Therapists in Sterling, IL

I have worked in the mental health field for more 20 years following a career as a junior and senior high teacher. I have experience with everyone from very young children to elderly individuals. I believe firmly in the individual's ability to change if they so desire, regardless of education level, socioeconomic status, or past challenges. I approach all people with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Acceptance and kindness are important traits and ones I strive to show each and every person I meet, whether that is within my office or at the grocery store.
I have worked in the mental health field for more 20 years following a career as a junior and senior high teacher. I have experience with everyone from very young children to elderly individuals. I believe firmly in the individual's ability to change if they so desire, regardless of education level, socioeconomic status, or past challenges. I approach all people with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Acceptance and kindness are important traits and ones I strive to show each and every person I meet, whether that is within my office or at the grocery store.

Dr. Selmi is a licensed psychology located in Sterling, Illinois, 61081. Behavioral health interventions, FOID evaluations, family court expertise. Mental health intervention used are evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Behavior Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Selmi is fully trained in these focused evidence and scientifically-based methods. A large array of presenting problems can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, panic-anxiety, behavioral problems (children and adolescents), couples, family, parenting and co-parenting difficulties with divorced or separated parents.
Dr. Selmi is a licensed psychology located in Sterling, Illinois, 61081. Behavioral health interventions, FOID evaluations, family court expertise. Mental health intervention used are evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Behavior Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Selmi is fully trained in these focused evidence and scientifically-based methods. A large array of presenting problems can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, panic-anxiety, behavioral problems (children and adolescents), couples, family, parenting and co-parenting difficulties with divorced or separated parents.

For Abby Vidal, her ideal client is someone who is ready and willing to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. In terms of needs, Abby's ideal client seeks a safe and supportive space to explore their emotions, challenges, and aspirations. They desire understanding, empathy, and guidance to navigate their unique circumstances. Abby's client aims for personal growth, healing, and resilience in the face of adversity.
For Abby Vidal, her ideal client is someone who is ready and willing to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. In terms of needs, Abby's ideal client seeks a safe and supportive space to explore their emotions, challenges, and aspirations. They desire understanding, empathy, and guidance to navigate their unique circumstances. Abby's client aims for personal growth, healing, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Hello! My name is Sawyer Kolaczkowski, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. As a non-binary individual, I understand the importance of feeling heard on the path to healing. In my practice, I prioritize creating a compassionate, judgment-free space where clients can feel validated. My approach emphasizes autonomy, self-advocacy, and empowerment throughout the healing process.
Hello! My name is Sawyer Kolaczkowski, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. As a non-binary individual, I understand the importance of feeling heard on the path to healing. In my practice, I prioritize creating a compassionate, judgment-free space where clients can feel validated. My approach emphasizes autonomy, self-advocacy, and empowerment throughout the healing process.

Find your JOY and make intentional steps to a more joyful life. It's possible you just have to have the courage to try, learn, apply, adjust to fit you.
Find your JOY and make intentional steps to a more joyful life. It's possible you just have to have the courage to try, learn, apply, adjust to fit you.

As a therapist with over 20 years of dedicated experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have learned that every individual’s journey is unique and deserves compassionate, personalized care. Over the years, I have witnessed how a supportive therapeutic environment can empower people to navigate life’s challenges and uncover their inner strengths. Whether you’re grappling with the complexities of adolescence, facing the evolving dynamics of family relationships, or seeking deeper insights into your personal identity as an adult, I work diligently to tailor my therapeutic approach to your unique situation.
As a therapist with over 20 years of dedicated experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have learned that every individual’s journey is unique and deserves compassionate, personalized care. Over the years, I have witnessed how a supportive therapeutic environment can empower people to navigate life’s challenges and uncover their inner strengths. Whether you’re grappling with the complexities of adolescence, facing the evolving dynamics of family relationships, or seeking deeper insights into your personal identity as an adult, I work diligently to tailor my therapeutic approach to your unique situation.

I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.

Kelsey Reuter is accepting new clients. Are you wanting to be kinder towards yourself but don't know where to start? Do you feel stuck, anxious, out of control, or depressed? Are you feeling "stuck" in life, experiencing relational or communication issues, or navigating life transitions? Would you like to find relief from isolating circumstances or traumatic experiences? Negative self-talk, uncertainty, and stress can impact our ability to be our best selves. I aim to provide a safe therapeutic environment to allow you to truly heal. My intention is for you to find hope, freedom, and direction through therapy.
Kelsey Reuter is accepting new clients. Are you wanting to be kinder towards yourself but don't know where to start? Do you feel stuck, anxious, out of control, or depressed? Are you feeling "stuck" in life, experiencing relational or communication issues, or navigating life transitions? Would you like to find relief from isolating circumstances or traumatic experiences? Negative self-talk, uncertainty, and stress can impact our ability to be our best selves. I aim to provide a safe therapeutic environment to allow you to truly heal. My intention is for you to find hope, freedom, and direction through therapy.

FOID Mental Health Certification Evaluations. Court Ordered Evaluations/Risk Assessments: Domestic Violence Evaluations. Violence risk & threat assessment 1)Workplace & school violence consultation services 2)Fitness for duty evaluation 3)Psychosexual risk to reoffend. Dr Cushing has considerable training and experience in forensic evaluations and expert witness testimony. Dr. Cushing has worked with prosecutors and defense attorneys in both the state and federal systems. He has been recognized as an expert in courts in the following states: Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and New York.
FOID Mental Health Certification Evaluations. Court Ordered Evaluations/Risk Assessments: Domestic Violence Evaluations. Violence risk & threat assessment 1)Workplace & school violence consultation services 2)Fitness for duty evaluation 3)Psychosexual risk to reoffend. Dr Cushing has considerable training and experience in forensic evaluations and expert witness testimony. Dr. Cushing has worked with prosecutors and defense attorneys in both the state and federal systems. He has been recognized as an expert in courts in the following states: Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and New York.

Are you going through difficult circumstances or overwhelmed by emotions that make you feel like you are out of control? Pain, chaos and brokenness are words used to describe desperation and the need for real help, now. Know that it is normal and healthy to receive help while you regain balance and make a fresh start. My passion is to help you discover meaning in and solutions for the challenges you are facing, by facilitating growth in all areas of your life. Thank you for your interest in learning more about the services Jeanette Trotter, LCPC, NCC provides.
Are you going through difficult circumstances or overwhelmed by emotions that make you feel like you are out of control? Pain, chaos and brokenness are words used to describe desperation and the need for real help, now. Know that it is normal and healthy to receive help while you regain balance and make a fresh start. My passion is to help you discover meaning in and solutions for the challenges you are facing, by facilitating growth in all areas of your life. Thank you for your interest in learning more about the services Jeanette Trotter, LCPC, NCC provides.
More Therapists Nearby

I specialize in working with individuals who are committed to self-development. I specialize in using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, an approach that focuses on an individuals' values, and changes their relationship with their thoughts and emotions. I also use techniques from positive psychology to help people flourish rather than engage in behaviors that provide only short-term gratification. Moreover, given that we learn how to deal with stressors from our families of origin, I help people live as who they truly are rather than who they have been conditioned to be.
I specialize in working with individuals who are committed to self-development. I specialize in using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, an approach that focuses on an individuals' values, and changes their relationship with their thoughts and emotions. I also use techniques from positive psychology to help people flourish rather than engage in behaviors that provide only short-term gratification. Moreover, given that we learn how to deal with stressors from our families of origin, I help people live as who they truly are rather than who they have been conditioned to be.

Bridget is currently enrolled in her final semester in the St. Ambrose University Master of Social
Work (MSW) Program. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Clarke
University and is a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in Iowa. Her career has included
working as an outpatient substance use counselor as well as many years in the manufacturing
industry. As an emerging clinician, Bridget utilizes Motivational Interviewing, strengths-based
approaches, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques. Bridget is also a certified facilitator of
the Nurturing Parenting Program.
Bridget is currently enrolled in her final semester in the St. Ambrose University Master of Social
Work (MSW) Program. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Clarke
University and is a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in Iowa. Her career has included
working as an outpatient substance use counselor as well as many years in the manufacturing
industry. As an emerging clinician, Bridget utilizes Motivational Interviewing, strengths-based
approaches, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques. Bridget is also a certified facilitator of
the Nurturing Parenting Program.

Kaileen Banaszak Gaumer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed , LPC
Verified Verified
Rock Falls, IL 61071
Taking the initial step to reach out for support can be incredibly difficult, so well done for getting this far! Entering into therapy can be scary, but let me assure you that we will work together to make you feel comfortable and provide a space that you feel emotionally safe to talk about anything.
Taking the initial step to reach out for support can be incredibly difficult, so well done for getting this far! Entering into therapy can be scary, but let me assure you that we will work together to make you feel comfortable and provide a space that you feel emotionally safe to talk about anything.

At times, life seems unmanageable, but your experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors do not have to overwhelm you! It can be difficult to seek out therapeutic services and entrust in a stranger at your most vulnerable time. Acknowledging you need support is the first step towards your healing journey. Hi! My name is Victoria, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Registered Art Therapist (ATR). I believe in providing a judgement free environment to help clients feel comfortable while they process their unique experiences and individual struggles.
At times, life seems unmanageable, but your experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors do not have to overwhelm you! It can be difficult to seek out therapeutic services and entrust in a stranger at your most vulnerable time. Acknowledging you need support is the first step towards your healing journey. Hi! My name is Victoria, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Registered Art Therapist (ATR). I believe in providing a judgement free environment to help clients feel comfortable while they process their unique experiences and individual struggles.

You wake up every day on autopilot, just going through the motions. The spark you once had feels like a distant memory, and you’re stuck in a routine that drains you. The days blur together, each one feeling the same, and you wonder, “Is this all there is?” It is like you are just existing, not really living. You have tried to push through, but the emptiness still lingers, creeping in when you least expect it. You are caught in the cycle, feeling disconnected and detached, unsure of what is missing, but knowing something is not right. The weight of it all builds each day, and you cannot seem to break free and feel trapped in a loop.
You wake up every day on autopilot, just going through the motions. The spark you once had feels like a distant memory, and you’re stuck in a routine that drains you. The days blur together, each one feeling the same, and you wonder, “Is this all there is?” It is like you are just existing, not really living. You have tried to push through, but the emptiness still lingers, creeping in when you least expect it. You are caught in the cycle, feeling disconnected and detached, unsure of what is missing, but knowing something is not right. The weight of it all builds each day, and you cannot seem to break free and feel trapped in a loop.

My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.

My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.

I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.

The mission of New Horizons Counseling Center (NHCC) is to provide quality therapeutic counseling services, regardless of ability to pay, in a welcoming and safe environment. All Therapists at NHCC are Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPC) in the State of Illinois. We serve all people with presenting problems within our clinical areas of expertise. We utilize evidence based treatment modalities to help our clients cope with the challenges they face. Our services are provided in the warm environs of a majestic older home in a quiet neighborhood in Freeport, IL. Our motto is "Where Help Is Close To Home."
The mission of New Horizons Counseling Center (NHCC) is to provide quality therapeutic counseling services, regardless of ability to pay, in a welcoming and safe environment. All Therapists at NHCC are Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPC) in the State of Illinois. We serve all people with presenting problems within our clinical areas of expertise. We utilize evidence based treatment modalities to help our clients cope with the challenges they face. Our services are provided in the warm environs of a majestic older home in a quiet neighborhood in Freeport, IL. Our motto is "Where Help Is Close To Home."

Asking for help is the hardest part of the healing journey - and here you are. It can be difficult to find someone to let your guard down with. I try to create a space that is welcoming to all parts of you. Many of the folks I see are healing their relationship with their bodies and food, moving through grief or other life transitions such as parenthood and relationships, or exploring sexuality or gender. No matter what brings you here, please know that your experiences and full self are welcome here.
Asking for help is the hardest part of the healing journey - and here you are. It can be difficult to find someone to let your guard down with. I try to create a space that is welcoming to all parts of you. Many of the folks I see are healing their relationship with their bodies and food, moving through grief or other life transitions such as parenthood and relationships, or exploring sexuality or gender. No matter what brings you here, please know that your experiences and full self are welcome here.
See more therapy options for Sterling
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Sterling, IL
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Sterling, IL who prioritize treating:
80% | Anxiety |
80% | Parenting |
80% | Coping Skills |
70% | Relationship Issues |
70% | Depression |
70% | Child |
70% | Grief |
Average years in practice
23 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
89% | Aetna |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Sterling, IL see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
90% | Female | |
10% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Sterling?
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.