Photo of Sarah Malak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Sarah Malak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charleston, IL 61920  (Online Only)
If you're looking to work through trauma that is making it hard for you to breathe, to function, to know and be yourself, you've come to the right place. I often treat individuals who are recognizing how past ways of functioning just aren't working for them anymore and want to make real and lasting change. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression or mood disorders, dissociation, and possibly some ADHD too, I'm here for you. Together we can work through the things that are bothering you and get you to a place where you can truly feel that your past is in your past and you have the skills and strength to keep moving forward.
If you're looking to work through trauma that is making it hard for you to breathe, to function, to know and be yourself, you've come to the right place. I often treat individuals who are recognizing how past ways of functioning just aren't working for them anymore and want to make real and lasting change. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression or mood disorders, dissociation, and possibly some ADHD too, I'm here for you. Together we can work through the things that are bothering you and get you to a place where you can truly feel that your past is in your past and you have the skills and strength to keep moving forward.
(217) 615-2944 View (217) 615-2944
Photo of Anna Farris, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Anna Farris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charleston, IL 61920
First and foremost, if you are reading this, I want you to know that I see the strength it took for you to take this step in asking for help. I work with clients ages 3 and up to navigate many life challenges - whether that is reprocessing past trauma, struggling in relationships, infertility/perinatal struggles, or navigating the day to day stressors of life. Being a member of the military/veteran community, I am also passionate about working with military/veterans and their family members on the unique challenges they face in their day to day life. I hope to help each person rewrite their story into something they can be proud of.
First and foremost, if you are reading this, I want you to know that I see the strength it took for you to take this step in asking for help. I work with clients ages 3 and up to navigate many life challenges - whether that is reprocessing past trauma, struggling in relationships, infertility/perinatal struggles, or navigating the day to day stressors of life. Being a member of the military/veteran community, I am also passionate about working with military/veterans and their family members on the unique challenges they face in their day to day life. I hope to help each person rewrite their story into something they can be proud of.
(217) 599-5367 View (217) 599-5367

