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photo of high-rise building Your Favorite (Mental Health Therapist) | Supporting Chicago's North Shore with Teletherapy

Your Favorite Mental Health Therapist | Supporting Chicago’s North Shore with Teletherapy

September 26, 2025
Blog, Mental Health, Telepsychology Services
Dr. Matthew Mandelbaum

Even the most accomplished professionals face emotional challenges that can quietly impact their daily lives and relationships. Whether you’re navigating high-pressure demands in law, healthcare, technology, or education, you may find yourself struggling with stress, anxiety, or emotional barriers that feel overwhelming despite your external success. Therapy can help with a range of issues, including disorders such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, OCD, and grief.

I’m Dr. Matthew G. Mandelbaum, a licensed psychologist providing evidence-based virtual therapy to clients across 43 states, including Chicago’s North Shore. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in helping highly sensitive, intelligent professionals manage the complex emotional landscape of modern life through personalized, trauma-informed care.

Mental health therapy isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about building resilience, developing self-awareness, and creating lasting well-being that supports your personal and professional growth. Therapy can also help improve self esteem. Through secure teletherapy sessions, I help busy professionals access comprehensive mental health support without sacrificing their demanding schedules.

My approach is holistic, recognizing the deep connection between mind and body. Therapy addresses both physical and mental aspects of well-being, supporting your overall health.

Let’s explore what working with a mental health therapist truly means and how virtual care can provide the meaningful support you need, wherever you are. The process begins by answering a few questions to help ensure you are matched with the right mental health therapist for your needs.

Understanding the Role of a Mental Health Therapist

A mental health therapist is a trained professional who uses evidence-based techniques to help individuals address emotional distress, behavioral patterns, and relationship difficulties. Unlike casual conversations with friends or family, therapy provides a structured, goal-oriented approach to mental wellness grounded in psychological research and clinical expertise.

In my practice, I work with clients to achieve several key objectives:

  • Assessment and Insight: We explore your thought patterns, emotional responses, and behavioral habits to understand what’s driving your distress. This process helps identify recurring themes and triggers that may be impacting your well-being.
  • Treatment Planning: Together, we develop a personalized approach that aligns with your values, lifestyle, and specific goals. This collaborative process ensures that your therapy experience feels relevant and meaningful.
  • Skill-Building: You’ll learn practical techniques for managing stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions. These tools become part of your everyday toolkit for navigating difficult situations with greater confidence.
  • Therapeutic Relationship: The connection between therapist and client creates a safe space for exploration, growth, and transformation. This relationship itself becomes a powerful catalyst for positive change.

Therapists help clients with a wide range of concerns, including addictions, marital problems, and parenting challenges, in addition to other emotional and behavioral issues.

Therapy is offered in various settings, including virtual and in-person environments, to best meet the needs of each client.

As a licensed psychologist, I integrate therapeutic approaches like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with trauma-informed care to help clients achieve lasting emotional clarity and resilience. My focus extends beyond immediate symptom relief to support fundamental shifts in how you understand and relate to yourself and others. I utilize different treatments tailored to individual client needs, ensuring the most effective support for your unique situation.

Mental Health Professionals: Understanding the Differences

The mental health field includes several types of professionals, each with distinct training, job roles, and areas of expertise. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about your care. There are a variety of job opportunities within mental health care, each with unique responsibilities and work environments.

  • Mental Health Counselors and Therapists typically hold a master’s degree in counseling, social work, or related fields, and have completed an accredited program. They provide ongoing therapy for emotional and behavioral challenges, focusing on specific life issues, relationship problems, and coping strategies.
  • Psychologists hold doctoral degrees (PhD or PsyD) and receive extensive training in psychological assessment, research methodologies, and advanced therapeutic techniques. They can provide therapy while also conducting comprehensive psychological evaluations and specialized diagnostic assessments.
  • Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health conditions and can prescribe medications. They often work collaboratively with therapists and psychologists to provide comprehensive treatment approaches.

Providers may work together as an integrated team to address both mental health and medical conditions when necessary, ensuring coordinated and holistic care.

In my role as a licensed psychologist, I combine clinical assessment skills with deep therapeutic expertise. This allows me to understand the full scope of your experiences while providing targeted interventions that address both immediate concerns and underlying patterns. My approach integrates multiple therapeutic modalities, ensuring that your treatment plan is both comprehensive and personally meaningful.

