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 Becky Harrison Catalyst Counseling, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Becky Harrison Catalyst Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
We all have a story and each of our stories are unique and complex. Does your story have a chapter full of pain? Are you feeling discouraged, lonely or anxious? Facing a life transition or finding that your relationships are struggling? I am dedicated to assisting you in finding resolution to internal and external conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, learning healthy coping skills and creating an environment that is safe to explore the next desired chapters in your life. I work with adults, teens and children with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues.
We all have a story and each of our stories are unique and complex. Does your story have a chapter full of pain? Are you feeling discouraged, lonely or anxious? Facing a life transition or finding that your relationships are struggling? I am dedicated to assisting you in finding resolution to internal and external conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, learning healthy coping skills and creating an environment that is safe to explore the next desired chapters in your life. I work with adults, teens and children with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues.
(217) 993-8655 View (217) 993-8655
Photo of Amber Dowers, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Amber Dowers
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
Whichever way life's twists and turns take you, I am here to provide stability, safety, and a comforting platform from which to work through these sometimes life-changing, overwhelming events. I am a therapist that has been in practice in this community for over 10 years. I especially enjoy working with children, teens, and their families to promote better communication, support from past traumas, self-esteem, or functioning within the family. My focus with couples is also on communication-from evaluating and understanding communication styles to utilizing communication to improve functioning for the entire family.
Whichever way life's twists and turns take you, I am here to provide stability, safety, and a comforting platform from which to work through these sometimes life-changing, overwhelming events. I am a therapist that has been in practice in this community for over 10 years. I especially enjoy working with children, teens, and their families to promote better communication, support from past traumas, self-esteem, or functioning within the family. My focus with couples is also on communication-from evaluating and understanding communication styles to utilizing communication to improve functioning for the entire family.
(217) 764-8383 View (217) 764-8383
Photo of Keona Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Keona Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Savoy, IL 61874
Feeling sad, drained, overwhelmed, or repeating the same behavior patterns and want things to change? Is your youth struggling emotionally or behaviorally and need additional support? Dealing with day-to-day struggles and/or past hurts can be emotionally taxing for you or your youth. It prevents us from being the person we want to be and live the life we want to live. The good news is you or your youth don’t have to navigate life’s complexities alone.
Feeling sad, drained, overwhelmed, or repeating the same behavior patterns and want things to change? Is your youth struggling emotionally or behaviorally and need additional support? Dealing with day-to-day struggles and/or past hurts can be emotionally taxing for you or your youth. It prevents us from being the person we want to be and live the life we want to live. The good news is you or your youth don’t have to navigate life’s complexities alone.
(217) 909-9052 View (217) 909-9052
Photo of Emily Braden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Emily Braden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults. Most of my clinical expertise is in supporting individuals who struggle with behavioral issues, attention deficit struggles, anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults. Most of my clinical expertise is in supporting individuals who struggle with behavioral issues, attention deficit struggles, anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, and trauma.
(217) 749-1296 View (217) 749-1296
Photo of Wright Choice Counseling, Group Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Wright Choice Counseling, Group Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, Couples, Gottman
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vandalia, IL 62471
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” Maya Angelou. Acknowledging your challenges & seeking help are the first steps in healing. At Wright Choice Counseling, we have a diverse group of clinicians to offer support to individuals, couples, & families. We believe that each person possesses special strengths, & we strive to build upon these to facilitate growth. We have two beautiful offices and or do online therapy too!
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” Maya Angelou. Acknowledging your challenges & seeking help are the first steps in healing. At Wright Choice Counseling, we have a diverse group of clinicians to offer support to individuals, couples, & families. We believe that each person possesses special strengths, & we strive to build upon these to facilitate growth. We have two beautiful offices and or do online therapy too!
(618) 266-2693 View (618) 266-2693
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 Kelly Fein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Kelly Fein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I have over 12 years of experience in the field. Areas I like to address include, past trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, relationships, eating disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, bullying, social awareness, and parenting support among other issues. I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents including art therapy and play-based approaches, however I enjoy working with all age groups.
I have over 12 years of experience in the field. Areas I like to address include, past trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, relationships, eating disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, bullying, social awareness, and parenting support among other issues. I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents including art therapy and play-based approaches, however I enjoy working with all age groups.
(217) 742-6841 View (217) 742-6841
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 Natalya Bourn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Natalya Bourn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Danville, IL 61832
Immediate availability for both daytime and evening appointments! My passion lies with helping my clients effectively navigate their daily lives. I work with all ages, but especially enjoy working with children, young adults, and families. Some issues I have been able to help people with are: relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, self esteem, parenting, childhood issues such as separation anxiety, behavior and school problems, ADD, adoption, and divorce.
Immediate availability for both daytime and evening appointments! My passion lies with helping my clients effectively navigate their daily lives. I work with all ages, but especially enjoy working with children, young adults, and families. Some issues I have been able to help people with are: relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, self esteem, parenting, childhood issues such as separation anxiety, behavior and school problems, ADD, adoption, and divorce.
(217) 634-6583 View (217) 634-6583
Photo of Caitie Christian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, IL
Caitie Christian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor in the state of Illinois and Missouri. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have experience in helping clients with managing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression; improving motivation, self-esteem, and self-confidence; exploring sexual orientation and gender identity & coping with life changes. I am also comfortable assisting individuals facing challenges presented by adjustment issues, depression, grief, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma (PTSD), body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria, and other long-standing mental health concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor in the state of Illinois and Missouri. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have experience in helping clients with managing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression; improving motivation, self-esteem, and self-confidence; exploring sexual orientation and gender identity & coping with life changes. I am also comfortable assisting individuals facing challenges presented by adjustment issues, depression, grief, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma (PTSD), body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria, and other long-standing mental health concerns.
