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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Dana Hall

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,MA CTT ,(TF-CBT) Trauma Therapist
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Welcome! Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety or depression? If you find it difficult to manage these overwhelming emotions know you are not alone. You do not have to suffer while trying to ‘figure things out.’ Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of these challenges and build ways to cope that give you your life back. I am so glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Trauma Therapist in Chicago, Illinois. I have an extensive background working in the field of education and mental health with over 20 years of experience. Before entering private practice I've worked for several of the top therapeutic treatment facilities, served as a crisis management specialist, professional consultant, educator, and senior supervising therapist. This is a 'judgement-free zone' to express and process; I approach the therapeutic relationship with sensitivity, respect, and warmth. It is important for me to create a space where my clients feel safe and comfortable. The therapeutic relationship is one of the most powerful and unique opportunities we have to bring about lasting change; I respect the integrity of each client's process. I want for you to feel like you can be transparent with me; there is healing in sharing your narrative. You are here for a reason; every day is your chance to make your life what you would like it to be. A little more about Dana Hall... * Created an individual program for DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to target clients' individual coping needs. The basic concepts of DBT such as mindfulness, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance are very sought after tools for interpersonal growth. * Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) through the International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP). * Empathetic, transparent, and strength-based therapy style; a fully integrated, holistic approach to therapy that offers no judgment, stigma or shame, but rather understanding, growth and long-term sustainability. Counseling Style/Specialties Assisting clients coping with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, and relational issues. My work is all about assisting clients in removing obstacles, making healthier choices, while navigating life and relationships more effectively; essentially being the best version of YOU. My therapy style draws from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and ACT orientations. Professional Membership: World Professional Association for Transgender Health and follows the WPATH standards of care and welcomes LGBTQ clients. Illinois Association of Trauma Therapists Certified Trauma Therapist DBT “I believe in acceptance of all humans regardless of any emotional, physical or psychological burdens they may carry. I do not shy away from any issue or person, and carry no judgment or fear into my clinical work. I believe in authenticity and healing. Therapy needs to be a safe place to explore.” Welcome; it takes strength and resilience to reach out- you don't have to have all the answers- let's start where you are and begin today.

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Debra Schwarze

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS, MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

My name is Debra Schwarze and I am licensed counselor in Illinois and Wisconsin. I have over 25 years of experience in mental health settings including community mental health, school, faith-based, health system and private practice settings. I hold master's degrees in counseling and art therapy. I utilize an eclectic approach in counseling, primarily utilizing cognitive behavioral (CBT), DBT informed, client-centered and expressive therapy modalities. If an individual is open to it, I use art making in order to provide a voice to issues that may not have words. I have experience working with individuals with a diagnosis of major depression, bipolar disorder, all type of anxiety disorders, ADHD, life changing events, end of life issues, and cancer. I know that is challenging to ask for help with the issues that impact your life. Congratulations on taking that important first step. It is natural and normal to feel anxious and fearful to begin counseling. It is my job as the counselor to provide a safe and comfortable environment for you to be able to talk about the issues that led you to seek help. It is your job to be as open and honest as possible in order to better facilitate the growth and healing process. I cannot solve the problems that you face in life, but I commit to helping you make the changes that you would like to make. I look forward to meeting you and joining you in your journey toward improved mental well being.

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Eileen O'Neil

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I have experience working with clients of all ages, from young children through older adulthood. I connect well with those who struggle with anxiety, young men and women navigating relationships and transitioning to adulthood, new mothers and mothers of young children, and those looking for parenting support. I also have experience working through, processing and understanding generational trauma, and how it may be affecting your current relationships. I take a client centered approach, providing empathy, compassion, active listening and support. I believe each person is unique, and strives to use evidence based treatment approaches tailored to each client. My overall goal is to invite you into a warm and non-judgmental space where I bring my authentic self, encouraging you to do the same. I work to build a strong relationship first and provide helpful feedback, teach coping skills, and use a little bit of humor while navigating whatever challenges you are facing.

