Therapists in Peoria, IL
Hi, I’m Kailey Jean Karder, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges in a way that feels supportive and empowering. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Social Work, I’ve dedicated my career to providing compassionate care to those struggling with various mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, trauma, in addition to relationship issues, communication, and more. I use EMDR in my work. Whether you’re a college student dealing with stress, an adult adjusting to life transitions, or someone simply seeking a safe space to work through personal difficulties, I’m here for you.
Hi, I’m Kailey Jean Karder, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges in a way that feels supportive and empowering. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Social Work, I’ve dedicated my career to providing compassionate care to those struggling with various mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, trauma, in addition to relationship issues, communication, and more. I use EMDR in my work. Whether you’re a college student dealing with stress, an adult adjusting to life transitions, or someone simply seeking a safe space to work through personal difficulties, I’m here for you.
Whole Self Solutions LLC - Jessica Stear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Life can be overwhelming at times. When we face trauma or severe stress, it's not uncommon for our world to feel like it's unraveling. You may have noticed changes in your sleep patterns, appetite, mood, or how you interact with the world around you. These are signs that your usual coping mechanisms and support systems might need reinforcement. That's where I come in. As a therapist, I'm here to provide that extra support when you need it most. My goal is to help you regain balance and navigate life's challenges with confidence.
Life can be overwhelming at times. When we face trauma or severe stress, it's not uncommon for our world to feel like it's unraveling. You may have noticed changes in your sleep patterns, appetite, mood, or how you interact with the world around you. These are signs that your usual coping mechanisms and support systems might need reinforcement. That's where I come in. As a therapist, I'm here to provide that extra support when you need it most. My goal is to help you regain balance and navigate life's challenges with confidence.
It was Irvin Yalom who said something to the effect that "psychotherapy is like a dress rehearsal for life". With this said, it is my intention to not only offer you support in therapy but to also help you generalize the skills you learn in therapy and apply them in your outside life and relationships. I specialize in anger and anxiety management for adults and adolescents. I hold an Anger Management Certification. I also enjoy working with highly intelligent adults and teens who have a difficult time adjusting and adapting socially. This includes working with individuals on the high functioning end of the Autism scale.
It was Irvin Yalom who said something to the effect that "psychotherapy is like a dress rehearsal for life". With this said, it is my intention to not only offer you support in therapy but to also help you generalize the skills you learn in therapy and apply them in your outside life and relationships. I specialize in anger and anxiety management for adults and adolescents. I hold an Anger Management Certification. I also enjoy working with highly intelligent adults and teens who have a difficult time adjusting and adapting socially. This includes working with individuals on the high functioning end of the Autism scale.
Dana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience helping people. Specialty areas are supporting clients with anxiety, depression, stress management, and neurodiversity. I employ a variety of evidence-based practices to empower clients, helping them access coping strategies, enhance their relationships, and problem solve life’s challenges, with a focus on resilience and emotional well-being.
I believe that the relationship between clinician and client is a sacred one and that the potential for healing and growth is dependent upon the quality of that working relationship.
Dana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience helping people. Specialty areas are supporting clients with anxiety, depression, stress management, and neurodiversity. I employ a variety of evidence-based practices to empower clients, helping them access coping strategies, enhance their relationships, and problem solve life’s challenges, with a focus on resilience and emotional well-being.
I believe that the relationship between clinician and client is a sacred one and that the potential for healing and growth is dependent upon the quality of that working relationship.
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.
I believe we all long for meaningful connections. My goal is to facilitate the discovery of meaning and connection within yourself and within your closest relationships. Trauma looks different to each individual, and I believe we do the best we can to cope using skills we have learned throughout our lives. Unfortunately, many of these skills no longer serve us in a healthy way in the present. Regardless of your past, or where you find yourself today, you deserve to be heard. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to process traumas and challenges, finding healing and peace amidst the chaos.
