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.
Gabriel "Gabe" Seldess
My goal is to help people better understand and accept themselves. I strive to identify barriers to happiness and develop a road map toward greater health. I like to begin with getting an understanding of presenting issues and current life circumstances and working toward an individual’s vision for the future. I use a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Counseling Theory to explore experiences that shape our beliefs, expectations, and preferences. I help a client examine these thoughts and ideals and to challenge those concepts that may be detrimental, limiting, or no longer functional. I use Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing to assist with mood management, decision making, and problem solving. I also assist with developing communication skills to help with self-advocacy. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist currently living and working in Chicago. I graduated from the Family Institute at Northwestern., and throughout my 17 years as a counselor I have worked with many difficulties individuals, families, and couples can face. I have specific experience helping people navigate relationships, anxiety and mental illness, and general stress management.
Aaron Swerdlove
Greetings citizens of the universe my name is Aaron Swerdlove and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Chicago Illinois. In 2003 I completed my Masters degree at The University of Illinois-Chicago, Jane Addams College of Social Work. Over the years I’ve learned a few things, for instance sometimes the best advice is the advice not given. Another thing I’ve learned is to not be so judgmental of others. Indeed I have begun a counseling/therapy practice and I do offer support, guidance, and understanding. My approach is integrative because there is not a one size fits all when it comes to problems and difficulties in life. The client’s prerogative is super important . Adversity, difficulties, rough patches, problems, failures, etc are bound to happen in life and sometimes people need assistance to get through and understand what it is they are experiencing. I think therapy and counseling can be very useful in this endeavor. Making a little bit more space internally can result in more freedom and peace within. Changing the narrative of our storylines or understanding our experience in a different way can be liberating. Therapy/counseling can definitely help accomplish this. Go for it you are worth it. I’d love the opportunity to help.
Dr. Nicole Maronde
*Right now I am looking to fill my mornings, but if you are interested in another time of day please reach out! As a seasoned Social Worker with a decade of experience, I bring a compassionate and insightful approach to therapy. I obtained my Clinical Social Work License in 2020 after completing my Masters in 2014. In 2023, I earned a Doctorate of Social Work from Aurora University. My therapeutic practice is diverse, catering to adults, parents, couples, teens, and youth. Over the years, I've developed a specialization in addressing various issues such as Neurodivergence, Attachment or Relationship Issues, Family Dynamics, Workplace Burnout, Racial Stress & Trauma, LGBTQ issues, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Life Transitions, Parent Coaching, and Childhood Trauma. In therapy, I firmly believe that you hold the keys to your own healing and growth. My role is that of a supportive guide, utilizing therapeutic techniques to unearth the answers within you. Drawing from a rich toolkit of therapeutic approaches including Narrative Therapy, Logotherapy, Existentialism, Client-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Rational Emotive Therapy, Self-Psychology, Bowen’s Family System, and Humor Psychology, I tailor my methods to suit your unique needs and preferences. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, where you are empowered to navigate life's challenges with resilience and insight.
Erin Taylor
I am a professional counselor independently licensed in Illinois after moving back and practicing in Arizona for nearly a decade. I have over 15 years of experience in a wide range of services and populations both in Arizona and Illinois. I have both experience in crisis intervention and outpatient therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, abandonment, abuse, bullying, parenting problems, grief, addiction and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked with schools, DCFS, foster parents, Emergency Rooms, Police/Fire, Psychiatric Hospitals, Psychiatrists, Probation. My internship was completed at a shelter that provided counseling for women in need of therapy for domestic violence situations and sexual assault trauma. I completed an additional internship that focused on substance abuse and addictions. I served working with juveniles on probation/parole initially in Arizona and then entered the crisis world. I then changed to outpatient work with individuals and families for over 5 years before moving back to Illinois. I have been working in a combination of crisis work and outpatient therapy for almost 5 years now. My style is warm, empathetic, supportive and a little humor at times. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I have worked with all populations, including children, adults, LGBTQ+, people of various backgrounds, spiritual beliefs and appreciate diversity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, crisis intervention, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, humanistic, client centered and rational-emotive counseling. I will ensure the treatment plan is unique to you and your specific needs, so this is a team effort. I want you to feel heard, valued, and our interactions to feel genuine and promote your growth and wellness. I know this is difficult and I applaud you for reaching out to take care of yourself, it is so important to take care of mental health and learn tools and ways to carry with you the rest of your life.
Emily Cadman
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in treatment of PTSD, stress management, and life changes. I have worked in the fields of residential treatment, case work, individual therapy, children and family services, and incarcerated individuals. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have experience in using mindfulness. I look forward to seeing what we can do together on your way through life.
Kenneth Stall
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my masters degree at the Jane Addams Graduate School of Social Work in Chicago, and my LCSW license in 1990, after taking the first clinical exam ever offered. I have extensive experience working with many different age levels. My post graduate training includes the basic principles of Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) with Dr. Albert Ellis. I am selective about this style of therapy but also am eclectic about using different techniques such as mindfulness exercises. I have worked extensively counseling children and teenagers troubled with Asperger's Disorder, ADHD, depression, and impulse disorders. My work with adults has included counseling for adult ADHD, career coaching, depression/anxiety and parenting skills, as well as couples counseling. I generally see clients M-F 12 upto 8 PM. Currently, I have a keen interest in working with tennis and golf competitors on the mental side of their sport.
Myrna Pledger
I was trained as a Community Counselor and as such, I am prepared to work with the issues and concerns that occur with individuals and families in the community, and everyone lives in a community. As you can imagine, there are not many individual situations I have not encountered. In the beginning of my career, I worked with children behaving violently or inappropriately in school environments primarily. I realized that the child experiencing mental health difficulties is a member of a family experiencing mental health difficulties as a system. I believe that most maladaptive behavior is learned from the family environment or may be from inherited tendencies. I also believe that many problems you see in both children and adults are the results of having to be in close proximity to someone who is a narcissist or someone who is exhibiting enough narcissistic traits to be dangerous to those with whom they associate. I am licensed in the state of Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have over 10 years of experience working as a Counselor. I specialize in treating survivors of narcissistic abuse both mental, spiritual and physical. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I am faith-based as I myself believe it is important to recognize The Creator when attempting to offer help to His people. My therapy style is truth-based, educationally focused and kind. I believe in treating anyone in the manner that I would want to be treated if I was in their situation. I don't believe in labels, but I do believe in presenting examples of others who have overcome similar circumstances. I am primarily faith or Christian based. I am solutions focused and combine cognitive-behavioral and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Diana Dobier
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Illinois with over 25 years of experience working with a wide range of individual issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career concerns and challenging work experiences, I have assisted individuals experiencing issues with substance abuse, and parenting concerns. I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider, with many years of experience providing treatment in the online environment. My goal in the treatment is to be warm and to create a safe space in which we can build a therapeutic relationship. I believe it is important to provide respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and mindfulness therapy. I use these tools to develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Booking an appointment is the first step to building a better life for yourself. I provide guidance and support as you take that next step towards change. I look forward to working with you!
Sara khaledpour
I am licensed in state of Illinois and Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, eating disorders, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Christina Steele-Lietz
To be a confidante, friend, teacher and equal. This is the approach I take to therapy; non-judgmental, identifier of facts, explorer of solutions and compassionate listener through a person’s life experience. Therapy together will be the creation of a lifestyle determined by you on; how to respond to what cannot be controlled and you determining what is best for you, learning how to comfort yourself through pain and suffering, identifying who you are and want to continue to be. I am so glad you are taking this time for yourself and making your health a personal priority. I am licensed in Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+-related issues, & trauma and abuse. Our 'work-space' together will be an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement or rejection. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Crystal Williams
I am licensed in Illinois with 25 plus 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, & bipolar disorder. 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.
