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.

 

This is Jewel Kristine (Kristy) Hemmele's avatar and link to their profile

Jewel Kristine (Kristy) Hemmele

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

Hello, my name is Kristy. I have been a licensed clinical professional counselor for over 25 years. Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone also has encountered struggle of some type.. I use primarily solution focused techniques and my faith to help individuals, couples and families find help and feel empowered. 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. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes a great deal of courage to take that first step to reach out and ask for help when going through struggles and attempting to make life changes. I commend you for taking that step and I look forward to hearing your story.

This is Deborah Levinson's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Levinson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: M.S.,L.M.F.T.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
25 years of experience

Hello and Welcome, My name is Debbie and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with 25 years experience working as a therapist. I have provided counseling to individuals, couples, adolescents, and families since 1995. I provide therapy for Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional families, blended families, codependency, communication problems, depression/anxiety, family counseling, couples/marital counseling, infidelity, parenting issues, self-esteem and stress management. I am an active, directive, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused therapist who has worked successfully with diverse cultures, ethnicities, and religions. I have worked in schools, psychiatric hospitals (inpatient and outpatient) and in the social service arena with foster care, family reunification and child abuse. I have worked extensively in private practice. I am down to earth, genuine and frank. I will challenge you, assign homework and suggest YouTube videos, Ted Talks, articles and books and workbooks.

This is Dr. James English's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. James English

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Psy.D.,Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Relationship issuesGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

Hello my name is Jim. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working in the counseling field for the past thirty years. I have been privileged to provide counseling and therapy services to individual, couples and families and use an approach that empathizes collaboration and measurable results. My counseling style creates a warm and accepting environment in which people learn to identify and express their feelings so that we can work together to deepen your understanding of feelings and the thoughts that typically accompany them. Once we learn more about our feelings and the thoughts them behind them, we can do more to make changes in thoughts and behaviors that enhance our growth and and help us meet goals. I use various techniques such as those derived from cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and Adlerian Life-Style analysis . These help to make situational changes and to gain awareness of how many of our automatic thoughts, reactions, feelings can be facilitate change once they are understood. This can increase our range of choice and better feelings once we understand more about our personal automatic reactions. My technique and style is helpful for Depression Anxiety Relationship issues Self-Esteem Trauma Growth Shyness/Social Anxiety I am very happy that you are taking these steps to better understand yourself an d work towards more fulfilling relationships in your work, love and friendships and most importantly for your self-care, self-esteem and your relationship to yourself! I look forward to working with you!

This is Caryn Kelley's avatar and link to their profile

Caryn Kelley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

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.

This is Kennedy Shenberg's avatar and link to their profile

Kennedy Shenberg

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and I hold Masters Degrees in Clinical Counseling (MS) and a Masters in Clinical Social Work (MSW). I have Doctorate work in Disability and Equity in Education. I have worked as an Adjunct Professor teaching Graduate students for the Adler School of Professional Psychology, and I have supervised interns/externs. I have been a supervisor for investigations for the Illinois Department of Children and Family services for 10 years and worked also with the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Mental Health and Education, as well as teaching self defense. I was the Chief Clinician at Maryville Academy in 2012-2016 St. Vincent program. In 2014 I was ranked 9th in the United States in Shuri Ryu Karate. I have been certified with AFAA, I was a Diplomat with the National Institute of Sports Division of Counseling. I would describe my therapeutic approach as open, using humor, as I recognize therapy sessions should not solely focus on negative feelings. My clinical orientation is eclectic and I can fluidly merge multiple approaches such as behavioral, cognitive, relational, psychodynamic and Maslow theory. I specialize in treatment of trauma, and working with children, adolescents, alternative lifestyles, LGBTQ, and have Jungian dream analysis training. I prefer open ended and free flowing approaches that will include multiple modalities in sessions such as movement, games and artistic expressions. Besides fitness and karate as hobbies, I also enjoy creating art.

This is Jennifer Forbes's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Forbes

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LMFT
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
14 years of experience

WELCOME TO SEED OF HOPE COUNSELING SERVICES! ABOUT THE FOUNDER Jennifer M. Forbes, M.S., LMFT is the Founder of Seed of Hope Counseling Services and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She is passionate about the work that she does and is grateful to God for the training, opportunities, and people that she has been able to serve throughout the years. She has successfully counseled hundreds of individuals, couples, and families through difficult times and it has been one of her greatest joys. Jennifer has served both in the non-profit and private sector, since 2009, providing counseling, consulting services, support, supervision, and leadership to various teams, clinicians, leaders, and organizations. She has been a pioneer in the field, working with agencies to create and implement innovative therapeutic initiatives. She has developed, established, and assessed various community programs for crisis, trauma, and clinical services. She has served on clinical committees for the Illinois Health Practice Alliance, the Behavioral Health Consortium and the Westside Community Triage and Wellness Center. Jennifer is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapist (AAMFT). Jennifer received her formal training from Northern Illinois University where she earned her Bachelor's in Psychology and Masters in Applied Family & Child Studies with a Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. Ready to Connect? We are confident you have come to the right place. Request your appointment today! We are looking forward to speaking with you. Feel free to visit www.sohcs.com for more information. Warmest Regards, Jennifer M. Forbes, LMFT MEET OUR THERAPIST: CHRISTINE HUFFAKER Throughout difficult years in my own mental health journey, I developed a growing passion for supporting others with their mental health from a place of empathy and understanding. I have always had a passion for sitting with others in both moments of joy and sorrow and honoring both spaces. I approach counseling with a genuine understanding of what it feels like to struggle silently with mental health and feel alone in the process. Out of my own time in counseling, I developed sincere belief in the therapeutic process. During my clinical experience as a masters counseling student through Indiana Wesleyan University, I have gained experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults on a wide range of topics including anxiety, depression, grief, and anger management. My approach to counseling is rooted in person-centered care and the belief that clients are always the experts of their own lives. Above all, I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for all clients characterized by compassion and acceptance. I believe deeply in the power of self compassion and the practice of attuning to our own emotions without shame. Topics of interest and possible future areas of specialization include: counseling work with teens and young adults, couples counseling, sexual functioning, obsessive compulsive disorder, and anxiety. Reaching out takes great courage, and I look forward to celebrating that victory with you in our first session! Sincerely, Christine Huffaker Don't Wait Another Day! Request an Appointment Today!

