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.
Michelle Owusu
Hello! Congratulations on taking the first step to working toward resolution for challenges in your life. Reaching out for help can be difficult, and I can provide a safe space for you to discuss, explore and process your concerns. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the state of Illinois, and I have 10 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with individuals and families of various ages, races, cultures, and presenting concerns including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, grief/loss, LGBT, and life transitions. I believe building a trusting relationship with my clients through empathy and acceptance is key to assisting them with their concerns. I provide therapy based on my clients' needs to allow for self-exploration, offer useful tools to help work toward finding relief, and to create an optimum level of functioning. I am passionate about helping others, and I look forward to speaking with you!
Stacie Billingsley
Welcome to Better Help! My name is Stacie Billingsley, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I earned my Master of Arts degree, specializing in Human Development Counseling, from Bradley University in 2007. I've worked in different settings with individuals, couples, and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, addictions of all kinds, relationships/parenting and more. I understand that at times the stressors we face in life can become overwhelming and having someone to talk to or find support in can make a difference. I understand that at times the difficulties, stressors, and emotions that humans face can seem troublesome to overcome and having support during this time in life is important. You are welcome to message me anytime through BetterHelp. The frequency with which you can have access to a counselor to work through day to day emotions and problem-solving is extremely beneficial for most and a nice change from traditional outpatient counseling. I usually check messages twice each day Monday-Friday. I offer messaging, live chat, video, and phone sessions with availability Mondays-Thursdays morning, afternoon, and evenings. Please note that what you see in my calendar may not reflect my only availability, so feel free to check in with me to find a time that works well for you. One 30-45 minute live session a week through livechat or phone, followed by messaging back and forth on the platform tends to work well for many people; however, there may be times where this contact increases or decreases depending upon the person. I have experience in Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self-esteem, Career difficulties, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Grief, Depression and other areas. I look forward to working with you! Years of Experience: 16
Stephanie Harris
Welcome! My name is Stephanie Harris and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Vermont, but currently living in Chicago. I am happy to help you with whatever you are facing in life right now. I take a very Person-Centered approach to counseling. I believe you know yourself better than anyone else and ultimately know what is best for you. It would be my job as your therapist to help you discover what that is. I would also like to help you recognize your strengths and build your confidence. Together, we can work towards getting the things you want out of life and living with meaning, fulfillment, and joy. I work with individual adults and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, abuse, addiction, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and more. I have specialized training in helping people recover from trauma. In addition to using talk therapy, I am also an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, which can help people form new, more healing interpretations about their traumatic memories. Trauma can have a profound effect on how people view the world and relate to others, which is why a trauma-informed approach to treatment can be very helpful. I will help people heal from their painful and distressing experiences so they are able to feel more safe and secure in the world now. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Vermont and a Master’s degree in Counseling from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. I have experience working in private practice, crisis centers, in-patient hospitals, employee assistance programs, community mental health centers, and primary care clinics. I have worked with adults, couples, people with developmental disabilities, survivors of sexual abuse, people of the Latinx population, couples with infertility issues, and people facing deportation. I believe these experiences have helped me find multiple ways to connect with others and help them reach their goals.
Caryn Kelley
Welcome to Better Help. I hope together we can work to improve your life! My name is Caryn Kelley. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience in different settings. I have a Masters of Social Work from Arizona State University and have been certified as a LCSW since 1988. In my practice I have seen clients struggling with self-esteem issues, family conflict, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addiction and multiple medical issues. My approach utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Client Centered, Empathetic Listening, Motivational Interviewing and Supportive allow my client's the space to explore life issues, gain much needed clarity and foster confidence to make changes. Our time together will be a safe place to vent, allow yourself to experience true emotions and gain insight and ability to trust your own thoughts, decisions and plans. My counseling style will include time to get to know you, hear about your strengths and struggles, things that make you happy and areas that upset you. Then with a warm, caring style, we will further explore your challenges and concerns, perhaps offering a new viewpoint or path for you to follow to make changes. Sometimes having a kind, supportive person in your corner will be enough, other times some motivational conversation will be the flash point for change. I believe you have the inner strength in you, and with a positive, therapeutic relationship, can feel better. I am looking forward to working with you to support you in taking the first steps toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
Kristen Pavela
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor licensed in Wisconsin with over 5 years of experience working as a clinical social worker, psychocounselor and Substance Abuse Counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, other Mental Health concerns, relationship issues, parenting problems, Domestic Violence-both victims and predators, Anger Management, and addictions. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling 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, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic and person-centered, and strengths based counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Nicole Maronde
*Right now I am looking to fill my mornings, but if you are interested in another time of day please reach out! As a seasoned Social Worker with a decade of experience, I bring a compassionate and insightful approach to therapy. I obtained my Clinical Social Work License in 2020 after completing my Masters in 2014. In 2023, I earned a Doctorate of Social Work from Aurora University. My therapeutic practice is diverse, catering to adults, parents, couples, teens, and youth. Over the years, I've developed a specialization in addressing various issues such as Neurodivergence, Attachment or Relationship Issues, Family Dynamics, Workplace Burnout, Racial Stress & Trauma, LGBTQ issues, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Life Transitions, Parent Coaching, and Childhood Trauma. In therapy, I firmly believe that you hold the keys to your own healing and growth. My role is that of a supportive guide, utilizing therapeutic techniques to unearth the answers within you. Drawing from a rich toolkit of therapeutic approaches including Narrative Therapy, Logotherapy, Existentialism, Client-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Rational Emotive Therapy, Self-Psychology, Bowen’s Family System, and Humor Psychology, I tailor my methods to suit your unique needs and preferences. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, where you are empowered to navigate life's challenges with resilience and insight.
