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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Dana Hall

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,MA CTT ,(TF-CBT) Trauma Therapist
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Welcome! Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety or depression? If you find it difficult to manage these overwhelming emotions know you are not alone. You do not have to suffer while trying to ‘figure things out.’ Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of these challenges and build ways to cope that give you your life back. I am so glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Trauma Therapist in Chicago, Illinois. I have an extensive background working in the field of education and mental health with over 20 years of experience. Before entering private practice I've worked for several of the top therapeutic treatment facilities, served as a crisis management specialist, professional consultant, educator, and senior supervising therapist. This is a 'judgement-free zone' to express and process; I approach the therapeutic relationship with sensitivity, respect, and warmth. It is important for me to create a space where my clients feel safe and comfortable. The therapeutic relationship is one of the most powerful and unique opportunities we have to bring about lasting change; I respect the integrity of each client's process. I want for you to feel like you can be transparent with me; there is healing in sharing your narrative. You are here for a reason; every day is your chance to make your life what you would like it to be. A little more about Dana Hall... * Created an individual program for DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to target clients' individual coping needs. The basic concepts of DBT such as mindfulness, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance are very sought after tools for interpersonal growth. * Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) through the International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP). * Empathetic, transparent, and strength-based therapy style; a fully integrated, holistic approach to therapy that offers no judgment, stigma or shame, but rather understanding, growth and long-term sustainability. Counseling Style/Specialties Assisting clients coping with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, and relational issues. My work is all about assisting clients in removing obstacles, making healthier choices, while navigating life and relationships more effectively; essentially being the best version of YOU. My therapy style draws from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and ACT orientations. Professional Membership: World Professional Association for Transgender Health and follows the WPATH standards of care and welcomes LGBTQ clients. Illinois Association of Trauma Therapists Certified Trauma Therapist DBT “I believe in acceptance of all humans regardless of any emotional, physical or psychological burdens they may carry. I do not shy away from any issue or person, and carry no judgment or fear into my clinical work. I believe in authenticity and healing. Therapy needs to be a safe place to explore.” Welcome; it takes strength and resilience to reach out- you don't have to have all the answers- let's start where you are and begin today.

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Brittany Vaughn

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp. Life events can cause anyone to experience symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. How you respond to these symptoms makes all the difference in your overall health. Together we will work to identify your goals of managing these symptoms and develop steps to reduce their affect on your day to day life. Sometimes these life events are traumatic, which can cause much longer term effects on your health. Processing trauma, no matter how long ago it happened, is vital to moving forward past the traumatic event. A little bit about me personally. I am a Southern Illinois native. I attended SIU and completed my Bachelor’s of Social Work in December of 2012. After taking a semester off, I moved forward to obtain my Masters of Social Work which I completed in May of 2014. Since completing my education, I have worked as a therapist with adolescents with extreme trauma in a residential setting. I then worked with the public schools in Williamson County to provide therapy in the schools to students with a variety of disorders, including behavior disturbances. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in an outpatient setting for the past 3 years. I have found that therapy is my passion and I look forward to helping you discover how therapy can improve your quality of life.

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Karen Hill-Davis

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

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families cope with a variety challenges that life has presented them with. I will help you regain perspective and control. My approach is cognitive behavioral and solution focused. My style is open and supportive. We will begin by starting where you are in defining the issues and clarifying what your goals will be. I have specific experience with adjustment to life changes related to health issues, aging, life care planning and bereavement. Through the therapeutic relationship, l will help you recognize your strengths so you can become empowered to effect positive change in your life.

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Nicole Bowker

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: M.S.Ed,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Nicole Bowker, M.S.Ed, LPC, NCC Nicole is a licensed professional counselor specializing in trauma informed counseling for adolescents and adults. Tailoring her therapy to the unique needs of her client, Nicole can provide a collaborative, holistic approach to help clients achieve their desired goals. Nicole believes in the power of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone; by starting the therapeutic journey, a first step in a new direction has been started. She works with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and other issues interfering with daily life. Nicole is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to provide an alternative treatment modality to her clients. Nicole utilizes CBT, DBT, and trauma informed methods to best serve her clients and their needs.

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Kevin Shepherd

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I have always been a big fan of Dolly Parton's quote "If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving a new one." However, paving a new path for ourselves can be overwhelming and I feel that no one should have to do that alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in the field of social services. I became a therapist to help people navigate life transitions and cope with anxiety disorders. I have worked in a variety of settings including social service agencies and private practice groups. The majority of my work has been assisting undergraduate and graduate students with navigating their challenging academic programs as well as assisting young professionals (especially new teachers and social workers) to navigate the anxiety and stress associated with starting their career which can present numerous challenges with anxiety and setting boundaries. I have also developed experience in assisting adult gay men in coming out by being an informed clinician in processing the challenges that have come with living with unaccepting family members and friend groups and providing support and coping strategies to deal with this difficult process. As a lifelong gamer myself, who has played on numerous video game competitive teams, I am informed and affirming about video games. This is an important quality for some client's to be aware of as I feel this quality about me allows a reduction in the propensity for introducing a negative bias toward video games in the therapy space. Therapy is a flexible space that looks different for every client. However, in general, you can expect a client-centered approach and I tend to also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. As you begin to start paving that new road, I'll come along and help guide this process using these tools and provide support, help you build awareness, work toward a reduction in symptoms, and provide encouragement as you move through your experience.