This is Marcelo Gonzalez's avatar and link to their profile

Marcelo Gonzalez

Offering therapy in Illinois
LGBTSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with many issues. From feelings of isolation to managing the day to day stress, there are times when you need help finding a new lens view life's experiences. Working from a holistic perspective, my goal is to always provide an encouraging, empathetic and affirming environment to explore new perspectives. I'm experienced in aiding those who are struggling with issues of identity (gender, race, nationality, etc.), low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues, career transitions, LGBTQ-related issues, and acculturation issues. Meeting people where they are at with a judgment-free and authentic approach, I help individuals, couples, and families create room to find new ways to achieve their goals and create insight into the challenges, barriers, and patterns. To help create growth. People represent so many individual identities, from gender, culture, ethnicity, geographic location, etc. I strive to engage and assist each individual in exploring how the culmination one's identities within our society may affect how one walks through the world and the lens they use.

This is Debra Porter's avatar and link to their profile

Debra Porter

Offering therapy in Illinois
Self esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Holly Anderson's avatar and link to their profile

Holly Anderson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

With over 13 years of clinical experience I understand that successful treatment outcomes occur when the foundation of one’s therapeutic approach is holistic. We now know that our feelings, beliefs, attitudes, spiritual life and physical well-being are all intrinsically intertwined and thus essential to address all of these areas together and not separately like once believed. I practice with a variety of evidence based therapeutic methods some of these included: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Family Systems among additional long-standing effective interventions. From our initial session you will find I work collaboratively with each of my clients. We work together to address pressing stressors; identify treatment goals and objectives; develop a treatment plan that is tailored specifically for the individual; explore any underlying/contributing factors; work together to identify new healthy coping skills that fit the individuals' certain coping style. It is my belief that a sound therapeutic alliance is a critical part of effective treatment outcomes. I have found successful clients are actively involved in this joint effort, stick with it even when it is not always easy to do so and who are committed to their individualized plan of care. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state Illinois with over 13 years of clinical work. I have worked with number of populations with various disorders including: Anxiety Disorders (with and without trauma histories); Mood Disorders; Behavioral Disorders; Personality Disorders; Substance Abuse/Co-Occuroing Disorders; Grief/Loss; Internal Family Systems. My Bachelor's degree is in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts. I was also a Research Assistant at the University of Massachusetts for 2 years researching mindfulness skills and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques applied to Anxiety Disorders. I obtained my Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Iowa.

This is Ericka Soto's avatar and link to their profile

Ericka Soto

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, depression, Identity concerns, and difficult life transitions. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Erin Wold's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Wold

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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.

This is Sanjuana Meza's avatar and link to their profile

Sanjuana Meza

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Kathleen Carter's avatar and link to their profile

Kathleen Carter

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, relationship issues, addiction & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will work with you to overcome whatever issues are holding you back from living your best life ever. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Kayce Bragg's avatar and link to their profile

Kayce Bragg

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LPCS,LAC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I look forward to the opportunity to walk this journey together! Let me tell you about myself: I’m a wife, mother to four, and a dog mom! I live in SC but love to travel to see new places and try new things. My favorite place is anywhere with a beach as I love anything involving sunshine and water! Professionally, I am a Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and a Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state of South Carolina and have been practicing in the mental health field since 2011. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois . I am currently working on my Doctorate of Psychology and was EMDR trained in 2021. I am very person-centered in my work with clients as I believe that you know you better than I know you! My practice is solution-focused as I believe in focusing more heavily on the problems you’re experiencing right now and working together to develop effective strategies for improving not only your current symptoms, but also your overall life satisfaction. I often incorporate Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at times to help identify problematic thinking and retrain your brain to be more positive! Some other theories I believe in are Positive Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I have significant expertise in dealing with adults (18+) who are experiencing the following: various mental illnesses (including but not limited to Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, other Psychotic Disorders, Depression, Anxiety); difficulty adapting to life situations; relationship issues; stress caused by pressure at work or home; grief and loss; self-esteem issues; other difficulties maintaining life balance. I also have experience with addictions issues and am able to help in those areas. I am skilled in aiding others in developing coping skills, interpersonal skills, independent living skills, stress management, personal empowerment and advocacy, healthy leisure habits, and other important life skills. It is important to understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so the process is really driven by the client! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives. :)

This is Samuel Abraham's avatar and link to their profile

Samuel Abraham

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 25 years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes throughout adulthood. Additionally, I have training and experience with Christian pastoral ministry and counseling. I am able to utilize both my clinical and pastoral training in sessions for those clients who prefer a faith based approach in addressing their psychosocial and spiritual needs. 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.

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.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist