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.

Dr. Tina Lott
Dr. Tina Lott Dr. Lott is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois, Colorado, Maine, and Arizona. She is also a Certified Addictions Counselor (CADC) and Advanced Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Dr. Lott also holds the BC-TMH (Board-certified Tele mental health) credential. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in addiction from Chicago State University. She went on to earn a Master’s degree at Governors State University in 2011 and earned her Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Governors State University in 2018. Dr. Lott belongs to several professional organizations. They include the Illinois Counseling Association (ICA), National Certified Counselors (NCC), and the American Counseling Association (ACA). She is a Board Director on NBCC's CCE Board. Dr. Lott is passionate about working with the mental health community. She is a Core Professor in the School of Counseling at a top-notch university where she teaches counseling to master's and doctoral-level students. Dr. Lott specializes in working with those with co-occurring disorders in the community. She is an advocate for social justice and has a personal and professional goal of addressing issues related to stigma. The stigma associated with mental illness and addiction harms the recovery of the members that she works with. Dr. Lott is helping to increase awareness about stigma through her post-dissertation research endeavors. Dr. Lott’s family consists of 2 Kids, ages 15 and 10, and her wife, Tina. When she is not working, Dr. Lott enjoys working out, painting, traveling, reading, and most of all, spending time with family.

Dr. Dominique Horton
Hello! My name is Dominique and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings where I have served youth and families, young adults and for the past 10 years school-aged children. While I served young people in this role, services to their adult caregivers were key to client success. I earned my Master’s in social work from Southern Illinois Carbondale and I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis’ Brown School of Social Work. I have also had the wonderful opportunity to serve as a White House intern under the Obama Administration, developing a deeper understanding around the complexities of social issues within the United States. I would describe my therapy style as non-judgmental, empathetic, friendly, supportive, and warm. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, and I work collaboratively with the client to achieve their desired goals through a variety of tailored evidence-based treatment modalities. I believe: -Cultural humility, as well as compassionate and confidential care, are essential to effective counseling -Clients voices should be heard, and their needs validated -Clients possess the power and the ability to make necessary change in order that they may live abundant, peaceful, and purpose-filled lives. I am so very happy that you have taken the step to find support in reaching your goals for overall wellness and I am grateful for the opportunity to support you in your journey.

Gina Dunphy
I have been a Social Worker for 30 years. I have my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Master's Degree in Social Work. I am also Licensed in the State of Illinois. My treatment approach is an eclectic one and client directed. I have expertise in Mindfulness approaches as well as DBT. I like to allow you, the Client, to choose the direction of your therapy. In other words you decide the direction of your therapy. Some clients wish to pursue direct problem solving in the course of their treatment, while others merely want a sounding board and feedback regarding the issues they are facing. I bring compassion, experience, and positivity to the counseling experience. I look forward to meeting you!

Sofia Dickey
My name is Sofia Dickey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. Additionally, I am a Certified Addictions Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in residential and outpatient treatment centers for youth with behavioral concerns and adults with various mental health issues. I have also helped a wide variety of individuals from different backgrounds to better manage issues with depression, anxiety, addictions, and trauma. My counseling style is that of acceptance and compassion while using the approaches of cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies as well as motivational interviewing. I am here to listen to you without judgment, and I am here to help. One of the benefits of online therapy involves the added daily support that may not be available through regular outpatient counseling. Therefore, I encourage you to message me at anytime as I check my messages at least once a day every day of the week. I also offer messaging, live chat, phone sessions and video sessions. Although I encourage video sessions, I am available through the means that make you feel the most comfortable. I look forward to working with you and helping you reach your goals.

Alisa Cates
Hello. Do you find yourself struggling with something you feel like no one else will understand, or perhaps there is no one you can confide in for fear of being judged? Keeping things bottled up creates interpersonal conflict, affects our relationships, and hinders the ability to change. I believe that individuals want to be heard and understood, all the while respecting their unique differences. My name is Alisa Cates, LCPC and I have been licensed in the State of Illinois since 2013. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental health agencies, inpatient hospitalization, intensive outpatient programming, corrections, and private practice treating a broad range of issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, life transitions, relationship and family issues, self-esteem, anger management, stress management, interpersonal conflict, and career planning. I would appreciate the opportunity to assist you as you move forward in this ever- changing life and believe that building a strong rapport with my clients is the fundamental aspect which promotes growth and change. I practice from a person-centered approach and integrate treatment modalities most beneficial to each client including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical-Behavior Therapy. I look forward to meeting you and discussing what's on your mind!

Dr. Zauditu McCants
Greetings! I’m Dr. Z. E. McCants. I am licensed in Washington D.C., Georgia, Nevada, and Illinois. I have 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, couples therapy, Christian Counseling & sleeping disorders. 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.

Bethany Besand
I am licensed in California, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan and Missouri with 13 years of professional work experience as a licensed therapist though I have been in the social service field for over 25 years. 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.

Sarah Lamie
I am licensed in Illinois with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

Stephen Garlington Sr.
I am a licensed, male, African American, mental health professional in Florida and Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping you work through such issues as stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings and risk 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 and celebrate small successes!

Mark German
I am licensed in Illinois with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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 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.
Popular cities in Illinois
- Chicago, IL
- Aurora, IL
- Joliet, IL
- Rockford, IL
- Naperville, IL
- Springfield, IL
- Peoria, IL
- Elgin, IL
- Waukegan, IL
- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
Find your state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming