as well as those who come to me for help. I know what it is like to struggle, and it takes bravery to admit that you need a bit of help.
I believe that we all need a little bit of help once in a while. I also know that sometimes we don't know how to get that help or whom to ask. I feel that therapy can be beneficial to help facilitate that change by providing an outlet or resource for those that need that help.
I believe that we all need a little bit of help once in a while. I also know that sometimes we don't know how to get that help or whom to ask. I feel that therapy can be beneficial to help facilitate that change by providing an outlet or resource for those that need that help.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you're carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, grief, or relationship struggles. If you're feeling stuck, disconnected, or uncertain about your next steps, you're not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who works with adults, couples, teens, and kids navigating challenges like depression, infertility, pregnancy loss, work stress, and major life transitions. I offer a warm, supportive space to explore your story and help you make meaningful change at your own pace.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you're carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, grief, or relationship struggles. If you're feeling stuck, disconnected, or uncertain about your next steps, you're not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who works with adults, couples, teens, and kids navigating challenges like depression, infertility, pregnancy loss, work stress, and major life transitions. I offer a warm, supportive space to explore your story and help you make meaningful change at your own pace.
Looking for someone your teen will relate to & feel understood by? That’s me! As an AuDHD therapist, I practice from a relational, trauma-informed approach because I truly “get it.” I work with teenagers who have had a hard time finding someone who they feel they can be themselves with. My specialities are working with teenagers & young adults who are neurodivergent (OCD, Autism, ADHD, (c)PTSD), & who are queer, transgender, &/or gender diverse. Complex, attachment, & religious trauma, &/or those looking to heal relationship with food & their Bodies are my other areas of specialization.
Looking for someone your teen will relate to & feel understood by? That’s me! As an AuDHD therapist, I practice from a relational, trauma-informed approach because I truly “get it.” I work with teenagers who have had a hard time finding someone who they feel they can be themselves with. My specialities are working with teenagers & young adults who are neurodivergent (OCD, Autism, ADHD, (c)PTSD), & who are queer, transgender, &/or gender diverse. Complex, attachment, & religious trauma, &/or those looking to heal relationship with food & their Bodies are my other areas of specialization.
Have you ever felt like life expected you to just keep going, pushing past hardships without having the space to truly process what you’ve been through?
If so, you’re not alone. At some point, this becomes part of many people’s stories. Whether it’s a single painful experience or a series of overwhelming challenges, those moments can stay with us long after they’ve passed.
I invite you to walk this journey with me as we gently explore the complexities of your life. In therapy, nothing you’ve endured is wasted.
Have you ever felt like life expected you to just keep going, pushing past hardships without having the space to truly process what you’ve been through?
If so, you’re not alone. At some point, this becomes part of many people’s stories. Whether it’s a single painful experience or a series of overwhelming challenges, those moments can stay with us long after they’ve passed.
I invite you to walk this journey with me as we gently explore the complexities of your life. In therapy, nothing you’ve endured is wasted.
My specialties include self-esteem and identity, victims of narcissism, relationship concerns, body image, anxiety, depression and trauma. I primarily use Psychodynamic approach while incorporating mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment, and Relational Therapy. I am warm and empathetic, humorous and honest. I provide a safe space where clients can explore and hopefully discover their purpose in life. I believe that our past experiences shape our lives and that it is important to carefully examine critical and sometimes difficult moments. I believe that there is no “quick fix” in therapy and that true change takes time.
My specialties include self-esteem and identity, victims of narcissism, relationship concerns, body image, anxiety, depression and trauma. I primarily use Psychodynamic approach while incorporating mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment, and Relational Therapy. I am warm and empathetic, humorous and honest. I provide a safe space where clients can explore and hopefully discover their purpose in life. I believe that our past experiences shape our lives and that it is important to carefully examine critical and sometimes difficult moments. I believe that there is no “quick fix” in therapy and that true change takes time.
