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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Natalie Eden

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MBA, MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am dedicated to providing you with confidential, compassionate & personalized treatment to meet your individual needs & goals. Focus is on empowering you to make better decisions, gain more insight, and embrace the challenges of life. Focus is on restoring and developing a person’s dignity, strengths, and God-given talents for problem-solving, personal growth, and achievement. I am a fully licensed counselor with two advanced degrees. I have been in private practice for 10 years treating clients who present with a wide range of challenges. Prior to that I worked as a counselor at an outpatient behavioral health clinic at a major hospital in downtown Chicago, Illinois providing individual and group therapy to persons of all ages diagnosed with a wide variety of emotional challenges. My studies have also included extensive coursework in addictions and motivational interviewing. I have experience and training in treating anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorders and grief. As a fully licensed clinical professional in the states of Illinois and Pennsylvania, I have a Masters of Arts in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a 4.0 GPA. Other degrees include a Master’s degree in Business Administration from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA as well as a Bachelor’s degree in English /Communications summa cum laude from Campbell University. I am married with two adult children. My hobbies include travel, writing, genealogy and art.

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Marie-Pierre Sernatinger

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello! my name is Marie-Pierre. I’m a native of France. I am bilingual but I have lived my entire adult life in the US. I have also raised a family here and have adult children. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a Minor in Women’s Studies, and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois since 2003. Before starting Private Practice, I worked for many years in programs for Chronically Mentally Ill, Chemically Dependent or Dually Diagnosed individuals. These were adults and young adults, men and women both, who, typically, struggled with many other issues as well: chaotic lifestyle or upbringing, traumatic experiences, and often significant health and/or legal problems. No one needs to reach such extremes before seeking help. Pain and suffering come in different forms and degrees, but all are worthy of attention. In my private practice I have been seeing clients for issues such as relationships, family, parenting, work, and stages of life (from the newly graduated to the soon to retire...) Anxiety and depression are often present, as may be AOD use. Whether you feel overburdened, isolated, face difficult decisions, or lack support — There is no need to go it alone. I am Client-Centered in orientation: Establishing a climate in which you feel comfortable and safe, and where trust can develop, is essential to me. But depending on the issues we’re dealing with, I am likely to use a variety of approaches, whether cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, or perhaps insight-oriented, to help you some resolution. You are in charge: At a concert, if you were the conductor, holding the baton, and I the instrument, I would follow your lead attentively to help express the music — as many variations are possible. Likewise, in therapy, it is crucial that I attend to you with care and mindfulness. I may be mirror, validator, support, resource... But the course is yours to mark. Would you tell me no what's going on in your life? Should we get started? Let me accompany you a bit... I would be honored to work with you!

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Laura Salazar

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

My name is Laura Salazar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for Illinois and Texas with over nine years of experience. You are the expert on your own life. I am an expert in helping you outline and achieve your goals. Therapy is intended to prepare you for working through your life's issues as they happen with empowerment and knowledge. I would be honored if you would choose me to provide you with the tools to build the kind of life you want to have. Together, we will create treatment plans outlining what you would like to accomplish in therapy. Based on those goals, I will use evidence based treatments that match with each goal. What I tend to use most often are Rogerian Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialetical Behavioral Therapy, Constructivism, and Art Therapy techniques. I have the most experience with depression, anxiety, stress management, grief/loss, trauma/abuse, self-esteem, intimacy/couples issues, and behavior change.

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Jennifer Morris

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Hi! I have been a social worker since 2010 and I feel privileged everyday that people allow me into their lives on such a personal level. If you are reading this, you have made a HUGE step in deciding to focus on yourself and give yourself some time and attention which is brave and scary. Social workers, therapist, counselors all receive training to do what we do and many are extremely skillful and knowledgeable. The key to therapy being successful is finding the therapist who you feel comfortable with. I am not everyone's cup of tea but I may be the right person for you. I have worked with a variety of people in my years of practice. I have worked with court mandated clients, birth mothers placing their babies for adoption, adoptive families, hospice patients and their families, homeless Veterans, medical social work with Veterans and justice involved Veterans who are in prison, jail or on probation. I have experience providing group and individual therapy related to trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and loss, domestic violence, end of life concerns, life transitions and parenting. I believe that everyone is capable of instituting change in their life and sometimes don't know how to take the first steps. I believe my role as a therapist/social worker is to look at everything going on with that person, ask questions and assist them in creating a plan and working through the steps. I am not a "textbook" type therapist in the sense that I do not follow a script based on what my client identifies as their concerns. I approach everyone individually and create a plan that works best for each person. Everyone has strengths and abilities and I am always so excited when someone realizes their strengths and draws on them to help themselves move forward. That is my joy - seeing the people I work with grow and flourish. I am someone who will challenge you, be honest with you and push you to work toward you goals. I look forward to hearing from you if you think we sound like a good fit and if not, I wish you the best of luck on your journey. The right therapist is out there... just a click away.

