LCSW
Debra (Debbie) Shepard, LCSW
Therapist in Illinois
Debra is a LCSW therapist in Illinois.
- 14+ years of experience
- Focus areas include Stress, Anxiety, Addictions
- Approaches include Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
See availability and next steps on BetterHelp.
About Debra
She has supported people facing a broad range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, substance use, issues common to emerging adulthood, parenting challenges, and career-related stress. Her experience spans both direct clinical care and supervisory roles, which informs a practical, informed approach to treatment.
Her therapy style is warm and interactive, and she tailors interventions to each client’s specific needs. She emphasizes solution-focused, strength-based work and draws on evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness to help clients develop coping skills and improve day-to-day functioning.
Debbie works collaboratively with clients to identify what is not working in their lives and to create realistic steps toward change. She encourages people who are ready to take that first courageous step and offers support aimed at empowerment and lasting progress. She looks forward to working with new clients and helping them move toward their goals.
Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care
Client-Centered Therapy focuses on the client’s perspective and builds on existing strengths. It creates space for people to explore their priorities, clarify values, and identify personal goals, which can be especially helpful for life transitions, self-esteem concerns, and relational challenges.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people recognize unhelpful thinking patterns and develop practical strategies to change behaviors and emotional responses. It is commonly used for anxiety, depression, stress, and coping with difficult routines.
Mindfulness Therapy teaches present-moment awareness and techniques for reducing reactivity to stress. Practices drawn from mindfulness can support emotion regulation, reduce rumination, and complement other therapeutic work.
Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. The therapist collaborates with each client to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting techniques as progress unfolds.
Online therapy offers flexible ways to engage in this work through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules, maintain consistency during life changes, and access care from different locations, while still working with licensed professionals to address personal and relational concerns.
Frequently asked questions
How much experience does Debra (Debbie) Shepard have?
Debra (Debbie) Shepard has 14 years of experience in the behavioral health field, including both clinical and supervisory roles.
Is Debra (Debbie) Shepard a licensed therapist?
Yes. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). License details: IL LCSW 149016627.
In which languages does Debra (Debbie) Shepard provide therapy?
She provides therapy in English.
Where is Debra (Debbie) Shepard located?
She is located in Illinois.
How can I work with Debra (Debbie) Shepard as my therapist?
You can work with Debra (Debbie) Shepard through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Debra (Debbie) Shepard work with international clients?
Debra (Debbie) Shepard does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Debra (Debbie) Shepard cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
14+ years
Credentials
Illinois
Languages
English