Last edited 03/27/2026
Identifies As
She / Her / HersWomanWhiteHeterosexual
Get To Know Me
What would be important for someone to know about working with you?
I work at your pace — not mine. Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, depression, or a life transition that's knocked you sideways, there's no agenda to move faster than you're ready. What matters most is that you feel safe enough to be honest — that's where real work happens. I'm direct without being harsh, and I'll tell you the truth even when it's uncomfortable, but always with care. Most people find that refreshing. I offer online therapy across Illinois and Indiana.
In what ways does your personality influence your approach to therapy?
I'm naturally calm — not in a detached way, but in the way that makes it easier for the people around me to breathe. That steadiness shows up in every online therapy session. When you bring something heavy into the room, I'm not rattled by it — I'm genuinely curious about it. I'm deeply empathic and warm, and I care about the people I work with long after the session ends. Whether you're working through anxiety, depression, burnout, or a major life transition, I bring the same quiet presence and real investment to every conversation. Therapy doesn't have to be somber to be meaningful — and I genuinely like people. That's not something you can fake for long.
What is your style/approach to therapy?
My approach is integrative — I don't believe one method fits every person or every problem. I draw from mindfulness-based, solution-focused, and strengths-based practices and tailor what we do to what actually works for you. Some people need to understand the roots of what they're experiencing. Others want practical tools they can use this week. Most need both at different times. I follow your lead while keeping us moving in a direction that matters. Sessions feel like a real conversation — grounded, purposeful, and focused on helping you build a life that feels more like yours.
Location
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Specialties
Specializes in
DepressionAnxietyWork StressLoss/GriefPanic attacks & panic disorder
General Expertise
Work StressRelationship IssuesSelf-EsteemSocial AnxietyAcademic challengesAddictionAbuse/Survivors of abuseAnger managementCaregiver stress & supportDependence issuesDivorce & separationPost-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Self HarmStressSuicidal ideation
Treatment Approaches
Strength Based TherapyMindfulness PracticesEclectic TherapyCognitive Processing TherapyNarrative TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational Interviewing
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Individual Therapy
Serves Ages
Adults (25-65)
Languages
English
Insurance & Fees
Insurances Accepted
CignaUnitedHealthCare (UHC)Cigna EAP
Cash Pay Rates/Out-of-Pocket
| First Session: | $150 |
| Individual Therapy: | $150 |
Professional Background
LicensureIllinois, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 149.029801Indiana, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 34012179A
Training/CertificationsCAMS
Education
George Williams School of Social Work - Aurora University, Master of Social Work, Clinical Social Work, 2003 — George Williams College of Aurora University — MSW
George Williams College has a long legacy of social justice-rooted clinical training, grounding me in both the science and humanity of mental health care. My thesis explored anxiety in individuals with chronic mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders — research that sharpened my ability to look beneath presenting symptoms and understand how anxiety weaves through even complex clinical pictures.
My internship at the Counseling Center of Lakeview from 2001–2003 put that training to work immediately in a high-acuity outpatient setting in Chicago, building a clinical foundation in working with clients navigating serious mental illness and dual diagnoses.
Work HistoryAfter completing my internship at the Counseling Center of Lakeview, I stayed on in a series of roles that gave me a comprehensive view of what it actually takes to support someone through serious mental health challenges. As an outpatient therapist I worked directly with clients week after week. As a clinical case manager I helped people navigate a system that wasn't always designed with them in mind. As a residential coordinator and program manager I learned how environment, structure, and support intersect with recovery in ways that one-on-one therapy alone can't always address. By the time I left in 2009 I had seen mental health care from nearly every angle.
From there I spent nearly a decade working in mental health advocacy — at the nonprofit, local, and state levels — working alongside legislators and community organizations to push for better access, better funding, and better policy for people who needed care but couldn't get it. That work gave me a deep understanding of the systemic barriers that keep people from getting help, and a lasting commitment to making sure therapy feels accessible rather than intimidating.
In 2018 I returned to what I love most — sitting with people and helping them work through what's hard. That full arc of experience is what I bring to every session.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Deborah Drlich, LCSW, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Deborah Drlich accepting new clients?
Yes, Deborah Drlich is accepting new clients for online therapy in Illinois and Indiana.
Does Deborah Drlich accept insurance?
Yes, Deborah Drlich accepts insurance, including Cigna, Cigna EAP and UnitedHealthCare (UHC).
What types of therapy does Deborah Drlich offer?
Deborah Drlich offers therapy for individuals.
Does Deborah Drlich offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in Illinois and Indiana can book Deborah Drlich for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Deborah Drlich offer online therapy?
Yes, Deborah Drlich offers online therapy via video sessions to people in Illinois and Indiana.
How quickly can I see Deborah Drlich?
Deborah Drlich typically can speak with new clients within 48 hours. You can see their current general office hours and request an appointment on their profile page.
What languages does Deborah Drlich speak?
Deborah Drlich conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Deborah Drlich online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Deborah Drlich online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.
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