Book 100+ of the best Optum therapists in Illinois

Find the best Optum therapist in Illinois for your needs on Grow Therapy. Gro...

Kate Hindle

(she/her)

Kate Hindle, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome! My name is Kate Hindle and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing for about 9 years now and am a firm believer that the best way to help someone is to understand the person. Therefore, I take the time to get to know you, your struggles and goals to form a person-centered approach to our sessions.

Dr. Shelly Scamardo

Dr. Shelly Scamardo, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LP
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Shelly. I grew up in Michigan and completed my doctorate at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 2004. I have over 20 years of experience working with people of all ages with all sorts of issues. I help adults with anxiety, OCD and life transitions feel better quickly. Some life transitions that I help with can include adjusting to college, graduating and starting a career, marriage, career change, and having children to name a few of the areas that I help with.

Lakeithia Butler

(she/her)

Lakeithia Butler, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCPC
13 years of experience
Virtual
I am Licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with 10+ years of experience providing mental health services to adults and children with a multitude of clinical issues such as depression, anxiety, bi-polar, and other related disorders. I obtained my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from Chicago State University in 2015. I am trained in Complex PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder), ARC (Attachment, Regulation and Competency), Trauma Treatment, and SPARC (Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress), as well as an additional 40 hours of training regarding domestic violence and abuse. My background includes positions in residential settings, case management, and clinical counseling as both a therapist and as a supervisor. As a clinician I implement Cognitive Behavior Therapy interventions to help in a clients replace maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns with more realistic and proactive behaviors and thoughts.

Dr. Taliah Ziyad-Nau

(she/her)

Dr. Taliah Ziyad-Nau, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Dr. Taliah, Life sometimes leaves us unable to direct our attention. We're often being pulled towards many directions. If you have work, school, family or a recent life event you would like to process, I am here for you. If a recent life event has brought you distraction, grief or trauma and has you off of your game, let's get you back on track. I would be happy to support you in returning to your best self. Faith-based holistic approach, upon request.

Renee Smith

(she/her)

Renee Smith, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in working with children and adolescents. With a deep understanding of the challenges that young people face, I provide a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping strategies. My approach is child-centered, emphasizing empathy, patience, and trust as we work together to navigate life’s challenges.

Sabra Maurice

Sabra Maurice, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
30 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a mental health provider for over 30 years. I have gained knowledge through training and experience and developed a holistic counseling approach using mind, body, spirit and energy psychology. I am certified and trained in EMDR , hypnosis, and sound healing. I believe in finding a good routine of stress management and outlet and deep relaxation is very helpful. I enjoy working with individual adults college age on up. I combined some traditional counseling models such of solution focused, reality therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and behavioral therapy. I also provide relationship counseling and couples counseling. I work often with anxiety and depression. I work often with clients who have experienced trauma and clients who has experienced grief and loss. I typically help people by first healing the past, coming to the present, and helping them create the future they want. I believe everyone can heal and I want to assist in empowering people to be healthy and happy. I believe our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual are parts all need to be working healthy and together. I have worked with helping clients who have health issues and I am trained in holistic and integrative care. I help people be positive, confident , and feel balanced. I tend to be very easy to connect with and down to earth. I guide people and work with them to reach their goals human to human. I teach practical solution focused skills. I am honored to be a part of your growth process. I enjoy get to know people through the safe, sacred, therapeutic relationship. I will be here to teach, support, encourage, and give hope.

Eve Brownstone

(she/her)

Eve Brownstone, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
32 years of experience
Virtual
Eve Brownstone, LCPC, Certified Psychodramatist, is a Licensed Psychotherapist and Expressive Arts Therapist with over 30 years of experience. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, families, and groups uncover their inner strength, heal from trauma, and achieve personal growth. My clients are often creative souls navigating life transitions, trauma, codependency, or self-esteem challenges. Through psychodrama, expressive arts therapy, and trauma-informed care, I guide them toward greater self-awareness, self-love, and acceptance. The work we do together fosters resilience, emotional balance, and deeper connection to themselves and others, leaving a lasting, trans-formative impact on their lives.