I believe we all long for meaningful connections. My goal is to facilitate the discovery of meaning and connection within yourself and within your closest relationships. Trauma looks different to each individual, and I believe we do the best we can to cope using skills we have learned throughout our lives. Unfortunately, many of these skills no longer serve us in a healthy way in the present. Regardless of your past, or where you find yourself today, you deserve to be heard. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to process traumas and challenges, finding healing and peace amidst the chaos.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
As a therapist, I bring a warm, compassionate presence to every session. I integrate care and empathy with the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), guiding clients to embrace their experiences and pursue meaningful change. With deep respect for each individual’s journey, I empower my clients to move toward their best selves—authentically, courageously, and with clarity.
As a therapist, I bring a warm, compassionate presence to every session. I integrate care and empathy with the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), guiding clients to embrace their experiences and pursue meaningful change. With deep respect for each individual’s journey, I empower my clients to move toward their best selves—authentically, courageously, and with clarity.
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.
Caitlin's clinical specialties include treatment of children and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, transitions in life, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and crisis intervention. Her style of counseling is sympathetic, client centered and solution focused. She assists her clients in reducing mental health symptoms and improving their quality of life. She believes that therapy is a collaborative effort between client and therapist in which the counselor helps the client live their best life possible
Caitlin's clinical specialties include treatment of children and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, transitions in life, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and crisis intervention. Her style of counseling is sympathetic, client centered and solution focused. She assists her clients in reducing mental health symptoms and improving their quality of life. She believes that therapy is a collaborative effort between client and therapist in which the counselor helps the client live their best life possible
I am an EMDR-trained, neuro-informed, trauma-focused, and narrative-based therapist who believes in the power of human connection and each person’s capacity to heal. A former teacher, I work with adolescents and adults to foster growth through curiosity and compassion. Trained at Bradley University, I approach therapy with radical acceptance and a deep trust in my clients’ ability to rewrite their stories and live more authentic, fulfilling lives.
I am an EMDR-trained, neuro-informed, trauma-focused, and narrative-based therapist who believes in the power of human connection and each person’s capacity to heal. A former teacher, I work with adolescents and adults to foster growth through curiosity and compassion. Trained at Bradley University, I approach therapy with radical acceptance and a deep trust in my clients’ ability to rewrite their stories and live more authentic, fulfilling lives.
Hello! As a trauma informed counselor for over 6 years, my passion is helping people of all backgrounds navigate their mental health challenges. I earned a Masters degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University while employed at a Fortune 500 company for over 28 years, and currently pursuing my doctoral degree. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR and I hold certifications in Anxiety and Trauma. I pride myself in staying up to date with the latest research and treatment options related to mental health. My goal is to provide my clients with the tools and strategies they need to achieve their personal goals.
Hello! As a trauma informed counselor for over 6 years, my passion is helping people of all backgrounds navigate their mental health challenges. I earned a Masters degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University while employed at a Fortune 500 company for over 28 years, and currently pursuing my doctoral degree. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR and I hold certifications in Anxiety and Trauma. I pride myself in staying up to date with the latest research and treatment options related to mental health. My goal is to provide my clients with the tools and strategies they need to achieve their personal goals.
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.
My name is Tom Youngberg, and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over a decade. My specialties are working with those with trauma, families, and couples. I am especially proud to have been a Navy dependent for nearly 25 years, and have worked in the VA for nearly one year. I practice from a collaborative and strength’s based approach. I work with all ages as well.
I am married, and have been for over 15 years. I have two children; a daughter who does competitive dance and son who plays rigorous travel baseball. I live vegetable gardening, the Chicago Cubs, and spending free time with my family.
My name is Tom Youngberg, and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over a decade. My specialties are working with those with trauma, families, and couples. I am especially proud to have been a Navy dependent for nearly 25 years, and have worked in the VA for nearly one year. I practice from a collaborative and strength’s based approach. I work with all ages as well.
I am married, and have been for over 15 years. I have two children; a daughter who does competitive dance and son who plays rigorous travel baseball. I live vegetable gardening, the Chicago Cubs, and spending free time with my family.
