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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Michelle Owusu

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! Congratulations on taking the first step to working toward resolution for challenges in your life.  Reaching out for help can be difficult, and I can provide a safe space for you to discuss, explore and process your concerns. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the state of Illinois, and I have 10 years of experience as a therapist.  I have worked with individuals and families of various ages, races, cultures, and presenting concerns including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, grief/loss, LGBT, and life transitions. I believe building a trusting relationship with my clients through empathy and acceptance is key to assisting them with their concerns.  I provide therapy based on my clients' needs to allow for self-exploration, offer useful tools to help work toward finding relief, and to create an optimum level of functioning. I am passionate about helping others, and I look forward to speaking with you!

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LaShara Shaw

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Hello. My name is LaShara, and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified rehabilitation counselor. I am also a Doctoral candidate for Pastoral and Christian Counseling. It has been my pleasure working with consumers of varied ages, from children to senior citizens. My aim is to discover areas of difficulties and build strengths to foster a flourishing and meaningful life. I endorse an integrative perspective of treatment to acknowledge the contexts of the body, mind, environment, and spirituality within treatment settings. I work in secular and Christian settings, and I respond to the goals of the consumers. I embrace compassion, empathy, and recognition that life has moments of suffering, but through value-driven committed action, there can be beautiful outcomes. It will be wonderful to hear from you soon. Thank you.

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Charlotte Newsom

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, my name is Charlotte D. Newsom. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have thirty years of progressive experience in the field of mental health. Twenty of those years, I functioned as a psychotherapist working with individuals, specifically veterans who have chronic mental illnesses such as PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, and many other disorders. I have an extensive background working with clients with symptomatic issues such as suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, and child abuse/neglect. Besides, interpersonal matters, couples relationship issues, parenting problems, child neglect/abuse, and emotional/physical abuse. My professional history includes having a Master's Degree in Clinical Professional Psychology, and as stated above, I am a Licensed Clinical Profession Counselor (LCPC). I have an honorary membership with Roosevelt University Psi Chi Honor Society. And most recently, and for many years that past was awarded an Outstanding Performance Appraisal from the Jesse Brown VA Hospital for my exceptional clinical skills, dedication to excellence, and having a professional and compassionate relationship with patients and staff. My counseling techniques consist of being a good listener and fully understanding your emotions and reasoning. I have a flair for counseling that requires flexibility and attentiveness to develop coping skills to strengthen your abilities to succeed. I approach therapy by combining short-term and long-term treatment planning to meet your specific need. Your treatment plan will include integrating evidence-based treatment using the best available data with clinical knowledge and expertise while considering your personal needs and preferences. For example, short-term therapy consists of cognitive-behavioral therapy, behavior therapy, reality therapy for problem-solving, motivational enhancement therapy for addiction-related issues, and psychoeducation to improve insight into multiple problems. At the same time, long-term treatment may combine client-centered treatment that focuses on empathy and positive regard, psychodynamic therapy, and free association techniques to engage the client to talk. It takes courage to attend therapy, and it takes dedication to see it through. Just remember each day brings about new opportunities for change. So, let's work together to explore your goals for therapy; thank you.

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Laura Sollenberger

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,NCC,FT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

Hello. My name is Laura Sollenberger and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois. I am also a Fellow in Thanatology (FT), which is the specialty counseling focus on dying and bereavement. I graduated from Bradley University with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have clinical experience in private practice, not-for-profit and hospital and hospice settings. While I hold specialty credentials in the area of grief and loss, I have 30 years of experience helping clients with a variety of issues when life becomes challenging. I have had the honor of companioning people through some of the hardest, most vulnerable times of their lives. I can help you with relationship concerns, parenting, adjustment to health and life circumstance changes, compassion fatigue, career motivation, grief and loss, and personal growth. You will find that I am easy to talk to, yet will hold you accountable for what you want to achieve through counseling. Your time is valuable and I can help you move from where you are to where you want to be. Together, we can partner to work towards your goals. I draw from a variety of theoretical approaches and promise to meet you where you are on your life journey. Reach out to me today and let's get started on you!

