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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Chiralaine Natschke

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and have over 15 years of experience in the behavioral healthcare field. Over the years, I have served as a Mental Health Therapist, Child Welfare Supervisor, School Counselor, and Crisis Screener/Therapist. I am experienced with the adults, adolescents, children and families who struggle with adjustment issues, depression, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, and chronic mental illness. Finally, I have been trained in a number of therapeutic evidenced-based practices that I use when working with clients; including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Experiential Therapy, and Stress Management/Mindfulness. I believe in providing goal-directed treatment. This means that a goal or several goals are established after a thorough assessment. All treatment is then planned with the goal in mind and progress is made toward the goal in a time-efficient manner. I use a collaborative approach and supportive stance when working with clients and clients tell me that I am easy for them to talk to. I assume you wish to begin therapy because you desire certain changes in your life. I will do my best to help you achieve your goals, but I cannot guarantee any particular results. You are likely to gain the most benefit from counseling if you are committed to the process and actively engage. You and I will agree upon a frequency that will work best for your needs. I look forward to working with you.

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Jessica McDaniel

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LPC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I believe we are all capable of more than we think we are, and my job is to help you do those hard things! We will work together to identify what areas you would like to improve, and continually check in with each other on your progress. Every day you make the decision to improve how you feel. The fact that you’re here, reading this, is a win for you! I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years in various clinical settings. I have experience helping adults cope with depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, parenting issues, vocational issues, anger management, trauma, abuse, and grief. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which examines the relationship between your thoughts and the feelings that those thoughts cause. I also teach stress relief, which frankly we all need, in the form of relaxation techniques and mindfulness. I can help you reduce your worries and stress, adjust to change, reach your personal goals, and find short and long-term solutions to the problems you’re struggling with. I'm glad you're here with me on this journey!

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Dr. Paula Alvarez

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: EdD,LCSW,MBA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.

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Glenda Sanders

Offering therapy in Illinois
Self esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (ADHD), anxiety and 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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Lisa Whittingham

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issues
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. In addition, I am a Yoga instructor, Mindfulness teacher, and am certified in Music & Sound Healing. My passion is to infuse these modalities into therapy. My specialties include: stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, and issues around Parenting of LGBTQI+ children/teens/tweens/adult children. 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.

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Eric Crawford

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Paramita Bhattacharya

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hello! My name is Mita and I am a LCSW in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. 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. I want you to know that you are brave and I am in your team to empower you.

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Andrea Bercos

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have a depth of experience working in community mental health, substance abuse treatment centers, domestic violence and sexual assault centers, the public school system and private practice. I have extensive experience working with issues related to childhood trauma and abuse, addictions, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and LGBTQIA issues, including supporting individuals through the gender transition process. I strive to create an open, safe, and supportive environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared openly without fear of judgment. My clients have described me as safe, free of judgment, empathic, affirming empowering and warm. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to working with you!

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Alyson Hu

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

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois. Since entering the social work profession 17 years ago, I have worked in the areas of healthcare, schools, and early childhood programs. For the past 3 years, I have focused on behavioral health. I have experience in helping clients who are coping with stress, life changes, chronic disease & compassion fatigue. 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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Teris Gosier

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, 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 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 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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