Av Med Therapists in Illinois

Finding a therapist who accepts AvMed insurance can make accessing mental health care easier and more affordable. With 322 verified therapists in Illinois who accept AvMed insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as interpersonal therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, targeting areas like stress management, depression, or trauma to find a provider who aligns with your needs. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you receive quality care within your AvMed insurance plan.

Availability updated: 10/21/2026

Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+11
"Aloha! I help women (sorry, no men) who've done the inner work but still lose themselves in relationships rebuild embodied self-trust so they can stop overthinking, overgiving, and abandoning themselves-and create secure, healthy relationships. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, and I integrate traditional talk therapy with experiential therapies that aid in better nervous system regulation, healing, and overall relief of symptoms. Experiential, brain-based healing & somatic therapies can help accelerate change and often reduce time in counseling. I specialize in biologically based healing, which assists in resolving trauma symptoms that are frozen or stuck in the body. I have been in practice for 30 years, working in a variety of settings. I do not provide substance-use treatment or addiction counseling, and I am not currently accepting clts whose regular use of alcohol, cannabis, vaping/nicotine, or other recreational drugs is a significant part of their current functioning. In my personal life I am a wife, a mom of 4 young adults (2 are adopted), dog/animal lover, & divorce survivor. I enjoy spending time near the ocean, swimming, hiking, exploring in nature, cooking, writing, friends, music, worshiping, and learning/reading. I am licensed in Illinois (LCPC), and live on the big island of Hawaii 🌺 Originally from the suburbs of Chicago :) I see all clients (women only) via telehealth (self pay & insurance) **only accepting BC/BS PPO & UnitedHealthcare/Optum insurances & cash Education & Certifications: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) Master of Psychology, The Adler School of Professional Psychology Bachelor of Psychology, Illinois State University Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) DNMS (Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy-an effective form of EMDR to heal developmental trauma) Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) Transforming the Experience-Based Brain (TEB) Touch Practitioner SSP (Safe & Sound Protocol) provider- polyvagal strategies
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Racism
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. I serve my community as a counselor, therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American cities. I have encountered child, adolescent and adult challenges ranging from trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the soft and more concrete changes you are looking to achieve in your life. My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art, movement, and EMDR.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Empowering
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
Life Transitions
Parenting
Postpartum
+10
My name is Ana Vasquez. I am a mother, wife, Latina, and psychotherapist. Through my personal life experience and professional training, I can support you in an individual or couples’ psychotherapy process as you navigate life’s challenges from a safe, nonjudgmental space with empathic listening. My main areas of expertise in psychotherapy include: Attachment and Parenting: As a mother, I know that pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood can activate our own childhood wounds. Motherhood involves a transformation of the self and of the way we relate to our partner, our own parents, our support networks, and friends. In psychotherapy, I will support you through this process and help you find balance between your role as a mother and as a professional. Relationships and Family Challenges: Through individual therapy, I can support you in understanding the generational patterns that have influenced your past and current relationship choices. I can help you identify the non-functional relationship patterns you may have repeated over time that have not contributed to choosing or creating a healthy partnership. I can also accompany you in the process of creating and sustaining a stable, long-term relationship from an emotionally healthy place. Immigration: Migrating to another country involves a major life change that impacts us internally and challenges us on many levels. Migration often requires adapting to a new culture, a new language, new ways of being in the world, and new social norms. In psychotherapy, I will accompany you through the multiple changes and personal adjustments that emerge during this process.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+7
Debbie is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is 100% Telehealth, not providing in-person treatment at this time. She is a a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. She has provided counseling services to individuals, couples, adolescents and families since 1992. Debbie provides therapy for Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional families, blended families, codependency, communication problems, marriage, depression/anxiety, family counseling, infidelity, parenting & stress management. She has attended John Gottman conferences and uses the Gottman method with couples. She is an active, directive, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused therapist who has worked with diverse cultures, ethnicities, sexual orientations and religions. Debbie's approach focuses on empowering her clients with the knowledge they need to become more effective in managing life's challenges. The wounded inner child is one of her special interests. She is down- to -earth and genuine. She will challenge you, assign homework assignments, and suggest YouTube videos/articles/ TedTalks/Podcasts
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+6
With 17 years of experience in diverse therapeutic settings, I bring both depth and perspective to my work as a psychotherapist. My training is rooted in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with additional expertise in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, stress, and the complexities of relationships. I have a particular interest in supporting women’s mental health, drawing on my clinical knowledge and life experience to create a therapeutic space that is both compassionate and effective. I offer a mature, steady presence—one that balances warmth with skill—to guide clients toward growth, resilience, and meaningful change.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+3
