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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Anthony Dykes

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

"Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen." - Brené Brown I appreciate the courage and vulnerability it takes to seek therapy, and I'm glad you're here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with a wide range of issues. My specialties include helping with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, low motivation, LGBT issues, and addictions. I believe that each person is the expert of their own experiences and has their own unique strengths and abilities. Unfortunately, sadness, shame, fear, or other emotional road blocks often get in the way of healing. My role as a therapist is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space to build upon a client's existing strengths as well as to provide new tools and insight. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients achieve their goals. This means that together we can find new ways to think about your issues, learn to use concrete and evidence-based solutions, and help shift thinking from a place of confusion and conflict to acceptance and understanding. My education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Oglethorpe University and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Social Work from The University of Chicago. I possess a license to practice psychotherapy independently in the state of Florida. I am comfortable working with clients on long-term issues, such as chronic anxiety and depression, as well as short-term issues, such as processing grief and loss. I have extensive experience working with the LGBT population and use a sex-positive approach when discussing issues of sex and sexuality. I look forward to the privilege of hearing your story and helping you to become the best version of yourself.

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Dr. Daniel Goldberg

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Psy.D.
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

As an individual therapist for over 10 years, my background combines psychodynamic understanding with cognitive-behavioral techniques and approaches. I specialize in helping my clients to make connections, and to better identify and understand the patterns of decisions and actions that can often have unwanted consequences on their lives. With this insight, they often have much greater success with breaking negative and harmful cycles in their lives and making more thoughtful decisions. More recently, I have guided my clients through the challenges of quarantine, helping them to identify effective ways to manage their moods and anxiety, to stay connected with others, and to stay informed with limited resources. My strengths lie in being a warm, attentive, and empathic listener, ensuring that my clients feel heard, understood, and respected, and providing insights that help them to better understand themselves. I ensure that therapy remains focused on the client's goals, meets each client where they are at, and lets the client stay in control of the pace. I look forward to getting to know you and providing you with support and understanding.

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Gretchen Shay

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LICSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsEating disordersDepression
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Illinois and Alabama with over 13 years of experience working as a social worker/therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addiction, co-dependency, interventions and family dynamic issues. I also have experience working with individuals going through various medical diagnosis as well their caregivers from diagnosis to end of life and grief and loss therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic 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!

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Karma Lynn Carpenter

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW, NCG, LMT, RYT, CAcT
Trauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoaching
34 years of experience

Specializing in Therapists, Legal Professionals, Healthcare Providers, Military, Clergy Providing support with Relationships and Goal-setting as you navigate quality of life. It takes courage to focus on solutions. I am here to empower your ability to make decisions to help yourself and your family. My approach is to view challenges thru the lens of your values and beliefs. Whether or not your Situation requires a diagnosis, you’ll receive Support that moves you forward. We may be a good team if you are facing: • compulsive eating, medical obesity • chronic pain or illness • caring for an aging parent or disabled child or both • inter-faith family gatherings or workplace • sensory processing disorder or autism • caring for someone who is dying Expertise • Impaired Professionals • Religions Sexual Abuse • Music therapy, Nutrition, Garden therapy, Assistance Dogs

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Thomas Buckner

Offering therapy in Illinois
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. My practice style is interactive with a strength-focused that involves active participation. 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. “My practice hours are 6am - 6:30pm Monday - Thursday, Friday 6am-12pm and 2pm - 5pm Sunday. I generally can respond at least once per morning and once per evening, sometimes more! You can also book a live session with me ahead of time. Please remember that Better Help (or specialty site!) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or in immediate need of support. In crisis situations, please call 911 or local emergency services. You can also call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to someone right away! I will check my messages several times a day Monday thru Sunday and I will reach to you within 24 hours. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Dr. Nicole Ford

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience working in both private and public sectors . Life changes happen and I work with clients to build coping and resiliency skills. I help clients manage stress, anxiety, trauma, racial identity, self-esteem, and confidence Respect, empathy, and listening provide the foundation for any dialog and treatment plan. Your unique and specific needs are addressed in a collaborative manner whereby you are the expert. Think about it this way, you're in the driver seat and I'm the GPS system that provide directions based on the information you provide. You decide what goals to work on and your amount of effort as demonstrated by actionable steps. Occasionally, we may have to re-route when the interventions are not providing the desired outcome. We discuss the best way to get to your destination with regular check-ins to gauge if the sessions are effective for you. 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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Chaunte Wilder

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

I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which allows clients to restructure their thinking and change their lives. My belief is that if people can change the way that they think and view things, then they can change their lives! My goal as your counselor is to empower you as well as increase your self-awareness. I offer a warm, genuine, and gentle approach which allows my clients to feel understood and respected. Additionally, I provide a safe place for clients to feel supported and willing to share their experiences in order to reach their optimal mental wellness.

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Irene Batista

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a bilingual therapist licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jessica Wall

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
31 years of experience

I am licensed clinical Social Worker in Connecticut and Illinois with 31 years of experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults in psychotherapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. 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. We will work together to understand how your past has influenced your current circumstances and work through the feelings, conflicts and tensions that disrupt your life. It takes courage to begin therapy but the benefits are innumerable.

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Ellise "Ellie" Haskett

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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:

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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