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 Andrew Mercer's avatar and link to their profile

Andrew Mercer

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I'm so happy you're here and so happy that you're taking an important step towards positive change in your life. Nothing brings me more joy than to be able to be a part of your journey while we work towards your goals. I've been partnering with adults for the past 8 years in private practice as a licensed therapist and 3 years as a life coach working with college-aged adults. Former and current clients appreciate my honest straightforward approach to counseling as well as my ability to patiently and compassionately hold space for answers to emerge. The struggles of life are not meant to be all-consuming or overwhelming and as self-sufficient as most of us are, we all need help at some point. I know I've benefitted from being able to talk through my worries and concerns with the help of a trained therapist and know what the experience is like in either seat. I was trained in pastoral counseling and at Loyola University in Chicago and can assist if your concerns are more spiritual in nature and when they are not take a more traditional approach. I draw from relational schools of thought- psychodynamic, humanistic and Adlerian but apply them in a straightforward pragmatic fashion to keep the process brief and effective. Having been trained and educated in diverse settings, I have experience working with many different types of people with many different concerns. In particular, spiritual and religious questions, LGBT issues, anxiety and coping with grief and loss are areas that I can support you the most. I look forward to working with you as we take the next steps in your journey together.

This is Stephanie Harris's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie Harris

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

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.

This is Richard Heller's avatar and link to their profile

Richard Heller

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: DMin, MA, LCPC, BCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

It takes courage to take this first step in seeking help with an issue in your life that is troubling you and into looking into counseling. I admire you for this and welcome the opportunity to meet you and help you with the life concern you are facing. My approach is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I will focus on your needs and we will learn together how best to help you. I will treat you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 1998 and am licensed in the state of Illinois. My vocation includes 38 years of pastoral ministry, being a Board Certified Chaplain since 1995, and continue to work as an on-call chaplain for over 21 years. Through my wide range of experiences, I have helped people with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and loss. I look forward in supporting and empowering you through your journey in life.

This is Dr. William Robison's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. William Robison

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: PsyD,MDiv
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
40 years of experience

I consider myself an optimist and seek to find the best in the people I meet. I have an out-going nature. I love people and I love life and seek to help others find the same joy, even in bleak circumstances. When asked to help, I pitch in. I dislike saying “no” and would rather say “yes” to tasks and assignments. I think of myself as a “can do person” and am always looking for how good things can be made to happen. Finally, I would like to note that I can be comfortable in most environments, working with most age groups and mental health conditions. I began my professional career some 30 years ago. In additional to my Psychology Doctoral degree, I also hold a Master of Divinity degree and a Post-degree Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy.

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

Jennifer Piester

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

I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental health, education, and corrections. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self harm and suicidal ideations, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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.

This is Semah Shammas's avatar and link to their profile

Semah Shammas

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

I'm licensed as a clinical social worker and certified as a psychologically sensitive, trauma-informed yoga teacher through Chicago Room to Breathe. Additionally, I am currently going through the Somatic Attachment therapy certification program through TheEmbodyLab.com. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and trauma recovery. I'm an attuned therapist with the intention of meeting clients where they are. With 13 years of social work experience working with people of all ages, I love building relationships with clients, and working alongside them to explore their inner world and to incorporate new strategies to live a more fulfilling life. I use a trauma-informed approach, which means I aim to create a therapeutic relationship grounded in safety, sovereignty, so you can explore, acknowledge, and express your thoughts and feelings when you're ready to do so. I believe there is profound healing and empowerment in the connection between the mind and body, as well as in gaining awareness to how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interrelated. With my clients, I work with them to learn and incorporate tools for regulating their nervous system, coping with life stressors, and gaining awareness to how their past impacts their present. We work together to visualize how they want to feel and be in the world, and explore what changes can be applied to their lives. Additionally, as my foundation is in social work, I believe our relationships with ourselves, our friends/family, and community all influence our state of being and we can take at look at these different areas to see where changes can be made. From there, we can live a meaningful life guided by personal values while handling the pain that goes along with being human in our world. I aim to provide culturally responsive care, recognizing that race, ethnicity, and religion, as well as physical challenges, all play a unique, powerful impact on humans' experience. Working in social services for several years, I also recognize the systemic trauma and oppression that many marginalized groups experience, and I practice clinically from this perspective. My priority is offering clients a supportive, empathetic environment in order to facilitate growth and insight. I recognize that it takes courage to reach out for support, and I feel deeply honored by the opportunity to work with others in becoming their most authentic, whole selves.

This is Chandra Dockery's avatar and link to their profile

Chandra Dockery

Offering therapy in Illinois
Depression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Morgan Hulock's avatar and link to their profile

Morgan Hulock

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 am here to support you in that process.

This is Sarah Silva's avatar and link to their profile

Sarah Silva

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

You try your hardest to help other people and yet no matter how much effort you put in, it still feels like you're not doing enough. Burnout feels real to you and you wonder if you'll ever have the time or energy for the things that matter in life; loving relationships, time with family, time with yourself to be who you want to be, do what you want to do, or have what you want to have. At this point, you're tired of living on autopilot and just want to live a life that's more fulfilling to you, whatever that looks like. As a heart-centered, congruent woman, I use Neurolinguistic Programming to assist you make instant changes in your life. NLP is the study of successful people and uses communication to eliminate negative emotions and limiting beliefs that may be in the way of you living out your ideal life. NLP works fast and your commitment is an average of three months. Since you're reading this, I know you're ready to finally step into your truest self and live the life you want to live. Email me and we'll get started right away! I've been told I'm funny too so there's that to look forward to! Talk to you soon.

This is Stephanie McSharry's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie McSharry

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoaching
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with executive and professional coaching. 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 am here to support you in that process.

This is Damion Walker's avatar and link to their profile

Damion Walker

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCareer difficulties
5 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I look forward to working with you and helping you become the best version of yourself.

This is Joseph Mungai's avatar and link to their profile

Joseph Mungai

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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 Katie Kolzow's avatar and link to their profile

Katie Kolzow

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 and I am here to support you in that process!

This is Beth Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Beth Williams

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am passionate about helping the clients I serve as they navigate life challenges. With nearly two decades of experience in wilderness settings as well as clinical settings, I have helped my clients with trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, addiction, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, aging, and family dynamics. I seek to build a connection of trust, understanding, and empathy with my clients. Listening to your concerns and helping you discover the best path for your circumstances is always my primary focus. I use a variety of techniques in treatment, tailoring to best meet the individual needs of the client. Some of my favorites combine mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy such as meditation, mindfulness practices, identifying unproductive thought patterns and reshaping them to create new behavioral patterns.

This is Kelly Fitzgerald's avatar and link to their profile

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.

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