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.
Susan Sparks
Through my life I have worked with children of all ages in a variety of settings. I have always had a passion to care for and help others. I have worked and volunteered in the community for over 35 years. I saw many things in the community that concerned me especially in the area of mental health. I wanted to make a difference by helping others make a difference in our world. I achieved my Master Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois in 2011 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2013. As a therapist I work with children, young adults, individuals, and families using a life approach tailored to the unique needs of each person. I use therapeutic strategies to help with behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and anger management, to name a few. I use research based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Mind fullness practice and Holistic Therapies. I believe that each person has the capabilities to meet and manage the challenges they face, some requiring more guidance than others. I believe everyone no matter what age has strengths that they can draw on. I offer support for individuals to overcome obstacles and to realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy and productive lives.
Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes
Greetings! My name is Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I have provided clinical care for over 11 years. I find this career very personally and professionally meaningful! I am also very passionate to help my clients find meaning in their lives, healing in their struggles, and confidence in themselves! Specifically, I work from an Existential, Client-Centered Approach. One of the foundational concepts that guides my work includes that "the best counseling happens, not just in, but outside of sessions." In other words, I hope to help provide my clients with metaphorical tools and the confidence to believe in themselves to tackle their issues. I have worked with many clients including clients with depression, anxiety, legal issues, relationship problems, experiencing trauma and grief, and clients who identify in the LGBTQIA+ population. I specifically facilitated group counseling for two years for clients who identified as transgender and experienced oppression in the Chicagoland area. I have worked in telehealth counseling for about three years, as well. If you are in need of genuine support, clinical competence, and a passionate counselor, please know I am happy to help. Sincerely, Dr. Parker-Barnes
Rachana Vettickal
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the state of Illinois with over 15 year of counseling experience with a wide range of clientele . I have worked in the fields of mental health. medical social work, palliative care/hospice , cancer , and chronic illness. My experience includes issues relating to grief , loss, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, legacy building and end of life issues. My counseling style is empathetic , mindful, compassionate and client centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect dignity. It takes a great deal of courage to seek professional help and even more courage to implement change. If you are ready I would love to help you live the best life you can . I look forward to working with you.
Christina Steele-Lietz
To be a confidante, friend, teacher and equal. This is the approach I take to therapy; non-judgmental, identifier of facts, explorer of solutions and compassionate listener through a person’s life experience. Therapy together will be the creation of a lifestyle determined by you on; how to respond to what cannot be controlled and you determining what is best for you, learning how to comfort yourself through pain and suffering, identifying who you are and want to continue to be. I am so glad you are taking this time for yourself and making your health a personal priority. I am licensed in Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+-related issues, & trauma and abuse. Our 'work-space' together will be an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement or rejection. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Dr. Benjamin Lough
I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping clients to cope with life changes as they navigate the big questions of life. My therapeutic approach is integrative, with a focus on existential-humanistic, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapy methods. I operate on the understanding that each person is unique, and that different approaches work best for different people. My counseling style is interactive and holistic. We will work on resolving your present challenges by looking at schemas or "life traps" that you developed in your past but continue to carry into your current ways of thinking about the world. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I look forward to working with you as you navigate your journey.
Chaunte Wilder
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which allows clients to restructure their thinking and change their lives. My belief is that if people can change the way that they think and view things, then they can change their lives! My goal as your counselor is to empower you as well as increase your self-awareness. I offer a warm, genuine, and gentle approach which allows my clients to feel understood and respected. Additionally, I provide a safe place for clients to feel supported and willing to share their experiences in order to reach their optimal mental wellness.
Nancy Naughton
Hi, my name is Nancy (Nance) Naughton. I am licensed in Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief & compassion fatigue and many other areas. I believe that you are the expert of your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming issues that are challenging you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Thank you, Nance : )
Alwin Abraham
I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I am an EMDR trained therapist and I do offer EMDR through my own separate private practice. I am an experienced psychotherapist offering supportive counseling, CBT and Trauma Focused CBT on Better Help. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse along with a multitude of co-morbidities. 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.
Erin Harris Smith
I am licensed in Illinois with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.
Harper Rothschild
Hello! I'm Harper, a part-time therapist here on Better Help (mornings). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with several years of experience helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and phase of life concerns in hospital, residential, and outpatient settings. In 2012, I completed my clinical training at the University of Chicago where I specialized in serving LGBTQ+ and older adult populations at Center on Halsted and at Rush University Medical Center. I offer supportive, person-centered counseling and my practice is integrative, including humanistic, CBT, ACT, and psychodynamic modalities. My personal style is warm and strengths-based. I enjoy learning about cultures from all over the globe and in my spare time I like to cook, listen to music, and play with my cats. If you’re struggling with your moods or your relationships, would like support during a difficult transition, or want to talk through a challenging problem that’s preventing you from moving forward in life, I am honored to be a part of your healing process. Together we can craft an empowering roadmap focused on your personal values and goals that will enable you to be your best, most authentic self. Building a more fulfilling life requires courage and tenacity; I am happy to support you on the journey.
Kayce Bragg
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. :)
Michelle Mohn
I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & coping with life changes. I am a Certified Oncology Social Worker and have many years of working with clients who have life changing diagnosis and assisting them in navigating life with and after diagnosis. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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.
Elwin Trammell
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana and Illinois with approx. 10 years of professional work experience. I'm a Certified Case Manager. I'm also a Doctoral Student with a concentration in Moral Injury. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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!
Edward Driver
I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.
Valerie Wise
I am licensed in Illinois and Indiana with 30 years of professional work experience. As a Solution Focused Coach and Therapist I believe that you are the expert of your story. I support you to find the solutions that you want. In addition, to the years of clinical and coaching experience, the spiritual values of each person is honored. This value is often the key to what ultimately helps you to arrive at your desired outcome. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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:
- 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 featur
- 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 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.
Popular cities in Illinois
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- Naperville, IL
- Springfield, IL
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- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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