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Wendy Gilchrist

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC, MBA, MAAT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

I come to BetterHelp with personal maturity, shared humanitarian values, and clinical practice in varied settings. My professional career began as a not-for-profit entrepreneur following an MBA. I have developed organizations assisting homeless boys and abused women as well as creating business opportunities for disadvantaged populations to become economically self-sufficient. Since beginning my education as a License Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC MAAT and YTT), I have worked as a therapist with individuals of all ages, with families and in group settings, and have in-depth exposure to clinical contexts involving trauma and loss. I have worked as a therapist in hospitals in the psychiatric unit and lately in a recognized trauma informed program.

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Elizabeth Brice

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I enjoy working with people with a variety of motivations for starting therapy. While I specialize in working with postpartum moms and intended parents experiencing infertility, I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. I work with individuals and couples. My job isn’t to tell someone what to do or how to think. Sometimes, my job is to hold heavy emotions, thoughts, memories with you. Sometimes, it’s to sort out the big box of thoughts you’re carrying around and decide what to keep and what to move away from. I am passionate about normalizing the challenges of new parenthood, the deep pain of infertility, and the discomfort that can be a part of the journey we’re all on to live closer to our most well selves. We may share silence, questions, or laughter together. I encourage my clients to bring their whole selves into our work, and humor is usually a big part of that! My approach to therapy is to employ evidenced-based interventions. I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Wellness Recovery Action Plans and Exposure Response Prevention. I integrate the tenets of many clinical treatment modalities to meet each patient’s unique needs. You’re the expert in your own story, I’ll pull out my toolbox and we work together to fine tune what will meet your specific needs! I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Trinity Christian College and completed my Master’s degree in Social Work from Jane Addams College of Social Work at University of Illinois-Chicago. Before becoming a full-time therapist, I worked at nonprofits across the city with experience in domestic violence, refugee resettlement, and housing. I am always pursuing training to become a more skilled clinician, I am currently in process of completing my Perinatal Mental Health Certification.

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Glenda Sanders

Offering therapy in Illinois
Self esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (ADHD), anxiety and depression. 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!

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Madison Brawley

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

I am licensed in Missouri, Utah, and Idaho with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I specialize in EMDR, women’s issues, and LGBTQ+ populations. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Note: I only have live sessions available on Friday afternoons. If this does not work with your schedule, please rematch with another therapist. Thank you!

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Sherry Coleman

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Heather Friend

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
6 years of experience

Need someone to truly listen and understand what you’re going through? Seeking a therapist who offers more than just listening? Ready to try therapy, but not sure where to begin? If you're looking for someone to truly listen and understand what you're going through, I'm here to help. I know that finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure where to start or what to expect. My approach to therapy is about more than just listening—it's about actively working with you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and supportive space. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate complex emotions, trauma, anxiety, relationships, and personal growth. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply need a space to process what's on your mind, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where you can express yourself freely. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, where we work together to identify your goals and create a plan that feels right for you. Whether you're dealing with specific challenges or seeking to understand yourself better, I'm here to guide you through the process at your own pace. You don't need to have everything figured out before you start—sometimes, just taking that first step to reach out is the most important part. If you're ready to begin, I'm here to help you navigate this journey, offering support, understanding, and practical strategies to help you move forward. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences. Are you nervous about therapy? It’s actually more common than you might think to feel uncertain and anxious to begin therapy. Many people worry about opening up or wonder if they’re doing it "right." Remember, therapy is a journey, and it's okay to take it one step at a time. I’m here to help promote a sense of acceptance and comfort from the very first session. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel safe to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. My goal is to make sure you feel supported and understood as we work through whatever challenges you’re facing. Life can be overwhelming, challenging, and intensely painful. Through my experience with hundreds of clients with a variety of needs, I've developed a deep insight and understanding. Let's embark on your healing journey together, where I listen, understand, and walk beside you every step of the way. I'm here to support people from all backgrounds as they navigate life's ups and downs. Since 2011, I've been helping children, teens, adults, and families overcome challenges like trauma, stress, significant life changes, anxiety, and more. Think of our therapy sessions as a safe space where you can share your thoughts and begin healing. Whether you're facing tough times or seeking hope and direction, I'm here to help you find your inner strength and move forward. We'll work together to improve your life, focusing on your unique story and finding positive ways to face any challenge. I am looking forward to supporting you on this healing journey. If you're ever in a crisis and need immediate support, the following hotlines and services are available 24/7: **Crisis Services:** - Call or text 988 - Call 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text "TALK" to 38255 **National Hotlines:** - National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) - National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 - National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 - Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453 - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 - Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, PRESS 1 or text 838255 - CDC National HIV and AIDS Hotline: 1-800-232-4636

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Deanna MacDonald

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with over 10 years of professional work experience in the mental health field, and I have been working with clients seeking individual therapy for the past 6 years. I have experience in helping clients who struggle with anxiety and depression, stress, body image issues, & self-esteem struggles. I believe in a collaborative approach to counseling as well as treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. I look forward to working together to create a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

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Lisa Calloway

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Steven J Hautzinger

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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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Kelly Fitzgerald

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri, holding this credential since 2001. I've worked with people at various stages of their lives, with various issues; the common denominator has been a sense of feeling "stuck" in some aspect. My approach is integrative, attending to the whole person, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. I use meditation and relaxation techniques as well as cognitive approaches. I believe all healing is self-healing; Client and Therapist work together toward client goals. I am a proponent of 12-step programs, Energy Medicine, Positive Psychology, Journaling, and Movement. I look forward to working with you.

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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