(217) 288-4311 View (217) 288-4311
Photo of Dr. Mary Derbish, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Dr. Mary Derbish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
You may not be there yet, but you are one step closer than you were yesterday. I specialize in treating kids and teens with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, eating disorders, difficult friendships and relationships, and trouble adjusting after divorce or other life changes. I am also passionate about empowering women through various stages of life: transitioning to college, identity development, becoming a mom, relationship conflict, divorce, and mental health. I offer parenting sessions to parents of children with emotional or behavioral struggles, and couples or family therapy for a variety of issues.
You may not be there yet, but you are one step closer than you were yesterday. I specialize in treating kids and teens with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, eating disorders, difficult friendships and relationships, and trouble adjusting after divorce or other life changes. I am also passionate about empowering women through various stages of life: transitioning to college, identity development, becoming a mom, relationship conflict, divorce, and mental health. I offer parenting sessions to parents of children with emotional or behavioral struggles, and couples or family therapy for a variety of issues.
(217) 269-8583 View (217) 269-8583
Photo of Still Waters Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Still Waters Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Now accepting new clients. I work with clients who struggle with self-esteem, relationship issues, anxiety & depression. I help them gain insight into how their past experiences effect how they interact with the world as well as overcome trauma, gain healthier coping skills, & improve their overall sense of self & live their healthiest, happiest, most authentic life. At Still Waters Counseling, we have added a team of wonderful clinicians & that means we accept children, couples & family counseling to our practice! Still Waters is a practice designed to be your safe space. Schedule with us today.
Now accepting new clients. I work with clients who struggle with self-esteem, relationship issues, anxiety & depression. I help them gain insight into how their past experiences effect how they interact with the world as well as overcome trauma, gain healthier coping skills, & improve their overall sense of self & live their healthiest, happiest, most authentic life. At Still Waters Counseling, we have added a team of wonderful clinicians & that means we accept children, couples & family counseling to our practice! Still Waters is a practice designed to be your safe space. Schedule with us today.
(217) 727-8275 View (217) 727-8275
Photo of Jennifer Walbridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Jennifer Walbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions in an individually tailored way to address issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment, PTSD and complex trauma. and attachment I will work with you to create a clear plan for goals we will address in therapy and the strategies that will help you achieve those goals. I believe in a high degree of transparency and accountability in the therapy process; I take a collaborative approach strives to ensure you will always understand the what, why, and how of our therapeutic journey together.
I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions in an individually tailored way to address issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment, PTSD and complex trauma. and attachment I will work with you to create a clear plan for goals we will address in therapy and the strategies that will help you achieve those goals. I believe in a high degree of transparency and accountability in the therapy process; I take a collaborative approach strives to ensure you will always understand the what, why, and how of our therapeutic journey together.
(309) 485-5909 View (309) 485-5909
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 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 Mary Jo Anastasia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Mary Jo Anastasia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning and growth. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. Through my experience, I have come to learn that counseling is most beneficial when possibilities of hope, healing, and action are developed through meaningful conversations. My focus is on helping clients manage their distressful symptoms, identify learned patterns and unhelpful ways of thinking, rewire their brains, reprocess trauma, and access their strengths to use as leverage to work through their upsetting events, fears, anxiety, and blindspots.
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning and growth. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. Through my experience, I have come to learn that counseling is most beneficial when possibilities of hope, healing, and action are developed through meaningful conversations. My focus is on helping clients manage their distressful symptoms, identify learned patterns and unhelpful ways of thinking, rewire their brains, reprocess trauma, and access their strengths to use as leverage to work through their upsetting events, fears, anxiety, and blindspots.
(217) 996-9531 View (217) 996-9531
Photo of Danae Gonzalez, Counselor in Charleston, IL
Danae Gonzalez
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Urbana, IL 61802
As a counselor, I have good days and bad days. I understand how it feels to go through turmoil, to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and experience the rainbow after a storm. Experiencing my personal traumas and personal victories has strengthened me to be an authentic and an empathetic counselor.I have learned that caring for myself is vital to my overall well-being. By caring for myself this ensures everyone in my life, including myself, receives the best version of me. I will not expect you to do anything I am not willing to do, and this includes being vulnerable.
As a counselor, I have good days and bad days. I understand how it feels to go through turmoil, to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and experience the rainbow after a storm. Experiencing my personal traumas and personal victories has strengthened me to be an authentic and an empathetic counselor.I have learned that caring for myself is vital to my overall well-being. By caring for myself this ensures everyone in my life, including myself, receives the best version of me. I will not expect you to do anything I am not willing to do, and this includes being vulnerable.
(217) 290-9172 View (217) 290-9172
Photo of Thomas Youngberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, IL
Thomas Youngberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, IL 62526
Hello! My name is Thomas Youngberg, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in mental health, at some capacity, for over 17 years, and have officially been state-licensed since 2016. My biggest passion is working with individuals, especially those with trauma (PTSD), so that they may return to their optimal living level of life. I strongly believe that we all inherently have the capability of change! Change is difficult, scary, and most of all, necessary to move on from whatever mental health barriers are keeping you from achieving all that you would like in life.
Hello! My name is Thomas Youngberg, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in mental health, at some capacity, for over 17 years, and have officially been state-licensed since 2016. My biggest passion is working with individuals, especially those with trauma (PTSD), so that they may return to their optimal living level of life. I strongly believe that we all inherently have the capability of change! Change is difficult, scary, and most of all, necessary to move on from whatever mental health barriers are keeping you from achieving all that you would like in life.
(217) 769-8087 View (217) 769-8087

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.