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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Mary Brahm
ABOUT ME (I've been told that I'm "different" and "straightforward") Much gratitude from Mary Brahm, for checking out my profile. I am a seasoned Licensed Counselor who has experience in, Behavioral Health, and substance use disorders. My personal and professional experience has blessed me to travel and live around the world. What I quickly learned from the diverse populations I worked with, is that flexibility is the key to change and success. I use an “eclectic “approach, “meeting you where you are at”, while encouraging you to reach your potential. I believe that you are ready to improve the quality of your life, and know, I am here to help increase your desire and skills for internal and external fulfillment. I would be remiss, if I didn’t thank all my clients for teaching me at least one lesson. Working with servicemen, civilian personnel, retirees, and family members, for half of my career, has given me experience with issues for this special population. As a Marine Corps veteran, I certainly can relate to struggles with veterans. As a Civilian Counselor, I have been successful in Community Mental Health and as a Senior Therapist. I first look to develop trust with those I work with, and I believe that change will take place with both hard work and pleasure. In addition to being licensed as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor from Illinois, I am a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor with supervisor status and a Licensed Social Worker from Ohio. Post Graduate Relevant Coursework, Marriage, and Family Course Work. My additional interests expanded my knowledge and experience in obtaining the following certifications: Private Practice Certified Life Coach, 2013, Certified Telehealth Therapist 2019, Certified Hypnotherapist 2004, and Neuro-Linguist Programming (NLP) 2013. SPECIALTIES: Dual Diagnosis Addictions, Substance Use, Chronic Relapse, Recovery After Care with a variety of recovery programs, 12 Step Spirituality Counseling, Co-Dependency Coping with life changes Crisis Management and implemented in High School Shooting in OH Extensive Diversity training and working with cultures from around the world Sexual Assault Counselor, Prevention and Response Program Experience Motivation, Building Self-Esteem Also experienced in: Providing critical interventions, identifying triggers and intense feelings of personal distress including anxiety, depression, anger, panic and hopelessness or significant life changes for individuals and families. Conducting goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment, assisting both individuals and couples in changing patterns of thinking or behavior that promotes difficulties ranging from relationship problems. Coordinating and supervise psychotherapeutic interventions, educating clients on supplemental mental health services to improve overall quality of life. Delivered comprehensive therapeutic interventions for a diverse population of clients, utilizing biopsychosocial therapy to support wellness and aid clients in their journey to recovery. Leveraged a keen understanding of psychological, physical health and social effects of mental illness to promote holistic evidence-based practices. Individual, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Family, Multi-Family Groups, Severely Mentally Ill, Sex Offender and Group Counseling Clinical approaches: Authentic and solutions-oriented Counselor with a focus on integrated care and the use of evidence-based treatments to holistically address mental health issues including crisis, trauma, mental health disorders, substance abuse intervention, grief and loss and conflict resolution. Demonstrate a humanistic approach, leveraging experience as a veteran with 20 years of service, to encourage personal development as a way of learning skills and coping abilities needed to deal with life changing events. Modalities to offer: Video…... Live Chat…... Messaging…... Phone…... LICENSING: LPC # 1800006589 (Expires 2025-03-12)
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James Michehl
Licensed since 2008, James earned his master’s degree in education from DePaul University in Chicago. Upon graduating he was accepted into the community counseling program at DePaul University. James has worked with children (5-12), adolescents (13-18), young adults (19-24), adults, families, and couples. He has facilitated groups for Autism spectrum patients. He supports first responders including Firefighter Behavioral Health which assist in suicidal prevention for first responders. In addition, he works assisting police departments with Critical stress debriefings. As a trained mediator through DePaul University, James can assist couples who may have differences which require more than just couples’ therapy. James believes therapy is a joint effort between therapist and client. He has a proven track record of success as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and as your therapist, he is committed to provide you the best care possible. Every person is unique which is why there are many different treatments approaches available to you. James is committed to make every effort to provide effective care, your commitment is needed as well to achieve success. Together you and James will create a treatment plan that will be a roadmap to your successful journey. Any barriers to success will be discussed and the plans adjusted as needed. You and James will discuss progress and challenges in an honest, trusting, and confidential manner in order to achieve your desired outcome. James is a certified hypnotherapist and can help with the cessation of smoking, anxiety reduction, weight loss, and gaining confidence. In his spare time James is a wildlife artist and wood carver. His work is displayed in art galleries and online.
