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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Marissa Harris

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,BCD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with specialization in addictions (substance use and sexual disorders), trauma and emotional conditions, LGBTQ concerns, depression, anxiety, relationship and parenting concerns, vocational challenges, legal issues, and serious mental health illnesses. Since I started in the field in 1998, I have always known I would be a counselor. Growing up, it came naturally to me to be compassionate, empathetic, and to listen with a non-judgmental stance. Over the past 20 years, I have helped hundreds of individuals improve their lifestyles through my work and passion for helping. What I love the most about working as a therapist is being apart of those quantum change insights; the ones that involve a shift in perception and the realization of a new life. It can be as simple as looking at ones self in a positive light, realizing they are capable of change. Recovery is about self-discovery, rediscovering the parts that you believe have become disconnected or lost. Authentic recovery allows you to achieve peace and satisfaction with your life. This starts with positive connections. I am here to guide you in the path of healing the root cause of your stress. With positive and loving connection, I will honor your path towards fulfillment. Currently as of 5/14/2020, I am no longer taking new clients due to a full schedule.

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Luanne Maniacek

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsGriefDepression
40 years of experience

Hello! I applaud you for taking this step to move forward in your life seeking alternative solutions and support. My name is Luanne Maniacek and I have over 25 years of experience helping those motivated who struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions or those of family members, co-dependency, and care giving concerns. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and Certified Alcohol and Drug Addictions Counselor, I’ve worked successfully with a wide spectrum of age groups, cultural back grounds, sexual orientation, and beliefs. I also have experience supervising graduate level therapist interns and therapist counselors working in community mental health centers as well as leading crisis intervention teams. My approach to therapy is strength based. I’d like to help you identify and capitalize on your strengths and find ways create new resources and skills in order to overcome your struggles. I use Interpersonal and Humanistic Modalities of treatment. For those struggling with addictions, I encourage either a disease model or harm reduction, whichever is clinically appropriate. My style is empathic and supportive, yet I'll challenge you at times, to promote your growth and movement towards positive change and success. I’m highly skilled at Motivation Interviewing and "listening between the words." In working with you, my first priority is coming to a complete understanding of your perspective, struggles, history, style, expectations, goals, and needs in therapist. Moving forward, open communication about your progress is vital, essential, and ongoing. Let’s get started working together!

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Sheila Funk-Jansen

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sheila Funk-Jansen. I am a licensed clinical therapist in Iowa and Illinois. I graduated with my MSW in social work in 2003 from University of Missouri-Columbia. I have worked with a variety of courageous people in my journey to help them be more vulnerable, brave, and resilient. For the last 25+ years, I I have worked with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, family conflicts, and many other areas of life. I believe people have the resiliency to move the barriers that life presents to us. Life is all about learning. Learning about ourselves and giving up our comforts in life are scary even if they are unhealthy. Each person is unique and I am here to start where you are at in your journey. I utilize therapy approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focus Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing along with utilizing other modalities. The client and therapist's alliance is crucial in providing a safe, non judgmental space to be open and vulnerable to see their potential and resiliency to grow when experiencing hurt and pain. I see people through the week along with some weekends. I work with schedules as much as I can to help get people in sooner when needed. I look forward in working with you. Sheila

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Dr. Bernice Young

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
26 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in Illinois. I have worked in the field of counseling for 26 years. My experience is diverse in working with individuals, parents, individuals on parole and probation, and adults seeking strategies for change. I have held a dual career for nearly 20 years as a 911 operator and understand the challenges faced by first responders as well. I am a PhD candidate with research specific to African American men and strategies for success. My work as a psychotherapist include helping people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, parenting challenges, motivation and career challenges, race-based trauma, and beyond. I often work with high profile clients and understand the importance of your privacy in seeking therapy. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I truly enjoy helping people while treating everyone with respect and meeting them where they are. Together, we will establish goals that meet your needs. My counseling approach is based on the personality and need of the client, which include cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, existential therapy, reality therapy, client-centered, and solution-focused. I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: PhD,MA,LPC
Trauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I have provided clinical care for over 11 years. I find this career very personally and professionally meaningful! I am also very passionate to help my clients find meaning in their lives, healing in their struggles, and confidence in themselves! Specifically, I work from an Existential, Client-Centered Approach. One of the foundational concepts that guides my work includes that "the best counseling happens, not just in, but outside of sessions." In other words, I hope to help provide my clients with metaphorical tools and the confidence to believe in themselves to tackle their issues. I have worked with many clients including clients with depression, anxiety, legal issues, relationship problems, experiencing trauma and grief, and clients who identify in the LGBTQIA+ population. I specifically facilitated group counseling for two years for clients who identified as transgender and experienced oppression in the Chicagoland area. I have worked in telehealth counseling for about three years, as well. If you are in need of genuine support, clinical competence, and a passionate counselor, please know I am happy to help. Sincerely, Dr. Parker-Barnes

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Elisa Frazier

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementBipolar disorder
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with master degrees in both social work and clinical psychology. I tend to work from a cognitive behavioral approach however I am trained in a number of treatment approaches including psychodynamic, client centered, solution-focused and dialectical behavioral therapy. I have over 10 years of experience working with clients from all walks of life who struggle with anxiety, bipolar disorder, thought disorders and anger management. No matter what you have done or how much you are hurting, I believe everyone has the potential to live a satisfying life. You set the pace and we’ll move towards your goals. I’ll be with you every step of the way as you learn to use the tools I’ll give you to create a better future.

