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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Aili Wachtel

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello and welcome - I appreciate your visit to my page! I see counseling as a collaboration between client and counselor - clients want to feel their best and function at full potential, and my role is to provide quality, customized care to help them do that. I am a big believer that even small changes can significantly impact internal well-being and external influence. I partner with clients to identify and build on strengths so they can face challenges, create solutions, and feel better. Licensed in Illinois and Connecticut for 20 years, I have worked as counselor, consultant, coach, and advisor in both higher education and private practice. Much of my work has been with clients transitioning from one life phase or role to another. Change can be hard, and people who ask for help as they face it are brave. With an approach specific to each individual, consisting of a personalized set of strategies drawn largely from humanistic, cognitive, acceptance and commitment, and solution focused therapies, I support and encourage clients as they work to adjust to new roles, situations, expectations, and realities and help them cope with the resulting symptoms and feelings. It is a privilege to help clients work through a difficult time as they progress through life’s inevitable changes, and I would be honored to work with you!

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Joan French

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I've met with many clients who have shared they don't feel really heard or understood by others. As a result-they feel lonely, isolated, and hopeless. I believe that to feel a sense of personal wellness we must also feel heard & connected! Finding and connecting with a counselor is a valuable and courageous choice to move forward! It is important for me to create a space where my clients feel trusting and comfortable. This space is a 'judgement-free zone'. I want to create an atmosphere in relationship to my clients in which they can share those things which might feel 'unspeakable'. It has been my experience that those are the things that need saying. I have a well-seasoned 17+ years of experience working as a therapeutic counselor. I am thankful to be able to do this work! I consider myself to be a resourceful, creative, & patient therapist with a robust combination of life experience, clinical expertise, and therapeutic skill. My trauma-informed approach may be considered integrative, as I will often utilize techniques from: CBT, DBT, IFS, Positive Communication Skill Building, Anger Management, and Art Therapy. I must also add here that I try to incorporate humor, when appropriate. Let's call this 'chuckle healing'. Currently I am accepting individual adult clients 18+. I see a wide variety of clients seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, adjustment concerns, and more. Additionally, I welcome those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, or who are exploring/questioning. I received my Master of Arts Degree in Community Counseling from Governors State University, and I received an Art Therapy Certificate from Northwestern University. I'd consider it an honor to be a part of your journey.

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Fritz Gelin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Ed.D.,LCPC,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I currently hold an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) and a CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor), both from the State of Illinois. Professionally, I am the Program Coordinator at a crisis center, but I have over 15 years of experience working with clients presenting with a wide range of issues, including bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I draw my counseling strengths from using a Person-Centered Therapy approach. I believe that the therapy space is for the client to have a voice and options available for adequate problem solving. I am certified in CBT, but I use an eclectic approach integrating various counseling models. At times, we are faced with a difficult task, and we may need some assistance. If you feel ready for therapy/counseling, I am here to provide you the help you need. Thank you.

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Mary Creamer-Tate

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Jonique Young

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
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 stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. 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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Keith Hugh

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I will structure our dialog to meet your unique and specific needs where you currently may be in healing journey. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. "We are all a mixture of strengths and weaknesses. No one has it all and no one lacks it all." - C. Peterson

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Jodi Colbert

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

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Illinois with 5 years of clinical social work experience. I have helped clients with mood issues, stress and anxiety, life adjustment, trauma and abuse, attachment, grief and loss, self-esteem problems, and relationship issues. My therapy style is warm and collaborative. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and your many strengths will assist you in overcoming and healing from things that stress, hurt, and challenge you. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect; regardless of what makes us different. My counseling approach incorporates client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, narrative, and solution-focused therapies. I tailor all counseling and treatment plans to meet your personal goals. I understand it takes courage to take the first step towards healing, growing, and mental health. I am here to support and guide you in that process. I look forward to working with you!

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Stephanie Collins

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoaching
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with special certification in Trauma Counseling and in Grief Support. I have experience helping people with a variety of conditions. I practice from a client-centered approach, meaning that I believe YOU are the expert about yourself, and I believe we can work best together as a team. I approach people with a non-judgmental attitude and a curiosity that creates a space where they can feel comfortable with me. It’s important for you to be involved in decisions regarding your mental health and well being, and it is important to set goals that are realistic and relevant to you. I believe my role is to help you by providing resources and guidance. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you find ways to live your best life now!

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John Schroeder

Offering therapy in Illinois
Family conflictsParenting issues
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 & parenting issues. As a school social worker for the past ten years I have developed a unique set of skills that emphasize strength based perspectives. I have worked with students from pre-kindergarten through high school and have a great aptitude for working with children and parents alike. 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.

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Clarence McCray

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & 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 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:

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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