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.
Janice Nass
For those of us experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness/disability, grief and loss, relationship issues, and work/life balance difficulties, trying to adapt to the changes these issues inevitably bring is a common thread that binds us all together. Change is a natural part of life, but it has ways of bringing up feelings of fear, uncertainty, doubt, and sometimes even apathy and pessimism. Since we cannot control change – we can only control how we respond to it – we often feel “stuck”. Together, we can work to address these feelings and adjust our mindsets so we can become stronger from the inside out. Realizing that we have the power to “course correct” our circumstances can be empowering. Our aim in the therapeutic process is to address change by: *learning to “reframe” the situation and see it differently. We can become more aware of what our minds are saying to us and change the narrative to something that is more aligned with our needs. Sometimes we don’t see the possibilities that change can bring because we are locked in a mindset that this is how things are supposed to be. *re-examining our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. When we know ourselves, our truths, our current beliefs, we can weather change more effectively. Sometimes difficulty comes when we are living out of alignment to our core values. *acknowledging that it can be uncomfortable but that difficult moments to not define us. Although social media may have us believe otherwise, life is not meant to be lived perfectly. We can learn from our mistakes, alter our actions, and see where we can do better. Avoiding discomfort can lead us to miss out on amazing experiences. Together, through the therapeutic process, we can discover what might be on the other side. *identify supports and health self-care practices. We can explore those relationships and practices that are reflections of our worth and learn to let go of those that don’t. The therapeutic process can also address how our communication styles can either enhance or diminish our support systems. These are my beliefs. I blend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), person centered therapy (PCT) and solution focused therapy tailored to each person’s needs. In the past 4 decades as a social worker (yes, it has been that long!), I have worked with individuals in long term care and hospice, both as a social worker and as an administrator, and as a mental health practitioner in group practice settings. If I have learned anything over those years it is this: It is never too late to try something new, to start again, and to create a life we truly desire. We are all connected. Our journeys may look different and feel different, but we are all here on this earth for a reason and for a purpose. Let us discover yours – together.
Yvette Medina
Welcome! My name is Yvette Medina and I am a bicultural Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with a sense of humor and a love for helping people. I have over 17 years experience working in the mental health field. I am so happy that you are taking the first step in taking care of yourself. I applaud you as you enter this journey. I understand that it is not always easy meeting with a stranger and sharing your fears and vulnerabilities, however, after a few minutes of introductions and exchanged pleasantries we will no longer be strangers. Allow me to help you onto your journey as you discover your inner strength. I will be your biggest advocate, and your support, we will laugh and celebrate accomplishments that you will make in our sessions together, from the biggest to the smallest. I believe in meeting you where you are at while providing you a safe space. I currently work for a non for profit agency with the focus of addiction treatment, anger management, homelessness, family reunification, and mental health issues. My areas of expertise are major depressive disorder, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse, prenatal and postpartum depression. I also have experience working with individuals that suffer from anxiety, intellectual/developmental disabilities, pervasive developmental disorders, and immigration/acculturation issues. I am also a proud advocate of individuals from the LGBTQ community. As a Latinex/bicultural counselor I am able to relate with you through many shared experiences. I am well versed in various theoretical orientations, such as, person-centered, motivational interviewing, brief solution-focused counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy and life coach techniques. In addition, I can apply more classical approaches to counseling and adapt to your current needs. I look forward to meeting with you and assisting you to reach your true potential. My hobbies are reading, traveling, knitting, baking (eating bake goods), photography (I will send an occasional picture when its relatable and appropriate,) painting, and watching soap operas (novelas). Self care is important for you and I. I will remind you to engage regularly in self care for positive mental health purposes as this will be included as part of your goals.
Petia Detchevska
I understand that sometimes life can be a challenge! But with help and support, we can heal, change, and find inspiration to grow physically, mentally, and spiritually. I am here to listen with a warm heart, to challenge negative thoughts, to motivate you to achieve your goals and to lead you to overall well-being. My name is Petia. I graduated from National Louis University in Chicago, IL 2017 with a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have experience in behavioral mental health; working in different settings, populations and age groups. My preferred treatment approaches are client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and goal setting.