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Mary Brahm

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC,LICDC-CS
AddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

ABOUT ME (I've been told that I'm "different" and "straightforward") Much gratitude from Mary Brahm, for checking out my profile. I am a seasoned Licensed Counselor who has experience in, Behavioral Health, and substance use disorders. My personal and professional experience has blessed me to travel and live around the world. What I quickly learned from the diverse populations I worked with, is that flexibility is the key to change and success. I use an “eclectic “approach, “meeting you where you are at”, while encouraging you to reach your potential. I believe that you are ready to improve the quality of your life, and know, I am here to help increase your desire and skills for internal and external fulfillment. I would be remiss, if I didn’t thank all my clients for teaching me at least one lesson. Working with servicemen, civilian personnel, retirees, and family members, for half of my career, has given me experience with issues for this special population. As a Marine Corps veteran, I certainly can relate to struggles with veterans. As a Civilian Counselor, I have been successful in Community Mental Health and as a Senior Therapist. I first look to develop trust with those I work with, and I believe that change will take place with both hard work and pleasure. In addition to being licensed as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor from Illinois, I am a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor with supervisor status and a Licensed Social Worker from Ohio. Post Graduate Relevant Coursework, Marriage, and Family Course Work. My additional interests expanded my knowledge and experience in obtaining the following certifications: Private Practice Certified Life Coach, 2013, Certified Telehealth Therapist 2019, Certified Hypnotherapist 2004, and Neuro-Linguist Programming (NLP) 2013. SPECIALTIES: Dual Diagnosis Addictions, Substance Use, Chronic Relapse, Recovery After Care with a variety of recovery programs, 12 Step Spirituality Counseling, Co-Dependency Coping with life changes Crisis Management and implemented in High School Shooting in OH Extensive Diversity training and working with cultures from around the world Sexual Assault Counselor, Prevention and Response Program Experience Motivation, Building Self-Esteem Also experienced in: Providing critical interventions, identifying triggers and intense feelings of personal distress including anxiety, depression, anger, panic and hopelessness or significant life changes for individuals and families. Conducting goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment, assisting both individuals and couples in changing patterns of thinking or behavior that promotes difficulties ranging from relationship problems. Coordinating and supervise psychotherapeutic interventions, educating clients on supplemental mental health services to improve overall quality of life. Delivered comprehensive therapeutic interventions for a diverse population of clients, utilizing biopsychosocial therapy to support wellness and aid clients in their journey to recovery. Leveraged a keen understanding of psychological, physical health and social effects of mental illness to promote holistic evidence-based practices. Individual, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Family, Multi-Family Groups, Severely Mentally Ill, Sex Offender and Group Counseling Clinical approaches: Authentic and solutions-oriented Counselor with a focus on integrated care and the use of evidence-based treatments to holistically address mental health issues including crisis, trauma, mental health disorders, substance abuse intervention, grief and loss and conflict resolution. Demonstrate a humanistic approach, leveraging experience as a veteran with 20 years of service, to encourage personal development as a way of learning skills and coping abilities needed to deal with life changing events. Modalities to offer: Video…... Live Chat…... Messaging…... Phone…... LICENSING: LPC # 1800006589 (Expires 2025-03-12)

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Sheri Bassewitz

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesDepressionADHD
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with 35 years of experience in a variety of settings. At the beginning of my career, I worked in hospice, oncology, and home care agencies for 15 years. I then became certified to work in school settings, where I worked for the next 15 years. For the last five years, I worked in a private practice with children, adolescents, and families, addressing emotional and social challenges that interfere with activities of daily living. Outside of these professional experiences, I have also worked at several camps for children. One was specifically for children with speech and language and social emotional learning challenges. I also volunteered for many summers at The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, which is a camp in Connecticut for children with serious illnesses. Additionally, I have been fortunate to supervise social workers working towards their licenses. Now, as a clinician in private practice, I am thrilled to use my skills to assist children, adolescents, and adults who are facing challenges and stressors in today’s world. My experiences provide me with the skills necessary to support those faced with challenges that accompany anxiety, depression, and social communication disorders as well as ASD and ADHD. My goal as a therapist is to help those with mental health challenges learn tools and strategies to cope with the stressors and challenges of daily life while identifying and defining their own goals.