Online Therapists

Photo of Chelsie Miller, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Chelsie Miller
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
She believes in establishing a secure, trusting, respectful space with individuals to guide them in exploring, gaining tools, strategies, and motivation for reaching goals and living a more fulfilling life. She hopes to continue helping others see their value and strengths in a non-judgmental environment. Her clinical experience in education has primarily been focused on working with children, adolescents and their families from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Chelsie also works with adults with emphasis on health and overall wellness in one's life in group practice. www.behaviorahealth.center
She believes in establishing a secure, trusting, respectful space with individuals to guide them in exploring, gaining tools, strategies, and motivation for reaching goals and living a more fulfilling life. She hopes to continue helping others see their value and strengths in a non-judgmental environment. Her clinical experience in education has primarily been focused on working with children, adolescents and their families from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Chelsie also works with adults with emphasis on health and overall wellness in one's life in group practice. www.behaviorahealth.center
(217) 216-8354 View (217) 216-8354
Photo of Ariel Warner, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Ariel Warner
Counselor, MA, QMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. I have provided counseling services in a variety of different settings including community mental health, university, and private practice. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and young adults surrounding difficulties with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, and ADHD symptoms.
I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. I have provided counseling services in a variety of different settings including community mental health, university, and private practice. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and young adults surrounding difficulties with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, and ADHD symptoms.
(217) 773-5783 View (217) 773-5783
Photo of Mariana Queiroz, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Mariana Queiroz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62702  (Online Only)
Life throws us many obstacles and challenges, no matter our age. Challenges such as starting a new job, moving to a new city, starting or ending a relationship, etc. Along with these new journeys, you may start to experience excessive worry, or continuously doubt your abilities, or feel isolated and alone and therefore not wanting to burden others. These patterns begin to influence your relationships with others and yourself, affecting your mood, motivation level, and overall happiness. If you’re reading this, you are approaching the first step into your therapeutic journey and I am here to help you with each step moving forward.
Life throws us many obstacles and challenges, no matter our age. Challenges such as starting a new job, moving to a new city, starting or ending a relationship, etc. Along with these new journeys, you may start to experience excessive worry, or continuously doubt your abilities, or feel isolated and alone and therefore not wanting to burden others. These patterns begin to influence your relationships with others and yourself, affecting your mood, motivation level, and overall happiness. If you’re reading this, you are approaching the first step into your therapeutic journey and I am here to help you with each step moving forward.
(618) 376-7540 View (618) 376-7540
Photo of Courtney Porter--Momentum for Life Counseling, LLP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Courtney Porter--Momentum for Life Counseling, LLP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Savoy, IL 61874
Do you have a child that struggles at school academically or behaviorally? I thrive in working with school-aged children (and their families) and assisting them in living their best life. I have spent my life working with youth in various contexts and have a "way" in working with youth that invites their true inner self to explode with greatness! I also work with adults as well and focus on transitional concerns, trauma, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, and other adult life challenges!
Do you have a child that struggles at school academically or behaviorally? I thrive in working with school-aged children (and their families) and assisting them in living their best life. I have spent my life working with youth in various contexts and have a "way" in working with youth that invites their true inner self to explode with greatness! I also work with adults as well and focus on transitional concerns, trauma, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, and other adult life challenges!
(217) 262-1950 View (217) 262-1950
Photo of MacKenzie Jones, Counselor in Charleston, IL
MacKenzie Jones
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
(Email is the best way to reach me). Hi, I’m MacKenzie Jones, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I’ve been working in the mental health field for 10 years. I specialize in helping individuals who have experienced trauma or distressing life events.
(Email is the best way to reach me). Hi, I’m MacKenzie Jones, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I’ve been working in the mental health field for 10 years. I specialize in helping individuals who have experienced trauma or distressing life events.
(309) 204-9546 View (309) 204-9546
Photo of J. Graham Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charleston, IL
J. Graham Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703  (Online Only)
I am the only fully Certified Gottman Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gottman therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
I am the only fully Certified Gottman Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gottman therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
(217) 645-6741 View (217) 645-6741
Photo of Brianna Rossbach, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Brianna Rossbach
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
You are the expert of your life and every individual client is different. Therapy is not one-size fits-all. I, as your therapist, want to form a partnership with you in which we collaborate and work together. My job is to develop an individualized treatment plan for you and your specific needs. The most important component of therapy is the client-therapist alliance and this is a top priority of mine. My goal is to provide you an environment in which you feel safe, understood, and accepted.
You are the expert of your life and every individual client is different. Therapy is not one-size fits-all. I, as your therapist, want to form a partnership with you in which we collaborate and work together. My job is to develop an individualized treatment plan for you and your specific needs. The most important component of therapy is the client-therapist alliance and this is a top priority of mine. My goal is to provide you an environment in which you feel safe, understood, and accepted.
(217) 203-8534 View (217) 203-8534
Photo of Sedellia Strobel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Sedellia Strobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Accepting new clients! My passion is working with children and adolescents that have experienced trauma and assisting them in identifying their strengths to achieve progress. I additionally assist with behavioral struggles, ADHD, anxiety, and many others. I also work with parents and families to build knowledge, education, and support for child!
Accepting new clients! My passion is working with children and adolescents that have experienced trauma and assisting them in identifying their strengths to achieve progress. I additionally assist with behavioral struggles, ADHD, anxiety, and many others. I also work with parents and families to build knowledge, education, and support for child!
(217) 795-8616 View (217) 795-8616
Photo of Soulbodyworks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Soulbodyworks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEPIT, LMT
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Most of us humans have experienced trauma or simply too much stress. Thoughts, body sensations, and images/memories/dreams can cause more emotional and physical pain--and vice versa. To get rid of these unwanted things completely may be expected goals; but to diminish and manage them with less pain or tension is more realistic. To be understood by others, to feel more safe, to feel supported, to receive usable feedback and new ideas--these are goals I will surely help any client experience. Somatic Experiencing facilitates clients in moving forward, at their own pace, building more resilience self-acceptance and confidence.
Most of us humans have experienced trauma or simply too much stress. Thoughts, body sensations, and images/memories/dreams can cause more emotional and physical pain--and vice versa. To get rid of these unwanted things completely may be expected goals; but to diminish and manage them with less pain or tension is more realistic. To be understood by others, to feel more safe, to feel supported, to receive usable feedback and new ideas--these are goals I will surely help any client experience. Somatic Experiencing facilitates clients in moving forward, at their own pace, building more resilience self-acceptance and confidence.
(217) 286-1333 View (217) 286-1333
Photo of Julia Schwartz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Julia Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Julia. I have a passion for working with young adults and women who strive to enhance personal insight and use their strengths and values to become more confident and self aware. Are you ready to begin the journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing? I have experience working with anxiety and stress relief, trauma, self-worth/body image, high-achievers, people pleasing, grief and relational stress. I hope to provide an environment for you to heal emotionally, gain personal insight, and harness skills to be your best self within everyday life-at your own pace.
Hi, I’m Julia. I have a passion for working with young adults and women who strive to enhance personal insight and use their strengths and values to become more confident and self aware. Are you ready to begin the journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing? I have experience working with anxiety and stress relief, trauma, self-worth/body image, high-achievers, people pleasing, grief and relational stress. I hope to provide an environment for you to heal emotionally, gain personal insight, and harness skills to be your best self within everyday life-at your own pace.
(217) 595-6080 View (217) 595-6080
Photo of Barb C. Sherman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Barb C. Sherman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Genuine, realistic help. What meeting with me will be like? This will very much be decided by me and you together. We will chart a journey toward what “better” could look like for you and what tools and skills we can build together to get you there. Above all, I want you to feel welcomed and comfortable. I have worked hard to create a setting that feels inviting, warm, and safe.
Genuine, realistic help. What meeting with me will be like? This will very much be decided by me and you together. We will chart a journey toward what “better” could look like for you and what tools and skills we can build together to get you there. Above all, I want you to feel welcomed and comfortable. I have worked hard to create a setting that feels inviting, warm, and safe.
(217) 262-1743 View (217) 262-1743
Courtney Lee
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
I am an experienced therapist who works with people of all ages and with a variety of presenting concerns. I use multiple therapeutic approaches paired with a good sense of humor to provide comprehensive mental health care to all. I work with people with depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, difficulties with stress management skills, relationship problems, and more. My goal is to work with you to help you reach your true potential. If you are ready to make changes in your life please give me a call. We'll get started right away!
I am an experienced therapist who works with people of all ages and with a variety of presenting concerns. I use multiple therapeutic approaches paired with a good sense of humor to provide comprehensive mental health care to all. I work with people with depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, difficulties with stress management skills, relationship problems, and more. My goal is to work with you to help you reach your true potential. If you are ready to make changes in your life please give me a call. We'll get started right away!
(309) 790-3596 View (309) 790-3596
Photo of George W Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
George W Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61821
I am an experienced clinician providing support to individuals and families on a long continuum of mental health challenges - from managing adjustment issues to complex experiences of trauma and abuse. My overall focus is to increase adaptive thinking and life skills to effectively manage challenges such as depression, anxiety, situational stress, or persistent patterns of unhelpful behavior choices. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy are my primary modalities of psychotherapy intervention.
