Therapists for Veterans in Illinois

Finding a therapist who truly understands the unique challenges faced by veterans and military families is crucial for effective mental health support. With 28 verified therapists in Illinois who specialize in working with veterans and their families, you can filter by therapy type (CBT, DBT, EMDR) and focus on issues like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and trauma to find a provider equipped to support those with military backgrounds. Each therapist listed is Grow Therapy-verified, familiar with the complexities of veteran life, currently welcoming new clients, and has availability within the next 30 days.

Rafiah Maxie-Cole

(she/her)

Rafiah Maxie-Cole, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$90/session
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
Congratulations! You are making an important step in your wellness! My name is Rafiah Maxie and I am honored to work with you on your goals. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have spent my entire career working side by side with clients on a host of issues, concerns or needs. I am a passionate therapist, invested in your goals and aim to help give you the tools to reach your goals. The journey can be challenging, I know this all too well after the tragic loss of my son by suicide. However, the destination is worth it. I look forward to meeting you soon.❤️

Todd M. Nelson

(he/him)

Todd M. Nelson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
4801 West Peter...
I look at my clients as already complete human beings. You are more than your problems, and not as simple as a textbook. I treat each of my clients as a whole and unique person, not as a set of symptoms. I help my clients build on their strengths, to create a better sense of wellbeing. Whatever challenges you are facing, whatever difficulties you are having, I assure you that you are worth being heard. You are worth being treated with compassion, in a nonjudgmental setting. I am here to help you find healing and wholeness.

Tom Youngberg

Tom Youngberg, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, My name is Tom, and I have practiced clinical Social Work for over a decade. I specialize in PTSD/trauma-related disorders. I have a family and enjoy gardening year-round. As a clinical social worker, I work from a strengths-based approach; meaning, I work with individuals' strengths to build a foundation of safe and healthy coping and problem solving skills, as well as assist in allowing for ongoing introspection.

Steve Guziec

(he/him)

Steve Guziec, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
215 W Elm St, S...
Hello, I'm Steve, a licensed therapist with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges and achieve mental wellness. With over 20 years of experience in corporate America and nearly a decade of military counseling, I bring a diverse and rich background to my practice, allowing me to connect deeply with clients facing a wide range of issues. I specialize in treating PTSD, combat-related trauma, military family support, work-related stress, and anxiety. One of my unique areas of expertise is in cult-related abuse, making me one of the few specialists in this field in the nation. My work in this area has garnered national recognition, including a feature on the Dr. Phil show. I also focus on men's therapeutic concerns, executive and leadership counseling, clergy support, and depression treatment. My approach to therapy is rooted in creating a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where clients feel genuinely heard and understood. I blend Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Gottman Method for couples to tailor my approach to each client's unique needs. By integrating these techniques, I aim to foster personal growth, resilience, and lasting change. In my practice, I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships and empowering clients to take the lead in their therapeutic journey. Whether you are dealing with trauma, stress, relationship issues, or personal growth challenges, I am here to support and guide you. Let's work together to chart your course to a brighter, healthier future.

Carolynn Brusseau

(she/her)

Carolynn Brusseau, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) working remotely. I got my MA in Counseling with a focus on forensic psychology from Adler University in downtown Chicago. I have been practicing since graduation in 2020 and have served in various areas including community mental health and private practice. I am also a veteran and love to serve the military and their families. My practice is currently in a phase of growth, and I am excited to expand my reach through an online platform. As an eclectic therapist, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. This flexibility allows my to draw from various modalities and techniques to best support my clients in their journey towards healthier lives.

Hiram Kirkendall

Hiram Kirkendall , LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Client's who are stuck or at risk and need to make positive changes in their life are the clients that I help the most. Clients will learn skills to make positive changes. Clients who are stuck will learn to remove the anchors from their live. Clients will learn to be forward thinking instead of living in the past. I have a master degree from Chicago state. I have practiced as mental health counselor since 2012.