Hello, I’m Robin Hayles. I love serving people and engaging with them through the growth and discovery process. I also enjoy encouraging others to know and love themselves, follow their hearts, and overcome roadblocks. I am an accomplished professional with 15+ years of experience serving a diverse range of clients through several local community agencies and clinical mental health providers. I am experienced with a wide variety of clinical diagnoses and have worked with all ages across the lifespan. I utilize a non-judgmental approach while being respectful of personal values and beliefs.
Hello, I’m Robin Hayles. I love serving people and engaging with them through the growth and discovery process. I also enjoy encouraging others to know and love themselves, follow their hearts, and overcome roadblocks. I am an accomplished professional with 15+ years of experience serving a diverse range of clients through several local community agencies and clinical mental health providers. I am experienced with a wide variety of clinical diagnoses and have worked with all ages across the lifespan. I utilize a non-judgmental approach while being respectful of personal values and beliefs.
Do you feel that you are “not connecting” with life? Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Do the same patterns keep happening over and over in your life? Are you ready to transform your life, by addressing root causes, and move more quickly than traditional therapy? Would you like to create the inner freedom in your life that will allow you to create the life you desire, and fulfill your calling? Would you like to decrease stress, and enhance your wellness on a body/mind/spirit level? Change is possible to overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. I will work with you to help clear patterns that are holding you back.
Do you feel that you are “not connecting” with life? Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Do the same patterns keep happening over and over in your life? Are you ready to transform your life, by addressing root causes, and move more quickly than traditional therapy? Would you like to create the inner freedom in your life that will allow you to create the life you desire, and fulfill your calling? Would you like to decrease stress, and enhance your wellness on a body/mind/spirit level? Change is possible to overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. I will work with you to help clear patterns that are holding you back.
I take a compassionate, laid back, and interactive approach to therapy, aiming to empower you to reclaim your life and move toward greater fulfillment.As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a background in Psychology and Sociology, I bring a wealth of expertise to our work together. I’m also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT), a Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS), and a certified life coach.
I take a compassionate, laid back, and interactive approach to therapy, aiming to empower you to reclaim your life and move toward greater fulfillment.As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a background in Psychology and Sociology, I bring a wealth of expertise to our work together. I’m also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT), a Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS), and a certified life coach.
Confusion. Brain fog. On guard. Isolation.
These are the words I hear most often from survivors of betrayal and sexual trauma.
If this resonates with you, you’re not “crazy”—even though many of my clients ask that question when they first reach out. What you’re experiencing is often the nervous system’s response to trauma, not a personal failing.
My first priority as a therapist is to create a space that feels emotionally safe—where your story can be explored at your pace, without judgment. I work with individuals navigating trauma and betrayal, couples, first responders, and women's issues.
Confusion. Brain fog. On guard. Isolation.
These are the words I hear most often from survivors of betrayal and sexual trauma.
If this resonates with you, you’re not “crazy”—even though many of my clients ask that question when they first reach out. What you’re experiencing is often the nervous system’s response to trauma, not a personal failing.
My first priority as a therapist is to create a space that feels emotionally safe—where your story can be explored at your pace, without judgment. I work with individuals navigating trauma and betrayal, couples, first responders, and women's issues.
As a seasoned therapist of 40 years, I have a unique set of skills that allows me to assist in your healing. I practice the spiriutal concepts that I believe in and the healing techniques that I love. The techniques that I love the most are EFT, EMDR, Rapid Resolution Therapy, Theta Healing, and Aroma Freedom Technique. These techniques allow me all that is necessary for us to heal your trauma issues or any other issues you may have. My passion is creating a space for all of us to unite and enrich your life. I look forward in working with you. Of course, I am well versed in typical cognitive/behavioral therapies as well.