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Jean Juarez

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 ask for and seek help is a courageous one, and I recognize you for this.

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Renita Willis

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hello, and welcome! My name is Renita Willis, and I am a licensed therapist based in Illinois with over 6 years of professional experience. Choosing to seek therapy is a brave and significant step, and I want to start by saying how proud I am of you for considering this journey toward greater emotional health and well-being. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of helping clients work through a range of challenges, including depression, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, and navigating life transitions. I understand that life can often be overwhelming, filled with moments of unexpected change, deep sadness, or persistent worries. You don’t have to face these moments alone. My goal is to offer you the tools, understanding, and compassionate support you need to regain a sense of balance and fulfillment. In our sessions, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space where you feel truly heard and accepted. I believe that trust is the cornerstone of effective therapy, so I focus on building a strong, genuine connection with my clients. In this space, you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. Whether it’s unpacking complex emotions or learning new ways to approach challenges, I’m here to walk with you step by step. I use a collaborative and tailored approach to therapy that respects your unique experiences and strengths. We’ll work together to identify your goals, develop practical coping strategies, and create a pathway that aligns with your personal values and aspirations. My role is not to tell you what to do but to support you in discovering your own insights and empowering you to make meaningful changes in your life. I use an intergrative approach to therapy incorporating modalities such as emotionally focused individual therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy. I know that the decision to start therapy can feel daunting. It’s not always easy to open up and be vulnerable, especially if you’ve been carrying your struggles alone for some time. But I am here to remind you that it’s okay to take this step at your own pace, and it’s okay to reach out for help. Seeking support is a sign of strength, resilience, and hope for a better tomorrow. Let’s embark on this journey together, creating a space where you can heal, grow, and thrive. If you’re ready to take that first step or just want to learn more about how therapy can benefit you, I’m here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. I will be honored to be a part of your journey toward a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Come on, let's get started.

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Melissa McHenry

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have a master's degree in adult psychology and a master's degree in child psychology. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression, self-injurious behavior, PTSD and domestic violence. 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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Dr. Danika Contreras

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Ed.D., LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have worked in various therapy settings supporting clients with various struggles. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that it takes so much strength to reach out for support. I am here to support you in your journey.

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Dr. Maria T Herrera

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with several years of professional work experience. I have worked in a diversity of settings, including the prison system. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Gregory Everett

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
17 years of experience

I'm Dr. Gregory Everett, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I have almost two decades of mental health experience with expertise in all manner of challenges related to parenting, behavior management and anxiety and confidence-related issues. In addition, I am able to assist with family conflicts, including parent and teenage relational issues, as well as motivation and self-esteem matters. My therapeutic approach is heavily behavioral with frequent considerations of cognitive and family-systems approaches. Goals are established and measured, with sessions including review of progress. I view therapy as a collaborative process, inclusive of shared responsibility though which you must take an active role towards improvement. I look forward to our work together.

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Deborah Palmer Thomas

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado with over 10 years of experience working as therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and parenting problems, with a special focus in adoption and foster care issues. I worked in the public child welfare system for over 20 years. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I consider the client/therapist relationship to be the most important thing in counseling. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe everyone has strengths and with a little hope all can be resilient.. My approach combines trauma-focused, solution focused and motivational interviewing counseling styles. . I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you.

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Stephen Garlington Sr.

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoaching
12 years of experience

I am a licensed, male, African American, mental health professional in Florida and Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping you work through such issues as stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings and risk 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 and celebrate small successes!

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Marisa Riis

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have a great deal of experience with clients who are new parents and those with postpartum 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. 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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