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Julie Wechsler

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

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Johanna Westin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hi. I am honored that you are looking at my profile. It can be overwhelming to reach out for help, and I am so glad you are here to take the first step! My name is Johanna and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years' experience working as a therapist. I have experience working with people of all ages and concerns, specifically trauma, stress management, anxiety, conflict and relationship issues. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings providing individual, family and group therapy. My approach to therapy is down to earth and laid back. I firmly believe that change happens within the context of the relationship so it's important to connect with the right therapist. I want all the people I work with to feel safe, respected and accepted. I really enjoy working with individuals and helping them realize their potential and watching them reach the goals they set for themselves. I believe in starting where you are and working on the issues that are important to you. Healing is possible. Thank you and I look forward to working with you. Johanna

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Marilyn Verbiscer

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,LMFT,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
24 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) since 1999. I have successfully worked with a variety of individual, couple and family issues such as healing from the trauma of infidelity, ineffective communication, conflict management issues, premarital counseling, relationship dissatisfaction, sexual issues, divorce, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, sleep issues, poor self-esteem, sexual issues, etc. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Master of Science degree in Child Development and Family Studies from Purdue University. I am a Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, a Certified Gottman Seven Principles Leader and a Board Certified TeleMental Health Professional (BC-TMH). I have published and presented on the topics of infidelity, tele-mental health, clinical supervision, tele-supervision and clinical documentation. I have also taught psychology courses at Purdue University and Illinois Institute of Technology. I generally check my messages each day, Monday through Friday, during standard business hours and respond as quickly as I can. My goal is to respond within 24 hours during the weekdays. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or other professional responsibilities. I prefer to do therapy via weekly live video sessions as therapy progresses much more quickly with this modality which means you will feel relief much faster. Live video sessions are usually 30 to 45 minutes long. Currently, all of my evening appointments are full. Most of my availability is between 11:00AM Central and 3:00PM Central, Monday through Thursday. Regarding scheduling, I do not use my BetterHelp calendar as I prefer to make appointments directly with you. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Arnold Lavaire

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCSW,CFTP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

I am Arnold A Lavaire, a bilingual Christian counselor licensed in the state of Virginia and Illinois. I was born and raised in Honduras and moved to live in the United States in 1996. I served 5 years of military service in the US Navy. I am fluent in Spanish, I can conduct counseling in English and in Spanish. I earned a B.S. in Psychology from Campbell University, a M.A. in Counseling from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, and a M.Div. from Mid-America Reformed Seminary.

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Holly Lewis

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have more than 18 years of experience working with children, teenagers, young adults, and families in a number of different roles and capacities. I have worked in residential treatment settings, community-based programs, outpatient community mental health, and with youth involved in the juvenile justice system. During my career, I have worked with clients seeking services for mood disorders, ADHD, disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders, anxiety, attachment/relational issues, and issues stemming from trauma. I have an eclectic approach to treatment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I had the opportunity to receive training in Neurosequential Models of Therapeutics (NMT) from the Child Trauma Academy. I recognize the value in meeting a client where they are, and use a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and holistic approach.

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John Horsley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,LCAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I'm John Horsley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor both in the state of Indiana. I graduated from Indiana University with a Master's Degree in Social Work. I have worked extensively with individuals and families who have dealt with substance use disorders and complications from substance use disorders. I've also focused on working with individuals who have experienced trauma and secondary trauma. I've practiced in a variety of settings and seeing a variety of clients with various struggles. I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the foundation and essential component in the change process. I believe in meeting individuals where they are in the growth process and partnering with them to walk through change together. I have developed many tools for the toolbox and understand that each person has unique needs and requires unique approaches. Most of all, I want to respect the place my client is at and make sure they are feeling safe and motivated. Congratulations on taking the first step on your journey. It would be an honor to walk it with you.

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Christina Oxley

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictions
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Illinois with 3+ years of professional work experience. My experience comes from providing direct mental health services to kids, teens, adults, families, and couples. I have worked with a variety of presenting issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, addiction, relational conflict, and parenting issues. I have a genuine interest in people and the different ways we all try to make sense of ourselves and the world. I seek to provide a comfortable space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgement. I take a collaborative approach however, I believe that the client knows themselves the best and with some support has the ability to identify what they want and how they can get there. I take a holistic approach meaning I understand the importance and interconnection between the mind, body, relationships, and environment. I also understand that each person is different so I draw from many different psychological approaches to meet the individual needs of those I work with. Reaching out for support is a great first step towards understanding yourself better and making the changes you want for a better life. For every client that chooses to work with me, I am honored to be a support for you on your journey.

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Sujata De

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & depression. 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! I am looking forward to our work together.

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Katherine Bolton

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. 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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Kenneth Vick

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & relationship issues. 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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Michael Dubose

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Mind over mood. I believe that everyone can change & grow at any time in their lives. I don't believe that there is a limit to human capacity. Together we will work to regain a sense of normalcy in the lives of those who I serve. 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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Marjorie Alexander

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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!

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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