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.

Carly Lusk
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Illinois with extensive experience providing support to those going through many of life's challenges. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, aging, health changes, life-limiting illness, and those facing any of the many tough decisions we work through in life. My philosophy is to create a safe supportive space in which we may together explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences; sort through ambivalence; and make concrete action plans. I believe each person is the expert of their experience and that my role is to support you to explore, identify, and choose your path. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and solutions-focused therapies as well as motivational interviewing. I will tailor our sessions based on your unique situations, skills, and strengths. I commend you for taking the first step toward seeking change and I look forward to supporting you! Schedule: Weekdays: 6-8am; 5-7pm Weekends: scattered availability

Dr. William Robison
I consider myself an optimist and seek to find the best in the people I meet. I have an out-going nature. I love people and I love life and seek to help others find the same joy, even in bleak circumstances. When asked to help, I pitch in. I dislike saying “no” and would rather say “yes” to tasks and assignments. I think of myself as a “can do person” and am always looking for how good things can be made to happen. Finally, I would like to note that I can be comfortable in most environments, working with most age groups and mental health conditions. I began my professional career some 30 years ago. In additional to my Psychology Doctoral degree, I also hold a Master of Divinity degree and a Post-degree Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Tricia Henkhaus
I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Tara Biarkis
Hello! I am Tara Biarkis, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with 11 years of professional experience. I have worked in a wide variety of settings from outpatient mental health, child welfare to healthcare. In particular my experience has included working with depression, stress and anxiety, family conflicts, perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, abuse or neglect and parenting issues. I consider myself a lifelong learner and am always challenging myself to learn new skills to help my clients. I believe that reaching out for help takes courage and I am here to support & empower you through the journey of change.

Maria Gurdian-McCrea
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with some years of professional work experience just as a therapist. For the rest of my career I have worked in the Child Welfare field, working to put families back together. I am experienced in working with trauma and its effects. I like to begin with "What happened to you?" rather than what's wrong with you. I strive to meet my clients where they are with compassion and empathy. I have had success with clients who needed help with professional goals as well as personal goals. I use a coaching style for those who want to lean into their professional life and career. 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. I will be mindful of your time and your particular strengths so that you get the best experience possible. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and commitment to change. You living a fulfilled and happier life is what is important to me. If you are ready to take a step towards that better life, the I am here to support you. I look forward to working with you.

Carla Brown
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Arkansas with over 10 years of experience providing therapy to adults. I began my career working in a community mental health center and currently I have my own practice. I spend most of my time working with client's who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I most enjoy working with couples. I take a straight forward, practical approach in order to do the most work in the least amount of time so you can get back to enjoying your life as soon as possible. I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I meet you where you are and help you to get where you want to be. I know beginning therapy can be anxiety provoking and I strive to make the therapeutic process as comfortable as possible. So try to relax and let's get started! I look forward to talking to you.

Ryan Graff
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Illinois with over 8 years of professional work experience. I work full time in a school setting and have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship dynamics, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in working alongside clients, collaborating to help explore their strengths, values, and aspirations. With respect to their past, clients can be grounded in the present, to help achieve theirs goals in the future. I look forward to being on this journey with you.

Kristin Agnew
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!

Mary Jo Brill
I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience as a Social Worker. My experience includes helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & coping with life changes. My therapy style is open and welcoming, and most important, non-judgmental. I work with my clients utilizing a strength's perspective with the goal of support and empowerment for them. My approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic theory, and solution focused therapy. I treat each person individually, and create a plan that fits them. Making the decision to seek support through therapy is a big step towards having better outcomes in your life. I congratulate you as your journey towards change begins.

Rachael Cutts
I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with clients who are coping with life changes. 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.
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:
- 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 feature
- 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 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.
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