Jessica Hrdlicka

(she/her)

Jessica Hrdlicka, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with 11 years of professional work experience, primarily working with individuals ages 3-25. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Jeri Howell

(she/her)

Jeri Howell, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
27 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
107 E North St,...
Hello!!! I am Jeri Howell a Licensed therapist from Illinois. I have a Master's Degree in Human Development Counseling and i have been practicing for over 25 years. I want to help people recognize their own strengths and build on the resilience they already possess. I work with individuals and couples as well as teens and young adults. I am available for telehealth and in person at the Be Well Therapy Center in Mt Sterling IL.

Sharonda Giles

(she/her)

Sharonda Giles, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Sharonda, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). Growing up in Chicago, I regularly witnessed individuals with mental health difficulties, addiction issues, individuals impacted by trauma, and those who were victims of violence. Many of them did not have guidance on how to heal or could not access helpful resources/supports. Because of that, I set my goal to be a valuable resource and advocate for anyone who may need guidance or support through their struggles. I have approximately 9 years of experience working in various mental health settings including; a substance abuse rehabilitation center; outpatient therapy facilities; within the juvenile detention center; with DCFS involved youth; Juvenile Trauma programs; and with Community Violence Intervention programs.

Amanda Berenguel Smolka

(she/her)

Amanda Berenguel Smolka, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been formally practicing therapy for 5+ years; though I've been an informal therapist for family and friends since my adolescent years. I work mostly with teens and families with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, by teaching DBT, CBT, ACT, and Executive Functioning skills. I have worked in an inpatient hospital and how work in a Partial Hospitalization Program while also doing private practice on the side. I am also a wife (since 2007) and mother (since 2011) so relationships, family dynamics, children with mental health concerns are also part of my daily life.

Ellen Rodman

Ellen Rodman, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Rehabilitation Counseling Psychology. I began my career working with severe trauma and persistent mental illness. This gave her a unique perspective on life and how quickly one can loose the life as we know it...and how wellness can suddenly elude us. To grieve loss and restore wellness, I believes a strong therapeutic relationship. I use a client centered approach in establishing rapport. Having worked in the most challenging neighborhoods of the inner city, I have seen the best and worst of human nature. What impressed me the most, is the inner strength I saw in people, under the most difficult of circumstances. It is this impression, this knowledge, that guides me to focus on an individuals’ capacity to overcome hardship, pain and despair. I use a holistic approach to therapy as I do not believe any one approach works for all, as each and every person is unique and different. I believe with compassion, care and empathy, one can be empowered to make the necessary changes to become more happy, fulfilled and to grow.

Jennifer Wolf

(she/her)

Jennifer Wolf, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi- My name is Jennifer Wolf, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I obtained my Master's Degree in School and Community Counseling from National-Louis University. I have experience in helping clients of all ages with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, career difficulties, and executive functioning. We all need a bit of support in our lives at one time or another. Reaching out for this support and finding a therapist is a courageous first step toward reaching your personal, professional or family goals. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

Nicole Diaz

Nicole Diaz, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have been practicing for almost 10 years. Over the past decade I have had the privilege of working with a variety of clients of various age ranges and personal needs. My passion working with clients is to help them strive to become the best version of themselves and reach the goals they desire.

Ariel Swanson

(she/her)

Ariel Swanson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am so glad you’re here - give yourself a moment for making it this far! I’m Ariel Swanson, LCSW. I’ve been in practice since 2014 in a variety of settings with a variety of people. I’m solution focused and want to work with you to create goals to work towards a healthy future. Think about what brought you here - divorce, mood deregulation, stress or life all together. I’m here for you.

Lauren O.