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Patricia Marchman
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, with over 20 years of therapy experience and a lifetime of wisdom to draw from, which is invaluable! I accept Live video, phone and chat sessions. I can offer clients a holistic psychotherapeutic approach using person-centered, solution-focused therapy. I work with adult women, men, and couples; LGBTQ welcome. Recovery & Addictions; Depression and Anxiety issues, self-identity and self-respect lifestyles, relationships, and other interpersonal situations. Witnessing the effects of suicide, I support the Prevention of Suicide through education and talking about suicide openly with all age groups. In working with clients and their families, I have discovered several techniques to address resistance and opposition towards change. Through the use of an eclectic approach utilizing CBT, Person-Centered, and Mindfulness, I identify and focus on maladaptive coping skills and gear therapy toward the development of new healthy and effective ways of dealing with life issues.
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Amanda Pearson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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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Renita Willis
Hello, and welcome! My name is Renita Willis, and I am a licensed therapist based in Illinois with over 6 years of professional experience. Choosing to seek therapy is a brave and significant step, and I want to start by saying how proud I am of you for considering this journey toward greater emotional health and well-being. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of helping clients work through a range of challenges, including depression, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, and navigating life transitions. I understand that life can often be overwhelming, filled with moments of unexpected change, deep sadness, or persistent worries. You don’t have to face these moments alone. My goal is to offer you the tools, understanding, and compassionate support you need to regain a sense of balance and fulfillment. In our sessions, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space where you feel truly heard and accepted. I believe that trust is the cornerstone of effective therapy, so I focus on building a strong, genuine connection with my clients. In this space, you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. Whether it’s unpacking complex emotions or learning new ways to approach challenges, I’m here to walk with you step by step. I use a collaborative and tailored approach to therapy that respects your unique experiences and strengths. We’ll work together to identify your goals, develop practical coping strategies, and create a pathway that aligns with your personal values and aspirations. My role is not to tell you what to do but to support you in discovering your own insights and empowering you to make meaningful changes in your life. I use an intergrative approach to therapy incorporating modalities such as emotionally focused individual therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy. I know that the decision to start therapy can feel daunting. It’s not always easy to open up and be vulnerable, especially if you’ve been carrying your struggles alone for some time. But I am here to remind you that it’s okay to take this step at your own pace, and it’s okay to reach out for help. Seeking support is a sign of strength, resilience, and hope for a better tomorrow. Let’s embark on this journey together, creating a space where you can heal, grow, and thrive. If you’re ready to take that first step or just want to learn more about how therapy can benefit you, I’m here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. I will be honored to be a part of your journey toward a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Come on, let's get started.
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Nancy Naughton
Hi, my name is Nancy (Nance) Naughton. I am licensed in Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief & compassion fatigue and many other areas. I believe that you are the expert of your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming issues that are challenging you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Thank you, Nance : )
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Brandi Binder
I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
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Kathy Branning
I am licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin with 30 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 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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Gloria Sanchez
I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Dr. Ebony Waller
I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, 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. I specialize in non-traditional therapeutic techniques such as hip hop therapy and mindfulness. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, registered play therapist and the creator of mindfulness vocal hip hop therapy. Mindfulness vocal hip hop therapy is a fusion of mindfulness, hip hop therapy, and collaborative therapeutic techniques. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started and being open to take on new perspectives!
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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
Popular cities in Illinois
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- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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