Therapists in Willow Springs, IL

I work with anyone who has sleep issues, anxiety, trauma, rage, chronic pain, a phobia, grief...any emotional or mental issue, limiting belief, habit, or replaying memory would be great to bring to me. Those ready for this work want to dive deep into their unconscious patterns that have kept them stuck or sick. When one is aware of the power of your and your brain's potential but hasn't gotten the tools to flourish, NLP and parts work (I use Core Transformation) can fill that gap! Many of us do not know HOW to get to the results we know are possible, and a brain-based approach may be just what you need to solve your problem.
I work with anyone who has sleep issues, anxiety, trauma, rage, chronic pain, a phobia, grief...any emotional or mental issue, limiting belief, habit, or replaying memory would be great to bring to me. Those ready for this work want to dive deep into their unconscious patterns that have kept them stuck or sick. When one is aware of the power of your and your brain's potential but hasn't gotten the tools to flourish, NLP and parts work (I use Core Transformation) can fill that gap! Many of us do not know HOW to get to the results we know are possible, and a brain-based approach may be just what you need to solve your problem.

At Willow Therapeutic PLLC, we believe healing happens through connection—to ourselves, our community, and the world around us. Our mission is to provide a supportive and inclusive space where individuals can build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and live with greater intention.
At Willow Therapeutic PLLC, we believe healing happens through connection—to ourselves, our community, and the world around us. Our mission is to provide a supportive and inclusive space where individuals can build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and live with greater intention.

Navigating through life's trials and tribulations can sometimes feel like too much to handle. Whatever you are experiencing in life, you don't have to feel alone. I strive to empower clients based on individual needs and their unique background. I want to know your story and tailor therapy to who you are.
Navigating through life's trials and tribulations can sometimes feel like too much to handle. Whatever you are experiencing in life, you don't have to feel alone. I strive to empower clients based on individual needs and their unique background. I want to know your story and tailor therapy to who you are.

I currently have a wait list, but counselors at Willow Therapeutic are accepting new clients. Visit Willow's website to schedule a free consult.
At Willow Therapeutic, your healing, growth, and well-being are at the center of everything we do. I’m Shelly Gessler, founder of Willow Therapeutic and one of the counselors here. I specialize in counseling adults and couples, offering both in-person and telehealth sessions. My approach is grounded in providing a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to explore trauma, anxiety, mood changes, life transitions, ecogrief, and your evolving relationship with yourself and others.
I currently have a wait list, but counselors at Willow Therapeutic are accepting new clients. Visit Willow's website to schedule a free consult.
At Willow Therapeutic, your healing, growth, and well-being are at the center of everything we do. I’m Shelly Gessler, founder of Willow Therapeutic and one of the counselors here. I specialize in counseling adults and couples, offering both in-person and telehealth sessions. My approach is grounded in providing a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to explore trauma, anxiety, mood changes, life transitions, ecogrief, and your evolving relationship with yourself and others.

“The trauma you experienced is not your fault, but healing is your responsibility”. I am very passionate about and specialize in working with young adults who have experienced childhood trauma (including, but not limited to, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and emotional abuse) who find that the past continues to affect their present. I am an LGBT+ ally and have an interest in being able to support this community.
“The trauma you experienced is not your fault, but healing is your responsibility”. I am very passionate about and specialize in working with young adults who have experienced childhood trauma (including, but not limited to, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and emotional abuse) who find that the past continues to affect their present. I am an LGBT+ ally and have an interest in being able to support this community.

Think of therapy with me like writing in your journal—but with someone who can talk back if you want. This is your space to vent, unpack, explore the messy, raw, or uncomfortable without judgment.
I combine realness with clinically grounded strategies to help you process, grow, and feel more whole. We’ll set goals, dive into shadow work, and shift your perspective so you can start living with more freedom and intention.
You’ve already taken the first step. Let’s get to work.
Think of therapy with me like writing in your journal—but with someone who can talk back if you want. This is your space to vent, unpack, explore the messy, raw, or uncomfortable without judgment.
I combine realness with clinically grounded strategies to help you process, grow, and feel more whole. We’ll set goals, dive into shadow work, and shift your perspective so you can start living with more freedom and intention.
You’ve already taken the first step. Let’s get to work.

Valerie Hardy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Willow Springs, IL 60480
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes our life journey takes us a little off course. This detour might be due to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship or identity issues, career or school issues, or other life circumstances that leave us feeling stressed or stuck. If you are experiencing emotional pain or feeling overwhelmed, you probably know how these emotional states can drain your energy and interfere with your ability to feel fulfilled in your life. Whether your symptoms are situational or long-term, therapy can help. I provide affordable, caring, collaborative, client-specific treatment to tweens, teens, and adults seeking growth and healing.
Sometimes our life journey takes us a little off course. This detour might be due to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship or identity issues, career or school issues, or other life circumstances that leave us feeling stressed or stuck. If you are experiencing emotional pain or feeling overwhelmed, you probably know how these emotional states can drain your energy and interfere with your ability to feel fulfilled in your life. Whether your symptoms are situational or long-term, therapy can help. I provide affordable, caring, collaborative, client-specific treatment to tweens, teens, and adults seeking growth and healing.