I’m Timberly. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the person you want to be? I work with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and major life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and trauma-informed, creating space for you to better understand your experiences, reconnect with your strengths, and make meaningful changes at a pace that feels right for you. Therapy with me is tailored to your unique needs and goals. I draw from approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, strengths-based therapy, and solution-focused techniques. Whether you’re struggling with self-doubt, managing difficult emotions, or feeling like you’re simply surviving, we’ll work together to identify patterns, build practical tools, and develop a deeper sense of clarity and self-trust. I see therapy as a partnership. I’ll walk alongside you with curiosity, thoughtful insight, and a nonjudgmental presence as you make sense of your story, heal from painful experiences, and begin creating a life that feels more intentional. You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Together, we’ll work toward greater self-trust, balance, and a life that feels true to you.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+9
Hello! I am Connie Molina, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have over 8 years working with adults, seniors, families and teens in various aspects of their lives. I have experience in the medical field such as case management, palliative and hospice care, and also with youth in a non-profit agency in which I work closely with individuals struggling with variety life challenges. I use evidence-based interventions for seniors, adults, teens, that transfer well in virtual therapy. My approach will have focus, structure, and measurement of progress.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), my mission is to guide individuals on a journey back to their innate wisdom, compassion, peace, and confidence. I often think of the story of Michelangelo, who described sculpting as the act of chipping away marble to reveal the beauty already within. This metaphor beautifully captures the counseling process: together, we identify and remove the barriers obscuring your true SELF, allowing your inner brilliance to shine through. My approach is rooted in deep compassion for the human experience. I bring to our work a blend of trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices, enriched by certifications in Mind-Body Bridging, Cognitively-Based Compassion Training, and Cultivating Emotional Balance. I draw from powerful therapeutic frameworks, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindful Self-Compassion, and Compassionate Inquiry, tailoring each session to meet your unique needs.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Child or Adolescent
Foster Care/Adoption
Parenting
+10
I work with individuals, children and families and offer both long and short-term counseling. My approach is calm & thoughtful, but interactive. I enjoy utilizing a variety of therapy techniques so that each of my clients has a plan that is individualized to their goals. The work you do to learn about & make changes for yourself through therapy can truly be a rewarding experience.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+2
Through a client-centered, feminist, and trauma-informed lens, I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, empathic, and collaborative space for healing and growth. Therapy sessions will be designed based on your particular needs and your unique style of working, and are adjustable based on how you are doing the day of the session. I know that clients are the experts in their own lives, and that my work is to provide support while they are navigating their challenges.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+4
I specialize in trauma therapy, including EMDR, for adults who feel stuck in patterns they understand intellectually but can't seem to change. I work with clients navigating anxiety, relationship difficulties, perfectionism, low self-esteem, and the lingering effects of painful or overwhelming experiences. My goal is to help you understand not only what you're experiencing, but why these patterns developed and how you can begin to respond differently. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply relational. I believe healing happens within a safe, attuned therapeutic relationship where you can be honest without fear of judgment. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, I work with you to understand how past experiences may be shaping your emotions, relationships, beliefs about yourself, and responses to the world around you. I integrate EMDR, attachment-based therapy, psychodynamic exploration, and emotion-focused techniques based on your individual needs. EMDR can be especially helpful when you understand intellectually that something is in the past, but your body, emotions, or relationships still respond as though it is happening in the present. Together, we can explore unresolved experiences, strengthen your sense of safety and self-worth, and develop new ways of responding to yourself and the people around you. You don't have to have a single defining trauma or know exactly what needs to be healed before beginning therapy. Whether you're struggling with childhood experiences, relationship wounds, anxiety, overwhelming emotions, or a persistent sense that you're not enough, therapy can be a place to slow down, make sense of your experiences, and create meaningful change. I offer a space where all parts of you are welcome.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Warm
Specialties
Addiction
Couples Counseling
Trauma and PTSD
+9
I'm Seth Gruenwald, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Yes and Therapy, PLLC. I work with adults, couples, and families that feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them — in relationships, in anxious thinking, or in ways of coping that have run their course. My style is direct and collaborative, with a practical focus: I'll name what I'm noticing, and I expect us to build something useful together rather than just talk in circles. My clinical background spans child trauma work, family therapy, and years treating addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders, so I bring real range along with genuine curiosity about your particular story.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Warm
Specialties
Child or Adolescent
Trauma and PTSD
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have 11+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in different therapeutic settings who have various diagnoses and come from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I am also a certified life coach and I find great joy in working collaboratively with my clients and their families.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented
Specialties
Couples Counseling
Family Conflict