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Diane McClain

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changesCoaching
46 years of experience

Hi My name is Diane I have more than 30+ years of experience doing therapy. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient settings as well as family service agencies and private practice. My approach is client centered with a strong focus on solution oriented short term therapy. I am a direct communicator, but use humor often to help clarify issues and to create an intervention that is easier to remember for my clients. Life sometimes is very hard, it is our reaction to it that makes it harder or easier. We can grow and learn to make our decisions based on our values and interests so that we are not fighting with ourself over the decisions that were always ours to make. We all make choices that have far ranging consequences for ourself and others- let us make them after a careful, honest self examination- therapy can provide a safe place for this self examination. . I have an interest in providing therapy and support for caregivers, clients with new medical challenges and families dealing with end of life issues. I have specialized in grief and loss as well as anxiety and depression. I am a direct communicator and have been able to " speak truth to power" so one of my subset of experiences is coaching executives who have lost their jobs and are going through emotionally challenging times. I am experienced at counseling cross cultural and interfaith families both at the pre-marital stage and further along in the marriage. I also have counseling experience ( as an ally) with GLBTQ+ counseling, coming out, managing the family disclosure and acceptance and straight spouse issues as well. Make no mistake, people need to work in therapy. A good therapist does not provide a NEST ( never ending supportive therapy) but rather a launching point. So if you are ready to launch ......contact me

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Debbi Little

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
30 years of experience

Hello, I want to thank you for taking the first step in seeking to improve your life. Sometimes it is difficult to reach out for help and you have shown courage by doing so. I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist in Illinois. I have worked for 28 years mostly with children and their parents to strengthen their family through improving their communication, developing an understanding of other viewpoints, expressing honest emotions and conflict resolution. I have also worked with individuals going through divorce, grieving a loved ones passing, suffering from trauma or facing those life events that are so difficult to overcome alone. I believe everyone deserves to be treated with respect and compassion. I also believe everyone is unique and therefore will work best with an intervention tailored specifically to them. Together we will find the approach or approaches that works best for you. Thank you again for taking the first step. If you are ready to take the next one I am here to help you. Looking forward to hearing from you. Debbi

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Verally Calderon

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Alan Moy

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. 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.

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Christina Oxley

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictions
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Illinois with 3+ years of professional work experience. My experience comes from providing direct mental health services to kids, teens, adults, families, and couples. I have worked with a variety of presenting issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, addiction, relational conflict, and parenting issues. I have a genuine interest in people and the different ways we all try to make sense of ourselves and the world. I seek to provide a comfortable space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgement. I take a collaborative approach however, I believe that the client knows themselves the best and with some support has the ability to identify what they want and how they can get there. I take a holistic approach meaning I understand the importance and interconnection between the mind, body, relationships, and environment. I also understand that each person is different so I draw from many different psychological approaches to meet the individual needs of those I work with. Reaching out for support is a great first step towards understanding yourself better and making the changes you want for a better life. For every client that chooses to work with me, I am honored to be a support for you on your journey.

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Andrea Taylor

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Maria Camila Camacho

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a bilingual licensed clinician in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients as a team 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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Matthew Rome

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I have worked with children, teens, and adults. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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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Roberta Hodge

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

I am licensed in Illinois, Iowa and Wyoming with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Samantha "Chris" Troutt

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Tennessee with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with families parenting children from hard places, including Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. 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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Ryan Sheehan

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

I am licensed in Illinois and Virginia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 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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