Therapy can be the first big step toward better mental health. If you’re interested in working with a therapist in Illinois, consider online treatment. Barriers to care, like transportation challenges or a lack of available providers, can make finding in-person therapy difficult. An online platform like BetterHelp can make getting treatment more convenient and flexible.

With BetterHelp, you can work with a psychologist, licensed professional counselor, or other mental health provider from your home at a time that suits your busy schedule. BetterHelp therapists can guide you through the therapeutic process and help you overcome a range of challenges, including working through questions about gender identity, managing the symptoms of C-PTSD, overcoming job stress, and learning to heal from the psychological effects of marriage issues, divorce, and raising children. 

Therapy can be beneficial for those having trouble coping with the bigger problems in the world at large or trying to find happiness in their own lives.  If you’re looking for an online therapist, IL has practitioners licensed to provide mental health care state-wide. Connect with one of the providers below to learn how online therapy can help you live a more meaningful life.

 

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Susan Sparks

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Through my life I have worked with children of all ages in a variety of settings. I have always had a passion to care for and help others. I have worked and volunteered in the community for over 35 years. I saw many things in the community that concerned me especially in the area of mental health. I wanted to make a difference by helping others make a difference in our world. I achieved my Master Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois in 2011 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2013. As a therapist I work with children, young adults, individuals, and families using a life approach tailored to the unique needs of each person. I use therapeutic strategies to help with behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and anger management, to name a few. I use research based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Mind fullness practice and Holistic Therapies. I believe that each person has the capabilities to meet and manage the challenges they face, some requiring more guidance than others. I believe everyone no matter what age has strengths that they can draw on. I offer support for individuals to overcome obstacles and to realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy and productive lives.

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Jessica Sance

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

My name is Jessica Noemi Sance, I am a clinical therapist with 11 years of experience working in the field of mental health. I am a firm believer that we all are trying our best in life and everyone can benefit in engaging with a therapist. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and guides clients to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to have a more meaningful life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ante/post-partum depression, HIV/AIDS, microaggressions, relationship challenges, self-esteem, domestic violence and trauma. I am transparent and down to earth. I enjoy being a safe place for clients to share their life with. In my down time, I love spending time with family along with food to share as well as, playing and dancing with my almost three year old son. I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Willie Harmon

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: PsyD,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesBipolar disorder
40 years of experience

I am an older male black therapist with a history of military experience. I have worked with teenagers and with adults. My approach is straight forward and solution focused. I am a great listener with a "can do positive" mentality to issues and problems. I am reality based and like to set goals for treatment. I am very drawn to couples therapy and enjoy working to find common ground, and/or highlight the needs for couples to determine the next step in their relationship. I have three male children, all boys, and enjoy my role as a father so I am always available to help improve someone's parenting skills. I have a blended family so I am aware of the challenges, dynamics, and issues associated with such a family model. I know that trust is essential for therapy to be successful. I will do all that I can to establish such a therapeutic relationship with you if you choose me as your therapist. Unfortunately , I have not had much experience working with the LGBTQ community . I am a licensed clinical psychologist and a licensed Clinical Therapist.

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Julie Setnan

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW,LSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Julie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who completed her Master of Social Work degree at the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1995. She is known for being a good listener, having an optimistic outlook, and for her compassion and kindness to others. Along with earning the credentials necessary to be a therapist, Julie also draws on a lifetime of invaluable experience and wisdom that she brings to her work with clients. As a committed life-long learner herself, Julie understands the courage it takes to step into this introspective work. She applauds your bravery in taking this step forward and considers it a privilege to create a safe space to process whatever issues you are facing. Julie has wanted to be a therapist for as long as she can remember and is happy to have this opportunity to do so. She looks forward to the progress you will make while working together. Julie checks messages periodically throughout the weekdays and can typically respond to them within 24-48 hours. She offers weekly sessions that can be conducted via video, phone, or live chat during several weekday afternoons. If this works with your needs and schedule Julie would look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

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Kristina Marquez

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Eric Crawford

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Angele Villalobos

Offering therapy in Illinois
Trauma and abuse
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Michelle Molina

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Mackensey Carter

Offering therapy in Illinois
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience providing psychotherapy to individuals. My work largely focuses on recovery & healing from past and present traumas as well as work around self-discovery, identity, and positive growth. I see my job as providing support, validation, & relational safety. You are an expert in your life and experience; therefore, my therapeutic approach is flexible so that each session can be client-centered and client-directed. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Kari Ross

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Illinois and Iowa with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 11,181,370 people live in IL, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Illinois support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Illinois?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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