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.
Stephanie Haywood
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling. I have more than 20 years experience counseling individuals, couples and families. I enjoy working with people toward meeting their goals and working through their painful experiences. I find that most people don't seek help when they first need it because they believe they can "do it themselves". We live in a DIY (do it yourself) kind of society but I believe God never meant for any of us to go it alone. I am a Christian and God has gifted me to do this kind of work. He led me to become educated in the field but my relationship with Him is what ultimately helps others get through their problems. It takes courage to take the first step in asking for help, so you should be proud of yourself. I don't believe it's an accident that you reached out for help and got me. I look forward to working with you.
Rebecca Paruszkiewicz
Hello! Thanks for checking out my profile! I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 5 years, working in a community mental health agency in Chicago. I'm originally from Wisconsin, but have an adventurous spirit that keeps taking me elsewhere!! I'm happy to have the chance to provide therapy to those that may not have the time or energy to go sit in someone's office for an hour a week! Working in community mental health, I've helped individuals address a variety of mental health and environmental problems, such as life stressors, anxiety, depression, attention issues, family conflicts, parenting support, etc. In addition, the context of this work was with low-income families who had limited resources and high stress in meeting their families' needs. As human beings, we are never dealing with one thing at a time, and I believe as a therapist, it's important to understand the nuances of how someone's symptoms, environment, and other stressors interact in order to provide the best therapy. I approach each of these issues with a very empathic ear, and learned what I could about the individual in order to provide the best care possible. I take a very strong psycho-educational approach, helping clients to understand the patterns that are ineffective for them, and helping them to develop and understand coping skills, what their function is, and how to utilize them effectively. I believe that the more empowered we are, the more control we can take over our own reactions to stressors and symptoms, and the bigger impact we can have on our own mental health. Thanks for listening, and if you like what you hear, let's talk! I'd love to meet you and support you in the best way that I can!!
Stefanie Weintraub
I am a child and family counselor licensed in Illinois with over 15 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including autism, ADHD, depression, anxiety, struggles with peer relationships, and parenting challenges. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults to help enhance their personal lives and to strengthen their relationships with peers, siblings, and children. I take a holistic approach and always strive to create an emotionally supportive environment for each client. I help each client try to explore his or her thoughts, feelings, and emotions by meeting them where they're at. I make sure to approach every client with compassion and empathy. If you are ready to take the next steps to making the changes you've been trying to make, I would love to support and empower you through this process. I am looking forward to working with you!
Maria "Patti" Lorenzo
Often times, a crisis occurs when a client experiences a duality between his or her inner world and the external environment in which he or she lives in. This client may be going through a life transition related to loss of a loved one, job loss, aging, or even changes in health conditions. He or she may even be struggling internally to make a decision more aligned with their authentic selves such as gender, relationship styles, and vocational interests. The goal for this client is to achieve quality of life and fulfillment without denying himself or herself of his or her true identity and human condition. Being an artist, I use creativity when interacting with clients. My approach is a mix of talk therapy, strength-based approaches, and alternative techniques such as play, art-making, and meditation. My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, validating space for the client. The goal is to assist clients in finding and designing their own individual blueprint for building a quality life for themselves.
Christy Garnhart
A wise person once told me “Finding the right therapist is like trying on shoes. Your pick needs to have support in the right places and you’ll know you’ve made the right choice by how they make you feel.” I couldn’t agree more! Please allow me to thank you for reading my profile and allowing me to tell you a little more about my service to others. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 14 years of experience working with children and families. Much of my background comes from serving school-aged children with a variety of different abilities. This also includes providing support to parents to find programming, services, and interventions for their children’s social-emotional needs. I have provided therapy to those experiencing anxiety, depression, discord in personal relationships, ADHD, Autism, and issues resulting from trauma and abuse. One of the foundations of my therapeutic practice is building upon the strengths of my client. I believe that everyone has many skills that can help them create the life and experiences they desire. I also help clients uncover behavior and thought patterns that are causing distress or impairing their interactions or abilities. I am grateful for your time and commitment to the goals we will develop together. I look forward to hearing from you. Let me know if you’d think we’d be a good fit!
