Find a therapist in Illinois — covered by insurance

I earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Work at Colorado State University and a degree in Masters in Social Work from Metropolitan State University Denver and hold my License Clinical Social Work. I have 5+ years experience working as a school social worker. I specialize in working with children and families of all different backgrounds. Through my work, I has helped clients communicate and regulate emotions more effectively. I believe therapy is most effective when clients feel empowered and heard. Therapy continues until clients feels ready and equipped to move forward independently.

Hi, I’m Jill Yerkes, a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 30 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs.

My primary interest involves assisting women age 50 and beyond in living the second act of life with clarity and purpose. Whether you are navigating the "empty nest," recalibrating your identity after a long career, managing the "sandwich generation" pressure of aging parents or the shifts of menopause, this stage of life demands a new kind of resilience.

Remember, we aren't just looking back at where you've been; we are looking forward at who you are becoming. Take that first step and contact me today.

Hello there and welcome!

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) dedicated to guiding individuals through life's complexities. With a passion for helping others, my goal as a therapist is to provide support for those facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns.

You are not what has happened to you. No need to unpack it all on your own.

Clients often describe me as approachable, practical, and easy to talk to. Therapy should be a collaborative process, and I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself without fear of judgment. My style balances support with practical problem-solving, helping clients gain insight while also developing strategies they can use in everyday life. Above all, I want you to feel heard, understood, and supported as we work toward your goals together.

I believe the relationship between a client and therapist is most important. It takes courage to show up and be honest about where you are and I take that trust seriously. My job is to show up just as honestly, and to meet you exactly where you are in this moment of your life.

My practice centers on helping people work through depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with care that actually fits their life. I've been in independent practice for about two years, and in that time I've found that the providers people stay with are the ones who listen well and adjust as things change. I'm a PMHNP with full practice authority, so I can manage medications and provide psychiatric services without a collaborating physician. I see clients via telehealth throughout Illinois, with flexible scheduling available Monday through Saturday. If you've been waiting to find someone who's approachable and genuinely wants to get you moving in the right direction, I'd like to be that person.

I am a social worker and grief counselor, with over 6 years experience working with bereaved clients. I am also a director of mental health education for a grief focused non-profit, creating programs that educate on grief & loss awareness. While grief is my main focus, I hold a special place in my heart for all life transitions, including job/career changes, spiritual adjustments/abuse, and relationship losses.