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.
My background is working with children and adolescents, as well as some work with adult women. I have worked with clients with a variety of mental health needs. I particularly enjoy helping children with emotional and behavioral regulation, helping teenagers gain insight about the kind of person they want to be and helping adult women manage the stressors of everyday life.
My background is working with children and adolescents, as well as some work with adult women. I have worked with clients with a variety of mental health needs. I particularly enjoy helping children with emotional and behavioral regulation, helping teenagers gain insight about the kind of person they want to be and helping adult women manage the stressors of everyday life.
I believe the journey of life presents many challenges and each of these, no matter how overwhelming, provides an opportunity for personal growth and meaningful change. I feel deeply honored when a client asks me to walk with them on their journey. My intent for each client is to give them the support, understanding, skills, insight, motivation and inspiration they may need to meet their current challenge and to grow as an ever maturing, more loving and happier person.
I believe the journey of life presents many challenges and each of these, no matter how overwhelming, provides an opportunity for personal growth and meaningful change. I feel deeply honored when a client asks me to walk with them on their journey. My intent for each client is to give them the support, understanding, skills, insight, motivation and inspiration they may need to meet their current challenge and to grow as an ever maturing, more loving and happier person.
Life can feel overwhelming — whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or a season of change that feels harder than it should. I'm here to help you find your footing. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I believe lasting change happens when you feel genuinely seen and supported, and I work to create that kind of space from your very first session. Together, we will explore what's holding you back, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools for moving forward with greater clarity and confidence. Therapy is a powerful investment in yourself — and you deserve it.
Life can feel overwhelming — whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or a season of change that feels harder than it should. I'm here to help you find your footing. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I believe lasting change happens when you feel genuinely seen and supported, and I work to create that kind of space from your very first session. Together, we will explore what's holding you back, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools for moving forward with greater clarity and confidence. Therapy is a powerful investment in yourself — and you deserve it.
I identify as a Black or African American therapist. Life circumstances can leave you feeling disconnected from your body, your emotions, and even from yourself. If that's where you are, I want you to know something: healing doesn't have to be rushed, and you don't have to do it alone.
I identify as a Black or African American therapist. Life circumstances can leave you feeling disconnected from your body, your emotions, and even from yourself. If that's where you are, I want you to know something: healing doesn't have to be rushed, and you don't have to do it alone.
Are you addicted to sex, pornography, relationships, or obsessed with love? Do you want to stop your sexual or destructive relationship behaviors, but cannot quit alone? On the verge of losing everything because of out of control sexual behavior. If you're serious about getting help, then call me now. I create a safe place for clients. I am non-judgmental, down-to-earth, genuine, yet firm and direct. I specialize in treating sexual addiction, intimacy problems, and betrayal trauma, helping addicts and partners heal from the wounds, betrayal, and brokenness of sexual and pornography addiction. Get help now. Call now.
Are you addicted to sex, pornography, relationships, or obsessed with love? Do you want to stop your sexual or destructive relationship behaviors, but cannot quit alone? On the verge of losing everything because of out of control sexual behavior. If you're serious about getting help, then call me now. I create a safe place for clients. I am non-judgmental, down-to-earth, genuine, yet firm and direct. I specialize in treating sexual addiction, intimacy problems, and betrayal trauma, helping addicts and partners heal from the wounds, betrayal, and brokenness of sexual and pornography addiction. Get help now. Call now.
You feel things deeply. You’ve held it together for a long time, but something in you knows that it’s time to come home to yourself. Maybe you’re moving through grief, burnout, identity shifts, or even an awakening to self. This is a space where your sensitivity is a strength. Together, we’ll honor your truth and help you feel whole again.
You feel things deeply. You’ve held it together for a long time, but something in you knows that it’s time to come home to yourself. Maybe you’re moving through grief, burnout, identity shifts, or even an awakening to self. This is a space where your sensitivity is a strength. Together, we’ll honor your truth and help you feel whole again.
I believe everyone is on a very individual journey to a happy and fulfilling life, and I enjoy walking with people as they navigate through the ups and downs of that journey. I value creating a safe and comfortable space where people feel respected and listened to, and where they can tell their story without any reservations. I often focus on working with teenagers and adults with trauma, identity, attachment, and relationship concerns. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey and to explore how the counseling process can be most helpful to you and what it can look like to create that space for your growth and healing.
