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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Amelia Lambert

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

• B.A. in Human Services from National-Louis University • MSW from Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe Throughout our lives we are challenged by obstacles that can be difficult to manage on our own. Reaching out for help in those times can be incredibly difficult. Working with a therapist during those struggles in life can help find the insight into some of the most rewarding and positive changes we make; leading to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. The first step in making changes in your life begins now. I have been working the mental health field for over 16 years with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction & co-dependency issues, and relationship or family dynamics. I have provided services in outpatient, inpatient, residential, as well as rehabilitation long-term care settings to clients ranging in age from adolescent to geriatric, both in individual and group sessions. My professional philosophy stems from the belief that every person deserves to live fully; with hope for the future and the self-respect to believe you are worthy of it. I believe every individual is capable of change and possesses the resiliency within ourselves to improve our lives. We will work together to identify the aspects of yourself that are not working for you and discover a healthier direction for your life.

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Sarah Hope

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: M.A.,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I have always been an intuitive, empathic, and inquisitive human and as corny as it may sound, helping to bring “world peace” has always been a consistent life goal of mine. However, from as early as I can remember, I was always held back in my personal and professional journeys because of the multitude of thoughts and panic feelings circling throughout my head and body. My personal struggles with anxiety and depression, brought me into confronting my own demons with the help of professionals, and through that process I realized that my talents and passions aligned with helping others work though their own internal struggles—my tiny, humble contribution to bringing that world peace, I so hope and wish to provide. I realized early on that a) there is no right way to be, b) and all humans are wildly perfect for every flaw, and imperfection society may throw at us. I believe in the simple truths of respect for one another, and believe in the value of human connection, regardless of any background. After graduating college and leaving the beautiful cocoon that is Boulder, CO, I found myself in a “quarter life crisis,” type place. I felt stuck, but ready for my next move. My passion for “bringing world peace” was still a constant thought in the back of my head. My work and passion for the homeless and individuals afflicted with addiction/severe mental illness brought me to New Delhi, India to work side by side with street children. While there, I learned to incorporate natural empathy, non-verbal communication and holistic spirituality to help nurture and teach these children daily life skills, while also building their self esteem. The trip was quite possibly the most eye opening experience of my life, and it taught me the power of trusting myself through the vulnerable experiences that life constantly throw at us. In 2012, after this life-changing journey in India, I found myself on a new journey, in Chicago, IL with the same passions for helping those who desperately needed a voice, or an advocate. In 2013, I started my Masters degree training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adler University, and found that social justice for all would be an underlying driving force for me throughout my career. I have experience working in Drug/Alcohol Rehabilitation centers, individual and group counseling on the West Side of Chicago with homeless clients, severe mental illness, and couples and family therapy. Upon graduating with my Masters degree in 2015, I started administering Neurofeedback, as well as counseling services in a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, IL. I have strong experience working with all age groups (6-75 yo), with a specialty in adolescence and young adulthood. I currently work closely with all age groups, and all degrees of mental illness, with a specialty in depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ community and have worked closely with starting a LGBTQ services website in the Chicago land area. I counsel from an integrative background, instilling Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, Existential ideals as well as humanistic validation throughout my sessions. I believe in establishing rapport through a combination of professional boundaries and establishing a learning journey together. I tend to incorporate humor, and self-disclosure of my own journey into my sessions as well. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have, and I look forward to tackling life’s challenges together.

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Nichole Molnar

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS.,LCPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I have extensive experience helping those with depression, anxiety, trauma, and behavioral issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who works with individuals, groups, couples, and families. I have a lot of expertise in helping my clients with stress management, self-esteem issues, communication skills, peer conflict, women's issues and men's issues. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship and I approach each client individually to determine their course of treatment. I use Cognitive-behavioral therapy/behavioral modification. Both have been researched and supported for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. I also use Mindfulness techniques to help individuals be present in the moment and learn to take a step back and empower themselves to handle any situation. My philosophy is that clients already hold the skills/tools necessary to improve. I work collaboratively with the clients to help them to achieve their goals. I prefer to see clients as quickly as I can.