(she/her)

Lauren O., LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Lauren. Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in numerous directions, unable to say no or fit it all in? Are you struggling with substance use? Is it difficult to give yourself credit when credit is due? Are you your own worst critic? I can help you manage anxiety, build self-confidence and create realistic expectations. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. I applaud you for taking the first step by seeking therapy. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Karen Beatriz Rothstein Pineda

(she/her)

Karen Beatriz Rothstein Pineda, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
101 North Mario...
As a Latina and Jewish therapist, I see the need for therapists who can identify with intersectional identities. I work with people who are dealing with issues around their race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity. I support our clients in processing how being you in our society affects how you feel about yourself and ultimately your mental health. I want our clients to learn to appreciate the unique gifts that they bring as they process past experiences.

Xenia Jordan

(she/her)

Xenia Jordan, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed therapist (LMHC in Indiana, LCPC in Illinois, and LPC in Michigan). I received my master's in Counseling Psychology from North Park University in Chicago and have been practicing for 8 years. I help adults that are struggling with anxiety, have a history of trauma, or are experiencing perinatal mental health symptoms, to create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.

Guy Oberwise

Guy Oberwise, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
35 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 35 years of experience treating male and female clients ages 16-80 in individual and couples therapies. Treatment includes a broad range of issues relating to anxiety, depression, communicaton, life transitions, and improving self-esteem. My assessments include evaluating the clients Mind, Body, and Spirit and improving their lives to function at the highest level they ever have in their life.

Jeremy Pitzer

Jeremy Pitzer, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in a variety of settings for 20 years. I enjoy working with clients and families to build upon skills and resilience that will serve them in their treatment journey. I have extensive experience treating trauma, mood disorders, self harm / suicidal thinking, anxiety and addiction. I believe clients can and should thrive in the therapeutic experience.

Laurie Longfield

Laurie Longfield, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
Virtual
I would love to work with teenager, young adults, adults and older generations to help them navigate through difficult life transitions, anxiety, depression and grief and loss. My ideal client understands that therapy is a journey and is willing to show up for themselves wanting something different and better for themselves. My ideal client is committed to the work and confident they can show up for themselves and be able to see things in a different perspective and try new things that are outside of their comfort zone.

Laura Lewison

Laura Lewison, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a solutions focused therapist with over 20 years of experience. In this time, I have worked with people from all walks of life from those who have struggle with homelessness to CEO's of companies. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, family therapy, couples therapy and the lgbtqia+ community. My therapy style is cognitive, interactive, and compassionate. I will listen to you without judgement and together we will work to reach your goals.

Edward Pagella

(he/him)

Edward Pagella, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
35 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
24402 Lockport ...
I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 30 years' experience in helping individuals and couples overcome their issues and obtain their goals. I have a master's degree in counseling, and I am also a Forensic Expert Witness for the Federal Government. I am a Christian Counselor who will assist you through client centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also work as a sports motivator and can help athletes develop their ability to focus.

Karina Orozco

(she/her)

Karina Orozco, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hola, my name is Karina Rodriguez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW), fluent in English and Spanish, with a background of working with adolescents and families in various situations including inpatient hospitalization, partial hospitalization, residential facilities, private practice, and DCFS. You are the expert in your own life, and I strive to provide a supportive and safe environment within our therapeutic relationships. I look forward to helping and guiding you in developing new confidence, behaviors, and skills as we work toward achieving your goals. Currently, I have helped start a Virtual Partial Hospitalizations program where I provide group and individual therapy for adolescents struggling with mood disorders or who have severe school refusal due to anxiety.

Adam Woehlke

(he/him)

Adam Woehlke, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
I have been working in the mental wellness field for over 15 years. What I find to be most helpful is to build a relationship with people first, I utilize person-centered therapy at the core although I will work to alter the therapeutic approach to meet individuals' needs through counseling. While I might be skilled in the process, you are the expert on yourself, and I look forward to walking through therapy with you to identify areas of growth you would like to explore.

