Across the country, May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to elevate the conversation around mental health, reduce stigma, and encourage individuals to seek support when they need it. This month serves as a reminder that mental health is a vital part of overall well-being and deserves the same care and attention as physical health.

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or life circumstances. Whether someone is navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or major life transitions, support and connection can make a meaningful difference. Therapy is one of the most effective ways to access that support.

Therapy offers a dedicated space to be heard, understood, and supported without judgment. Through individual counseling, clients can develop coping strategies, process difficult emotions, build insight, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. For some, therapy provides support during a particularly challenging season; for others, it becomes an ongoing investment in personal growth and emotional well-being.

At Independence Health & Therapy, we are committed to supporting individuals across all stages of their mental health journey through individual counseling and psychiatry services tailored to each person’s unique needs; as well as community support groups including, a Brain Injury Support Group and Caregiver Support Group.

In addition to the support group offered through IHT, Jenn Balleto, LCPC facilitates the Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Group (SOS), offered in partnership with the McHenry County Mental Health Board and the McHenry County Suicide Prevention Task Force.

SOS provides a safe, compassionate space for individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide. This group provides an opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences, process grief in a supportive environment, and begin to find meaning and hope alongside loss.

This May, we want to remind our community that support is available, healing is possible, and reaching out is a courageous first step. Whether through therapy, psychiatry, or support groups, you do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone.

This article was republished from our Spring 2026 Newsletter. Click here to read our full Spring 2026 Newsletter!