Rita Singh
Real help starts here... Life can be hard so you deserve GOOD THERAPY with the RIGHT THERAPIST! Unfortunately, not everyone will have a good therapy experience or know what to expect. Good therapy includes feeling safe, accepted (not judged), supported and listened to. Good therapy will help you move forward with your needs and goals in mind a little bit every session and, if you don't know what those goals are, you should be assisted in sorting that out. Good therapy is not about just talking or wanting you to take the lead all of the time. Good therapy is a collaborative process. I strive to provide the people I work with that model of good therapy. I want you to feel like we are a good fit, that you feel connected and safe in talking with me, that you feel you are striving for something important for yourself and working your way to it, that you feel understood and never judged, that you are being educated on issues and given specific scientifically and clinically backed tools to address those things, and that you feel supported and cared about along the way. I like to think of therapist and client as Sherpa and traveler. You have a destination in mind to try to get to and I, as your Sherpa, am there to guide you and get you there as quickly and safely as possible since I know the terrain and pathways. Don't settle for less. You deserve to find your happiness! With my 25 years of professional work experience and have run my own private practice since 2006. I would love to be your therapist Sherpa for your personal journey. Please reach out to see if we are a good fit and, if not, I will be happy to help you figure out who might be better suited for you. Feel free to schedule yourself in any opening I have. If none of the times/ days work for your schedule just message me and we can find an alternative time that I can schedule you in between my private practice insurance and self-pay clients. I hope to hear from you soon. Best to you on your journey!
Sarah Seely
I am licensed clinical counselor in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients learn how to manage anxiety, depression, unhealed trauma and abuse, substance use and addiction, relationships and more. I also have 10 years experience working in crisis intervention: suicidal thoughts, self harming behavior and psychosis. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe its very cathartic to talk to someone in this space, to improve your insight and self awareness, empowering growth and change. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Michele McShea
I have been working as a therapist for almost 20 years, and have been honored to work with individuals, couples and groups. I have always believed that we can heal. As we gain confidence in ourselves, we are able to participate in life more and more. The more satisfied we feel with the inner world we create, and our responses to the world around us, the more we find ourselves healing from within and without. As we walk the path toward true and lasting change, both insight and coping help us to move forward. I have helped people to heal from Anxiety and Depression, relationship difficulties, lack of motivation and self-love (sometimes called self-esteem), trauma, abuse and post-traumatic stress, LGBTQ+ related issues, and those pertaining to family of origin. We can heal from our issues, and we can also increase our functioning along the way. Coping can go hand-in-hand with true and lasting healing that leads to a greater sense of peace in our lives. I consider it an honor and privilege to be trusted to walk this path with you.
Heather Freed
Heather Freed, LCSW: Unlock Your Potential Welcome! I'm Heather Freed, LCSW, and I specialize in helping individuals like you find peace, balance, empowerment, and fulfillment in life. With over a decade of experience, I'm here to guide you on a transformative journey towards well-being and your higher purpose. Why Choose Heather Freed's Therapy Practice? Personalized Approach: Your life, your story. I'll work with you to create a custom plan that resonates with your values and unique circumstances. Holistic Healing Techniques: Combining evidence-based therapy, mindfulness, and spirituality, we'll unlock new paths of healing and personal growth. Safe Space for Exploration: Judgment-free zone! Feel free to explore your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs to gain deeper insights. Professional and Life Expertise: From stress and anxiety, major life transitions to relationship and career challenges, I'm here to provide compassionate guidance tailored to your needs. Services and Specializations: -Stress, Anxiety and Depression Management -Relationship Counseling -Career Guidance and Life Purpose -Self-Esteem and Personal Growth -Meditation and Spiritual Insights The Journey with Heather Freed: We'll embark on a collaborative path that merges therapeutic techniques, spiritual insights, and meditation to empower you. Together, we'll create a harmonious life that ignites your true potential. Take the First Step Today! Your journey towards a more fulfilling life is just a message away. Reach out to schedule a session and let's begin our transformative work together.
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
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- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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