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.
Amelia Lambert
• 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.
Terra Ogle
I have been working in Behavioral Health for over 20 years. I received my undergraduate degree and Master of Social Work degree from the University of Illinois. Since then I have primarily treated issues such as suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, and trauma history. My style is warm and supportive. I see myself as your tour guide as we navigate through the issues you want to work on. Being a social worker, I believe that the change has to happen both within a person and in their environment. I focus on capitalizing on existing strengths, or building new ones. I use a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which primarily means that we learn how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected and how to deal with that. I try to help a person get to the core of where their anxiety derives from in order to quiet the body and the mind. My newest area of passion is trauma. We have all been through “stuff” and often we minimize the effects of that in our lives. However with my knowledge of how trauma affects our brain and therefore our moods and behaviors, I can assist you in coming at things from a direction you might not have thought of in the past. Please note: while I will provide assistance, guidance, and support, this is YOUR therapy and you should expect to do most of the talking :) My style is reflective with gentle nudging, and a dash of humor :) I look forward to working with you!
Dorian Ortega
My name is Dorian A. Ortega, LCPC I am a licensed mental health therapist in private practice. My therapeutic approach centers BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ and is inspired by liberation, feminist and multicultural psychology. As a person of color, I believe in focusing on first loving yourself by having therapy as a tool for guiding that process. I am also co-founder of healing poetry circles to introduce accessibility for mental health services. For the passed 2 years, I have organized a series of free poetry healing circles and other events that seek to use art as a culturally relevant, accessible, inclusive tool of expression, education, resistance and community healing in Humboldt Park. My approach is client-centered and also based in building community wellness. I believe in a practice style of loving yourself first and I encourage building up strengths and help to find holistic ways to heal through mental health challenges. I believe when we create love for ourselves and honor our communication and relationships with ourselves and others, we can build a healthier future for ourselves and our loved ones. I am not only a practitioner but a community advocate for mental health and utilizes poetry, writing, and social media presence to intentionally build intersectional and restorative connections to uplift and liberate marginalized communities.
LaShara Shaw
Hello. My name is LaShara, and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified rehabilitation counselor. I am also a Doctoral candidate for Pastoral and Christian Counseling. It has been my pleasure working with consumers of varied ages, from children to senior citizens. My aim is to discover areas of difficulties and build strengths to foster a flourishing and meaningful life. I endorse an integrative perspective of treatment to acknowledge the contexts of the body, mind, environment, and spirituality within treatment settings. I work in secular and Christian settings, and I respond to the goals of the consumers. I embrace compassion, empathy, and recognition that life has moments of suffering, but through value-driven committed action, there can be beautiful outcomes. It will be wonderful to hear from you soon. Thank you.
Tiffany Hurt
I am a Licensed School Social Worker in Illinois and have 16years of experience working with families. I have primarily worked in school settings and have also been a couple therapist in a military setting. I have worked with clients who are experiencing life issues revolved around anxiety, learning/school concerns, parenting concerns, as well as many more. I like to meet a client where they are at, have conversations that lead to self-awareness. I am understanding and open to the process that people are working on or are currently facing. I like to work on ways to grow and set goals in order in have a healthy lifestyle. This step is so important because it means that you are taking the steps necessary to address any issue that you are experiencing.
Daffaney Burnside
I am a individual and family therapist licensed in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have specialized experience working in residential based treatment providing long term care-treatment as well as short term crisis outpatient-field work. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, abandonment issues, grief and loss, trauma, mood disorders, etc. As a child, I always wanted to pursue a career where I could assist with an individual’s growth, creativity and happiness. I learned at a young age the struggles that life can bring, not only through the inevitable, but also through situational traumas that we at times have to face and endure. Being an active member in the clinical field of helping professionals, I have certainly learned the importance of patience, empathy and peace. Identifying and securing ones’ purpose in life, creates the true masterpiece of one’s story. My goal is to assist you in your journey to self-actualization. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I meet my clients where they are using therapeutic approaches that will better meet their needs. I often use client centered, CBT, DBT and mindfulness therapeutic approaches in my practice. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when help is wanted and needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Karma Lynn Carpenter
Specializing in Therapists, Legal Professionals, Healthcare Providers, Military, Clergy Providing support with Relationships and Goal-setting as you navigate quality of life. It takes courage to focus on solutions. I am here to empower your ability to make decisions to help yourself and your family. My approach is to view challenges thru the lens of your values and beliefs. Whether or not your Situation requires a diagnosis, you’ll receive Support that moves you forward. We may be a good team if you are facing: • compulsive eating, medical obesity • chronic pain or illness • caring for an aging parent or disabled child or both • inter-faith family gatherings or workplace • sensory processing disorder or autism • caring for someone who is dying Expertise • Impaired Professionals • Religions Sexual Abuse • Music therapy, Nutrition, Garden therapy, Assistance Dogs
Angela Johnson
My name is Angela Johnson and I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and I am currently Licensed in Illinois, Missouri (LPC), Maryland (LCPC) licensed as telehealth therapist in Florida. I am currently working in mental health, substance abuse, Veterans, vocational education and services, educational services, assessments, evaluations, and probation and parole, as well as crisis intervention and counseling victims of traumatic events. I am currently working with individuals, children and adolescents , couples, substance use, and traumatic therapy. I also specialize with counseling minorities, LGBTQ, and other clients of ethnic backgrounds. I am currently working with clients that suffer from depression, stress or anxiety. I use various methods to work with clients which includes, homework, play therapy, music therapy, talk therapy, role play, and other methods that provide you with a different view of therapy. I look forward working with you or your family.