Kathee Foxan
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with experience working as a professional therapist in the state of Iowa for the last fourteen years, counseling clients with concerns regarding mood, anxiety, anger based, and personality disorder symptoms. I have worked as a therapist in a community mental health center for the last thirteen years and as a therapist to residents in nursing home settings four the last six years. In my thirteen years of experience, I have counseled people of all ages, stemming from the age of three, to my oldest client, aged ninety-three. I work with a particularly large amount of people in oppressed situations, including those struggling with; poverty, substance abuse/addiction, history of trauma, legal involvement, people of color, and those struggling with the loss of independence.
Luqretia Stuckey
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I began my experience working with individuals in families in 2003. I have the honor of working with all populations including children, adolescents, young adults, middle age adults, older adults and seniors. I am trained to look at situations in a holistic way, bringing people together with others & their communities. As a practitioner, I help individuals address personal & systemic barriers to optimal living. I'm determined to effect positive change with individuals, families, groups and entire communities. I have had the honor of helping individuals live with various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, high risk psychiatric conditions and personality disorders. My mission it to help individuals & families conquer their personal journey of connecting with their best self through their challenges & truly be honest & genuine with themself as they navigate their life.
Monica McCabe
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. 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.
Dr. Jenna Lebersfeld
Hi there. I know how challenging it can be to handle the stresses and difficulties life throws at you. I want you to know I am here to support you and walk this path alongside you. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Illinois with 8 years of experience working as a therapist. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, such as those with autism, ADHD, and behavioral challenges, as well as LGBTQAI+ individuals. I have also worked with clients with a wide range of other concerns including anxiety, family relationship difficulties, and parenting challenges. My therapy style is very warm, understanding, and collaborative. I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and I am an expert in psychology, so when we work together, we can figure out what will work best for you to help you live a life that is happy and fulfilling. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance commitment therapy with elements of mindfulness and meditation within the family and community contexts. 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! -Dr. Jenna
Dr. Bianca Clark
I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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.
Anna Evans
I am licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin with 24 years of professional work experience. I help clients cope with depression and anxiety, grief and loss, chronic insomnia, substance use, chronic illness and disability, caregiver stress, and life changes such as relationship loss. I have experience with and value working with first responders and other mental health providers. My training includes certificates in grief work, insomnia, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Engaging in therapy is a courageous act. I am here to support you with meeting your life goals.
Lisa Allen
I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. Prior to my most recent clinical experience, I have ten years of working in the Foster Care system 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!
Mary Jo Brill
I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience as a Social Worker. My experience includes helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & coping with life changes. My therapy style is open and welcoming, and most important, non-judgmental. I work with my clients utilizing a strength's perspective with the goal of support and empowerment for them. My approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic theory, and solution focused therapy. I treat each person individually, and create a plan that fits them. Making the decision to seek support through therapy is a big step towards having better outcomes in your life. I congratulate you as your journey towards change begins.
Dr. Teresa Moore
I am licensed in Rhode Island with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
How can therapists in Illinois support you?
Therapists in Illinois 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 Illinois, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in Illinois 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 BetterHelp does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why are many residents in the state of Illinois working 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 in Illinois, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
Mental health counselors in Illinois support clients with varying issues, which can include:
- 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
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. 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 featur
- 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 commonly asked questions can be found 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.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
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 in Illinois can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover 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 safe?
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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- Rockford, IL
- Naperville, IL
- Springfield, IL
- Peoria, IL
- Elgin, IL
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- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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