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.
Andrew Mercer
I'm so happy you're here and so happy that you're taking an important step towards positive change in your life. Nothing brings me more joy than to be able to be a part of your journey while we work towards your goals. I've been partnering with adults for the past 8 years in private practice as a licensed therapist and 3 years as a life coach working with college-aged adults. Former and current clients appreciate my honest straightforward approach to counseling as well as my ability to patiently and compassionately hold space for answers to emerge. The struggles of life are not meant to be all-consuming or overwhelming and as self-sufficient as most of us are, we all need help at some point. I know I've benefitted from being able to talk through my worries and concerns with the help of a trained therapist and know what the experience is like in either seat. I was trained in pastoral counseling and at Loyola University in Chicago and can assist if your concerns are more spiritual in nature and when they are not take a more traditional approach. I draw from relational schools of thought- psychodynamic, humanistic and Adlerian but apply them in a straightforward pragmatic fashion to keep the process brief and effective. Having been trained and educated in diverse settings, I have experience working with many different types of people with many different concerns. In particular, spiritual and religious questions, LGBT issues, anxiety and coping with grief and loss are areas that I can support you the most. I look forward to working with you as we take the next steps in your journey together.
Kristine Vazquez
"Is it normal to be sad this long? Everybody worries about something, right? Why is it so hard for me to leave this unhappy relationship? How do I stop being so angry all the time? Why can’t I stop my addiction? … What’s wrong with me? " These are questions that at one point or another I’ve heard my clients ask and I work towards assuring them that: 1) there is nothing wrong with you; and 2) I do not know what you SHOULD do, BUT I will definitely help you figure out what will work best for YOU. My role as your therapist is to support, teach, and encourage you as you go through your learning process without judgment. I use Brief CBT (12 sessions model), DBT and Motivational interviewing interventions, through LIVE PHONE sessions, to work with individuals struggling with a wide range of concerns including: depression, poor self-esteem, anxiety difficulties, relationship challenges, parenting difficulties, addictions, and trauma. I have experience providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and youth. I use the techniques and skills that I learned through my master's program in clinical counseling, with a focus on trauma, and years of experience to facilitate your evolution of self. This is done through setting goals and increasing your emotional intelligence. Through live sessions we are able to have the most effective level of communication and therefore yielding timely positive progress. Text/ messaging communication is used to augment live video/phone sessions. My goal is to help you start feeling better as soon as possible. Now, research shows that the relationship between the therapist and the client is the most important indicator of a positive outcome. I am direct but compassionate and relaxed yet professional. Using a collaborative approach and evidenced-based interventions/ techniques we will work together to increase your insight on patterns of negative thinking and behaviors that impact your daily life. By providing you with practical strategies and techniques, that you can apply to life’s daily challenges, you will begin to feel more empowered to make the needed long term changes. These are some tips that will help you be successful in psychotherapy: • Remember that therapy is not a ‘Magic Pill’ (meeting once a week for a video session and then pushing it out of your mind, leads to very slow progress) • Be patience with yourself (feeling better will take practice) • You are your own expert (the more I learn about you, the more I can be of assistance) • Know that therapist help you learn how to solve your problems, rather than solving them for you Making the decision to seek therapy is the first step to saying that you deserve a happier, more fulfilling life. I can assure you that if you commit yourself to the treatment experience and are receptive to implementing evidence-based interventions, you will have the outcome from therapy that you desire. I am here to support you in your personal evolution to a better version of yourself.
Marissa Harris
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with specialization in addictions (substance use and sexual disorders), trauma and emotional conditions, LGBTQ concerns, depression, anxiety, relationship and parenting concerns, vocational challenges, legal issues, and serious mental health illnesses. Since I started in the field in 1998, I have always known I would be a counselor. Growing up, it came naturally to me to be compassionate, empathetic, and to listen with a non-judgmental stance. Over the past 20 years, I have helped hundreds of individuals improve their lifestyles through my work and passion for helping. What I love the most about working as a therapist is being apart of those quantum change insights; the ones that involve a shift in perception and the realization of a new life. It can be as simple as looking at ones self in a positive light, realizing they are capable of change. Recovery is about self-discovery, rediscovering the parts that you believe have become disconnected or lost. Authentic recovery allows you to achieve peace and satisfaction with your life. This starts with positive connections. I am here to guide you in the path of healing the root cause of your stress. With positive and loving connection, I will honor your path towards fulfillment. Currently as of 5/14/2020, I am no longer taking new clients due to a full schedule.
Lori Mattix
I have been a licensed clinical social worker for 35 years. I have experience providing individual , group, and family counseling to teens, adults and families. I have background in the areas of anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management and foster care and adoption. I truly enjoy working with people and my goal is to assist my clients in managing a variety of concerns . It is important to me to establish a safe, non-judgmental environment, and to show respect to all my clients. I don't have one approach I utilize, as I feel everyone is an individual and it is important to develop a plan once I have your input and together we decide on the direction your counseling will take. I recognize that for some, deciding to attend counseling can be a challenge. I am here to provide the support, flexibility and trust you need to succeed. Once you choose to begin counseling to address the concerns you have, I will be there to assist and support you in the process.
