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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Phillip Barker

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,CADC,CFSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

My name is Phillip, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois with more than four years of experience working in private practice as a psychotherapist and coach. I have worked with clients who have come to me with a range of concerns, including sexual and gender identity, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, career issues, and ADHD. I also have more than seven years of experience working with substance use issues and adolescents in a high school setting. My undergraduate work was in Communication, so I am equipped to work with a variety of people to meet their unique needs. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I am constantly checking my biases and treat everyone with respect and compassion. My treatment approach is client-centered and strengths-based, combining Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. We will work together to create an individualized treatment plan that focuses on your strengths and allows for you to maximize your therapeutic experience and our time together. I commend you on this courageous first step of reaching out to a therapist, and I look forward to working with you!

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Robert Hickson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hello! My name is Robert. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York. I graduated from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2014 and have since worked in multiple settings with a variety of amazing people. I tend toward a client-centered or existential approach to therapy, thus I believe therapy is a mutual process unique to the individuals involved. Additionally, I believe positivity and empowerment are important factors in finding and maintaining one's health. I am happy to work with anyone interested. If you have a question or something on your mind, then please do not hesitate to contact me. I'm open to all inquiries big or small.

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Sheila Funk-Jansen

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sheila Funk-Jansen. I am a licensed clinical therapist in Iowa and Illinois. I graduated with my MSW in social work in 2003 from University of Missouri-Columbia. I have worked with a variety of courageous people in my journey to help them be more vulnerable, brave, and resilient. For the last 25+ years, I I have worked with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, family conflicts, and many other areas of life. I believe people have the resiliency to move the barriers that life presents to us. Life is all about learning. Learning about ourselves and giving up our comforts in life are scary even if they are unhealthy. Each person is unique and I am here to start where you are at in your journey. I utilize therapy approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focus Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing along with utilizing other modalities. The client and therapist's alliance is crucial in providing a safe, non judgmental space to be open and vulnerable to see their potential and resiliency to grow when experiencing hurt and pain. I see people through the week along with some weekends. I work with schedules as much as I can to help get people in sooner when needed. I look forward in working with you. Sheila

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Kaneesha Craig

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

My name is Kaneesha Craig and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years. I have worked with many clients with a range of concerns ranging from the chronically mentally ill in a hospital setting to clients adjusting to life circumstances in a community agency setting. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I am a person centered counselor who believes in treating people with respect while helping them own their behaviors. My clinical approach is cognitive behavioral. My ultimate goal is to help you reach your desired level of wellness in life. I believe in a clinical partnership and I look forward to being your partner to help you navigate through life. I look forward to working with you soon.

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Bridget Bauersfeld

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

Bridget primarily practices from an integrated psychodynamic and relational foundation. She believes that therapy can help foster resilience and one’s innate capacity for self-healing. She strives to create a safe and empathic environment to support a client’s attainment of personal goals. Bridget supports clients in their movement towards change and growth as they navigate the journey of life. Her therapy approach incorporates client centered interventions, including cognitive therapy modalities, mindfulness techniques when appropriate and other evidence based treatment practices. Bridget is a licensed clinical social worker with additional training in the following treatment modalities: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Equine Assisted therapy (EAGALA model) and introductory training in Somatic Experiencing (SE). Bridget has twenty years of experience working with children, families, adolescents and young adults with a wide range of concerns. She has experience in the treatment of trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), mood and anxiety disorders. Education and career background Bridget has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Bucknell University and a Masters of Social Work degree from the University of Maryland in Baltimore. Bridget began her career as a therapist in a residential treatment facility for children and adolescents in Maryland. Following this experience in her home town of Baltimore, Bridget moved to Chicago and provided early intervention therapeutic supports to young children and families at St. Vincent de Paul Center. She also worked with children and families in the Denver area where she was employed by Denver Health Hospital in a school based mental health program. Additionally, she worked at Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore Maryland as an outpatient mental health therapist for several years providing trauma treatment. She currently works full time as an outpatient therapist at Advocate Children’s Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois.

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Danielle Washington

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

As a natural helper, I have committed myself and my knowledge towards helping others manage mental health symptoms & improve overall functioning in a safe & healthy way. My ideal client is one who is committed to achieving goals and is willing to work towards prioritizing him or herself toward positive change. Everyone is different, & as a therapist I do not believe there is a quick fix prescription for symptoms & diagnosis. I use a strength based approach to empower and encourage each client towards the achievement of their goals. As a LCPC (licensed clinical professional counselor) with over 10 years of experience in the field of counseling, I have found that it is most important to facilitate the best environment for change. If you are reading this, I commend you for taking a major step toward changing your life for the better. I strive to partner with my client to discover inconsistencies and plan for solutions through evidence and faith based interventions. With my formula to decrease your unwanted symptoms and increase your coping skills, I will help you to become the best version of yourself. My faith in God is what has been a cornerstone in my life and I have overcome many obstacles that seemed impossible and unbearable. I believe God has equipped me with several gifts and allowed to me combine the expertise of mental health counseling with biblical truths, and prayer to help improve of the lives of His children. I use proven mental health modalities along with Christian counseling (when requested) to provide a treatment plan with realistic and timely goals. *Graduated 2012 - Masters of Arts in Community Counseling - Argosy University Chicago *Licensed Clinical Professional Counseling - State of IL - #180013083

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Angelo Georgacopoulos

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
13 years of experience

Hi. My name is Angelo Georgacopoulos. I am licensed in Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 12 years experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, family conflicts, self-esteem, confidence and 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. 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 help navigate & empower you in that journey.

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Stephanie Czarnecki

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am an accomplished Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience providing direct patient care and clinical therapy. I specialize in Crisis Management, trauma, substance abuse, co-occurring, and various other mental and behavioral health concerns. I have experience in comprehensive patient care services, including case management, individual therapy, group therapy, marital and family therapy, anger management, medication management, long-term recovery, and suicide prevention education and intervention. I am skilled with clients with a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, OCD, ADHD/ADD, and many others. I have also assisted those with serious mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar, dissociative disorder, traumatic brain injuries, and those on the spectrum. My approach is often friendly and collaborative. I believe in meeting the client where they are in the moment. I believe it’s imperative everyone is treated with respect, compassion, and understanding. I don't believe a diagnosis makes a person, but I do think that if we can understand a diagnosis and the symptoms, we can identify more individualized solutions. Since no one strategy works for everyone, my approach is eclectic and frequently customized for each scenario and each person. My therapy style is typically warm, and interactive, and believes in meeting the client where they are currently at. I believe that everyone should be treated with dignity, respect, compassion, and understanding. I don't believe in labels but that in understanding a diagnosis that fits the symptoms we may be able to find solutions and peace while moving forward. My approach is eclectic in that not one approach is right for all and therefore my approach is often tailored to the situation and the individual. I often use cognitive behavioral techniques to assist in processing and furthering treatment. Treatment plans will be completed collaboratively as it takes courage to seek counseling and look inside; therefore what you wish to accomplish or where you wish to go is up to you. I want to help you achieve the best version of you that you can be! I look forward to meeting you and taking this journey with you.

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Debra Wallace

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
21 years of experience

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