As a seasoned therapist of 40 years, I have a unique set of skills that allows me to assist in your healing. I practice the spiriutal concepts that I believe in and the healing techniques that I love. The techniques that I love the most are EFT, EMDR, Rapid Resolution Therapy, Theta Healing, and Aroma Freedom Technique. These techniques allow me all that is necessary for us to heal your trauma issues or any other issues you may have. My passion is creating a space for all of us to unite and enrich your life. I look forward in working with you. Of course, I am well versed in typical cognitive/behavioral therapies as well.
Change is possible and I believe you have the ability to create positive changes that will allow healing throughout your journey in life. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions shape the way we interact with others, and in turn, how others interact with us. My approach is to create a safe, non-shaming, compassionate therapeutic environment coupled with a strong emphasis on collaboration. As an experienced and dedicated therapist for over 20 years, my goal is for you to learn tools and effective strategies to reach your mutually agreed upon goals in therapy.
Change is possible and I believe you have the ability to create positive changes that will allow healing throughout your journey in life. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions shape the way we interact with others, and in turn, how others interact with us. My approach is to create a safe, non-shaming, compassionate therapeutic environment coupled with a strong emphasis on collaboration. As an experienced and dedicated therapist for over 20 years, my goal is for you to learn tools and effective strategies to reach your mutually agreed upon goals in therapy.
There is a quote that says, “Life is a journey that is not to be feared and planned but to be traveled and enjoyed.” However, with many of us, no matter how much and succinctly we plan our life, things do not go as we plan which affects our happiness (depression) and trigger our fears (anxiety). Seeking help to manage the journey can make all the difference and can help with taking the focus off of the detours of the journey that causes the unhappiness while placing joy on the ability to see the lesson and beauty in the detours.
There is a quote that says, “Life is a journey that is not to be feared and planned but to be traveled and enjoyed.” However, with many of us, no matter how much and succinctly we plan our life, things do not go as we plan which affects our happiness (depression) and trigger our fears (anxiety). Seeking help to manage the journey can make all the difference and can help with taking the focus off of the detours of the journey that causes the unhappiness while placing joy on the ability to see the lesson and beauty in the detours.
Bryana’s clinical expertise includes the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders. She emphasizes skill-building and resilience, helping clients develop effective coping strategies that support long-term well-being. Her work with children and adolescents focuses on emotional regulation, behavioral challenges, and family dynamics, with a strong commitment to supporting both the individual and their caregivers. For adult clients, Bryana provides personalized care for issues such as depression, grief, and life transitions.
Bryana’s clinical expertise includes the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders. She emphasizes skill-building and resilience, helping clients develop effective coping strategies that support long-term well-being. Her work with children and adolescents focuses on emotional regulation, behavioral challenges, and family dynamics, with a strong commitment to supporting both the individual and their caregivers. For adult clients, Bryana provides personalized care for issues such as depression, grief, and life transitions.
Taking the first step toward seeking support can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am passionate about helping individuals find healing, resilience, and greater confidence in themselves and their relationships.
Whether you are processing past experiences, managing current stressors, or seeking personal growth, I am committed to helping you identify your strengths and build the tools needed to move forward. Together, we can create a path toward healing, balance, and lasting positive change.
I look forward to supporting you on your journey.
Taking the first step toward seeking support can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am passionate about helping individuals find healing, resilience, and greater confidence in themselves and their relationships.
Whether you are processing past experiences, managing current stressors, or seeking personal growth, I am committed to helping you identify your strengths and build the tools needed to move forward. Together, we can create a path toward healing, balance, and lasting positive change.
I look forward to supporting you on your journey.
See more therapy options for Peoria
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Peoria, IL
300+
Average cost per session
$164
Therapists in Peoria, IL who prioritize treating:
| 91% | Anxiety |
| 91% | Social Anxiety |
| 91% | Health Anxiety |
| 91% | Driving Anxiety |
| 85% | Depression |
| 73% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 73% | Complex PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 81% | Aetna |
| 71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Peoria, IL see their clients
| 65% | In Person and Online | |
| 35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 73% | Female | |
| 25% | Male | |
| 2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Peoria?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.


