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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Jenifer Pittman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and Illinois. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of settings. Life comes with many challenges and we often find ourselves overwhelmed by what has come our way. Together we can identify concerns and find ways to move through life challenges. Through exploring and learning ways to manage emotions, I feel there are opportunities for growth. I believe it is important to identify individual strengths and will guide you towards positive self worth. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term counseling, I will work with you to achieve a greater self-fulfillment. I believe in blending therapeutic approaches and tailoring them to fit each individual's needs. It is important to me that clients feel heard and understood. I create a safe, collaborative environment where clients can explore issues and concerns without fear of judgement. I frequently utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused and mindfulness techniques. My experience includes working with individuals and families through significant life transitions, relationship issues, coping with loss, general emotional distress, anxiety, and addiction. I want to help clients reach their goals by focusing on strengths, identifying thoughts and behaviors that are interfering with their happiness and developing coping skills to improve their quality of life.

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Jennifer Hoffman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
19 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker with over 19 years of experience working with children and families. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns such as behavioral problems, anger issues, ADHD, parenting issues, as well as trauma and abuse. I believe in client centered practice using an empowerment approach to help you gain the tools you need to be successful. My counseling style is compassionate and caring. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion . My approach encompasses cognitive behavioral therapy with a solution focused approach. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek help and I am honored to be someone to guide you along in this process. I am here to help and support your needs. I look forward to meeting you!

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Leah Little

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LMSW,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Leah Little, LMSW, CAADC is a fully licensed clinical social worker in the states of Michigan and Illinois, and a certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor. She obtained her MSW from the University of Michigan, with a concentration in mental health and interpersonal practice. Her graduate training was conducted at Michigan Medicine, in the Psychiatric Emergency Services. During this internship, she obtained extensive training in various evidence-based treatments, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Later in her career, while in government service with the U.S. Veteran’s Health Administration, Leah was trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET). Leah has over a decade of work experience providing individual, family, and group therapy to adolescents and adults in community non-profit, hospital, and private practice settings. Her areas of treatment focus include life transitions, grief/loss, relationship or family issues, general stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, or coping with past trauma. Leah strives to create a safe, welcoming atmosphere where you can openly share thoughts and feelings, talk about your dreams and goals, be unashamed to cry, and maybe even laugh a little.

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Erin Lee

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I have been a therapist in Illinois for 20 years working with clients struggling primarily with anxiety, depression, family conflict, parenting, ADHD, and grief/loss. I have a Master's in Social Work degree from University of Illinois at Chicago as well as an additional certification in mindfulness. My therapy approach involves creating a compassionate, calm space where clients can delve into the barriers that make life difficult to manage. Using a solution-focused based therapy infused with dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness training, clients are able to reflect on changes they want to see and make small steps in a positive direction. We all have good intentions but sometimes our busy and overwhelming lives keep us from forming better habits. I encourage clients to access mindfulness and positive self care strategies that are easy to implement for noticeable and effective change so life can be lived to the fullest! I primarily use the LiveChat option for therapy as this has been proven to be a convenient and comfortable platform for many of my clients. If this interests you, please let me know and we will find a time to meet!

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John Horsley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,LCAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I'm John Horsley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor both in the state of Indiana. I graduated from Indiana University with a Master's Degree in Social Work. I have worked extensively with individuals and families who have dealt with substance use disorders and complications from substance use disorders. I've also focused on working with individuals who have experienced trauma and secondary trauma. I've practiced in a variety of settings and seeing a variety of clients with various struggles. I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the foundation and essential component in the change process. I believe in meeting individuals where they are in the growth process and partnering with them to walk through change together. I have developed many tools for the toolbox and understand that each person has unique needs and requires unique approaches. Most of all, I want to respect the place my client is at and make sure they are feeling safe and motivated. Congratulations on taking the first step on your journey. It would be an honor to walk it with you.

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Jennifer McNamer

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with over 5 years of professional work experience. I obtained a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands and have worked as a clinician in community mental health and private practice. I have experience providing mental health services to adults who have experienced depression, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, and career difficulties. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that helps to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to create more meaningful life experiences. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment in order to promote a safe space for you to heal. 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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Beth Tabbert

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings and have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, career struggles, stage of life transitions, & trauma and abuse. 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 takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Aaron Brakhane

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I spent the first part of my career working with children in high risk environments. This has included abuse, trauma, neglect, and abandonment. Since then I have expanded to work with individuals of all ages. Even so, I have not lost focus on the idea that the experiences during our early years shape our worldview as adults. When someone is traumatized, their whole life can begin to revolve around that event. My hope for all of my clients is that they are able to integrate all of their experiences into a cohesive self concept. By doing this, they will be able to understand the underpinnings of their reactions and emotional shifts. With this information in hand, I believe, we are all best equipped to face our own unique challenges. Despite the sometimes huge impact of childhood trauma, I believe that all of us have an innate capacity for growth. This growth is reflected in our emotional maturity, spiritual practice, and ability to realize our goals. I know from my own experience that my faith has been instrumental in overcoming difficulties in my own life. Personally I believe that the more we integrate all the spheres of our life, the better we become at reaching our goals.

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Alison Mcgannon

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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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Corby Jackson

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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:

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.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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