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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Daryl Flink

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I have 10 years experience working in inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment centers, and I hold masters degrees in Social Service Administration and Public Policy with a concentration in Healthcare Administration. I dedicated my early career to mental health research and advocacy. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds to address anxiety, depression, substance abuse, family and relationship conflicts, career stress, and low self-esteem. I always start with genuine empathy to create a safe, nonjudgemental space. I want my clients to feel comfortable being vulnerable and sharing their concerns. My eclectic treatment interventions pull primarily from behavioral, cognitive and motivational interviewing perspectives. I work together with my clients to find a strategy that specifically addresses their needs. Through developing coping skills, such as social functioning tools, healthy boundaries and positive self-talk, I want to help empower my clients to improve their quality of life.

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Gina Dickison

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MBA, MS, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

It takes courage to ask for help and I am here to support you on your journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 20 years and certified in Addictions and Employee Assistance Program. I have worked in a variety of workplace settings, dealing with communication, conflict, work life balance and career coaching. I have experience in treating a variety of issues ranging from anxiety, depression, family and marital concerns to addictions and stress management. Throughout my career, I have cultivated skills in addressing trauma, EMDR( Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), grieving, adoption and parenting issues. My style is warm and compassionate. My method is directive and solution focused, drawing on techniques from CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). Together we will partner to set goals and develop an action plan to reach your desired outcome. Dare to achieve your dreams and aspirations in life!! It is an honor and a privilege to work with you! I frequently check messages and will work around your schedule.

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Lauren Madden

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

Clinical Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, serving nonprofit agencies for the past 8 years, highlighting practice in Responsible Eclecticism and the Contextual Model for treatment of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. Currently, I am serving the addiction community working primarily with men and young adults. Prior experience includes work with sex offenders, chronic mental illness, crisis management, and life change support. Picking a counselor is a tough thing, especially when you are unsure what you fully need. Let me help! Individualized care begins by leading clients into self-awareness, with emphasis on overall wellness and exploration of interests, strengths, and abilities among the various domains of life. Coining terms like the “Treatment Crush”, importance is placed on developing rapport and the significance of the therapeutic relationship in bettering client outcomes.

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Siobhan McCullough

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,NCC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

PLEASE NOTE: I currently have daytime hours available for live sessions during the week. I am not offering evenings or weekend times. Hello! I’m really glad you found me. Seeing that you are reading this page, that means that you have taken the hardest steps in your movement towards wellness. Researching and reaching out to a counselor is usually one of the most challenging steps in one’s journey and you’re here! Finding the right therapist fit can make a world of difference in your counseling experience. That being said, I’d like to tell you a little bit about myself to see if I’m the right match for you. My name is Siobhan (pronounced Sha-vaughn) and I prefer she/her/hers pronouns. I received by bachelors of science degree in Psychology and my masters of science degree in Community Counseling. I am double Board Certified in Counseling and as a Tele-Mental Health Provider through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I have worked in the field of psychology since 2006 and have been providing direct counseling care since 2009. During that time, I have worked with clients in community, private practice, and hospital based settings. At this time, I primarily work with adults (18+) in Illinois. Over the last decade I have had the privilege of assisting individuals struggling with a wide variety of concerns and diagnoses; however I mostly focused my care on those who struggled with depression, anxieties, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive behaviors, self-compassion, chronic pain, mania, hypomania, codependency, control issues, life changes, as well as grief and loss. While we will be working together, you will be in the driver seat and I’ll help navigate. We work at your pace and on topics of your choosing. I am a self-admitted nerd for learning and have enjoying gaining knowledge in a variety of different counseling disciplines over the years. I have a variety of techniques at the ready to help us along the way. There may be times that you want to work on finding techniques to manage your symptoms…Let’s do it. There may be times you want to vent about an issue…I’m listening. There may be times you want to dig a little deeper and find some roots…Let’s get our gloves on. Overall as a human, I have an inquisitive mind and an open spirit. I value all life paths and I welcome you as you are! I am a sex positive, kink supportive, ethical polyamorous affirming, and LGBTQIA+ safe counselor. You're free to be you. After reading though more information about who I am, do you think we’re a good match? If not, that’s ok! I wish you well as you continue to look for the best fit for you. If I am a good match, I look forward to your message so we can get started! Let’s get you moving towards the life you want to be living.

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Jamie Blakeman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 16 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in counseling individuals experiencing a wide range of issues, including severe mental illness, trauma, depression anxiety and relational issues. I am passionate about working with individuals who are are struggling with co-occurring disorders and those who are need of support with daily life challenges or events. I have a wholistic approach to therapy and draw from the various modalities , including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy and dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT), in an effort to meet the need of each individual. Through the collaborative process of therapy, Through the therapeutic process, I will help to guide you to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to have a more meaningful life experience. By using the power of the therapeutic relationship, I strive to create a nurturing environment and foundation to help clients heal, rebuild their lives and increase their resiliency. In every session, I use therapy as a way to nurture, challenge, support and understand clients. Healing can occur within a safe and trusting relationship.

