A mental health therapist is an individual trained to help patients deal with a variety of mental health and daily living problems in an effort to improve overall functioning. 

LCSWs have a master’s degree in social work as well as additional clinical training in sociology, growth and development, human behavior and social environments, psychology and research methods. LCSWs specialize in mental health theory and practice, and are licensed by the state of Illinois. Like LCSWs, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPC) undergo similar training and are licensed by the state. However, most LCPC's have a degree in psychology or related field.

Mental Health Therapists:

• Act as a neutral party who can listen and understand without judgment.

• Help you learn about yourself by pointing out patterns and giving honest feedback.

• Teach specific techniques and strategies to deal with problems.

• Can refer you to additional resources in the community that might be helpful.

• Provide a safe place to learn and practice social skills.

• Use psychotherapy to bring about positive changes.

What can a therapist help me with?

• ADHD

• Adjustment disorders

• Anger management

• Anxiety

• Autism

• Bipolar disorder

• Borderline disorder

• Conduct disorders

• Depression

• Eating disorders

• Low self-esteem

• OCD

• Problems related to employment, economic circumstances, social environment, family and/or support group

• PTSD

• Stress management

• Substance abuse

Psychotherapy is the use of psychological methods, particularly when based on regular personal interaction, to help a person change and overcome problems in desired ways. Psychotherapy aims to

• Increase each individual’s well-being and mental health

• Resolve or mitigate troublesome behaviors, beliefs, compulsions, thoughts or emotions

• Improve relationships and social functioning.

Common types of psychotherapy

There are many approaches to psychotherapy, all of which have their own strengths and weaknesses. Some situations call for a specific type of treatment, but sometimes it’s just about preference.