Trouble getting along with others? Are you constantly finding yourself irritable, down in the dumps or struggling with panic attacks? Do you feel as if no one gets you or understands what you are going through? I can help. Call and schedule an appointment for an assessment and corresponding therapy. I am an experienced, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. As a graduate from Benedictine U., I have extensive knowledge in mood disorders and relationship problems. I implement evidenced-based practice and client-centered therapy to work with you and your loved ones to explore the root cause.
Trouble getting along with others? Are you constantly finding yourself irritable, down in the dumps or struggling with panic attacks? Do you feel as if no one gets you or understands what you are going through? I can help. Call and schedule an appointment for an assessment and corresponding therapy. I am an experienced, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. As a graduate from Benedictine U., I have extensive knowledge in mood disorders and relationship problems. I implement evidenced-based practice and client-centered therapy to work with you and your loved ones to explore the root cause.

Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is our job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is our job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.

Do you have difficulties regulating your emotions? As a Black Therapist I vow to dismantle the narrative and bring awareness to the importance of positive mental health in BIPOC communities. As your hope-dealer my primary objective is to create a supportive atmosphere that encourages growth, self-reflection, and personal development. I understand that the therapeutic journey is not a linear process; setbacks and challenges can cause barriers. As we work together toward your goals, I will encourage resilience and adaptability, emphasizing self-compassion and patience.
Do you have difficulties regulating your emotions? As a Black Therapist I vow to dismantle the narrative and bring awareness to the importance of positive mental health in BIPOC communities. As your hope-dealer my primary objective is to create a supportive atmosphere that encourages growth, self-reflection, and personal development. I understand that the therapeutic journey is not a linear process; setbacks and challenges can cause barriers. As we work together toward your goals, I will encourage resilience and adaptability, emphasizing self-compassion and patience.

My work centers on supporting those navigating the complexities of life—helping them reclaim their strength and reconnect with a deeper sense of self. I specialize in working with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ and gender-expansive individuals, neurodivergent clients (including late diagnosis and self-identifying), and parents of LGBTQ+ youth. I support neurodivergent adults, including late-diagnosed ADHD and autism, in unmasking and building lives aligned with their true selves. I also work with parents of LGBTQ+ youth, offering a compassionate space to process, learn, and grow affirming family connections.
My work centers on supporting those navigating the complexities of life—helping them reclaim their strength and reconnect with a deeper sense of self. I specialize in working with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ and gender-expansive individuals, neurodivergent clients (including late diagnosis and self-identifying), and parents of LGBTQ+ youth. I support neurodivergent adults, including late-diagnosed ADHD and autism, in unmasking and building lives aligned with their true selves. I also work with parents of LGBTQ+ youth, offering a compassionate space to process, learn, and grow affirming family connections.

My ideal client is someone navigating trauma, grief, betrayal, or major life transitions—often military veterans or individuals from diverse, marginalized backgrounds. They seek understanding, healing, and a way forward after feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unseen. Their goal is to reclaim peace, process pain, and reconnect with a sense of purpose. They want a safe, nonjudgmental space to be heard, to heal, and to rediscover their strength.
My ideal client is someone navigating trauma, grief, betrayal, or major life transitions—often military veterans or individuals from diverse, marginalized backgrounds. They seek understanding, healing, and a way forward after feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unseen. Their goal is to reclaim peace, process pain, and reconnect with a sense of purpose. They want a safe, nonjudgmental space to be heard, to heal, and to rediscover their strength.

The challenges of life can impact how we function in our relationships with our partner/spouse, our children, and the people we encounter daily. However, you can begin a therapeutic exploration that will fundamentally improve your mental health. The decision to begin a therapeutic journey can be very rewarding. I support my client's therapeutic goals by making them feel seen and heard. I believe you are the expert on you, so I collaborate with you to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences. Together we can work to achieve life-changing mental health.
The challenges of life can impact how we function in our relationships with our partner/spouse, our children, and the people we encounter daily. However, you can begin a therapeutic exploration that will fundamentally improve your mental health. The decision to begin a therapeutic journey can be very rewarding. I support my client's therapeutic goals by making them feel seen and heard. I believe you are the expert on you, so I collaborate with you to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences. Together we can work to achieve life-changing mental health.

The journey to healing can be overwhelming. By meeting my clients where they're at and taking time to build a strong therapeutic alliance, we can work toward you become the best version of yourself. I am an EMDR Certified clinician/Approved Consultant through the EMDR International Association, and registered yoga instructor specializing in trauma and CPTSD. I firmly believe in our body and mind's innate ability to heal and am honored to guide my clients through this process.
The journey to healing can be overwhelming. By meeting my clients where they're at and taking time to build a strong therapeutic alliance, we can work toward you become the best version of yourself. I am an EMDR Certified clinician/Approved Consultant through the EMDR International Association, and registered yoga instructor specializing in trauma and CPTSD. I firmly believe in our body and mind's innate ability to heal and am honored to guide my clients through this process.

