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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Dr. Phyllis Mogielski-Watson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,PsyD,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Welcome and Hello, I am Dr. Phyl (Phyllis Watson, MS, PsyD). I am a psychotherapist, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor in Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado, Arizona, and Ohio. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor with over 25 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors. I have been a subject matter expert featured on National Public Radio (NPR) and local cable news. I offer psychotherapy and professional supervision services. Working with diverse populations, my areas of research and clinical specialties are in health, wellness, and medical concerns. I also help guide and support people through life stressors and transitions. I help clients with post-partum depression, grief and loss, women’s issues, multiethnic identity development, and generalized life challenges. I work with persons in recovery from Addictions and Substance Use Disorders. Other areas of interest are in working with student-athlete adjustment, life in balance, and mid-life challenges. From a strength based approach, my clinical work has allowed me to serve clients in a variety of settings where I embrace solution focused interventions with a humanistic and narrative approach to helping clients learn new skills and coping strategies. Informing my therapeutic approach, I allow clients to tell their story from their lived experience while creating action plans and goals for successfully moving forward. The therapeutic focus is on utilizing personal strengths, understanding perceptions, addressing obstacles, and setting goals for improving life experiences. My goal is to help clients find their purpose and live with meaning. My clinical practice motto is Love YOUR Journey ~ Live YOUR Life.

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Washington Cisco

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW/ LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSleeping disordersDepression
39 years of experience

I began working with children and youth in 1986 and continued until 2003. As indicated on my resume, I returned to working with a client base providing therapy to the children, and adult population in 2013 at an outpatient mental health facility. Presently, I am employed in the prison system where I am working with the adult population, 19 years old to 70 years. As therapist, I use a caring and supportive style with my clients, believing that they are coming because they need assistance in being able to function and cope with various stressors impacting each lives. My treatment approach is one of understanding and not judgmental. I understand that the client's self-determination is most significant in the counseling relationship. I believe that the client is the most important person in the session and hence in order to help, I need to listen to rather than to tell each what to do.

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Stephen Edwards

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with experience in the social services field for over 10 years. My passion is working with people to help them grow, reach their potential, set healthy boundaries with others, and know their worth. I enjoy working with men and women. I believe that there are times in life when a little extra help and support can be tremendous, and a therapeutic relationship can truly make a difference in a person’s life during those times. In regard to scheduling, I tend to schedule my meetings with people directly as I have limited availability. Additionally, I require video sessions to meet with clients that I am working with. Please be prepared to meet by video, be stationary, and in a private location. I don't complete sessions while people are driving or with others around to protect privacy and reduce the possibility of a distracted driver incident.

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Daffaney Burnside

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years of experience

I am a individual and family therapist licensed in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have specialized experience working in residential based treatment providing long term care-treatment as well as short term crisis outpatient-field work. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, abandonment issues, grief and loss, trauma, mood disorders, etc. As a child, I always wanted to pursue a career where I could assist with an individual’s growth, creativity and happiness. I learned at a young age the struggles that life can bring, not only through the inevitable, but also through situational traumas that we at times have to face and endure. Being an active member in the clinical field of helping professionals, I have certainly learned the importance of patience, empathy and peace. Identifying and securing ones’ purpose in life, creates the true masterpiece of one’s story. My goal is to assist you in your journey to self-actualization. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I meet my clients where they are using therapeutic approaches that will better meet their needs. I often use client centered, CBT, DBT and mindfulness therapeutic approaches in my practice. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when help is wanted and needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

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Kristen Wilson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida with 8 years of clinical experience. I graduated with my Master's degree in Social Work 14 years ago and have spent most of my professional career as a school social worker. Since residing in Florida, I have provided psychotherapy to adults and children while offering clinical supervision to candidates seeking licensure in Florida as a qualified supervisor. I have worked with students and adults with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, drug and alcohol dependence, grief and loss, and Bi-Polar Disorder. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Sarah Seely

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed clinical counselor in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients learn how to manage anxiety, depression, unhealed trauma and abuse, substance use and addiction, relationships and more. I also have 10 years experience working in crisis intervention: suicidal thoughts, self harming behavior and psychosis. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe its very cathartic to talk to someone in this space, to improve your insight and self awareness, empowering growth and change. 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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Katherine Nolan

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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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Crystal Epps

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am a licensed social worker in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jennifer Robart

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am a counselor dedicated to seeing others not only grow and heal but also thrive. I love to guide others toward identifying and accomplishing their goals, and my practice flows from deep empathy and care for those I have the privilege of working with. From 2018-2021, I worked with individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, and because of that, I have had the opportunity to focus on the many issues related to recovery including trauma and abuse, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, life transitions, anger management, and so much more! My counseling style is warm, conversational, and client directed. I strongly believe in meeting people where they are, and helping them get to where they want to go! I believe in creating an atmosphere that is judgment free and emotionally safe, because the best, most sustained changes happen when you are able to completely be yourself. Your past and present decisions and experiences do not have to define you; change is possible! You are the expert in your own life, and I believe that the key to success lies within you. Let's find it together. I look forward to working with you!

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Jennifer Garland

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issues
17 years of experience

I have been an individual and family therapist licensed in Missouri and Illinois . In my practice, I have served those coping with anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, parenting challenges, and a plethora of other issues. I have extensive experience working with victims of childhood abuse and trauma. I bring a strength based perspective to all situations. I believe that everyone has strengths they can draw upon to work through life's challenges and hardships. My therapeutic approach is a mixture of cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and integrative therapies. Everyone is unique and therapy sessions must be individualized as well. Reaching out for help is admirable and no easy task. I'm glad you have taken that first step and I look forward to talking with you.

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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