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hello, I'm Tracey. "Relationships often die not because of conversations that were had but rather conversations that were never had," (Lysa Terkeurst). Communication is the #1 most reported reason for couples to enter therapy. It is the "appropriate" way of saying, "he doesn't listen to me," and "all she wants to do is talk and talk, {nag}" or giving each other what I refer to as the "non-verbal abuse" {silent treatment}. It means I don't know my partner, or we can't talk without fighting. Yet almost every couple starts off communicating at some level. I mean, come on--you and your partner would not be a couple if the first date involved playing the "Staring contest" where the first one to blink loses. What we fail to recognize is that Communication is a form of Intimacy. And all other forms on intimacy hinge on protecting the communicative intimacy. So, what is that and how do I get some before we leave each other? Communicative intimacy refers to the deep emotional and relational closeness that develops through communication, where individuals feel understood, valued, and connected on a personal level. It is both a feeling and a process shaped by how people interact, listen, and respond to each other. It involves an aligned commitment to taking care of it and protecting it. So, time's a wasting and you both are out of options. You both need to commit to starting this before you commit to ending.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
LGBTQ
Personality Disorders
+9
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Indiana, with a license in Illinois. I received my Masters from Aurora University and I have been practicing for 5 years. I am a warm, empathetic therapist who helps adults become the best versions of themselves. I work to help people understand who they are and manage their various stressors, anxieties, and emotions. I use a strengths-based, solution-focused framework, I help clients recognize their resilience, build on what’s already working in their lives, and create achievable steps toward the future they want. I work with people from all walks of life and specialize in supporting those who are detransitioning or questioning a previous transgender identification. As someone who has destransitioned myself, I'm an advocate for you. I also work with personality disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and so much more. My biggest priority in therapy is honesty, as well as giving you a space you feel comfortable in so you can open up at your pace. I want to build a strong, lasting alliance between us so we can help you become the best version of yourself. I know that together, we are going to do great things. A little about me, I have a sphynx cat named Cupid and a black cat named Tofu. Behind me sits my spider, Marrow, who burrows and builds tunnels more than she spins webs. I also enjoy playing DND, I've been drawing since I was in kindergarten, and I play lots of video games, particularly fantasy RPGs.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+9
BQualls Behavioral Health Services, LLC's managing owner and Chief Clinical Officer is Brandi Qualls, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) and psychotherapist in private practice in Illinois, and has years of experience working with at-risk youth and families. She is also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Indiana, including collaboration with a team of medical doctors, psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, and community health workers in an integrated primary health care and behavioral health care center in a community setting.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent
Specialties
Coping Skills
Grief
Older Adults
+4
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois. I earned my MSW in 2005 from the University of Minnesota. I have supported many clients experiencing life transitions such as career and relationship changes. Additionally, I have many years of experience supporting people around aging, Alzheimer's disease, caregiving and grief. I am drawn to this work because I believe everyone deserves to feel understood and supported as they face the ups and downs of life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Warm
Specialties
Depression
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+2
In my experience as a counselor, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of individuals in various settings. I have worked with children and adults in the community, residential, hospital, and educational settings. In each environment I have witnessed the marvel of human potential firsthand. As a clinician I approach people and the work that I do from the belief that people have the innate ability to grow and heal on their own. My personal life experience and my practice have fostered this belief, recognizing that the process may require or be made more manageable with some assistance or a guide, in the form of counseling. Through my experiences I have witnessed the benefits of the human components that aid in the healing process of psychological symptoms that create difficulty in moving toward fulfillment and full integration of the human experience in the lives of many. The therapeutic relationship, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard are components that for me represent the core of therapy. These components create an experience in which someone can safely explore themselves, their experiences, the world around them, and identify solutions to ailments and the "true self" that is often altered by the world around us.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+9
Hi, I’m Dr. DeAnna (Dee) Brookhart. If you’re here, chances are life feels heavier than it should. Maybe stress won’t let up, anxiety keeps you on edge, or sadness has dulled your energy. Perhaps your relationship feels strained, or addiction has taken more space than you want it to. Whatever brings you here, you don’t have to carry it by yourself. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, Wisconsin and Utah, and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor with nearly 30 years of experience. Over the years, I’ve supported individuals, couples, and families through struggles like anxiety, depression, addiction, marital or couples issues, workplace trauma, and the challenges of blended family life. I also work with clients navigating personality struggles or the lasting effects of stress and trauma. My approach is warm and collaborative. We’ll clarify what matters most to you, set realistic goals, and work at a pace that feels safe. I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused strategies — always adapted to your needs. Sessions with me often include open conversation, practical coping tools, encouragement, and sometimes even humor when it helps ease the weight. I see healing as holistic. That means looking at not only your thoughts and emotions, but also how stress shows up in your body, how you connect with others, and how your daily habits shape your well-being. I work best with adults and couples ready to make changes, even if they’re not sure where to start. Outside the office, I love cooking, reading, traveling to the beach, and spending time with my family. I have ADORABLE grandkids! And of course Charlie, my Golden Retriever. If you’re ready to feel lighter, find clarity, and rebuild what matters most, I’d be honored to walk that path with you.