Sarah Langlois

(she/her)

Sarah Langlois, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois. I received my MSW from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for 8 years. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and have expertise in women's issues, anger management, depression, anxiety, trauma treatment, mood, and personality disorders. Through my open-mindedness, I actively listen and empathize with my client's perspective, striving to understand their subjective reality. I embrace alternative viewpoints, questioning assumptions, and exploring different possibilities. I remain flexible and adaptable, adjusting my therapeutic interventions to meet the changing needs and preferences of my client. By embracing an open-minded approach, I encourage my clients to explore new insights, challenge ingrained patterns, and discover their own unique solutions. This approach facilitates their personal growth, self-discovery, and the development of a deeper understanding and acceptance of themselves. Ultimately, my open-minded approach in psychotherapy cultivates a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship, where both my clients and I are active participants in the therapeutic process.

Kari Ross

(she/her)

Kari Ross, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$175/session
LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed mental health counselor specializing in treating trauma. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole body and meeting each Client where they are in their journey. Together, we will not only discuss coping skills but also explore what Clients are doing for themselves outside our sessions. I believe in the power of self-care and the importance of nourishing the mind, body, and spirit. We will explore topics such as eating well, incorporating movement into your day, building connections with others, and overall wellness practices. Mental wellness is a journey, and my goal is to help you restore balance and begin to enjoy life again. I look forward to supporting you on your path to healing and well-being. Let's start this restorative journey together.

KC Caldwell

(she/her)

KC Caldwell, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Counseling is a natural extension of my wellness work. In addition to Anxiety and Depression, I specialize in Career Counseling, Women's Issues, and Spirituality. My role is to help you improve your mental health experiences. As a Licensed Clinical Counselor, I use Solution Focused, Spirituality, and Lifestyle Design techniques in my practice. There is no set framework for each client, as I tailor my expertise based upon your concerns. Our wellness work starts with a consultation, where we'll share our curiosities and expectations. During sessions, I'll help you explore the relationship you have with yourself.

Joan VanderSchaaf

Joan VanderSchaaf, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$127/session
LCPC
17 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
2100 Manchester...
Welcome! My counseling practice is in Wheaton, Illinois and I am also licensed in Florida. I have a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and a doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision. In addition to private practice, I serve as professor in the counseling graduate program at National Louis University in the Chicago area where I teach all foundational theory and research-based courses.

Paula Lawrence

Paula Lawrence, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
1011 Broadway S...
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider, Licensed Sex Offender Evaluator, and a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor in Illinois. I received a Master in Rehabilitation Counseling from Southern Illinois University- Carbondale. I have been working in the behavioral health field for 17 years. I help adolescents and adults who struggle with problematic behaviors that negatively affect their daily lives to learn how to become healthy emotionally and live up to their potential.

Chuck Ritli

(he/him)

Chuck Ritli, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCSW
31 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
13550 US-30, Pl...
I have been working in the field of counseling for over 30 years. I have worked both inpatient psychiatric hospitals and outpatient treatment centers. I have worked with adolescents in the past. I currently focus on older adults 42 up. Couples therapy. Anger Management. Although I am not certified in the state for working with sex offenders, I have an extensive history of work with both adolescents and adult offenders. As a disabled Army Veteran, and doing an internship at Edward Hines VAMC, I am aware of the barriers that veterans may experience. Working with Veterans from all branches is one of my passions.

Dr. Mary Wilson

Dr. Mary Wilson, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCPC
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I am a licensed therapist and have been in the field for 30 years. I have a doctorate in Philosophy with a focus of Psychology. I specialize in personality disorders, anger management, and trauma. My passion is working with adults that present with an array of issues including but not limited to anger, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, and criminal behavior. I have a lengthy background with couple counseling, effective communication, and narcissistic abuse.

Carol Ann Fletcher

(she/her)

Carol Ann Fletcher, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
Hi this is Carol. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in eight states. My career started in Pennsylvania where I attended Chestnut Hill College and received my Master's in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy Option. It continued in upstate Pennsylvania and New York where I attended SUNY University of Buffalo and received my Master of Social Work Degree. I capped those off with a Psy.D. from Cal Southern University, Magnum Cum Laude 2012. I hold an LCSW in PA, VA, NC, TX, and LI. I hold an LISW-CP in South Carolina, and LICSW in RI and MA. I facilitate stress reduction meditations once weekly on an internet platform for Mindful Leaders. I am a certified AADC in South Carolina. I am trained in EMDR methods including their substance and pain control protocols. All licensures and certifications are current.

