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.
Sarah Hope
I have always been an intuitive, empathic, and inquisitive human and as corny as it may sound, helping to bring “world peace” has always been a consistent life goal of mine. However, from as early as I can remember, I was always held back in my personal and professional journeys because of the multitude of thoughts and panic feelings circling throughout my head and body. My personal struggles with anxiety and depression, brought me into confronting my own demons with the help of professionals, and through that process I realized that my talents and passions aligned with helping others work though their own internal struggles—my tiny, humble contribution to bringing that world peace, I so hope and wish to provide. I realized early on that a) there is no right way to be, b) and all humans are wildly perfect for every flaw, and imperfection society may throw at us. I believe in the simple truths of respect for one another, and believe in the value of human connection, regardless of any background. After graduating college and leaving the beautiful cocoon that is Boulder, CO, I found myself in a “quarter life crisis,” type place. I felt stuck, but ready for my next move. My passion for “bringing world peace” was still a constant thought in the back of my head. My work and passion for the homeless and individuals afflicted with addiction/severe mental illness brought me to New Delhi, India to work side by side with street children. While there, I learned to incorporate natural empathy, non-verbal communication and holistic spirituality to help nurture and teach these children daily life skills, while also building their self esteem. The trip was quite possibly the most eye opening experience of my life, and it taught me the power of trusting myself through the vulnerable experiences that life constantly throw at us. In 2012, after this life-changing journey in India, I found myself on a new journey, in Chicago, IL with the same passions for helping those who desperately needed a voice, or an advocate. In 2013, I started my Masters degree training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adler University, and found that social justice for all would be an underlying driving force for me throughout my career. I have experience working in Drug/Alcohol Rehabilitation centers, individual and group counseling on the West Side of Chicago with homeless clients, severe mental illness, and couples and family therapy. Upon graduating with my Masters degree in 2015, I started administering Neurofeedback, as well as counseling services in a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, IL. I have strong experience working with all age groups (6-75 yo), with a specialty in adolescence and young adulthood. I currently work closely with all age groups, and all degrees of mental illness, with a specialty in depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ community and have worked closely with starting a LGBTQ services website in the Chicago land area. I counsel from an integrative background, instilling Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, Existential ideals as well as humanistic validation throughout my sessions. I believe in establishing rapport through a combination of professional boundaries and establishing a learning journey together. I tend to incorporate humor, and self-disclosure of my own journey into my sessions as well. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have, and I look forward to tackling life’s challenges together.
Kristilee (Kristi) Cappaert
Hello and Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Iowa. I have over five years of counseling experience in Illinois and Iowa. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, marital, life balance and job stress. Throughout my clinical career, I have worked with all different populations from children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Deciding to get therapy can be a scary and I commend you on taking the first step and I look forward to working with you. I utilize many different treatment approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Reality Based, Person-Centered and Mindfulness. My approach is to empower you to work towards the life you wants. It will be my job to guide you on your journey by helping you to gain insight to your behaviors, belies and automatic thoughts. As we get to know each other, we will figure out what interventions will work best for you. Counseling can make you feel vulnerable and I believe in creating a safe space for every one of my client. I look forward to hearing from you and starting this journey together.
Carla Gehle
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor . "I practice from the approach that I want to see my client's improve their lives, no matter the presenting issue. I have years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families from many different backgrounds and feel that it is important to remember that each client, couple, and family have different goals of counseling and require an individualize therapeutic plan to fit their needs." I earned my Bachelors Degree from North Central College, and my Masters in Clinical Counseling from National Louis University. I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC.) I am a certified ACE personal trainer, also a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, and have completed ACE Nutritional Specialist program. I use my training to treat the whole person, both physical health and mental health. I feel that it is important for a person to focus on their wellness during their counseling journey. I have been in private practice for over 8 years and has previous experience working at hospitals, where I provided psychological assessments and determines the appropriate level of care for patients seeking services. In the past I have worked in non-profit outpatient settings, along with a Therapeutic School which was a training site for psychology professionals. I use my years of experience in different sectors of the counseling field everyday in my practice. I specialize in working with individuals that are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitional and adjustment disorders. I practices with a client centered approach to therapy, using cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and dialect behavioral therapy. I specialize working with couples that have experience trauma, affairs, communication issues, and conflict resolution issues. I have extensive training in relationship counseling theories (Gottman) and have many years of experience working with couples.
Rolanda Parks
Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona. I am best positioned to serve adults seeking support for various mental health concerns. My expertise lies in addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions. I work effectively with individuals navigating relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and those striving for personal growth. Whether you're seeking short-term solutions or long-term exploration, my client-centered approach is suited for those committed to positive change and self-discovery.