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi, I'm Jackie. One question stays with me before every session: If I were sitting where my client is sitting, what would help me feel safe enough to come back? That question shapes how I show up as a therapist. Therapy changed my life because it gave me something I didn't know I was missing, a place where I didn't have to perform, explain, or earn my worth. That's the kind of space I hope to create for every person I work with. I don't believe people are broken. I believe people adapt. One quote has stayed with me for years because it captures that idea better than I ever could: "I lived in a glass house into which my mother could look at any time. In a glass house, however, you cannot conceal anything without giving yourself away, except by hiding it under the ground. And then you cannot see it yourself, either." I think many of us grow up in our own version of a glass house. Maybe you became the responsible one, the peacemaker, the perfectionist, or the person who learned to stay quiet. Those weren't flaws, they were ways of surviving. The challenge is that what helped us survive then doesn't always help us live now. That's where therapy begins. Together, we'll become curious about the patterns you've been living, not because I want to fix you, but because I want you to understand yourself. My approach integrates attachment theory, parts work, CBT, DBT, and nervous system regulation because healing isn't about treating isolated symptoms. It's about making sense of your story so you can trust yourself, build healthier relationships, and create a life that feels more like your own.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+3
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with six years of clinical experience working with adults and adolescents. I provide support for individuals navigating grief, anxiety, depression, career-related stress, and family or relationship concerns. I strive to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel safe, supported, and understood. Using evidence-based interventions and a collaborative approach, my goal is to help clients build insight, develop effective coping skills, and move toward meaningful and lasting growth.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Coping Skills
Depression
Grief
+10
Welcome to Tribe Works Behavioral Services where real talk is impactful and intentional. This space was cultivated to provide quality and working care to all that grace my path. I am committed to your mental health and overall wellness by taking the time to get to know you and understand your unique needs. My therapy sessions are tailored to provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore, heal, and grow. With a focus on empathy and understanding, I will guide you towards positive change and personal growth. My Promise To You: To provide sessions that are tailored to your unique needs, while addressing issues such as end-of-life, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. While using therapeutic interventions that aim to foster self-awareness, emotional healing, and personal transformation.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+6
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or like you just can't get everything done? Do you often wonder how everyone else seems to do it but you can't? Like you are letting people down or you are not enough? Do you struggle to find joy in everyday life or find it difficult to shut down the racing thoughts and enjoy the moment? If so, you have come to the right place. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 13 years of experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with families, children and teens, in residential substance abuse, private practice, adoption preservation and correctional settings. I have helped clients conquer anxiety, depression, burn out, mom guilt, process past traumas and find the coping skills necessary to live a balanced life. My style can be described as client centered, strength based and solution focused. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused therapy, mindfulness and solution - focused therapy, in combination with genuine conversation. I take a laid back approach as I believe in meeting my clients where they are and working at a pace that is comfortable for them. I know that reaching out for help can be scary but you shouldn't have to struggle alone.
VirtualAvailable
Open-minded
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Women's Issues
+1
Hi I am an LCPC, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been working with clients for almost 7 years. In a nutshell I help clients to better understand themselves, their histories, and why they do what they do. I help people figure out what they want, and find more effective ways to get what they deserve out of life particularly in the areas of relationship.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Holistic
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+7
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe healing is about more than reducing symptoms—it’s about helping you reconnect with the person you were always meant to be. If you’ve been living in survival mode, carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, know that healing is possible. My goal is to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel safe, heard, and supported as you move toward lasting emotional wellness. I provide trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy that honors the connection between the mind, body, emotions, and relationships. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, nervous system regulation, somatic practices, and Relational Life Therapy (RLT) for couples. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor treatment to your unique experiences, strengths, values, and goals, recognizing that every healing journey is different. Many of the people I work with have spent years putting everyone else’s needs before their own. They may struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing, low self-worth, burnout, unresolved trauma, grief, or feeling disconnected from themselves. Others are navigating difficult relationships, divorce, parenting challenges, or significant life changes and want healthier ways to cope. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that are keeping you stuck and begin creating new ways of thinking, feeling, and responding that support the life you want to build. Our work together will focus on understanding how past experiences continue to influence your present. We’ll explore the beliefs, behaviors, and emotional patterns that developed as protective strategies while learning practical skills to regulate your nervous system, manage stress, improve communication, establish healthy boundaries, strengthen self-trust, and cultivate resilience. My goal is not simply to help you feel better in the moment, but to help you create meaningful, sustainable change that lasts long after therapy ends.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in Illinois. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Illinois from Rockford to Springfield! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Illinois.

Yes! If you use AvMed you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have AvMed you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs. Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center.Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.