I am a Dually-Licensed Clinical Therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago, specializing in children and families along with addiction treatment. I am a recipient of the Class Act Award from University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago and the Chapter of Merit Award from the American Case Management Association.
I am a Dually-Licensed Clinical Therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago, specializing in children and families along with addiction treatment. I am a recipient of the Class Act Award from University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago and the Chapter of Merit Award from the American Case Management Association.
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.
My goal is to support my clients and provide tools to manage life's challenges. I believe in the client’s ability to utilize therapy in ways that feel most necessary to them. I have experience working with depression and anxiety and I am passionate about working with families to improve family dynamics, relationships, and attachment. Sessions will be a safe and calm environment that provide an outlet for clients, where they can be equipped and secure in dealing with whatever life throws at them.
My goal is to support my clients and provide tools to manage life's challenges. I believe in the client’s ability to utilize therapy in ways that feel most necessary to them. I have experience working with depression and anxiety and I am passionate about working with families to improve family dynamics, relationships, and attachment. Sessions will be a safe and calm environment that provide an outlet for clients, where they can be equipped and secure in dealing with whatever life throws at them.
Dr. Jie Jiao is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She obtained her doctoral degree from the clinical psychology program and the rehabilitation psychology track at Illinois Institute of Technology. She has worked with a clinically and culturally diverse population in a variety of settings, ranging from a community mental health center to a multidisciplinary medical center. Dr. Jiao's theoretical orientation is primarily cognitive-behavioral. She integrates concepts and strategies from other theoretical frameworks (e. g. , interpersonal, psychodynamic) depending on the characteristics of the patient and the presenting problem.
Dr. Jie Jiao is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She obtained her doctoral degree from the clinical psychology program and the rehabilitation psychology track at Illinois Institute of Technology. She has worked with a clinically and culturally diverse population in a variety of settings, ranging from a community mental health center to a multidisciplinary medical center. Dr. Jiao's theoretical orientation is primarily cognitive-behavioral. She integrates concepts and strategies from other theoretical frameworks (e. g. , interpersonal, psychodynamic) depending on the characteristics of the patient and the presenting problem.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, relationship struggles, or experiences of exploitation, my goal is to offer a safe and affirming space where you can show up exactly as you are—without judgment or pressure. I’m committed to helping clients feel seen, supported, and empowered. I specialize in working with teens (16+), adults, and LGBTQIA+ individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves or others. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, rooted in trauma-informed and strengths-based care.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, relationship struggles, or experiences of exploitation, my goal is to offer a safe and affirming space where you can show up exactly as you are—without judgment or pressure. I’m committed to helping clients feel seen, supported, and empowered. I specialize in working with teens (16+), adults, and LGBTQIA+ individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves or others. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, rooted in trauma-informed and strengths-based care.
Darin received both his Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Illinois. He has been assisting individuals, couples and families for more than 20 years and uses a strength-based approach to his counseling. Darin takes great satisfaction in helping his clients increase their self-awareness in order to improve their ability to regulate their thoughts and behaviors . Areas of skill building include but are not limited to: avoiding thinking errors, increasing personal responsibility, increasing emotional intelligence, assertiveness training, integrating faith into decision making, stress management, enhancing parenting skills and improving self-esteem.
Darin received both his Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Illinois. He has been assisting individuals, couples and families for more than 20 years and uses a strength-based approach to his counseling. Darin takes great satisfaction in helping his clients increase their self-awareness in order to improve their ability to regulate their thoughts and behaviors . Areas of skill building include but are not limited to: avoiding thinking errors, increasing personal responsibility, increasing emotional intelligence, assertiveness training, integrating faith into decision making, stress management, enhancing parenting skills and improving self-esteem.
See more therapy options for Peoria
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Peoria, IL
200+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in Peoria, IL who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Anxiety |
| 88% | Depression |
| 73% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 66% | Relationship Issues |
| 66% | Coping Skills |
| 64% | Stress |
| 63% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 93% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 77% | Aetna |
| 71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Peoria, IL see their clients
| 66% | In Person and Online | |
| 34% | 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.