Nicholas Smith
If you’re feeling stuck, unmotivated, frustrated, hopeless, lost or ready for a life pivot; you’ve come to the right place. I can help you find a way to live in accordance to your values and goals, by helping manage your emotions more effectively. Sessions will provide insight into how your own thought processes work and identification of where some of your thought processes begin, and how to challenge them for growth. From practicing in the student counseling center at Moody Bible Institute, hospital inpatient psychiatric unit, private practice, and a drug & alcohol addiction treatment center, I bring dedication alongside my strong and varied experiences to help you or your loved one. Being a counselor means more to me than a job, it is an interest in the psychology and philosophy, but most of all, helping my clients. Whether life seems difficult right now or you are noticing an area that needs addressed or explored, my goal is to walk alongside in your journey with compassion and professional insight. I use a variety of theories and approaches to fit each individual, and look forward to working with you as you start your pivoting journey.
Melinda Osborn
Melinda Osborn is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Springfield, IL. Melinda has earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work with a minor in Sociology from Illinois State University in Normal, IL, and later went on to earn a Master of Arts in Community Agency Counseling from Bradley University in Peoria, IL. She developed a particular interest in healthcare casework and counseled the sick, dying, and bereaved in a hospice facility. Other areas of experience include life stage transitions, self worth / value, general anxiety, and situational and chronic stress and depression. Melinda is familiar with addressing a client’s psycho/social /spiritual wellness, and takes a systems approach to info gathering. A lifelong Christian, Melinda also has further training with integrating faith based & religious strengths with psychology to work through challenging situations for clients who so choose. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is an approach that challenges cognitive distortions and behaviors and works to chage them to improve a person's emotional regulation and develop personal coping strategies going forward.
Carolyn Cole
Do you notice yourself feeling as though something is just missing in your life? Maybe work feels unsatisfying or relationships feel unfulfilling. Your inner critic may be constantly yapping away, where you start to question if you even like yourself anymore, and you may find yourself trying to constantly distract yourself to escape the voice of the inner critic. You may feel more stressed, anxious, depressed, or even angry. Maybe you also notice patterns that keep - on - repeating, and you just don't know how to get out of this cycle. You may find yourself getting stuck in cycles of shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, or frustration or anger. Everything you've been trying to get ahead just simply isn't working. You may wonder "when will things ever change?" You may even feel a bit stuck or lost, or perhaps as though you feel an urge to "find yourself" again. If this resonates for you, this means you are my ideal client and I am here to help you! I love working with clients on the process of self discovery, self love, and uncovering a way to live a life that feels authentic to you! Let's work together to get you back on track to living a life that feels happier and more fulfilling. I have been working as a therapist since 2011, though my career in the mental health field began in 2000 when I worked as a case manager at a day program helping those diagnosed with persistent mental illness. I loved this experience so much, which is what inspired me to return to school so I could practice as a psychotherapist! My favorite areas to help my clients with are managing depression and anxiety, navigating relationship issues, healing from break-ups, coping with career challenges. exploring life purpose, enhancing self love, improving self esteem and self compassion, self discovery, and finding more meaning in life. My therapy style is warm, conversational, and collaborative, and I would be honored to help you on your journey. 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'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and National Certified Counselor. I am licensed to provide clinical services to those residing in Illinois. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Katherine Souza
I bring 23 years of experience as a therapist and 16 of these years in behavioral health leadership. I have taught at several university and trained new therapists. I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families. I am energized by this profession and look forward to many more years. My treatment philosophy is holistic, systemic and client centered. I utilize a holistic picture including consideration of mind, body and spirit. I involve clients in their treatment planning. I am responsive to individual needs respecting preferences and life experience. Along with my client, I address the current issues and look at how to resolve these.
Rakhi Shingala
Rakhi Shingala, Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) and Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT). Rakhi has received a double masters degree, she has MA in Counseling psychology from Mumbai India and Masters in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling from Columbia College Chicago. Rakhi has over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional and over 10 years of experience working as movement therapist. Rakhi has worked with kids, adolescents, adults and older adults. Her expertise includes working with clients who may have anxiety, depression, history of trauma and abuse. Rakhi has also worked with clients who have eating disorder, ADHA, OCD and other behavior difficulties. Rakhi uses a client-centered approach and collaborates with client to develop treatment plans in a safe, open and trusted environment. Building creative intervention within traditional cognitive-behavior techniques, Rakhi encourages emotional expression and mind-body connection to facility change and healing.