Suzette Jacob

(she/her)

Suzette Jacob, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Suzette, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in supporting individuals through challenges such as sports performance, depression, anxiety, women’s issues, life transitions, and stress management. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space to explore your unique experiences and work toward your personal goals. My approach is tailored to your needs, helping you overcome obstacles and unlock your potential for a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Laura Nichols

Laura Nichols, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a board certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my MSW from University of Illinois and practiced in the clinical, workplace embedded, and deployed settings while on Active Duty Air Force for 16 years during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. I have recent experience treating first responder and veteran traumatic stress, general life stressors/transitions, depression, anxiety and insomnia. I have worked in addictions and family maltreatment outpatient programs as well as in community education and outreach. I have experience prior to licensure as a domestic violence victim advocate and sexual assault survivor advocate in the the state of IL, and in working with adults with developmental delays in a residential setting.

Joshua Eaves

(he/him)

Joshua Eaves, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m a licensed clinical social worker based in Illinois, specializing in anxiety, depression, and stress management, mindfulness, and working with veterans. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health, manage anxiety, and reconnect with their sense of purpose. As a therapist, I believe in a systemic approach, understanding that we all operate in an intricate web of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and how they relate to others around us. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), existential, and humanistic modalities to help you explore these connections and build a stronger foundation for growth. I take a collaborative and compassionate approach in therapy, recognizing that every person has both strengths and vulnerabilities that shape their healing journey. My goal is to support you in tapping into your resilience, finding clarity, and fostering a life aligned with your values. If you're looking to explore your growth or tackle anxiety, I’m here to help you move forward, offering services through a secure tele-health platform.

Amber Konopa

(she/they)

Amber Konopa, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. Thank you for the time. Life is quite the journey with many twists and turns that can make you feel stuck in painful experiences while forgetting the beauty that exists. I aim to create a safe, warm, and inviting space where one can discover their hidden strengths to overcome and prevail. There is not one thing or approach that gets a person into recovery or quality of living. Whatever is bringing you to step out of the cage and take notice to the discomfort around takes courage. I believe it’s a privilege to be invited into one’s most raw, vulnerable state and allow another to enter.

Oluwatoyin Olabisi Hines

(she/her)

Oluwatoyin Olabisi Hines, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$160/session
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Toyin is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years in the field of counseling. Toyin journeys with clients using a coaching style, psychodynamic approach, person-centered care, mindfulness-based practices, and integrative models including trauma-conscious yoga. Toyin utilizes Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the treatment of trauma, anxiety and depression. She also specializes in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure.

Brianna Butler

(she/her)

Brianna Butler, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$115/session
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am Brianna, a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of Illinois. I have been practicing for 4 years. I work with adults and teens who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, career challenges, family/relationship concerns, and much more! My goal is to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself! I look forward to supporting you on your journey.

Eric L. Dungan

Eric L. Dungan, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Eric Dungan and I'm a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Worker. I attended University of Louisville. I specialize in PTSD, Grief, loss, Depression, Anxiety, Marriage and Family and Anger Management. I have years of experience in the field of mental health care. I strive to help people attain their maximize potential in all aspects of their lives, using several different treatments modalities. All sessions are focused, to provide a nonjudgmental and objective environment to help the patient view their struggles with a new objective fair perspective towards themselves and other significant people and events in their lives.

Rick Rodgers

Rick Rodgers, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I'm Rick, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Indianapolis, Indiana. With over a decade of experience in both military and civilian mental health settings, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals through some of life's most challenging moments. My specialties include assisting those who are dealing with emotional dysregulation, feeling stuck in life, and battling substance use disorders. My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in the practice of comeditation, where I aim to forge a genuine heart-to-heart connection with each client. This method not only helps in stabilizing emotions but also plays a crucial role in breaking through personal stagnation and supporting the journey toward sobriety. I offer individual sessions tailored to each person's unique needs, where we work together to find balance, set achievable goals, and explore pathways to personal growth. These sessions are designed to be a safe space for clients to explore their feelings, understand their triggers, and develop coping strategies that resonate with their life experiences. Beyond one-on-one work, I also host monthly group sessions. These gatherings are not just about therapy; they're about building a community. Here, clients can find support, share experiences, and grow together, enhancing their sense of belonging and accountability towards their recovery and personal development goals. My background includes service in the U.S. Army National Guard, work with the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, and the Veteran Health Administration, giving me a broad perspective on the diverse challenges people face. I am currently enhancing my therapeutic toolkit with certifications in iREST Yoga Nidra, Yoga Therapy, and EMDR to offer an even more holistic approach to healing.