Kyle Kovski

(he/him)

Kyle Kovski, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Kyle, the therapist behind Emerald Reflections Counseling. For over 14 years, I’ve helped teens and adults work through some of life’s toughest moments—whether it’s anxiety, grief, trauma, or major life changes. I know how heavy things can feel, and my goal is to walk alongside you with empathy and care. My approach is person-centered, which means I focus on you—your strengths, your story, and your goals. Together, we’ll build tools to help you manage stress, feel more grounded, and move forward with clarity. With experience in both nonprofit and medical settings, I bring a well-rounded perspective to our work. You don’t have to face this alone—healing starts here, and I’m here for you every step of the way.

April Lacey

(she/her)

April Lacey, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is April Lacey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I see clients coping with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and self-esteem concerns. My approach focuses on fostering a strong collaborative relationship with clients to reach their goals. I value genuineness and believe in meeting clients where they are while treating everyone with respect and compassion.

Dr. Tony Salaam

(he/him)

Dr. Tony Salaam, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Tony Salaam, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I’m here to support you on your healing and personal growth journey. I have experience working with a diverse range of individuals who have faced challenges such as trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, and crises. My approach to therapy is positive and holistic, focusing on finding balance in your life through self-esteem improvement and self-care. I use various modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivation Interviewing, and Solution Focus Therapy.

Julie Schrader

Julie Schrader, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCPC
11 years of experience
Virtual
Whether you are struggling with relationships, work, anxiety, depression, or feel "stuck," you are no longer alone in your journey. Entering therapy is a brave choice, and helping you to reach your personal goals is my objective when partnering with you. I provide a safe, professional, warm environment where you can process your circumstances and make the necessary changes to live the life you want to live.

Jennifer Martin Rieck

(she/her)

Jennifer Martin Rieck, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
1117 S Milwauke...
Hi, I am Jenn, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Telemental Health Provider, and the owner of Epijennetics Counseling and Consulting in Libertyville, Illinois. Epijennetics Counseling is located just outside of downtown Libertyville off of Milwaukee Avenue in Forum Square. You can read more about my work and practice at www.epijennetics.com. As a therapist, I hold the belief that we cannot fully understand mental health without first understanding the impact of our stories, our relationships, and our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. I am passionate about helping clients increase their self-awareness of these things so that they are more in touch with their feelings, needs, and desires, and are more equipped with the knowledge and tools to create the life that they want. By utilizing assessments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to better understand personality and the Young Schema Assessment to explore harmful thoughts and beliefs that came from previous experiences and messages received during childhood years, I help clients discover hidden obstacles that keep them from having the life they dream of. I have found that when we put in the work to make sense of ourselves and our stories, we not only heal and grow ourselves but also develop more compassion and increased understanding of others. Often this growth and healing process lessens mental health symptoms such as anxiety and depression and improves overall quality of life, as well as relationship quality. If you are interested in doing some exploring, I would love to hear from you! (Please make an in-office appointment if you are booking Couple or Family therapy sessions.)

Maggie Wilson

Maggie Wilson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, i am EMDR trained, certified alcohol and other drugs (CADC) counselor and certified clinical trauma therapist based in Illinois. I received my master's degree in social work from the University of Illinois Chicago. I have 15 years experience providing evidence-based practice and care to a diverse group of clients. I work collaboratively with clients redefining mental healthcare and teaching skills to independently manage symptoms for long-term wellness.

Sarah Moses

(she/her)

Sarah Moses, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LP
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi. My name is Sarah Moses, MA, PsyD. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in a wide range of disorders and life stressors. I work collaboratively with my clients to meet their goals by creating a safe space so they can learn tools, gain insight, and become "unstuck" from the areas of life that are getting in their way of becoming their most authentic self. I conduct both short-term and long-term therapy depending on patient needs (some clients need a safe place to process and gain insight, others are looking for coping skills).

