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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Brenda Byrne

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,M.S.Ed,M.Div.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I help clients with depression, anxiety, or difficult relationships grow toward making choices for a better life. Are you exhausted? Does it feel like you are swimming upstream all the time? I can help. Are you feeling sad a lot, or anxious? Struggling with what to do next? Do you put a positive spin on things, in spite of feeling down? Maybe others don't know about your sad or anxious feelings, because appearing strong is important to you. They look to you to hold things together. I create a safe place, we can talk about anything; it's OK. Putting yourself last, always doing for others, is a bit of a hamster wheel. Let's talk about what is really happening. You may have had a nagging unhappiness for a long time while our culture assumes that everyone should be upbeat and positive all the time. I am passionate about helping with emotional physical/health, balance, and loving relationships. Having help along the way makes a big difference. We will start with what is most immediate and work from there. It is the counselor-client relationship that changes things the most. Change is always hard, I have wonderful resources. I teach mindfulness and breathing practices when it is helpful. I use the Enneagram when helpful (9 personality types - for something so ancient, it is surprisingly practical). I am a clinically licensed counselor with 16 years experience (Illinois). Also, I have lost 150 lbs by changing to a healthy lifestyle, and practicing 12 step recovery for food/sugar. I enjoy rural/small town life, and kayak for fun.

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Elizabeth Newman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I am an experience clinician who is dedicated to treating teens and adults deal with and overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. My philosophy is client-centered, Mindfulness based, trauma informed, and goal oriented. I have training and experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness. My areas of focus include trauma, attachment issues, and difficulties with distress tolerance and emotional regulation. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC in ILLINOIS), and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC in WASHINGTON STATE. Perspective clients need to know I genuinely care about those I work with and have a passion for joining them on their journey to a new self. The fact that you are searching for a therapist is an indicator that you want something to change. It is easy to lose perspective about situations and how we deal with them. It is also easy to want to forget things buried in our past or relationships that did not support us in the way we needed. Your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are what make you who you are. As we work together to understand these parts of you, we will find a way to alter those thoughts that no longer work for you and strengthen those that are helping you become who you wish to become.

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Dr. James Bedell

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
38 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist with 38 years of experience. I have worked with couples, families, individuals, groups, forensic clients including those in the criminal system as well as clients who are involved in the family court system. My core approach is to quickly appraise the psycho-social, biological, and spiritual components of my client's lives, seeking to target and move towards solutions seeking to ameliorate the suffering that their symptoms reflect. I am a non-judgemental therapist, who seeks to build an alliance with my clients to create a sense of safety and respect. I look at symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, as multi-modal, including early childhood attachment problems as well as cognitive dysfunctions and biological influences. I seek to view people wholistically, not as people who have problems, but instead as courageous individuals who have done the best they could as a result of what has happened to them. Most clients that I have worked with consider me as easy to talk to while also conceptualizing their issues well and intervening effectively. I would love to work with you in a collaborative effort to solve and lessen the pain that you may be struggling with.

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Sara Gonzalez

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesCoping 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 & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Elizabeth (Lizzy) Campbell

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

It is a brave step to begin therapy. Dedicating the time, energy, and resources to tend to yourself is both a big commitment and challenging work. Therapy can be a space that helps us create change and generate insight into our feelings, behaviors, and relationships. I believe deeply in the importance of creating a safe space while also building a strong therapeutic alliance. The healing/growth process is not always the most comfortable but there is nothing more empowering than taking our power back. If you are ready to begin taking good care of yourself, I can help you along that path. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, realistic, and empathetic. I have had the distinct privilege of serving individuals, couples, and families from a diverse range of backgrounds. I specialize in trauma therapy in children and adults and enjoy an experiential approach to healing. I have experience working with domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking survivors. I am trained as a child and adolescent trauma professional and I am also skilled in assisting in an array of clinical issues including chronic stress and anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, various personality disorders, Adoption concerns (Birthparents, Adoptive Parents, and Adoptees), esteem, and self-worth, along with academic and employment challenges. I welcome LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities into my practice.

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Colin Overton

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficulties
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting 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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Danielle Larson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Cindy Gibson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
24 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in Illinois with 24 years of professional experience. I specialize in helping clients manage stress, anxiety, build motivation, improve self-esteem and confidence, navigate career difficulties, and cope with life changes. My approach creates a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings without fear. Taking that first step towards a more fulfilling and happier life is courageous, and I'm here to support you through that process. My therapeutic style is non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering. I meet clients where they are in their journey, using an eclectic approach that combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, narrative, and humanistic therapies. Together, we'll work towards your healing and growth. I would be honored to guide you on your path to healing and personal growth.

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Elwin Trammell

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana and Illinois with approx. 10 years of professional work experience. I'm a Certified Case Manager. I'm also a Doctoral Student with a concentration in Moral Injury. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Stephanie Kutzen

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

My name is Dr. Stephanie Kutzen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Illinois. My academic and career background includes three degrees in Social Work, forty five years of counseling with individuals, couples and families. I recently retired as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Jane Addams College of Social Work. I am highly experienced in helping diverse clients with mental health, addictions, relationship and conflicts in the workplace issues. My experience also includes counseling with those who benefit from Trauma Care. I provide care with emphasis on working non -judgmentaly and collaboratively with clients to build strategies to improve well being. My approach is built around engaging clients using empathic listening skills. Best practice theories used are Human Development, Person-In-Environment, Cognitive Behavioral and Motivational Interviewing. After discussing confidentiality, clients are asked to describe their view of the problem(s) and ideas to better manage concerns. Next, a clinical assessment of bio-psycho-social and cultural history is conducted. Explanation of of my suggested ways to work together collaboratively are offered. I ask clients to take time to consider if my approach and communication style fits their needs. If not, I offer to assist them in finding another GoodHelp counselor. If they choose to work with me, we prioritize needs and develop a treatment plan to reach goals. Evaluation of measurable outcomes with clients is integral to my approach.

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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