I believe everyone is on a very individual journey to a happy and fulfilling life, and I enjoy walking with people as they navigate through the ups and downs of that journey. I value creating a safe and comfortable space where people feel respected and listened to, and where they can tell their story without any reservations. I often focus on working with teenagers and adults with trauma, identity, attachment, and relationship concerns. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey and to explore how the counseling process can be most helpful to you and what it can look like to create that space for your growth and healing.
Twists and turns are part of life, but having an impartial voice that lends a new perspective can make navigating them easier. We all have our own struggles, experiences, and obstacles. We also have our own strengths, talents, and resources. Realizing how to utilize your unique strengths to discover ways to overcome obstacles is my passion. We all have our differences and it is those differences that give us strength as individuals, couples, families, and communities.
Twists and turns are part of life, but having an impartial voice that lends a new perspective can make navigating them easier. We all have our own struggles, experiences, and obstacles. We also have our own strengths, talents, and resources. Realizing how to utilize your unique strengths to discover ways to overcome obstacles is my passion. We all have our differences and it is those differences that give us strength as individuals, couples, families, and communities.
Do your emotions hit at full volume while everyone else seems set to a whisper — and by the time the wave passes, you're left exhausted, ashamed, and afraid of what you said or did? If you've been called "too much," or believed it about yourself, you are not broken or alone. The whirlwinds, the isolation, the battles with shame and guilt, the distancing from the people you need most — these are the patterns I help clients untangle. If you're searching for control and stability, I'm here to help. With empathy and compassion, I work alongside clients to identify the root causes of these struggles, steady the storm & find peace.
Do your emotions hit at full volume while everyone else seems set to a whisper — and by the time the wave passes, you're left exhausted, ashamed, and afraid of what you said or did? If you've been called "too much," or believed it about yourself, you are not broken or alone. The whirlwinds, the isolation, the battles with shame and guilt, the distancing from the people you need most — these are the patterns I help clients untangle. If you're searching for control and stability, I'm here to help. With empathy and compassion, I work alongside clients to identify the root causes of these struggles, steady the storm & find peace.
Hello, you can call me Mike or Michael, that doesn't matter. What does matter is you. I am here to listen, learn, and understand your situation that has led you to seek professional guidance. I have been in private practice for over 35 years and have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 1997. I will utilize all my skills and experience to create a trusting and respectful environment to improve your current life. My maxim is clarity of vision, flexibility of process. Meaning, my focus is on you, while the means we develop and process through therapy is uniquely yours.
Hello, you can call me Mike or Michael, that doesn't matter. What does matter is you. I am here to listen, learn, and understand your situation that has led you to seek professional guidance. I have been in private practice for over 35 years and have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 1997. I will utilize all my skills and experience to create a trusting and respectful environment to improve your current life. My maxim is clarity of vision, flexibility of process. Meaning, my focus is on you, while the means we develop and process through therapy is uniquely yours.
You're an ambitious professional woman who holds it all together — at work, in your relationships, and in every room you walk into. But lately, it's starting to fray. You're drinking more than usual and wondering what that means. You're always on edge, exhausted, and second-guessing yourself. Maybe you've got a military background and are used to just pushing through. Or maybe you're just tired of stuffing things down and pretending it's "fine." Whether you're here for trauma, burnout, alcohol use, or something you can't quite name yet, I'm here to help you make sense of it.
You're an ambitious professional woman who holds it all together — at work, in your relationships, and in every room you walk into. But lately, it's starting to fray. You're drinking more than usual and wondering what that means. You're always on edge, exhausted, and second-guessing yourself. Maybe you've got a military background and are used to just pushing through. Or maybe you're just tired of stuffing things down and pretending it's "fine." Whether you're here for trauma, burnout, alcohol use, or something you can't quite name yet, I'm here to help you make sense of it.
She has particular expertise in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those engaged in identity exploration, offering a safe and affirming therapeutic environment that promotes psychological growth and emotional healing. Her approach is collaborative and empathetic, helping patients develop insight, improve emotional regulation, and enhance interpersonal functioning. Ms. Taylor has extensive experience working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, individuals involved in adoption and foster care, and those living with developmental disabilities.She has particular expertise in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those enga
She has particular expertise in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those engaged in identity exploration, offering a safe and affirming therapeutic environment that promotes psychological growth and emotional healing. Her approach is collaborative and empathetic, helping patients develop insight, improve emotional regulation, and enhance interpersonal functioning. Ms. Taylor has extensive experience working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, individuals involved in adoption and foster care, and those living with developmental disabilities.She has particular expertise in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those enga
I focus on assessing and addressing all of the areas in ones life, emotional, spiritual, education, career, relationships, that may benefit from healing or goal setting.