Life is sometimes very difficult. For some it has been difficult for a long time. Living with mental and emotional distress can be overwhelming. The feeling that no one understands can be debilitating. Many find ways to cope that are unhealthy and dangerous leading to a loss of control. If you are someone who wants compassion, empathy and a path out of that dark place and away from self-destructive behaviors, I would like to help. Whether you are struggling with underlying trauma, addictions, an eating disorder, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, I would like to support you in discovering your healing.
Life is sometimes very difficult. For some it has been difficult for a long time. Living with mental and emotional distress can be overwhelming. The feeling that no one understands can be debilitating. Many find ways to cope that are unhealthy and dangerous leading to a loss of control. If you are someone who wants compassion, empathy and a path out of that dark place and away from self-destructive behaviors, I would like to help. Whether you are struggling with underlying trauma, addictions, an eating disorder, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, I would like to support you in discovering your healing.

“A healthy outside starts from the inside”-Robert Urich I view therapy as a collaborative process among individuals, couples, or families to enhance their strengths and overcome their limitations. My approach to counseling is to provide a safe, warm, and positive space to allow my clients to live healthy, happy, and productive lives. I utilize individual, person centered, mindfulness and cognitive therapy to achieve the goals we establish together. I counsel a diverse group of adolescents, teens, and adults.
“A healthy outside starts from the inside”-Robert Urich I view therapy as a collaborative process among individuals, couples, or families to enhance their strengths and overcome their limitations. My approach to counseling is to provide a safe, warm, and positive space to allow my clients to live healthy, happy, and productive lives. I utilize individual, person centered, mindfulness and cognitive therapy to achieve the goals we establish together. I counsel a diverse group of adolescents, teens, and adults.

Feeling anxious, angry, depressed, isolated from friends and family? Dealing with a difficult life situation or trying to break bad habits, you just can't seem to shake? You're not alone. I believe that everybody has the ability to heal from the pain of the past, face the challenges of today, and go beyond the hurdles of tomorrow. Sometimes we just need a little help along the way.
Feeling anxious, angry, depressed, isolated from friends and family? Dealing with a difficult life situation or trying to break bad habits, you just can't seem to shake? You're not alone. I believe that everybody has the ability to heal from the pain of the past, face the challenges of today, and go beyond the hurdles of tomorrow. Sometimes we just need a little help along the way.

I work with adults, new parents, and teens navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, burnout, low self-esteem, and generational trauma.
I work with adults, new parents, and teens navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, burnout, low self-esteem, and generational trauma.

Each session with me are customized to integrate a variety of healing modalities as I'm trained in somatic practices, crainosacral therapy, mindfulness techniques, trauma-informed yoga therapy, and energy and sound healing. My approach is warm and ensures we are addressing the root causes of imbalances, rather than just treating the symptoms. I deeply believe in our body's ability to come back to homeostasis when given the proper tools and nourishment. My goal is to provide compassionate support to guide you through life's challenges, assisting with overcoming emotional obstacles, and navigating through communication and conflicts.
Each session with me are customized to integrate a variety of healing modalities as I'm trained in somatic practices, crainosacral therapy, mindfulness techniques, trauma-informed yoga therapy, and energy and sound healing. My approach is warm and ensures we are addressing the root causes of imbalances, rather than just treating the symptoms. I deeply believe in our body's ability to come back to homeostasis when given the proper tools and nourishment. My goal is to provide compassionate support to guide you through life's challenges, assisting with overcoming emotional obstacles, and navigating through communication and conflicts.
More Therapists Nearby

Inez Martinez-Sierra is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 7 years of experience in therapeutic support. She graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 and due to her diverse work history, can integrate various techniques and modalities to fit your goal. Her experience consists of working in community not-for-profits with pregnant teens and teen moms, court-mandated therapy for individuals with sexual offenses, at-home therapy services with the DCFS foster care system, and structured crisis PHP/IOP settings. Currently working FT in Center for Eating Disorders at Ascension Behavioral Health Hospital and PT at MAXIM Health
Inez Martinez-Sierra is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 7 years of experience in therapeutic support. She graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 and due to her diverse work history, can integrate various techniques and modalities to fit your goal. Her experience consists of working in community not-for-profits with pregnant teens and teen moms, court-mandated therapy for individuals with sexual offenses, at-home therapy services with the DCFS foster care system, and structured crisis PHP/IOP settings. Currently working FT in Center for Eating Disorders at Ascension Behavioral Health Hospital and PT at MAXIM Health
See more therapy options for Willow Springs
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Willow Springs, IL
10+
Average cost per session
$127
Therapists in Willow Springs, IL who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
84% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Self Esteem |
74% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Coping Skills |
74% | Stress |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | Aetna |
How Therapists in Willow Springs, IL see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
11% | Male | |
5% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Willow Springs?
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.