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Bethany Porter

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked with clients with various concerns including anxiety, depression, emotional and physical trauma, family conflict, and attention disorders such as ADHD. I have significant experience in adoption and foster care related issues as well. I have worked in group therapy, individual psychotherapy as well as working in community services. I am a strengths focused counselor which means I focus on what you naturally do well at and help you build on those strengths to reach your goals. Your goals are important to the healing process and together we will create a plan to help you identify what is most important to you. I meet each of my clients where they are at and provide a safe space to explore what you need for better mental and emotional health. This is YOUR journey and you have strengths inside of YOU that will propel you forward to find peace of mind, true happiness and contentment inside of you. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy however there are other modalities that I am familiar with and will implement them when it best fits the client. Life can be tough but I believe there is always hope for a better future. I am excited to go on this journey with you and watch you excel in your mental and emotional health!

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Rita Seggelke

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW, LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoaching
3 years of experience

My name is Rita Seggelke and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Illinois. I have been a Social Worker for over 30 years. I graduated from the U. of I. in 1988 with a specialty in Child Welfare and additional certification in School Social Work. I received my LCSW in 1991. My experience includes many years working with families experiencing various problems including, divorce; child abuse or neglect; blended family issues; custody/marital issues; general relationship issues; career issues and major life transitions. I am a certified Life Coach, a former Hospice Social Worker and have been a Red Cross volunteer. I have deployed to several National disasters including, Hurricane Sandy and Hurricane Harvey. I enjoy working with women who are divorced, widowed or never married and looking to enrich their lives with new possibilities. Finally, I am a Christian and available to discuss your presenting issues from a faith-based perspective, if that is your preference. I am a therapist, who is compassionate and a good listener. I look forward to meeting you and developing a relationship that will be rewarding and help you reach YOUR stated goals.

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Sara Barrientos

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the Social Work field since 2007. My experience in the field of Social Work has given me the opportunity to work with children and families, at-risk homeless youth, adolescent/adult behavioral health, and senior citizens. For the past 10 years, I have been working in an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed for senior citizens struggling with depression and anxiety, however I also have experience working with individuals facing marital/relationship issues, parenting issues, and loss. As a therapist, I will work to uplift, encourage, and motivate you to find the best solutions for yourself. I strive to be a compassionate, caring, and understanding individual who will respect you for who you are, right where you are in your journey. My goal in this profession is to help you achieve the goals you create for yourself and provide you with the accountability you need to succeed. I am so glad we matched and I look forward to what's in store for you!

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Jendaya Clark

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hello! I'm Jendaya, and I have several years of experience in community mental health and individual/group counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes such as quarantine, graduation, weddings/marriage, aging parents, illness/cancer and fertility concerns . 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'd be happy to assist if you'd like to meet.

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Jesse Waltz

Offering therapy in Illinois
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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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Dr. Zauditu McCants

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersDepression
20 years of experience

Greetings! I’m Dr. Z. E. McCants. I am licensed in Washington D.C., Georgia, Nevada, and Illinois. I have 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, couples therapy, Christian Counseling & sleeping disorders. 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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Lawrence Haas

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Illinois with 3 years of experience specializing in addressing a wide range of mental health and personal development concerns. My expertise includes providing effective support to individuals dealing with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and career difficulties. I firmly believe in a strengths-based approach, viewing each client as the expert of their own life story. I am dedicated to helping you harness your unique strengths and abilities to overcome challenges and embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and happier life. Taking that crucial first step towards personal growth and positive change requires courage, and I am here to provide support throughout your journey.

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Paula Voigt

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, post-traumatic stress, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I understand the complex emotional and psychological impact that infertility and reproductive loss can have. Strong emotional responses such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress may arise following reproductive loss or infertility challenges. Supportive therapy for both men and women experiencing these challenges offers much-needed understanding and validation, and can help you work through these emotions, learn effective tools to cope, and gain new perspectives that can foster healing. While infertility and miscarriage challenges are my specialty, I am also experienced in working with all types of grief/loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression and career challenges. 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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Benjamin Harris

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Montana with 20 years of professional training and work experience. I have expertise in helping clients with OCD, anxiety, & depression. 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.

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:

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.

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