I focus on assessing and addressing all of the areas in ones life, emotional, spiritual, education, career, relationships, that may benefit from healing or goal setting.
Stepping into therapy is an act of courage, and finding the right fit is the first and most important step. My goal as a therapist is simple: to help you get to a point where you no longer need therapy, feeling comfortable, confident, and equipped in your own decision-making and ability to navigate life.
I operate from a deeply collaborative, client-driven framework. You are in the driver's seat of your healing. My role is not to tell you what you ought to do, but to act as a skilled co-pilot—helping you honor your own moral compass, values, and vision for your life.
Stepping into therapy is an act of courage, and finding the right fit is the first and most important step. My goal as a therapist is simple: to help you get to a point where you no longer need therapy, feeling comfortable, confident, and equipped in your own decision-making and ability to navigate life.
I operate from a deeply collaborative, client-driven framework. You are in the driver's seat of your healing. My role is not to tell you what you ought to do, but to act as a skilled co-pilot—helping you honor your own moral compass, values, and vision for your life.
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.
Choosing a therapist is an incredibly personal decision. It has to feel right. Your relationship with me is the most important part of the therapeutic process. What you have experienced in your life, and now, provide a model to you of how you see the world, and how the world works for you. Therapy is a place where you get the incredible opportunity to either stay in your familiar comfort zone, or challenge and remodel parts of your mind that no longer serve you. I have a large respect for someone who pushes to heal themself, and seek growth. Self care is a powerful declaration!
Choosing a therapist is an incredibly personal decision. It has to feel right. Your relationship with me is the most important part of the therapeutic process. What you have experienced in your life, and now, provide a model to you of how you see the world, and how the world works for you. Therapy is a place where you get the incredible opportunity to either stay in your familiar comfort zone, or challenge and remodel parts of your mind that no longer serve you. I have a large respect for someone who pushes to heal themself, and seek growth. Self care is a powerful declaration!
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.
At Healing Hearts Counseling, we are a licensed and trained team of caring professionals who are dedicated to giving you the best care possible. We value your time and we respect your needs. In fact, we really listen! What we bring to the "therapy couch" is experience in treating a multitude of mental health issues along with lots and lots of training. Whether you are aged 4, 14 or 41, we are here and we are ready to tackle hard issues with you. At Healing Hearts Counseling, we understand and are honored to partner with you in changing thought and behavior patterns that have kept you unhappy and stuck.
At Healing Hearts Counseling, we are a licensed and trained team of caring professionals who are dedicated to giving you the best care possible. We value your time and we respect your needs. In fact, we really listen! What we bring to the "therapy couch" is experience in treating a multitude of mental health issues along with lots and lots of training. Whether you are aged 4, 14 or 41, we are here and we are ready to tackle hard issues with you. At Healing Hearts Counseling, we understand and are honored to partner with you in changing thought and behavior patterns that have kept you unhappy and stuck.
I have several years of experience in working with children who are experiencing difficulty in maintaining good behavior in school and at home. Adolescents who are struggling to maintain a safe and stable mood that includes self harmful behavior, poor self esteem, and anger. Adults who are struggling to overcome depressive symptoms, anxiety issues and family issues.
I have several years of experience in working with children who are experiencing difficulty in maintaining good behavior in school and at home. Adolescents who are struggling to maintain a safe and stable mood that includes self harmful behavior, poor self esteem, and anger. Adults who are struggling to overcome depressive symptoms, anxiety issues and family issues.
See more therapy options for Peoria
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Peoria, IL
300+
Average cost per session
$158
Therapists in Peoria, IL who prioritize treating:
| 92% | Anxiety |
| 92% | Social Anxiety |
| 92% | Health Anxiety |
| 92% | Driving Anxiety |
| 85% | Depression |
| 72% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 72% | Complex PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 97% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 82% | Aetna |
| 71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Peoria, IL see their clients
| 63% | In Person and Online | |
| 37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 73% | Female | |
| 24% | Male | |
| 3% | 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.