Charlene Mabins

(she/her)

Charlene Mabins, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and have been practicing for over 10 years and over 35 years in Life Coaching. I help adults who are between the ages of 25-75 that are struggling with chronic illnesses, Stress, life challenges. Clients will reflect on challenging situations and learn new coping skills to help them with their life's journey in difficulty times.

Sakina Crosby

(she/her)

Sakina Crosby, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Whether you're dealing with life stressors, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the unhelpful thinking styles, hang-ups, and habits holding you back.

Nicole Hooten

(she/her)

Nicole Hooten, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
You deserve an opportunity to feel supported by having your thoughts and feelings be acknowledged. Throughout the course of life, we may experience mental health challenges that arise unexpectedly. Allow yourself to heal from those challenges and grow towards the future with the support that therapy provides. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am invested in my clients whole self by guiding them into controlling their narrative and becoming their own author. I obtained my MSW at Governors State University in 2019 with a specialization in children and families.

Maria Meintanis

(she/her)

Maria Meintanis, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in the Chicago Suburbs. I have 10 years of experience working in Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization, and Intensive Outpatient programs with women with mood disorders, eating disorders and trauma symptoms. I balance processing the memories and beliefs that keep clients stuck with building tangible skills that can help them manage their emotions outside of therapy.

Holly Cizinauskas

Holly Cizinauskas, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
106 W Main St, ...
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with private practice experience, as well as on inpatient units in hospitals and advising students in high schools. I have a reputation for being empathic, an active listener, and having versatile ability to relate to others challenges. I have been recognized for building and sustaining trusting, positive relationships with my clients, along my use of humor to connect with others in session.

Kristina Vaughan

Kristina Vaughan, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
2 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Kristina Vaughan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas. I've been a therapist for 2.5 years, and an exceptional social worker for six years. I received my Master's Degree from the University of Houston. I help adults of all ages to heal from emotion dysregulation and self-sabotage patterns rooted in childhood trauma. I specialize in Bipolar Disorder and Impulse Control Disorders. If you feel like you've been living in a state of being an audience member, rather than the storyteller of your own life, then look no further. I'm the right therapist for you.

Sheri Williamson

(she/her)

Sheri Williamson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
I am an LCSW who has experience as a crisis counselor, mental health therapist, group therapist, and director of outpatient programs. I work holistically with clients to achieve overall wellness each domain of wellness. I have experience working with a variety of different diagnoses. I have worked with clients across the life span. I am dedicated to providing a customized approach that is considerate of a client’s circumstances.

William Ward

(he/him)

William Ward, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am William Ward. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in a range of settings, including outpatient care and law enforcement, which has given me a deep understanding of the complexities people face in different areas of life. I specialize in helping individuals work through anxiety, trauma, and emotional challenges using evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and EMDR. My goal is to provide a compassionate, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make lasting changes that align with your personal growth and well-being.

Shavone Williams-Moss

Shavone Williams-Moss, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Shavone Marie Williams-Moss, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I entered the field of social work largely because of my family background; I was raised by a single father while my mother struggled with substance abuse and mental health issues and could not perform her role as a parent. One day as an adult in my 20's, I saw my mother sitting on a bench on the main street in Kentucky. I welcomed her into my home only to discover she not only suffered from homelessness but bipolar disorder, major depression, and substance abuse. My mother lived with me for a year, after which she passed away. This situation made me wonder, what if, in her younger years, she would have met someone who was supportive, understanding, kind, selfless, and invested in helping her be the best version of her, she could be. It was then that I decided to enter the Social Work Field. I wanted to provide help to those who could not help themselves and aid to those in need.

Dr. Sean P. Meyer

Dr. Sean P. Meyer, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
I earned my doctorate and post-graduate master's degrees in psychology and my master's degree in counseling from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Professionally, I retired from the United States Air Force as a senior non-commissioned officer, and since retiring, have worked in several different behavioral health settings. In addition to my private practice, I am a graduate-level adjunct professor of counseling psychology.

