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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Andrew Mercer
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.
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Stephanie Haywood
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling. I have more than 20 years experience counseling individuals, couples and families. I enjoy working with people toward meeting their goals and working through their painful experiences. I find that most people don't seek help when they first need it because they believe they can "do it themselves". We live in a DIY (do it yourself) kind of society but I believe God never meant for any of us to go it alone. I am a Christian and God has gifted me to do this kind of work. He led me to become educated in the field but my relationship with Him is what ultimately helps others get through their problems. It takes courage to take the first step in asking for help, so you should be proud of yourself. I don't believe it's an accident that you reached out for help and got me. I look forward to working with you.
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Cheri Sinnott Springer
Hello! Thank you for choosing to read my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with experience serving a wide variety of populations. I teach Introduction to Counseling and Introduction to Social Work (wrote the text for that class) at a local community college. I have been a Board Member of NASW (National Association of Social Workers) and am an instructor for the Licensure Exam Preparation Class. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Although I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, I do lean heavily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I also incorporate effective communication strategies and provide support in identifying additional resources outside of our time together. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I look forward to the possibility of working with you. Cheri Sinnott Springer, LCSW
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Cheryl Joseph-Lukz
Welcome to BetterHelp and quite possibly, a better you. I consider it a privilege to help you make the changes you desire in your life. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois where I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology at Northwestern University. I also hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Miami University. I want you to know that you are not alone. My professional and personal experience has shown me that the issues which cause us pain and discomfort are often the very ones which allow each of us to evolve and become the person we are meant to be. I use a collaborative, strengths-based, solution focused and relational approach with my clients. I employ multiple therapeutic perspectives including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Developmental, Existential and Spiritual Concepts to guide clients toward increasing self-awareness, personal growth and wellness. I view the therapist-client relationship as one of mutual trust, warmth and respect. I believe in educating clients so that they can play an active role in their mental health and relational wellness. I have 25 years of extensive experience providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families. I am dedicated to assisting clients in coping with and resolving challenges which arise throughout all of life’s stages including adolescence, adulthood and the senior years. I am glad you are here and I look forward to being a part of your journey.
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Margaret Wilson
I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. 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. 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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Mirical Saddler
I am licensed in Florida, Illinois and Washington with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Kathleen Carter
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!
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Jasmine Baines
I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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.
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Lisa Allen
I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. Prior to my most recent clinical experience, I have ten years of working in the Foster Care system I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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Ellen Ortiz
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 honored to support you in that process. I am licensed in Nevada and Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, stage of life issues & parenting strategies. I would embrace the opportunity to support you no matter who you are or what you believe. You are connecting for a purpose, I would love to help you achieve that purpose. I feel very strongly that video and phone sessions work best. I text only to confirm appointment details or notice of last minute changes.
How can a counselor support you?
Therapists 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 IL, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals 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 a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why do people choose to work 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, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
The mental health therapists in Illinois support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:
- 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 to contact in a crisis
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section 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.
When should I get a therapist in Illinois?
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 can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover the cost of 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 the safe option?
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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