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LGBT therapists in Peoria, IL

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Peoria, IL

LGBTQIA+ individuals in Peoria can access inclusive mental health support through Headway's diverse provider network of 835 licensed professionals. We offer talk therapy and medication management with providers who bring warmth, cultural competency, and solution-focused care to help you thrive authentically.

Motunrayo Olooto

Motunrayo Olooto

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe effective care starts with creating a safe, judgment-free environment where you can openly share your experiences, concerns, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Linda Wickens

Dr. Linda Wickens

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Dr. Linda Wickens, a doctoral-level therapist and coach who works with individuals navigating stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and patterns that keep them feeling stuck while preventing forward movement and growth. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or frustrated that change feels harder than it should.

Therapy and coaching with me are never one-size-fits-all. We work collaboratively to create a plan that is specific to you, your goals, and your capacity, adjusting pace and structure as your needs evolve. I focus on helping clients understand their patterns, build emotional awareness, and develop practical skills they can actually use in daily life.

I hold a Doctorate in Social Work and am a fully licensed clinical social worker, with over nine years of experience in the mental health field. My work integrates evidence-based therapy with a coaching-informed lens when appropriate, allowing sessions to be both supportive and goal-oriented while still making space to explore the past and its impact on the present.

Clients often describe my style as warm, direct, and collaborative. As part of my concierge model, clients work directly with me rather than an assistant, and I remain accessible to my clients outside of sessions through secure communication when needed. I believe growth happens through understanding, compassion, and honest conversation, and that progress is most sustainable when care feels personal, intentional, and consistent.

Please Note: I do not provide couples or marriage counseling. I do not treat adolescents under the age of 21. Additionally, I am not able to treat clients who are experiencing active suicidal ideation or self-harm behaviors. If these services are needed, I encourage seeking a provider who specializes in these areas or contacting appropriate crisis resources if immediate support is required.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Shanita Brown

Shanita Brown

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


With over 20 years of clinical experience, I bring a compassionate, understanding and results-driven approach to therapy. My education began at Chicago State University where I received bachelor's degree and Jane Addams College of Social Work where I received my masters. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, mood, and personality disorders with clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll build practical tools and deeper insight so you can feel more in control and live your best life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Douglas DeRhodes

Douglas DeRhodes

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Western Springs, IL


“I provide individually tailored treatment in a safe and supportive environment that draws and builds upon each person's strengths, resources, wisdom and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Andrea Reed

Andrea Reed

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe people choose therapy because they want something in their life to change. Whatever the issue, change IS possible.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Kristopher Van Meter

Kristopher Van Meter

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Rooted in evidence-based practices, I approach our sessions with equal parts of common sense and kindness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
John Henson

John Henson

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“As a board certified psychotherapist, I have nearly 30 years of clinical experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and substance use disorders.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Grief or loss
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Anthony Wright

Anthony Wright

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I work with adolescents, men, and families who are navigating emotional stress, behavioral challenges, relationship dynamics, and major life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kelly Ambrose

Kelly Ambrose

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello, and thank you for taking the time to read about my professional background.

I graduated with my bachelor's in social work in 2013 from MacMurray College in Jacksonville IL.

I furthered my education at the University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign School of Social Work and graduated with my Masters in SW in 2017.

I have gained 13 years of experience with the majority of those years spent in psychiatric facilities for children and adults.

I specialize in motivational interviewing, DBT, CBT, and a multitude of other treatment styles.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shelia Ransom Jenkins

Shelia Ransom Jenkins

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello, I’m Shelia Ransom Jenkins, MSW, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience supporting adolescents, adults, couples, and families through life’s challenges. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach to therapy, creating a safe space where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered.

I hold a Master of Social Work and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and my professional background includes work in community mental health, educational settings, and clinical leadership roles. I have experience helping clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship and family conflict, behavioral concerns, life transitions, and stress related to work, school, and personal growth. I also have specialized training in perinatal mental health, supporting individuals experiencing postpartum depression and related mood disorders.

My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, and strengths-based interventions, tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative, practical, and rooted in trust.

Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, navigating a difficult transition, or seeking deeper self-understanding, my goal is to support you with empathy, clarity, and encouragement as you work toward healing and lasting change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Nechola Hodge

Nechola Hodge

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is supportive but direct, offering both empathy and honest feedback to help clients move forward.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lee Gilman

Lee Gilman

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi there, my name is Lee. I am a bi-racial, first-generation Vietnamese-American, and I believe the best therapy happens when we bring our full, authentic selves into the room. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. I have a passion for working with couples and diverse populations. My goal is to truly understand and connect, offering a space filled with warmth, radical acceptance, clear accountability, and—fair warning—the occasional painful dad joke.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Wytonya Byrd

Wytonya Byrd

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


Something feels off, and you cannot quite name it. Maybe anxiety is keeping you up at night. Or depression has made even simple things feel impossible. Or ADHD has been quietly driving your life for years. Whatever you are carrying, you deserve care that holds all of it. I'm Wytonya, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience, offering psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy in one relationship,

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Allyson Stephens

Allyson Stephens

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is highly collaborative, meaning we tailor our sessions entirely to your needs and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sam Shabsin

Sam Shabsin

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I bring an energetic, warm, and direct approach to therapy. I believe meaningful change happens when you feel supported while also feeling empowered to grow.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joan Paradis

Joan Paradis

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is pretty collaborative—I see therapy as a team effort. I want you to feel heard and understood, but I'll also gently challenge you when it's helpful.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Sherry Dockins

Sherry Dockins

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Welcome! Join me on a journey to reclaim your sense of self, direction and empowerment. As a person who has struggled with life's hardships, I am compeled to help others in these difficult times. My credentials include; Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC) and an Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP).

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Priscilla Huley

Priscilla Huley

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is calm, down-to-earth, and easy to talk to. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and other life challenges...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Leslie Wenning

Leslie Wenning

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is grounded in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which focuses on balancing acceptance and change while building practical skills for managing emotions, relationships, and stress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Bianca Conner

Bianca Conner

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I don't believe in one-size-fits-all care—instead, I work collaboratively with you to create a plan that truly reflects your needs, preferences, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Carolyn Lewis

Carolyn Lewis

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I hope to guide clients down a path of empowerment, increased functioning in their daily life, and achievement towards their goals, whatever that looks like for them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brocelyn Crowley

Brocelyn Crowley

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I try to meet each individual where they are at and one of my main approaches is Problem Intervention Evaluation (PIE).”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jill Sisler

Jill Sisler

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is warm, open-minded, and empowering, and I believe therapy should be a place where you feel understood while also making meaningful progress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jacob Bobrow

Jacob Bobrow

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Lincolnwood, IL


“I believe healing is about aligning mind, body, and daily life with the future you deserve and the goals you seek to achieve.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Stephen Baker

Dr. Stephen Baker

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I generally work with adult populations and have over ten years of experience working with the following client concerns: Major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, personality disorder concerns, stress management,...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Analilia Morales-Mackay

Analilia Morales-Mackay

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Much of my work aims to understand the underlying concerns that are causing stressful situations and maladaptive behaviors.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Olalekan Fapohunda

Dr. Olalekan Fapohunda

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Mokena, IL


“My goal is to help you get back to your optimal mental health by bringing you back to a place where you can do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people without any difficulty.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Cherie Truax

Cherie Truax

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Cherie. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR-trained therapist. I work with teens and adults who are feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Maybe you're constantly on edge, overthinking everything, or finding it hard to slow down. Or maybe you’ve been feeling flat, unmotivated, or like you're just going through the motions. These experiences often trace back to things your nervous system picked up on — ways it learned to protect you in stressful or painful situations.

I help people work through painful memories, low self-esteem, and the weight of depression—like feeling numb, exhausted, stuck, or hard on yourself. We'll explore the parts of you carrying that pain and move at a pace that feels right, whether you're ready for deep healing or just need a safe place to land.

If you’re feeling ready—or just curious—I’d be honored to support you on your healing path.

Outside of therapy, I love curling up with a good book, finding design inspiration (I have a soft spot for cozy interiors), caring for my houseplants, and spending time with my dog, Magnolia Grace—who may occasionally drop in for a virtual session cameo.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Laura Lewis

Laura Lewis

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Everyone needs help sometimes, not because they are broken, but because life can become too heavy to sort through alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes every person should have access to support that helps them rise to new challenges, cope with loss, manage the ups and downs of mood, and better understand who they are. I work with adults navigating grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, mood changes, life transitions, relationship issues, PTSD, trauma and the feeling of being stuck or disconnected from themselves. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel supported while we make sense of what you are carrying and create a path toward living your best life.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Shelly Lewin

Shelly Lewin

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


⭐ I’m Shelly Lewin, LCSW/LICSW, a therapist with 31 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, identity issues, and major life transitions. I provide virtual therapy across Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, New Mexico, and West Virginia, offering accessible, evidence‐based care to clients seeking meaningful and lasting change. I have 30+ years of experience in private practice and leadership roles at organizations including:

  • The Joint Commission
  • Northwestern Memorial Hospital
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Common Spirit
  • Mount Sinai Health System

This background allows me to offer deep clinical expertise paired with practical, real‐world understanding of how people heal and grow. My approach is warm, collaborative, open‐minded, and affirming. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for change, I’m here to walk beside you with steady support and clinically grounded guidance. I specialize in therapy for adults experiencing:

  • Anxiety & panic disorders
  • Depression & mood disorders
  • PTSD and trauma recovery
  • Substance use and addiction
  • LGBTQIA+ affirmative care
  • Men’s issues & identity exploration
  • Life and career transitions
  • Chronic illness & long-term stress

Additional areas of expertise include: Bipolar disorder, OCD, grief & loss, workplace stress, anger management, cultural/ethnic identity issues, expat adjustment, relationship issues, family challenges, and end-of-life concerns

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Heather Shannon

Heather Shannon

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I use a combination of psychoeducation, mindfulness and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients make changes at the root level.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Trevor Cavness

Trevor Cavness

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe care works best when it's a true partnership. We'll talk openly about what's going on, explore different options together, and build a plan that feels right for you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Nicole M. Heller

Nicole M. Heller

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Therapy is not about fixing you—it's about helping you better understand yourself, strengthen your relationships, and create a life that feels more aligned with your goals!”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Holistic, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Cherchaela Spellen

Cherchaela Spellen

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they pursue healing, resilience, and lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jennifer Kovachevich

Jennifer Kovachevich

Therapist

Virtual • Plainfield, IL


I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University. I have been working in private practice for over 10 years, helping adolescents and adults navigate life’s challenges and create meaningful, lasting change.

My areas of specialization include trauma and couples counseling, and I have a particular passion for working with women. I understand that women often carry many different roles and responsibilities, and sometimes lose sight of their own needs in the process. I enjoy helping women work through anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the many unexpected circumstances that can leave us feeling stuck or overwhelmed.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Matt Wolff

Matt Wolff

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is warm, relational, and grounded in both depth and practicality—and I'm a firm believer in the healing power of humor as a bridge to insight, connection, and hope.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Andrea Hansen

Andrea Hansen

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I think everyone deserves a space to feel comfortable and validated and I hope to always provide this with my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Mykel Wolfe

Mykel Wolfe

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I bring those values into every session... My goal is to guide you toward wellness and balance in your relationships, your daily life, and your sense of self.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Lisa Hines

Dr. Lisa Hines

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I have over 3 decades of experience working in the fields of mental health and social work. I work with youth, adults, and couples who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and school refusal.

I have spent my career learning and translating theories into practice with individuals, families, couples, and groups. For the last few years, I've gained deeper knowledge working with trauma, anxiety, couples, and the LGBTQIA+ population.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Gretchen Aich

Gretchen Aich

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Gretchen, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP, ANCC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from Lewis University. I work with individuals, teens, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, and substance use concerns, providing care in both English and Spanish. I bring experience from emergency departments, inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and private practice, and I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. I value collaboration and flexibility, tailoring each session to your needs so you can feel empowered to make meaningful changes.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Peoria, IL

Number of therapists serving Peoria, IL
There are over 819 therapists in Peoria, IL accepting new patients.
819+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 95%Depression
  • 92%Stress management
  • 86%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 99%Aetna
  • 95%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 86%Cigna
  • 85%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 66%Ascension
Languages spoken
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  • 99%English
  • 7%Spanish
  • 1%Hindi
  • 1%French
  • 1%Urdu
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 86%Online only
  • 14%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 73%Woman
  • 23%Man
  • 4%Non-binary
License types
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  • 49%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 32%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 5%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 5%Clinical Psychologist
  • 4%Full Practice Authority Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
Treatment approaches
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  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 39%Family therapy
  • 29%Couples therapy
  • 18%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.