Start Counseling in New Lenox, IL: Overcoming Fears, Embracing Growth
When you are ready to start counseling, it is normal to feel overwhelmed before you even make the first call. You may already be carrying stress, anxiety, sadness, or uncertainty, and on top of that, you might wonder if now is the right time, what therapy will actually look like, or whether your concerns are “big enough” to reach out. At Davis-Smith Mental Health, we want the process to feel clear and supportive from the very beginning. Our team helps teens, young adults, parents, and adults feel understood, supported, and more equipped to handle whatever they are facing.
New Client
How getting started works
It can be overwhelming coming to counseling. Here’s every step, from your first call to the sessions that follow.
Step 1
Reach out
Request a session online or call (815) 409-5940 to schedule your first appointment.
Step 2
Fill out your intake forms
Your welcome email has everything. Finish the forms at least 48 hours before your appointment, on a phone, tablet or computer, and share your preferred times and therapist.
Step 3
We check your benefits
If you’re using insurance, we check your benefits before confirming your appointment, so you have a good idea of your cost before your first visit.
Step 4
Your first session
Check in on the iPad in our waiting room. Your therapist walks you through confidentiality, answers your questions, and gets to know you and your goals.
Step 5
Plan next steps together
Most people start with weekly sessions, at least three to build a connection, then adjust together as things improve.
Start Counseling Resources
We put these resources together to make starting counseling feel less overwhelming and more doable. Whether you are a teen, a parent, or a young adult taking this step for yourself, these links will walk you through what to expect, answer common questions, and help you feel confident moving forward.
Embracing Your Journey to Mental Wellness
Starting Therapy: From Anxiety to Assurance with Davis-Smith Mental Health
Starting therapy can be daunting. It can feel as though you are constantly going to be judged. What if I say too much? Will they think there is something wrong with me? These are typical questions people can have as they enter counseling services. Counseling though is meant to help you become a stronger you. Not to judge you for the choices you’ve made, the thoughts you’ve had, or the decisions you made. Every therapist on our team is a licensed clinical professional, and your first session is simply a conversation about you, your family and what you want to change. From there, individual sessions focus on building the skills that help you feel better day to day.
We want you to see counseling as a helpful tool in this difficult journey of life. No one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes (even counselors). At Davis-Smith Mental Health though we don’t want you to look at us as experts. We aren’t, we have tools that will help YOU find what you NEED and DESIRE/WANT.
We want our clients to dream big and not feel constrained. At Davis-Smith Mental Health, we want starting therapy to be an experience that exceeds your expectations. We are constantly looking to grow and find ways to make this the best experience possible.
“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.”
Abraham Maslow
Meet Our Therapists
We specialize in YOU. Our counselors want to get to know you for who you are and tailor the services to your needs.
Alexandra Morgan, LCPC
I work with teens and young adults dealing with anxiety, stress and low self-esteem. If you (or your teen) can’t switch off the worry, keep comparing yourself to everyone else, or are just really hard on yourself, I’d love to help. Sessions with me are relaxed and down-to-earth, and we’ll find the tools that work for you.
Michelle Verheyen, LCPC
I provide a space where teens, young adults, and adults feel safe to slow down, be honest, and start making sense of what they are carrying. Using approaches like EMDR, I help clients work through what words alone sometimes can’t reach. I hope that you leave each session feeling a little lighter and more connected to who you are.
Sidra Shoaib, LPC
I work with children and teens ages 6 to 17 who are dealing with anxiety, school stress, big feelings, and emotional regulation. Having worked inside schools as a school counselor, I know where that pressure really comes from. My goal is for every client to leave feeling empowered and optimistic about their future.
Danielle Moon, LSW
I work with children ages 10 and up, teens, and adults who are navigating anxiety, overwhelming emotions, behavior challenges, depression, low self-esteem, and everyday stress.
Jessica Davis, LCPC
I wanted to build a safe space for clients to come and grow. I am passionate about mental health and helping all clients learn their strengths. My firm belief is that the work begins the moment you step through the door. I hope that every client who comes into contact with us has a positive experience and knows 100% that we care!
Discover Your Strengths with Us
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Reach out to us today to take the first step toward a brighter, more empowered future.
Trouble seeing the form? Open it in a new window or call us at (815) 409-5940.
What People Are Saying About Us
5.0 Based on 6 Google reviews
“Davis-Smith Mental Health truly cares about their clients. The therapists are compassionate, skilled, and genuinely committed to helping you grow and heal. It’s clear that Jessica has built a team that shares her values and dedication. Highly recommend to anyone looking for meaningful support and real results.”
Kasia Budyn · Posted on Google
“Jessica provides a safe and welcoming environment for all the teens she sees. She tailors treatment to each teen and is incredibly patient and open to their needs. I have seen first hand the work she does and the connection she has with kids. I cannot recommend her enough as someone who will care for your teen and your family!”
Google User · Posted on Google
“Davis-Smith Mental Health is a trusted resource for providing compassionate, high-quality therapy for teens and emerging adults. I know confidently that clients are supported with empathy, professionalism, and respect. Jessica leads her team with integrity and intention. She clearly prioritizes the well-being of her staff, which allows them to show up fully for the clients they serve. Their commitment to the healing journey is evident in every interaction. I’m grateful to have them as a referral partner and deeply value their work in the mental health community.”
Sherri Wick · Posted on Google
“Jessica is a dedicated therapist and absolutely loves working with teens. You are able to feel the love from the moment you walk through the door. She and her staff will provide a safe and private environment for that one on one attention you deserve.”
Melanie K. Hall · Posted on Google
“Jessica and her team are so passionate and helpful! I would recommend this practice to anyone looking!”
Biljana Krzywinski · Posted on Google
Learn More About Getting Started
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You don’t have to figure this out alone
If something told you to keep reading this far, trust that feeling. Whether it’s for yourself, your teen, or your young adult, the hardest part is deciding to start. We are here when you are ready.
there is courage in change ♥
- Anxiety counseling for children, teens and adults
- Rated 5.0 on Google
- In-network with Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare and UMR
- Telehealth for clients in Illinois
- In-person in New Lenox
- EMDR therapy for anxiety and trauma
- We truly care about every client
- There is courage in change