Dr. James Bedell
I am a clinical psychologist with 38 years of experience. I have worked with couples, families, individuals, groups, forensic clients including those in the criminal system as well as clients who are involved in the family court system. My core approach is to quickly appraise the psycho-social, biological, and spiritual components of my client's lives, seeking to target and move towards solutions seeking to ameliorate the suffering that their symptoms reflect. I am a non-judgemental therapist, who seeks to build an alliance with my clients to create a sense of safety and respect. I look at symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, as multi-modal, including early childhood attachment problems as well as cognitive dysfunctions and biological influences. I seek to view people wholistically, not as people who have problems, but instead as courageous individuals who have done the best they could as a result of what has happened to them. Most clients that I have worked with consider me as easy to talk to while also conceptualizing their issues well and intervening effectively. I would love to work with you in a collaborative effort to solve and lessen the pain that you may be struggling with.
Jennifer Chicoine
I am licensed in Illinois with 6 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 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!
Gregory Jenkins
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children ages 5 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more. By utilizing a variety of approaches and interventions, such as: EMDR, Theraplay, TRBI, Mindfulness, CBT, Sand Tray-based Therapy, and Neurofeedback, Greg equips trauma survivors with the space, support, and skills necessary to identify triggers, develop healthy coping skills, decrease traumatic symptoms, and practice trauma processing and integration. With his supportive & caring nature, a touch of fun & humor, Greg creates the warm, stress-free, & compassionate environment required for survivors to re-establish safety, a sense of self, & self-trust. Grounded in neuroscience & attachment theory, Greg believes that trauma happens in relationships & thus, a portion of healing also occurs in relationships.
Nicole Tolentino
Beginning therapy can sometimes feel scary or intimidating- but it doesn’t have to be! I come from a strengths based, client-centered approach and will make it a priority to move through the treatment process as a team. I welcome young people and adults of all backgrounds and skill sets. We can work together to explore past, present, and future challenges, as well as build self-empowerment and positive regard through a combination of conversation and exercises. My specialty areas include mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, anxiety disorders, and depression. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness. As with most things, there is not a one size fits all approach to therapy. The road to growth, understanding, and progress looks different for everyone. I am here to assist you by providing support and to help you build the necessary skills in order to cope with any difficulties that may arise.
LaTonya Hill
I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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.
Dr. Lisa Page
I am a Health Psychologist who approaches clients with empathy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an influence of Adlerian theory, to be goal-oriented and positive-focused in treating depression, anxiety, physical illnesses, sleep problems, weight management, recovery from substance use and other lifestyle conditions. Currently, I am working toward becoming a Diplomate with The American College of Lifestyle Medicine and the Board of Behavioral Sleep Medicine. This will further my expertise in treating the six pillars of ‘Lifestyle Medicine’. Lifestyle Medicine covers the following areas which contribute to a healthy lifestyle and improved quality of life: (1) Healthy sleep, (2) Nutritious eating, (3) Stress management, (4) Balanced Social Life, (5) Reducing Negative Behaviors, and (6) achieving adequate activity on a regular basis. I help people overcome their fears and resistance to change through the use of Motivational Interviewing (MI). This helps remove barriers to achieving goals and achieving them successfully. My purpose in my work is to help each client become the best version of their 'self'. In order to make this happen, I strive to create an individual and exceptional experience for every client. I am a ‘straight-shooter’ as necessary to help people overcome barriers to achieving their goals. My doctorate degree was earned through the Colorado School of Professional Psychology which is now the University of the Rockies in Colorado Springs. In addition to practice, I have 10 years of experience as an adjunct professor at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I support local organizations fighting for social justice reform. Most recently, I co-authored an Audiobook on Burnout (available on Amazon).
Samuel Abraham
I am licensed in Illinois with over 25 years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes throughout adulthood. Additionally, I have training and experience with Christian pastoral ministry and counseling. I am able to utilize both my clinical and pastoral training in sessions for those clients who prefer a faith based approach in addressing their psychosocial and spiritual needs. 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.
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
- Chicago, IL
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- Rockford, IL
- Naperville, IL
- Springfield, IL
- Peoria, IL
- Elgin, IL
- Waukegan, IL
- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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