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Carla Gehle

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor . "I practice from the approach that I want to see my client's improve their lives, no matter the presenting issue. I have years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families from many different backgrounds and feel that it is important to remember that each client, couple, and family have different goals of counseling and require an individualize therapeutic plan to fit their needs." I earned my Bachelors Degree from North Central College, and my Masters in Clinical Counseling from National Louis University. I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC.) I am a certified ACE personal trainer, also a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, and have completed ACE Nutritional Specialist program. I use my training to treat the whole person, both physical health and mental health. I feel that it is important for a person to focus on their wellness during their counseling journey. I have been in private practice for over 8 years and has previous experience working at hospitals, where I provided psychological assessments and determines the appropriate level of care for patients seeking services. In the past I have worked in non-profit outpatient settings, along with a Therapeutic School which was a training site for psychology professionals. I use my years of experience in different sectors of the counseling field everyday in my practice. I specialize in working with individuals that are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitional and adjustment disorders. I practices with a client centered approach to therapy, using cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and dialect behavioral therapy. I specialize working with couples that have experience trauma, affairs, communication issues, and conflict resolution issues. I have extensive training in relationship counseling theories (Gottman) and have many years of experience working with couples.

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Kaneesha Craig

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

My name is Kaneesha Craig and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years. I have worked with many clients with a range of concerns ranging from the chronically mentally ill in a hospital setting to clients adjusting to life circumstances in a community agency setting. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I am a person centered counselor who believes in treating people with respect while helping them own their behaviors. My clinical approach is cognitive behavioral. My ultimate goal is to help you reach your desired level of wellness in life. I believe in a clinical partnership and I look forward to being your partner to help you navigate through life. I look forward to working with you soon.

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Charles Beard

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

I am trained in Marriage and Family Therapy and have served as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 25 years. I have served in both public and private mental health agencies, primarily for those seeking help with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addiction and domestic violence. Any client who has the courage to seek counseling is someone worth celebrating. With gentleness and warmth, I try to focus on each of my client's strengths to help them in the area they desire to change. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Systemic Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy as appropriate. I will tailor my dialog and treatment plan to meet the client's concerns. Each client's faith and moral values are recognized as a foundation for their desired growth. I look forward to meeting you.

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Debra Porter

Offering therapy in Illinois
Self esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Cheryl Affrunti

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
14 years of experience

Greetings and welcome! My name is Cheryl Lee Affrunti (I go by “Lee”), and I am a Florida-based clinical psychologist with more than 13 years of experience assisting clients of all ages. I have been privileged to work with clients struggling with a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, stressful life transitions, bipolar disorder, ASD, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, schizoaffective disorder, learning disabilities, parenting problems, and relationship concerns. I am especially honored to have helped veterans, first responders, and others experiencing the harmful effects of physical and emotional trauma. As a person-centered therapist, I believe you deserve to be treated with empathy, respect, dignity, and compassion. I offer a judgment-free zone where you can count on my commitment to provide a safe and welcoming environment during our time together. I don’t profess to have the specific answers you seek, but I fervently believe you have those answers within you, and I will focus our time together by listening to you and helping you discover your richest and most meaningful path forward. My theoretical orientation is based primarily on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and includes cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, mindfulness-based, and solution-oriented approaches depending on your unique challenges, preferences, and situation. I appreciate the courage it took for you to reach out to someone to improve the quality of your life. Yes, you absolutely can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life, and I offer to you my services as your guide who will strive to enlighten, empower, and support you on your journey. I hope we can travel this part of your journey together!

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Wendy Gatewood

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderADHD
21 years of experience

Greetings! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Indiana. I have over 20 years of experience in my specialization. My work experience includes multiple settings such as, residential, foster care, treatment centers, schools, and private practice. For the first half of my career, I mostly worked with ages 2-22, and for at least the past four years I have helped others up to age 80. Areas I have expertise with are managing stress and anxiety, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, self-worth, trauma and abuse, anger management, & Bipolar Disorder. 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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Tomario "Mario" Stamps

Offering therapy in Illinois
Family conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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!

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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