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Lauren Oestmann

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Welcome! First I would like to commend you on reaching out for help, as I know this can be the most challenging part. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and struggles. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 13 years of experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with families, children and teens, in residential substance abuse, private practice, adoption preservation and corrections. My style can be described as client centered, strength based and solution focused. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused therapy, mindfulness and solution - focused therapy. If you have any questions feel free to reach out by message through Better Help. I look forward to working with you soon.

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LaDonna Miller

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
8 years of experience

Oftentimes reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 8 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals! I have experience working with adults with depression, ADHD, anxiety disorders, panic disorders, multicultural issues, and complex trauma. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. My passion for mental health stems from personal experiences with myself and those around me. I grew up with family members living with mental illness and I have personally overcome some mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, the process for getting help can be overwhelming, and it can feel so frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I look forward to speaking with you to see if we are a good fit to partner in your journey!

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Dale Barrett

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA, LCPC, LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

Let's move forward together! Sometimes we feel our life is out of control and the first thing we need to do is to identify how and why. Once we can identify how we feel our life is out of control, we can work on the why. Now we can begin to identify what we want our life to be and what we need to do to move forward toward our goals. We will work as a team and I will provide a safe, secure and non-judgemental environment for you to share and explore your world in order to develop goals and a plan to move forward. I have over thirty years of experience and am licensed in Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor(LCPC), Texas as a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor(LPC-S), and Wisconsin as a Licensed Professional Counselor(LPC). Everyone is unique and the therapy must be tailored to fit the individual. I have experience working with anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, forgiveness, grief, trauma and abuse, psychosis, life transitions and addictions. Clinical Approaches: Client-Centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Reflective and Reframing

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Dolores "Del" Larkin

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Do you have difficulties 'needing to be perfect" or not feeling "good enough" . You are not alone. I am a licensed professional with over 20 years experience providing therapy services to couples and individuals with a variety of problems. I believe most people go through a period of their life that is too difficult to handle alone or a problem that has gone on too long and that is a time professional help can provide the impetus to get through the problem or issue. I have a passion for working with people who feel they are not "good enough" or have perfectionism issues. I have also worked with people with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, problems with self confidence or self esteem, problems related to alcohol or drug issues and relationship problems. I use a variety of methods from CBT and DBT to Solution Focused therapy to a more Psychodynamic approach. I match my approach with each individual to work together to get the best results. I approach therapy as a curious listener who works with clients to remove barriers keeping them from being the person they want to be.

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Dr. Bakahia Madison

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, & 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. 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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Renita Willis

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hello, and welcome! My name is Renita Willis, and I am a licensed therapist based in Illinois with over 6 years of professional experience. Choosing to seek therapy is a brave and significant step, and I want to start by saying how proud I am of you for considering this journey toward greater emotional health and well-being. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of helping clients work through a range of challenges, including depression, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, and navigating life transitions. I understand that life can often be overwhelming, filled with moments of unexpected change, deep sadness, or persistent worries. You don’t have to face these moments alone. My goal is to offer you the tools, understanding, and compassionate support you need to regain a sense of balance and fulfillment. In our sessions, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space where you feel truly heard and accepted. I believe that trust is the cornerstone of effective therapy, so I focus on building a strong, genuine connection with my clients. In this space, you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. Whether it’s unpacking complex emotions or learning new ways to approach challenges, I’m here to walk with you step by step. I use a collaborative and tailored approach to therapy that respects your unique experiences and strengths. We’ll work together to identify your goals, develop practical coping strategies, and create a pathway that aligns with your personal values and aspirations. My role is not to tell you what to do but to support you in discovering your own insights and empowering you to make meaningful changes in your life. I use an intergrative approach to therapy incorporating modalities such as emotionally focused individual therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy. I know that the decision to start therapy can feel daunting. It’s not always easy to open up and be vulnerable, especially if you’ve been carrying your struggles alone for some time. But I am here to remind you that it’s okay to take this step at your own pace, and it’s okay to reach out for help. Seeking support is a sign of strength, resilience, and hope for a better tomorrow. Let’s embark on this journey together, creating a space where you can heal, grow, and thrive. If you’re ready to take that first step or just want to learn more about how therapy can benefit you, I’m here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. I will be honored to be a part of your journey toward a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Come on, let's get started.

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Rasa Ruzgys

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health and addiction therapist in Illinois with 10 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, and addiction. 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.

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Jessica Kuilan

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,MHTCM
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in working with a diverse group of individuals, crisis settings, mandatory programs, healthcare, etc. My primary goal is to use my expertise to improve the optimum functioning and self-management potential of the individuals I work with. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client’s individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, etc. to assist clients with anger management, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and chronic illness, etc. Everyone - no matter what age, class, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. will come across certain barriers in life that need re-evaluation. You have already taken the first step toward taking care of your well-being and now is a great time to start!

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Dr. Alicia Fahr

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia, District of Columbia, Maine, Minnesota, Wisconsin, California, Washington, and Arizona with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients manage chronic illness and chronic pain, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, post-partum anxiety and depression, women's issues, aging issues, loneliness, phobias, career changes, and lack of purpose or direction in life. I practice Existentialism, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Rogerian Counseling, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychoanalytic Therapy, and Rational Emotive Therapy in my counseling sessions depending upon the client’s needs, goals, and personality. 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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Susan Mellema

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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:

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.

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