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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Brian Lux

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years experience in residential, community mental health, and private practice settings. I utilize a strengths-based, solution-oriented approach to counseling with a dash of mindfulness , a touch of narrative therapy, and good dose of humor. I believe that people are unique, beloved, and full of gifts, talents, interests, untapped resources, and often forgotten successes that can provide paths and even a road map to getting unstuck and through whatever is prompting them to seek out help. I strive to connect with the hurt, pain, losses, disappointments, and woundedness people bring to sessions while at the same time maintain a stubborn optimism about the potential for healing, growth, and positive change. Lastly, I consider the relationship of therapy/counseling to be sacred space both in a professional and spiritual sort of way. I never cease to be amazed by the tenacity, creativity, and strength demonstrated by the clients I work with, and I likewise never cease to be surprised, touched, and awed by how the Divine or something beyond us tends to show up. This does not mean that I impose my spiritual beliefs and/or wonderings on clients. Rather, I believe it is important for someone to know up front that spirituality and the resources that come with it are just part of who I am. If you are still interested or at least curious after reading my blurb, then I look forward to hearing from you!

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Loren Buford

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, social anxiety, stress, relationships, communication and conflict, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the best person to share your story and find solutions to the challenges that you face. I know you have core strengths that we can build on to assist you in overcoming trauma, setbacks and/or difficulties in your life. You are brave to reach out and take the first steps toward making positive change. I am here to offer support, knowledge, and empowerment on your journey, and I look forward to meeting you.

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Latrice Willis

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I have 9 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, parenting issues, relationship issues, stress management, and life changes. I feel that healing begins with a strong foundation, so I am very relationship-oriented. I like to meet clients where they are and work towards a common goal. My style is eclectic, and I strive to individualize treatment for each client. I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Practices. I am committed to creating a warm, nurturing, and safe environment for all. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Joyce A. Griffin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: PhD, LPC (MO), LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years of experience

My approach to counseling is often didactic and is solution oriented. It is my opinion that clients come to counseling because they can not figure out what to do. So “teaching counseling” offers them new skills to use in their situation, as well as ideas to assist in coping in their world. I am somewhat eclectic in my approaches, realizing that everyone is unique, and one size does NOT fit all. I find a Cognitive Behavioral approach often encourages clients to set their own solution-focused path. I give feedback and assign homework tasks. I ask clients to join me in making a sort of treatment plan, and we work together on problem-solving. I periodically consult with trusted professional colleagues on a confidential bases, who practice outside of our local area. It is not my style to see what others have reported about their own work. I march to my own drummer and do what I believe is right in each situation. It’s fine with me if I am the only one doing it the way I do it.

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William Edleman

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
32 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, career difficulties, depression, & 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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Richard Heller

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: DMin, MA, LCPC, BCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

It takes courage to take this first step in seeking help with an issue in your life that is troubling you and into looking into counseling. I admire you for this and welcome the opportunity to meet you and help you with the life concern you are facing. My approach is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I will focus on your needs and we will learn together how best to help you. I will treat you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 1998 and am licensed in the state of Illinois. My vocation includes 38 years of pastoral ministry, being a Board Certified Chaplain since 1995, and continue to work as an on-call chaplain for over 21 years. Through my wide range of experiences, I have helped people with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and loss. I look forward in supporting and empowering you through your journey in life.

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Daffaney Burnside

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
9 years of experience

I am a individual and family therapist licensed in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have specialized experience working in residential based treatment providing long term care-treatment as well as short term crisis outpatient-field work. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, abandonment issues, grief and loss, trauma, mood disorders, etc. As a child, I always wanted to pursue a career where I could assist with an individual’s growth, creativity and happiness. I learned at a young age the struggles that life can bring, not only through the inevitable, but also through situational traumas that we at times have to face and endure. Being an active member in the clinical field of helping professionals, I have certainly learned the importance of patience, empathy and peace. Identifying and securing ones’ purpose in life, creates the true masterpiece of one’s story. My goal is to assist you in your journey to self-actualization. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I meet my clients where they are using therapeutic approaches that will better meet their needs. I often use client centered, CBT, DBT and mindfulness therapeutic approaches in my practice. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when help is wanted and needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

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Charles Beard

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

I am trained in Marriage and Family Therapy and have served as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 25 years. I have served in both public and private mental health agencies, primarily for those seeking help with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addiction and domestic violence. Any client who has the courage to seek counseling is someone worth celebrating. With gentleness and warmth, I try to focus on each of my client's strengths to help them in the area they desire to change. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Systemic Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy as appropriate. I will tailor my dialog and treatment plan to meet the client's concerns. Each client's faith and moral values are recognized as a foundation for their desired growth. I look forward to meeting you.

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Jesse Waltz

Offering therapy in Illinois
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Kentucky with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, depression, & 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!

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Juanita Dunn

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
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, trauma and abuse, & 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!

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Almario Crawford

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. As a seasoned social worker with nine years of rich and diverse experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my clients. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of populations, each with their own unique needs and challenges. Whether it's vulnerable children and families, individuals facing homelessness, survivors of trauma, or seniors in need of support, I approach each client with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to helping them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. My extensive experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the complex social issues that impact our communities, as well as the resources and interventions available to address them. I am skilled in conducting assessments, developing personalized care plans, and connecting clients with essential services and support networks. Moreover, I pride myself on my ability to build trusting relationships with clients, empowering them to advocate for themselves and navigate through difficult situations. I am a strong communicator and collaborator, working closely with clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders to ensure holistic and culturally competent care. In addition to my direct client work, I am dedicated to continuous learning and professional development. I stay informed about the latest research, best practices, and emerging trends in the field of social work, always seeking to enhance my skills and stay abreast of new developments. Overall, my nine years of experience in social work have honed my ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve. I am committed to promoting social justice, fostering resilience, and empowering individuals and communities to thrive. 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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Najah Hawkins

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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Jaime Cox

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I'm a therapist who believes in being real with you- direct, honest, and straightforward- because meaningful change comes from facings things head-on. While my approach is direct, it's always grounded in deep compassion and respect for your lived experiences. I create a space where you can speak freely without fear of judgement, knowing you're supported every step of the way. I specialize in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting and family relationship challenges. I am fully certified in Child-Parent Psychotherapy, which focuses dyadically on trauma. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin, we will work as a team to focus on what's important to you, set realistic goals, and take meaningful steps forward. Therapy with me will be collaborative, goal-oriented, and focused on helping you build insight, strength, and lasting change- with honesty, care, and no sugarcoating. I look forward to meeting you!

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Thiesha Ricketts

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

My name is Thiesha, I am a therapist licensed in Illinois and Indiana with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in behavioral health, and in the medical field, working with individuals, children, and adults. My focus is the treatment and prevention of mental illness, emotional, and other behavioral disturbances. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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.

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 BetterHelp therapists in Illinois does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in Illinois 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person Illinois therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in Illinois?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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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