The 3-Month Rule in Mental Health Therapy Explained

You may have heard about the “3-month rule” in therapy—an informal guideline suggesting that meaningful progress typically becomes evident after approximately three months or 12-15 sessions. This timeframe allows for several important therapeutic processes to unfold. Talking openly with your therapist is a key part of making progress, as it fosters trust and helps address your concerns.

During the initial three months of therapy, clients and therapists typically work together to:

  • Establish Trust and Safety: Building a strong therapeutic relationship takes time. This foundation is essential for the deeper work that follows.
  • Identify Patterns and Triggers: Together, we explore recurring themes in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may be contributing to your current challenges.
  • Implement Treatment Strategies: We begin using specific techniques and interventions tailored to your needs, allowing you to practice new skills in real-world situations.
  • Notice Initial Changes: Many clients begin experiencing shifts in their emotional awareness, stress management, or relationship patterns during this period.

However, it’s important to understand that everyone’s therapeutic journey is unique. Some individuals experience meaningful changes earlier, while others with more complex challenges may require additional time. Factors like the severity of symptoms, life circumstances, and your level of engagement all influence the pace of progress.

In my virtual sessions, I help clients recognize measurable progress over time through consistent check-ins and collaborative goal-setting. Therapy also provides a space for clients to seek answers to their mental health questions, ensuring they receive reliable information and support. Rather than expecting quick fixes, we focus on steady development of emotional insight and practical coping skills that create lasting change.

Education, Training, and Licensure of Mental Health Therapists

Becoming a qualified mental health therapist requires extensive education, supervised clinical experience, and ongoing professional development. The path to licensure ensures that your therapist meets rigorous standards for competency and ethical practice.

The typical educational pathway includes:

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Usually in psychology, social work, or a related field, providing foundational knowledge in human behavior and mental health concepts.
  • Graduate Education: A Master’s or Doctoral degree in counseling, clinical psychology, or social work, involving intensive coursework in assessment, therapy techniques, and research methods.
  • Supervised Clinical Training: Hundreds of hours working directly with clients under the guidance of experienced supervisors, allowing new therapists to develop practical skills in a supportive environment.
  • Licensing Examinations: Passing comprehensive state exams that test knowledge of ethical guidelines, therapeutic techniques, and legal requirements.
  • Continuing Education: Ongoing training in new research, therapeutic approaches, and ethical standards to maintain licensure and stay current with best practices.

Licensed therapists adhere to strict ethical guidelines and maintain ongoing supervision to ensure quality and safety in their practice. Many therapists pursue additional specialized training or enroll in a specific program to work with particular populations, such as the elderly, who may have unique mental health needs. This specialized training can include areas such as DBT, trauma therapy, or stress management to better serve specific populations.

With advanced degrees in education and psychology, plus over 20 years of experience, I combine research-based methods with compassionate care to support each client’s unique path toward wellness. My commitment to continuous learning ensures that I can offer the most current and effective therapeutic approaches available.

landscape photography of high-rise buildings

Photo by Brad Knight on Unsplash

Therapist vs. Psychologist: What’s the Difference?

This is one of the most common questions I encounter from prospective clients, and understanding the distinction can help you make informed decisions about your mental health care.

Therapist or Counselor is often used as an umbrella term for professionals providing mental health counseling. Many therapists hold Master’s-level credentials and focus on helping clients manage life stressors, emotional challenges, relationship issues, and personal growth goals.

Psychologist refers specifically to professionals with doctoral-level training (PhD or PsyD) in psychological science and practice. Psychologists receive extensive education in psychological assessment, research methodology, and advanced therapeutic interventions. They can provide therapy while also conducting comprehensive psychological evaluations and specialized diagnostic assessments. For example, if you are experiencing a complex mental health condition such as depression co-occurring with substance abuse, a psychologist might recommend a combination of psychotherapy and medication, collaborating with psychiatrists and other providers to ensure a holistic treatment plan.

Both therapists and psychologists play crucial roles in mental health care, often collaborating with other professionals to provide comprehensive treatment approaches. The most important factors in choosing a mental health professional are:

  • Credentials and Specialization: Ensure your provider is licensed and trained in approaches relevant to your specific needs. The right provider will also have experience with your specific mental health condition.
  • Communication Style: You should feel heard, understood, and respected in your interactions
  • Therapeutic Approach: The provider’s methods should align with your preferences and goals
  • Professional Experience: Look for expertise in areas that match your concerns or challenges

As a psychologist, I work integratively—blending research, clinical expertise, and genuine empathy to create a therapy experience that’s both strategically focused and deeply human. This combination allows me to address both immediate concerns and underlying patterns that contribute to long-term well-being.

Meet Our Mental Health Counselor

I’m Dr. Matthew G. Mandelbaum, a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals create balance, resilience, and meaning in their lives. With the ability to support clients in 43 states, I specialize in working with highly sensitive, intelligent people—including professionals in business, tech, law, healthcare, education, and the arts—who are ready to live more authentically and align their lives with their values.

Over the years, I’ve served as a psychologist, DBT therapist, educator, consultant, and university faculty member, which has given me a deep understanding of both human behavior and the learning process. My practice integrates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other evidence-based approaches to help clients manage stress, regulate emotions, and build stronger relationships.

My approach is collaborative and compassionate, offering a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and goals. Whether you’re seeking greater clarity, confidence, or emotional balance, I’m here to help you transform challenges into opportunities for growth and lasting well-being.

Teletherapy That Meets You Where You Are

Virtual mental health therapy has revolutionized access to quality care, particularly for busy professionals who struggle to fit traditional therapy appointments into demanding schedules. Teletherapy provides the same depth, confidentiality, and effectiveness as in-person sessions while offering significant additional benefits.

For professionals in Chicago’s North Shore and beyond, virtual therapy sessions offer:

  • Convenience and Accessibility: No commute time or travel stress. You can connect from your home, office, or even when traveling for business.
  • Live Sessions: Real-time, scheduled live sessions allow you to interact with your therapist instantly from any device, providing immediate support and enhancing communication.
  • Schedule Flexibility: Easier to accommodate demanding work hours, family commitments, and unexpected schedule changes.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Many clients find they open up more easily in their own environment, leading to deeper therapeutic work.
  • Consistency: Maintain continuity of care even during relocations, business travel, or other life changes.
  • Confidentiality: Secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms ensure your privacy is protected throughout the therapeutic process.

At Groundbreaker Therapy, I operate on a private-pay model, which allows for greater flexibility, personalized attention, and treatment approaches tailored to your specific needs rather than insurance limitations. While I don’t directly accept insurance, I do provide documentation for potential out-of-network reimbursement, which many clients find covers 50-80% of session costs.

My approach to virtual care is rooted in creating genuine connection and therapeutic presence, even through a screen. Through carefully structured sessions and evidence-based interventions, I help clients develop resilience, emotional awareness, and practical skills for managing life’s challenges—all from the comfort and convenience of their chosen environment.

How to Know You’ve Found the Right Mental Health Counselor

The therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of successful outcomes in therapy. Finding the right fit requires careful consideration of both professional qualifications and personal connection factors.

When evaluating potential therapists, consider these important elements:

  • Professional Credentials: Verify that your therapist is licensed in your state and has appropriate training in therapeutic approaches relevant to your concerns. Look for specializations that match your specific needs, such as anxiety management, trauma recovery, or relationship issues. Some therapists also specialize in working with children and families, which can be important if you are seeking support for younger clients or family dynamics.
  • Communication Style: Pay attention to how the therapist communicates during initial consultations. Do you feel heard, understood, and respected? Can they explain concepts in ways that make sense to you?
  • Therapeutic Philosophy: Different therapists use various approaches, from structured, skills-based methods to more exploratory, insight-oriented techniques. Consider which style feels most appealing and appropriate for your goals.
  • Collaborative Approach: Effective therapy is a partnership. Your therapist should invite you into the treatment planning process, regularly check in about progress, and adjust approaches when something isn’t working.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: If cultural, religious, or identity factors are important to you, ensure your therapist demonstrates awareness and respect for these aspects of your experience.

My therapeutic style combines warmth with structure, emphasizing transparency, mutual respect, and client empowerment. I believe in working collaboratively with clients to map their unique path toward growth, celebrating progress along the way while remaining flexible enough to adjust our approach as needs evolve.

The goal is to create a therapeutic relationship where you feel genuinely seen, supported, and empowered to develop greater clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience in your daily life.

Private-Pay Care to Investment in Your Well-Being

At Groundbreaker Therapy, we operate on a private-pay model, which means we do not work directly with insurance companies. This approach allows for greater flexibility, privacy, and individualized attention—without the restrictions that often come with managed-care systems.

By investing directly in your mental health, you gain access to:

  • Completely confidential, personalized sessions designed around your unique goals
  • Extended time and focus—no rushed appointments or limitations on session length
  • Freedom of choice regarding your therapist, session frequency, and treatment approach

Many clients choose to use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to cover session costs. We’re also happy to provide superbills you can submit to your insurance provider for possible out-of-network reimbursement.

Your mental health is one of your most valuable assets. Choosing private-pay care ensures that your therapeutic journey remains centered entirely on you—your growth, your pace, and your long-term well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mental Health Therapy

How long does therapy typically take?

The duration of therapy varies significantly based on individual needs, goals, and life circumstances. Some clients benefit from short-term, focused interventions lasting a few months, while others engage in longer-term work to address complex issues or support ongoing personal growth. We regularly assess progress and adjust treatment plans to ensure therapy remains relevant and effective.

What can I expect in my first session?

Initial sessions focus on understanding your current concerns, exploring your background and goals, and beginning to develop a collaborative treatment approach. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and determine whether our therapeutic relationship feels like a good fit.

Is teletherapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Research consistently demonstrates that teletherapy can be just as effective as traditional in-person sessions for most mental health concerns. The key factors for success—therapeutic relationship, evidence-based techniques, and client engagement—are all maintained through secure video platforms.

How do I know if therapy is helping?

Progress in therapy often occurs gradually and may include changes in emotional awareness, improved coping strategies, better relationships, or increased life satisfaction. We regularly check in about your experience and use specific measures to track improvement over time.

What if I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help?

Previous therapeutic experiences that weren’t helpful don’t mean therapy can’t work for you. Different approaches, better therapeutic fit, or changed life circumstances can all contribute to more positive outcomes. I’m committed to understanding what hasn’t worked before and adapting our approach accordingly.

Personalized Care for Modern Professionals

Groundbreaker Therapy represents a different approach to mental health care—one specifically designed for discerning professionals who value excellence, personalized attention, and measurable results. My practice combines luxury-level service with evidence-based clinical expertise to create a therapeutic experience that meets the unique needs of high-achieving individuals.

What sets Groundbreaker Therapy apart:

  • Specialization in High-Performing Individuals: I understand the specific challenges faced by professionals who strive for excellence while managing complex personal and professional demands.
  • Trauma-Informed, DBT-Excellence: My approach integrates Dialectical Behavior Therapy with trauma-informed care, providing sophisticated tools for emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance.
  • National Reach with Boutique Service: Serving clients across 43 states while maintaining the personalized attention and refined experience of a boutique practice.
  • Private-Pay Model: Freedom from insurance constraints allows for longer sessions, flexible scheduling, and treatment approaches truly tailored to your individual needs.
  • Holistic Integration: Therapy that addresses not just mental health symptoms but also supports spiritual well-being, emotional regulation, and healthier cognitive patterns.

My mission is to help you move beyond simply coping with challenges to developing genuine resilience, self-awareness, and the capacity for intentional life design. Whether you’re navigating career transitions, relationship challenges, or seeking greater emotional clarity, our work together is designed to create lasting transformation.

the chicago sign is displayed in front of a building

Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash

Take the Next Step Toward Mental Wellness

Your journey toward greater emotional resilience and well-being begins with a single decision to prioritize your mental health. If you’re ready to move beyond current limitations and develop the clarity, confidence, and emotional skills that support both personal and professional success, I’m here to guide and support you.

Groundbreaker Therapy offers more than traditional counseling—it’s an investment in your long-term well-being and personal growth. Through compassionate, evidence-based care delivered via secure teletherapy sessions, we’ll work together to address your unique challenges and build the foundation for a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Don’t let another day pass feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Schedule your teletherapy consultation today and take the first step toward the clarity, purpose, and emotional balance you deserve. Your future self will thank you for the courage to begin this important journey.

National & Professional Mental Health Resources