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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Aaron Swerdlove

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
8 years of experience

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.

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Jennifer Morris

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Hi! I have been a social worker since 2010 and I feel privileged everyday that people allow me into their lives on such a personal level. If you are reading this, you have made a HUGE step in deciding to focus on yourself and give yourself some time and attention which is brave and scary. Social workers, therapist, counselors all receive training to do what we do and many are extremely skillful and knowledgeable. The key to therapy being successful is finding the therapist who you feel comfortable with. I am not everyone's cup of tea but I may be the right person for you. I have worked with a variety of people in my years of practice. I have worked with court mandated clients, birth mothers placing their babies for adoption, adoptive families, hospice patients and their families, homeless Veterans, medical social work with Veterans and justice involved Veterans who are in prison, jail or on probation. I have experience providing group and individual therapy related to trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and loss, domestic violence, end of life concerns, life transitions and parenting. I believe that everyone is capable of instituting change in their life and sometimes don't know how to take the first steps. I believe my role as a therapist/social worker is to look at everything going on with that person, ask questions and assist them in creating a plan and working through the steps. I am not a "textbook" type therapist in the sense that I do not follow a script based on what my client identifies as their concerns. I approach everyone individually and create a plan that works best for each person. Everyone has strengths and abilities and I am always so excited when someone realizes their strengths and draws on them to help themselves move forward. That is my joy - seeing the people I work with grow and flourish. I am someone who will challenge you, be honest with you and push you to work toward you goals. I look forward to hearing from you if you think we sound like a good fit and if not, I wish you the best of luck on your journey. The right therapist is out there... just a click away.

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Rene Stockton

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,MSW
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. It is my honor and pleasure to serve our community as a counselor/therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American States. I have encountered a range of adolescent and adult challenges ranging from mental health and trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the concrete change you are looking to achieve in your life. My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art and movement. Let's have a conversation about how to make lasting change in your journey. I will work with anyone with the courage it takes to ask for help.

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Jessica Sance

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

My name is Jessica Noemi Sance, I am a clinical therapist with 11 years of experience working in the field of mental health. I am a firm believer that we all are trying our best in life and everyone can benefit in engaging with a therapist. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and guides clients to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to have a more meaningful life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ante/post-partum depression, HIV/AIDS, microaggressions, relationship challenges, self-esteem, domestic violence and trauma. I am transparent and down to earth. I enjoy being a safe place for clients to share their life with. In my down time, I love spending time with family along with food to share as well as, playing and dancing with my almost three year old son. I look forward to working with you.

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Gina Dunphy

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years of experience

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!

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Linda Goldsmith

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LMHC,OTR/L,MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety/stress, relationship problems, trauma and loss utilizing a holistic approach. I help clients set goals for change and seek solutions to problems. I have been in private practice for 25 years and work with adults. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic and solution focused to help clients understand themselves and take steps to bring about change. When working with couples i like the IMAGO method and Gottmans approach. Therapy is a commitment to your health and well being. I am honored to work with individuals who are willing to better understand themselves and are motivated to work to change and improve their lives.

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LaDonna Miller

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
8 years of experience

Oftentimes reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 8 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals! I have experience working with adults with depression, ADHD, anxiety disorders, panic disorders, multicultural issues, and complex trauma. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. My passion for mental health stems from personal experiences with myself and those around me. I grew up with family members living with mental illness and I have personally overcome some mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, the process for getting help can be overwhelming, and it can feel so frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I look forward to speaking with you to see if we are a good fit to partner in your journey!

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Yadira Chavez

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

As a bilingual Latina and child of immigrant parents, I strive to provide a safe space for clients of all backgrounds and experiences. I am here to offer acceptance and support while helping clients navigate and cope with life’s challenges. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to therapy and I find it important to explore specific strategies and tools that work for clients and their goals. I have experience working in community behavioral health and have extensive knowledge of mental health needs. This experience has helped me find my passion in working with individuals struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, relationship stress, painful life transitions, individual and intergenerational trauma, cultural stressors. My style is meeting my clients where they are at while using humor and spirit to build a strong relationship. I utilize eclectic strategies from various theoretical approaches such as but not limited to cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, psychodynamic, and attachment. As a team, clients and I explore areas for change and growth.

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Donna Beichel

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & relationship issues. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Antonina Barr

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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