Jenifer Regennitter
Hello! My name is Jenifer, and I am a licensed therapist in both Illinois and Iowa. I have a Masters of Science in Education in Counseling and a Bachelors degree in psychology from Western Illinois University. I have worked as a Masters-level clinician in behavioral health since 2000, and have experience working in virtually every level of care--from residential, to inpatient, to outpatient, to community mental health. This has given me the opportunity to work with individuals at various levels in their mental health journey. I see adults of any (or no) spiritual background, but can offer Christian Counseling for those seeking a safe place to discuss their faith as it relates to their life struggles. Whatever you are at spiritually, emotionally, or mentally, I meet you where you're at! In terms of my counseling approach, I primarily practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Art Therapy and Trauma-Centered therapy. I provide counseling for those stuck in depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, or unhealthy coping patterns. Effective counseling is a collaborative experience; that means you and I will work together to identify opportunities for growth and healing, as well as the strengths you already have. I do give homework assignments from time to time so that you can continue your healing work outside session. My passion is helping people see what is possible so they can live life with more joy, peace, and wellness. I look forward to working with you!
Bridget Bauersfeld
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.
Kristen Wilson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida with 8 years of clinical experience. I graduated with my Master's degree in Social Work 14 years ago and have spent most of my professional career as a school social worker. Since residing in Florida, I have provided psychotherapy to adults and children while offering clinical supervision to candidates seeking licensure in Florida as a qualified supervisor. I have worked with students and adults with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, drug and alcohol dependence, grief and loss, and Bi-Polar Disorder. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Suzanne Baer
Hi I'm Suzi a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois with 22 years experience working as a therapist, mentor and life coach. I have background working in a variety of settings including inpatient drug and alcohol treatment center, sexual abuse counseling and community mental health. I have worked with people with wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, relationship issues, career challenges and life changes. I have also counseled individuals and families with addictions, trauma and abuse. My counseling style is genuine, compassionate and interactive. I believe in you and I will tailor our dialogue to meet your unique and specific needs. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, holistic, client centered, trauma informed care to a diverse population. It takes courage to take the first step towards change. I'm dedicated to walking with you on your journey and excited to see you progress. I will help encourage you, motivate you, challenge you and empower you to live a happier life. I look forward to connecting with you, call me today so we can get started.
Amanda Pearson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Amy Eilers
I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Missouri, with 24 years of professional psychotherapy experience with adults, adolescents and children, in individual and group settings. I obtained my Masters in Social Work from Indiana University. I have expertise in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, cancer/life threatening illness, and other major life changes in relationships and work. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal, and solution focused therapy. 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.
Christina Steele-Lietz
To be a confidante, friend, teacher and equal. This is the approach I take to therapy; non-judgmental, identifier of facts, explorer of solutions and compassionate listener through a person’s life experience. Therapy together will be the creation of a lifestyle determined by you on; how to respond to what cannot be controlled and you determining what is best for you, learning how to comfort yourself through pain and suffering, identifying who you are and want to continue to be. I am so glad you are taking this time for yourself and making your health a personal priority. I am licensed in Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+-related issues, & trauma and abuse. Our 'work-space' together will be an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement or rejection. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Holly Caruso
I am licensed in Florida & Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Antoinette Senjanovich
Antoinette Senjanovich is a compassionate and experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois, dedicated to helping individuals find their path to healing and growth. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago and has over six years of clinical practice. Antoinette specializes in therapeutic approaches like DBT, psychodynamic and attachment theory, and CBT, which she uses to guide clients in exploring their innermost thoughts and emotions within a warm and safe space. She works with clients experiencing complex challenges, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD (CPTSD), eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder. Antoinette values diversity and inclusivity, and she has significant experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community. She believes that our diverse identities enrich who we are and that the world is more complete when all people are embraced for their uniqueness. Antoinette creates a collaborative, empowering environment in her therapy practice, helping individuals reflect on their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Her approach is non-imposing, meeting clients exactly where they are, and supporting them through their personal journey of self-discovery and growth. Beyond her professional work, Antoinette is passionate about animals and enjoys spending time with her dog and two black cats. She is an active member of her church, advocating for the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ individuals in worship and leadership. Antoinette is also committed to social justice causes, serving her community, and enjoys swimming, spending time with family, singing, and reading in cozy coffee shops.
Alexandria Libby
Please be aware my availability is early mornings sessions. Monday - Friday. (5am - 7am) This may change some in the summer. I am licensed in Missouri with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). 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.
Trina Hill
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety issues, coping with substance use addictions, trauma and abuse also coping with grief and loss. I have experience working with depression, relationships issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am here to support and empower you.
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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
Popular cities in Illinois
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- Rockford, IL
- Naperville, IL
- Springfield, IL
- Peoria, IL
- Elgin, IL
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- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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