Keesha Beasley
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) licensed in the state of Illinois I am honored to help you manage challenges and overcome barriers. As far as credentials, I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and board-certified by The National Board for Certified Counselors (NCC). As a certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator, I am also passionate about supporting individuals that are newly engaged or soon to be married. My goal as a therapist is to help you clarify the life you want to live. I will help you identify obstacles, recognize strengths, discover realistic solutions, and devise a plan to reach personal goals. Your overall self-awareness will increase as a result of our collaborative relationship. Together, we will explore your values, beliefs, desires, sense of purpose, and interests on an individual, relational, cultural, and occupational level. I provide encouragement, motivation, and tools to assist with achieving the personal and relational goals you set out to accomplish. However, I want to add, if you are seeking support with recent or complex grief and loss I recommend selecting a provider with expertise in that area. Relationships of all kinds often serve as a source of support or stress and significantly impact our daily functioning. The theoretical models I utilize are rooted in the belief that problems are the shared responsibility of all involved; therefore, issues do not result from one person’s actions and behaviors. Rather than view you in isolation, my therapeutic lens compels me to view you (and the challenges you face) systemically. In other words, within the context of your family, friends, colleagues, and other close relationships. My therapeutic approach is culturally sensitive, person-centered, trauma-focused, strength-based, and integrative. Whether you choose to work with me or another provider, I applaud you for taking this important step towards wellness!
Ajibola Obajimi
I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients in coping with addictions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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!
Danielle Washington
As a natural helper, I have committed myself and my knowledge towards helping others manage mental health symptoms & improve overall functioning in a safe & healthy way. My ideal client is one who is committed to achieving goals and is willing to work towards prioritizing him or herself toward positive change. Everyone is different, & as a therapist I do not believe there is a quick fix prescription for symptoms & diagnosis. I use a strength based approach to empower and encourage each client towards the achievement of their goals. As a LCPC (licensed clinical professional counselor) with over 10 years of experience in the field of counseling, I have found that it is most important to facilitate the best environment for change. If you are reading this, I commend you for taking a major step toward changing your life for the better. I strive to partner with my client to discover inconsistencies and plan for solutions through evidence and faith based interventions. With my formula to decrease your unwanted symptoms and increase your coping skills, I will help you to become the best version of yourself. My faith in God is what has been a cornerstone in my life and I have overcome many obstacles that seemed impossible and unbearable. I believe God has equipped me with several gifts and allowed to me combine the expertise of mental health counseling with biblical truths, and prayer to help improve of the lives of His children. I use proven mental health modalities along with Christian counseling (when requested) to provide a treatment plan with realistic and timely goals. *Graduated 2012 - Masters of Arts in Community Counseling - Argosy University Chicago *Licensed Clinical Professional Counseling - State of IL - #180013083
Keeley Lawriw
I am a licensed social worker in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, confidence, coping with life changes, and executive functioning challenges. I also have experience working with students with Autism, ADHD, anxiety. We work through the many strategies they can put into practice for more effective daily living skills. 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.
Rachel Hoyt
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I have experience with adoption, foster care, and non traditional family arrangements. 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.
Christine Chariton
My name is Chris Chariton, I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist practicing in the state of Illinois & Indiana with 27 years of professional work experience in helping clients with numerous life challenges, i .e: ADHD, Anxiety, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Conflict Resolution, Caregiver Stress, Death & Dying, Emotional Regulation, FEAR, Family Turmoil/Conflicts, Grief/Loss, Hoarding, Intellectual Challenges: Autism Spectrum, Aspergers, Developmental Disabilities, Mental illness, Trauma and Abuse... I can help you to learn to express your feeling in appropriate manner & to help communicate better so you can get your needs met. Based on my believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths. I will assist you in overcoming challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey working at your pace & comfort level in confidential, compassionate, nurturing respectful & supportive manner. I am dedicated to bringing high quality mental health services to all those in need. I was honored by NASW Region 1 in 2009 as Social Worker of the Year for my role in reuniting families who experienced trauma & needed help connected to much needed services. My staff & I developed a program that address our clients & their caregivers comprehensive needs & helped transitions our clients back into the community. I was also recognized by Eli Lilly as Hero in the Fight, advocating for quality care for all regardless of their race, socio-economic status, gender, ability to pay & helped to reduce or remove barrier to seeking & receiving correct care.
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
- Chicago, IL
- Aurora, IL
- Joliet, IL
- Rockford, IL
- Naperville, IL
- Springfield, IL
- Peoria, IL
- Elgin, IL
- Waukegan, IL
- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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