

Peoria residents struggling with anxiety or depression can access compassionate mental health care through Headway's network of experienced providers. We offer flexible scheduling, free intake consultations, and support for stress management, cognitive restructuring, and behavioral activation tailored to your needs.
Dr. Opelt earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University after completing his Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology: Community Counseling from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. During his graduate training, he earned certifications in Trauma Counseling and Multicultural Knowledge Basis in Mental Health Practices, and a graduate minor in Integrated Behavioral Health. Dr. Opelt has completed postdoctoral fellowships in research in Rehabilitation Psychology, with an emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis, at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and in clinical Rehabilitation and Pain Psychology at MedStar Health National Rehabilitation Hospital. He has focused his clinical work on adults who have concerns about insomnia, cognitive impairment, addiction, LGBT+ concerns, caregiver support, transplants, burn survivors, cancer, musculoskeletal diseases like MS and Parkinson’s disease, and those who have amputations. He is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and Illinois.
I enjoy working with individuals through the journey of achieving the goals they have with counseling or even just helping them figure out their goals. I feel like individuals are who they are based on their experiences and that when we give them time to view experiences from a holistic view point, they will recognize that they are powerful.
Counseling is not something that is necessarily a quick fix, but you will hopefully walk away with some insight on how you can move forward in a positive and healthy manner.
I recognize the impact being a member of a marginalized group can have on someone and respect the needs of all of these populations. I look forward to answering any of your questions and assisting you on your journey.
Clients should know that I approach therapy with empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to understanding their unique experiences. I believe that meaningful change happens when people feel safe, supported, and free from judgment.
My work is also shaped by personal experience with depression and anxiety, which has given me a deeper appreciation for the courage it takes to seek help and confront difficult emotions. Because of this, I strive to create a compassionate and collaborative space where clients feel heard and understood.
I view therapy as a partnership. Together, we work to build insight, develop practical tools, and support meaningful, lasting change.


Headway helps you find calm with expert-guided support — from finding the right therapist or psychiatrist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
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