Jeff Lewis

Jeff Lewis, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
11 years of experience
Virtual
I have a unique and creative way of utilizing different therapeutic tools to match my client’s needs and individual issues. My focus is to create a trusting and safe environment to enable my clients to explore their deepest feelings and thoughts. I rely on an empathetic and motivational approach, as well as on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and utilizing EMDR treatment.

Elexes Hetzel

(she/her)

Elexes Hetzel, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Are you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed, as if you have lost control over your own life and are unsure how to get back on track? It happens to all of us sometimes. Our minds can be our biggest enemies, where our expectations get the best of us. Allow me to collaborate with you in order to unpack your thoughts and emotions to gradually make adjustments to help you become a stronger version of yourself. Whether you are struggling with a life transition, pregnancy and postpartum, caregiving for a loved one, grief and loss, anxiety or depression; I will work with you to process and navigate through these difficult times. I will empower you to find your strengths and use them to make a little progress every day.

Dena Sidmore-Seyer

(she/her)

Dena Sidmore-Seyer, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Dena (she/her). I have 15 years experience and truly love my vocation! I enjoy empowering individuals to achieve their goals and live their best lives. I believe everyone has the ability to heal, sometimes we all need a little help. I am passionate about the power of therapy to aid people in living their best, most authentic lives. I live on the tristate border and provide remote therapy for persons in Illinois and Iowa. An Iowa native, I spent about a decade living and working in SoCal and Phoenix before returning to the Midwest to be with my (now) husband and step kids. Yes, I left sunny San Diego, in December, for the snowy Midwest! The things we’ll do for love! I have personally benefitted greatly from therapy. I am Bi/queer, have ADHD, and several physical disabilities, all of which were diagnosed after college. Therapy helped me develop much needed coping skills so I could be successful in grad school and beyond. Therapy also helped me with the intense stressors related to being a young professional during the Great Recession. I continue to utilize therapy as part of my self care routine. If you are coping with symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self worth, or concerns related to ADHD or chronic health conditions, I would love the opportunity to work with you. I would love to help you to achieve a present no longer overshadowed by past traumas, negative self talk, or uncontrolled anxiety.

Susan Pagels

Susan Pagels, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
We all struggle with obstacles that seem insurmountable but I believe everyone has the power within themselves to reach for the stars. Sometimes it takes baby steps and often we need someone we can trust to lend a helping hand. I will be there to listen and offer that hand. I am an empathetic, mental health professional with 20 years experience counseling children, adolescents and adults. . I welcome diversity and am experienced servicing the LGBTQ community. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Adriana Butcher

Adriana Butcher, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Adriana Butcher, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and growth. My focus is on helping clients navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use. With specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and certifications in domestic violence intervention, I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will create a safe, collaborative space where you can explore your feelings and work toward meaningful change in your life.

Rahmir Pierce

Rahmir Pierce, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Compassionate and dedicated licensed social worker who is devoted to empowering youth and adults. By having strong analytical abilities, it enables precise and effective assessment of diverse situations. I am resourceful and adaptable, skilled in therapeutic techniques and deep understanding of family dynamics. I am skilled in developing and implementing tailored treatment plans for clients grappling with psychosocial, behavioral, and health-related disorders.

Max Pardo Hornung

(he/him)

Max Pardo Hornung, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a licensed clinical social worker from Chicago, Illinois. I received my masters in social work from the University of Chicago in 2022 with a specialization in trauma-informed care. I work as a clinical supervisor at a community mental health agency on the souths side of Chicago. Apart from therapy, I am a musician, chicago resident, and a proud uncle.

Danielle Farmer

(she/her)

Danielle Farmer, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Chicago, IL. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa in Psychology, and then I went on to receive my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Valparaiso University. I'm a clinician who is dedicated to creating a warm, safe, and enriching environment for my clients. I understand everyone’s therapy journey is unique and I strive to ensure all of my clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Therapy is a space for you to explore your talents and strengths, identify barriers, and learn new approaches to cope with stressors.