Toby Unterfranz

(he/him)

Toby Unterfranz, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$80/session
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I have been told, “you are not a typical psychologist,”. I take this as a compliment. It actually was one of my goals when starting out in wanting to do this work. After going through a year in which I suffered a traumatic brain injury and the loss of both of my grandmothers, I sought help. The problem was, I did not feel as if the person sitting on the other side of the room could possibly imagine what I was going through. When I finally did find a psychologist who I did believe could imagine what I went through, she died right when we had started to make some real progress. Although I suffered the brain injury, it affected me so much more physically than mentally. I made a decision to get my advanced degree in psychology and strive to bring my life experiences and knowledge together in order to help people. I work best with veterans and people with disabilities I have worked very successfully with people that have suffered brain injuries as I can, more than imagine but no exactly what you have gone through. I pride myself on being an insight, oriented psychologist. This means my own insight, as well as gaining insight into what my clients have gone through over the years. In the past 10+ years, I have worked fwith thousands of clients with many different cultural backgrounds. I have worked well with victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, cults, kidnapping, refugees, as well as 9/11 and mass shooting survivors. Although I have not experienced a lot of those things personally, after working with these clients, I do have some insight into what they went through.

Charles King

(he/him)

Charles King, LMFT - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
I am a husband of 13 years, a father of a 10 y/o neurodivergent son and a 6 y/o precocious daughter, a veteran of the US Navy with 12 years served, including 1 deployment, and a geek. I am what the Japanese culture describes as an otaku, in that I work to support my passions. In my free time I enjoy video games (mostly on Nintendo Switch), movies (all kinds, although my favorite is the 2005 animated Transformers movie), books (current favorite author is Brandon Sanderson), and spending time with my family.

Heather Brown

(she/her)

Heather Brown, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Struggling with personal issues with intimacy, connection, romance, or sexuality can be scary and confusing. Having the right someone to work with you to help you get through those times and situations can be rewarding. Whether it’s to develop a way out of a difficult situation, learn how to cope, or explore aspects of yourself I am here to work with you. My primary focus is on issues that manifest themselves in a sexual nature or have a sexual aspect to them. I assist clients in identifying, understanding and overcoming issues of an intimate nature with grace and dignity.

Megan Fletcher

(she/her)

Megan Fletcher, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$95/session
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Megan Fletcher, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about assisting my clients through life transitions and improving their quality of life for increased growth and self-discovery. I am passionate about working with clients through life transitions and getting to know ones self on a deeper level. I take a person-centered approach to my therapy, meaning assisting you as a partner in identifying and exploring what you want according to your likes, dislikes, and needs in therapy. I take a holistic approach to therapy utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness techniques, Accelerated Resolution Therapy for relief from anxiety, periods of sadness, and stress. I am here to help you make measurable, achievable, positive, and specific goals to support your day-to-day and overall improving your mental and emotional well-being. I have 16y of experience in the health and fitness industry, my journey to becoming a therapist was focused on treating the person with a whole health model approach. This includes the 8 dimensions of wellness. Our first session is a time for us to get to know each other, gather information to set goals and objectives, and plan for your therapy experiences.

Dr. Juliet Dinkha

(she/her)

Dr. Juliet Dinkha, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$160/session
LP
25 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
917 West 18th S...
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Illinois. I earned a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree and a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology. I have an extensive research background and have published two books on identity and resilience. In therapy, my foremost priority is your well-being. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space where you can openly express your thoughts, emotions, and concerns. I believe in the power of empathy and active listening to truly understand your unique experiences and perspectives.

Julie Sellner/Perry

Julie Sellner/Perry, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
23 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
1431 Lourdes Ro...
Hi I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and prior to that I was a register nurse. I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have seen people with all types of mental health issues and emotional issues and my goal is to help you find healing and the best version of yourself. I have a love for people and have been in the helping field a long time. If you are interested in knowing my passion and heart check out my website and what my calling is about https://www.mended-hearts.org

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Illinois rather than a city like Chicago?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. 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.

Will my therapist take insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on Veterans?

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. For example, your selected specialty, Veterans, is filtering therapists in Illinois that work with patients with similar concerns.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

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.

What to expect during your first session?

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.
Veterans Therapists