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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Sarah Hire

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorder
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the field of community mental health in Chicago for the past 8 years. I received my B.S.W from Northeastern Illinois University in 2008 and went on to complete my Masters in Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2009 with a concentration in Community Health and Urban Development. Some of my areas of focus are dual diagnosis treatment, general anxiety disorders and depression as well as trauma and PTSD. In addition I have a great deal knowledge in regards to LGBTQ issues across the life span as well as gender dysphoria and gender identity issues. My approach is one of compassion and acceptance. I believe it is important to focus on helping people explore what it means to live and happy an authentic life. I have been trained in both Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy but will of course tailor your treatment to meet your own personal needs. Taking the first step towards improving your mental health and overall well being can be very difficult. If you are ready to take that first step I am here to offer you the support you need. I look forward to working with you.

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Erika Figgers

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years in the Chicagoland area. I have experience working with individuals impacted by mental health, trauma, substance abuse, HIV, grief/loss and homelessness. I am passionate about my work because I feel everyone has the capacity to learn, change and create a better quality of life. I approach my clients with holistic counseling to look at all areas of their life to create strategies to meet your needs. I also integrate cognitive behavioral, solution focused, trauma informed care and strengths perspective into our sessions. I recognize it is not easy to be vulnerable and can be uncomfortable to open up to a stranger about very personal issues. I am honored to be that person and will greet you with empathy ,patience, honesty and no judgement. I look forward to starting this journey with you!

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Christy Garnhart

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

A wise person once told me “Finding the right therapist is like trying on shoes. Your pick needs to have support in the right places and you’ll know you’ve made the right choice by how they make you feel.” I couldn’t agree more! Please allow me to thank you for reading my profile and allowing me to tell you a little more about my service to others. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 14 years of experience working with children and families. Much of my background comes from serving school-aged children with a variety of different abilities. This also includes providing support to parents to find programming, services, and interventions for their children’s social-emotional needs. I have provided therapy to those experiencing anxiety, depression, discord in personal relationships, ADHD, Autism, and issues resulting from trauma and abuse. One of the foundations of my therapeutic practice is building upon the strengths of my client.  I believe that everyone has many skills that can help them create the life and experiences they desire. I also help clients uncover behavior and thought patterns that are causing distress or impairing their interactions or abilities. I am grateful for your time and commitment to the goals we will develop together. I look forward to hearing from you. Let me know if you’d think we’d be a good fit!

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Erika Luhn

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Thanks for taking the time to get to know a little bit about me as you make an important decision about your recovery process. Finding the right therapy professional is the first of many important steps you will take and so thank you for taking the time to consider me as someone to work with. I don't take the process of therapy lightly. I have worked in private practice for 14 years and have worked as a therapist for twenty years. My experience is extensive; however, my scope of practice includes working with survivors of trauma, sexual assault/sexual, physical and/or emotional abuse, post traumatic and complex-post traumatic stress, self-harming behaviors, depression, generalized anxiety, grief & loss, family conflict, disorders of personality and finally, working with children & adolescence. I have level I certification in Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and also have completed my post graduate training and supervision using Dialectical & Behavioral Therapy, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

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Denise Marie

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,ATR-BC,NBC-HWC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hi there! I am an Illinois licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience in counseling, art therapy, substance abuse counseling, health and wellness coaching, and clinical supervision. I have had the privilege of working with a diverse client base, including both teens and adults, and addressing a range of issues such as mood disorders, addictions, anger management, life transitions, relationship building, communication, and motivation. Additionally, I have helped individuals heal from trauma, abuse, grief, and loss. My approach to therapy is a combined one, tailored to each individual. I use client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, insight practices, solution-focused, strengths-based, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I believe in the power of authentic relationships, rooted in respect and being fully present with my clients. My ultimate goal is to help individuals identify and truly understand their innate abilities and personal power to achieve their goals and succeed. As a therapist, I strive to be patient, empathetic, and always willing to listen. I understand that life can be overwhelming at times, and that's why I'm here to support you through the process of meaningful change. If you're ready to start your journey toward personal growth and healing, I look forward to working with you!

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Rakhi Shingala

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Rakhi,Shingala,LCPC, BC-DMT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

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.

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Kimberly Ramsay

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Rebecca Scandell

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Oregon, Massachusetts and Nevada with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Susan Burrows

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyDepression
38 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety and 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I encourage you to write as often and as much as you would like. This room is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I typically respond with 24 hours, but respond sooner to new clients. Please be patient as I may be attending to professional or personal responsibilities. I am available for live sessions on Wednesday day and evening, Thursday day and evening and Friday day and usually evening. Please schedule at least 12 hours in advance. If there is a message that you need a quick response to, please mark 'urgent'. I will get back to you as soon as possible. Please remember if you are having an emergency, go to your nearest hospital or call 988 which is the crisis hotline.

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Marsha Broers

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, and self-esteem issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs and goals. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to talking with you!

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Deborah Gleason

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Alabama and the state of Illinois with over 6 years experience as a social worker. I am also certified as a Somatic Activated Healer under Sah D'Simone. I specialize in treatment for anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I work to meet my clients where they are at and provided strategies if necessary. I have worked with teens in a group home setting to help them improve self esteem and maximize their potential in everyday life. I practice from a spiritual lens understanding that everyone has a divine purpose that can be tapped into at any time. I’m here to help support and empower you.

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Rene’ Buchman

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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John Shustitzky

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Illinois and Pennsylvania with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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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Marla Ferguson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Pneurissa Stamps

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 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:

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.

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