Beckie Fischer
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) licensed in Illinois with over 16 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and PTSD/trauma. I have a specialization in working with victims of crime (physical/sexual abuse and traumatic grief and loss) as well as law enforcement/military members and their significant others and children. My counseling style is direct, warm, and collaborative. I believe in treating anyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and solution focused therapies. I am trained in Gottman and EMDR. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs and believe therapy works best when we work together with you being the expert in your life. It takes courage to take the first step towards seeking help to make changes to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support, encourage, and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Deborah Jost-Beauford
I am a licensed professional counselor in Chicago with over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist, art therapist and pet therapist. I have extensive experience working with children, adults and seniors with a wide range of concerns including depression, acute and chronic pain, anxiety, Perinatal mental health (pregnancy, after delivery) impulsivity, relationship issues, self-esteem, PTSD, trauma, transitions and end-of-life fears. I am trained in a multitude of modalities such as CBT, DBT, art therapy, pain management, post-traumatic growth, mindfulness training, positive affirmations and guided meditation. I am also a certified Grief counselor. It’s important to know you are not alone, that there is a way through whatever pain, fear, or adverse circumstances you may be in. No situation is beyond hope for healing and change. I believe whole heartedly in the potential of every client to live a fulfilling life, and I meet you where you are, honoring your unique identity and experiences while helping you to understand, process and grow after trauma. My counseling style is warm and holistic, using an adaptable and personalized toolkit of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual practices to assist you in reaching your goals, healing and flourishing. It takes courage to take the first steps towards change. When you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. “I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.” — Brené Brown
Julianna Murphy
I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts 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.
Christina Oxley
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.
Dr. Gregory Everett
I'm Dr. Gregory Everett, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I have almost two decades of mental health experience with expertise in all manner of challenges related to parenting, behavior management and anxiety and confidence-related issues. In addition, I am able to assist with family conflicts, including parent and teenage relational issues, as well as motivation and self-esteem matters. My therapeutic approach is heavily behavioral with frequent considerations of cognitive and family-systems approaches. Goals are established and measured, with sessions including review of progress. I view therapy as a collaborative process, inclusive of shared responsibility though which you must take an active role towards improvement. I look forward to our work together.
Allison Dierker
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Almario Crawford
I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. As a seasoned social worker with nine years of rich and diverse experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my clients. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of populations, each with their own unique needs and challenges. Whether it's vulnerable children and families, individuals facing homelessness, survivors of trauma, or seniors in need of support, I approach each client with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to helping them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. My extensive experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the complex social issues that impact our communities, as well as the resources and interventions available to address them. I am skilled in conducting assessments, developing personalized care plans, and connecting clients with essential services and support networks. Moreover, I pride myself on my ability to build trusting relationships with clients, empowering them to advocate for themselves and navigate through difficult situations. I am a strong communicator and collaborator, working closely with clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders to ensure holistic and culturally competent care. In addition to my direct client work, I am dedicated to continuous learning and professional development. I stay informed about the latest research, best practices, and emerging trends in the field of social work, always seeking to enhance my skills and stay abreast of new developments. Overall, my nine years of experience in social work have honed my ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve. I am committed to promoting social justice, fostering resilience, and empowering individuals and communities to thrive. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Christina Garcia
I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Dr. Dr. Antonio Champion
I am licensed in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have my Ph.D. in community psychology and master degree in clinical social work. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.
Dr. Ebony Waller
I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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. I specialize in non-traditional therapeutic techniques such as hip hop therapy and mindfulness. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, registered play therapist and the creator of mindfulness vocal hip hop therapy. Mindfulness vocal hip hop therapy is a fusion of mindfulness, hip hop therapy, and collaborative therapeutic techniques. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started and being open to take on new perspectives!
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
- Chicago, IL
- Aurora, IL
- Joliet, IL
- Rockford, IL
- Naperville, IL
- Springfield, IL
- Peoria, IL
- Elgin, IL
- Waukegan, IL
- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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