I am an experienced clinician providing support to individuals and families on a long continuum of mental health challenges - from managing adjustment issues to complex experiences of trauma and abuse. My overall focus is to increase adaptive thinking and life skills to effectively manage challenges such as depression, anxiety, situational stress, or persistent patterns of unhelpful behavior choices. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy are my primary modalities of psychotherapy intervention.
(844) 846-8351 View (844) 846-8351
Photo of Leah A' Hearn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Leah A' Hearn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Savoy, IL 61874
Figuring out our feelings and then how to handle them can be so tricky sometimes. Many of us are also doing the hard work of unpacking our own trauma and stopping the cycle of generational trauma. We are all trying our best, and I'm honored to be with my clients as they navigate through it. You are not alone, and therapy offers a safe, comfortable space for you to let it all out, for you to feel heard, and for you to learn and grow.
Figuring out our feelings and then how to handle them can be so tricky sometimes. Many of us are also doing the hard work of unpacking our own trauma and stopping the cycle of generational trauma. We are all trying our best, and I'm honored to be with my clients as they navigate through it. You are not alone, and therapy offers a safe, comfortable space for you to let it all out, for you to feel heard, and for you to learn and grow.
(217) 262-1607 View (217) 262-1607
Photo of Jennifer Carlock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Jennifer Carlock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Jennifer has over 18 years of clinical effectiveness in working toddlers, children and adolescents, college students, and adults. Jennifer has certifications and specializations in multiple areas, including Theraplay, Guided Drawing, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment, Regulation and Competency (ARC), Critical Incident and Stress Debriefing (CISD), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulation, Mental Health First Aid, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Emotional Intelligence, Title IX and is a Real Colors Facilitator.
Jennifer has over 18 years of clinical effectiveness in working toddlers, children and adolescents, college students, and adults. Jennifer has certifications and specializations in multiple areas, including Theraplay, Guided Drawing, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment, Regulation and Competency (ARC), Critical Incident and Stress Debriefing (CISD), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulation, Mental Health First Aid, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Emotional Intelligence, Title IX and is a Real Colors Facilitator.
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Photo of Kristi Weaver, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Kristi Weaver
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
As a person-centered therapist with over fifteen years of experience in working with clients of all ages, I will meet you where you are at mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I will help you embark on a journey to greater peace, happiness, and self-satisfaction. Whether you're having difficulty coping with life's many stressors, are feeling down, lacking motivation, or struggling to define and set meaningful goals for your life, I'm here to provide you with empathic support and guidance as you face life's many challenges.
As a person-centered therapist with over fifteen years of experience in working with clients of all ages, I will meet you where you are at mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I will help you embark on a journey to greater peace, happiness, and self-satisfaction. Whether you're having difficulty coping with life's many stressors, are feeling down, lacking motivation, or struggling to define and set meaningful goals for your life, I'm here to provide you with empathic support and guidance as you face life's many challenges.
(618) 740-3886 x1 View (618) 740-3886 x1
Photo of Toria Plotner, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Toria Plotner
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
Life can be hard, unfair, and hurtful at times. But at the end of any storm, there is always a rainbow. As a therapist, my job is to sit with you in the storm. One of the essential pieces to making a change is the relationship between counselor and client. In my practice, I work hard to create a safe and trusting environment where all clients feel comfortable in sharing a piece of their life experiences with me. I have experience working with various mental health disorders and life concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, ADD, oppositional defiant disorder, relationship conflict, LGBTQIA+, minority stress and many more.
Life can be hard, unfair, and hurtful at times. But at the end of any storm, there is always a rainbow. As a therapist, my job is to sit with you in the storm. One of the essential pieces to making a change is the relationship between counselor and client. In my practice, I work hard to create a safe and trusting environment where all clients feel comfortable in sharing a piece of their life experiences with me. I have experience working with various mental health disorders and life concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, ADD, oppositional defiant disorder, relationship conflict, LGBTQIA+, minority stress and many more.
(844) 918-0977 View (844) 918-0977
Photo of Jacob Holthoff, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charleston, IL
Jacob Holthoff
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
It is no secret that mental distress can be a devastating roadblock in life. It is my hope that together, we can create a completely safe and understanding environment in which we can work together toward achieving balance, implementing healthy coping strategies, and navigating life’s many obstacles toward growth. Therapy can be quite a daunting step to take for many, but I have no doubt in my mind that together, we can lay the foundation for personal growth.
It is no secret that mental distress can be a devastating roadblock in life. It is my hope that together, we can create a completely safe and understanding environment in which we can work together toward achieving balance, implementing healthy coping strategies, and navigating life’s many obstacles toward growth. Therapy can be quite a daunting step to take for many, but I have no doubt in my mind that together, we can lay the foundation for personal growth.
(217) 290-1629 View (217) 290-1629

See more therapy options for Charleston

Self Esteem Therapists

When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?

When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.

What are the signs of low self-esteem?

Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.

What causes low self-esteem?

Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.

How can therapy improve self-esteem?

Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.