Kimberly Brooks
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience counseling and life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, anger issues, career challenges, grief, and many other challenging issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced diverse types of traumas. My therapy style is warm and compassionate, but direct and honest. I provide a holistic perspective, am interactive and empathetic. I will give you an opportunity to be transparent while providing safety and sensitivity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes great courage to seek a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!
Wendy Gatewood
Greetings! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, and have my 19 years of experience in my specialization. My work experience includes multiple settings such as, residential, foster care, treatment centers, schools, and clinical. Most of my clients over the years have ranged in ages from as young as 2 until 21 years-old. I have experience with helping others manage stress and anxiety, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, trauma and abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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.
Sarah Seely
I am licensed clinical counselor in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients learn how to manage anxiety, depression, unhealed trauma and abuse, substance use and addiction, relationships and more. I also have 10 years experience working in crisis intervention: suicidal thoughts, self harming behavior and psychosis. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe its very cathartic to talk to someone in this space, to improve your insight and self awareness, empowering growth and change. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Molly Oxman
I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & 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. 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.
Kenneth Leggin
I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting 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. 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.
Kayce Bragg
I look forward to the opportunity to walk this journey together! Let me tell you about myself: I’m a wife, mother to four, and a dog mom! I live in SC but love to travel to see new places and try new things. My favorite place is anywhere with a beach as I love anything involving sunshine and water! Professionally, I am a Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and a Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state of South Carolina and have been practicing in the mental health field since 2011. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois . I am currently working on my Doctorate of Psychology and was EMDR trained in 2021. I am very person-centered in my work with clients as I believe that you know you better than I know you! My practice is solution-focused as I believe in focusing more heavily on the problems you’re experiencing right now and working together to develop effective strategies for improving not only your current symptoms, but also your overall life satisfaction. I often incorporate Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at times to help identify problematic thinking and retrain your brain to be more positive! Some other theories I believe in are Positive Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I have significant expertise in dealing with adults (18+) who are experiencing the following: various mental illnesses (including but not limited to Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, other Psychotic Disorders, Depression, Anxiety); difficulty adapting to life situations; relationship issues; stress caused by pressure at work or home; grief and loss; self-esteem issues; other difficulties maintaining life balance. I also have experience with addictions issues and am able to help in those areas. I am skilled in aiding others in developing coping skills, interpersonal skills, independent living skills, stress management, personal empowerment and advocacy, healthy leisure habits, and other important life skills. It is important to understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so the process is really driven by the client! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives. :)
Roslyn Pursley
I believe that changes take place through healing relationships. My job as your counselor is to listen and understand what you are going through and what changes you are seeking. I offer to hold hope for you when times are dark or you feel lost or confused and to share in your progress too! I work from a person centered approach and use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Based Perspective to help you learn and grow and make the changes you want to make. I also work with people who have been through a traumatic event and help them go from feeling like a victim and being afraid to learning how to live with it and experiencing growth. I work individual all of all ages from 3 to 100! I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology and have been practicing since 2007. I also have a heart for First Responders and have experience with that population. I have experience working in a wide variety of settings with people of all ages and requests for help in a wide range of things. I'd like to help you find your purpose in life and have deeper more meaningful relationships. Some of the issues that I help with include trauma, loss of a pregnancy, loss due to suicide, adjusting as a widow(er), adjusting to moves due across country, loss of independence due to aging, and response to tragedy such as a sudden loss of life in the family. and healing from physical and sexual abuse or domestic violence. I consider myself a moderate individual who is considerate of all spiritual beliefs. I will help you explore your personal value system. I will help you find meaning and joy again after trauma.
Jennifer Robart
I am a counselor dedicated to seeing others not only grow and heal but also thrive. I love to guide others toward identifying and accomplishing their goals, and my practice flows from deep empathy and care for those I have the privilege of working with. From 2018-2021, I worked with individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, and because of that, I have had the opportunity to focus on the many issues related to recovery including trauma and abuse, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, life transitions, anger management, and so much more! My counseling style is warm, conversational, and client directed. I strongly believe in meeting people where they are, and helping them get to where they want to go! I believe in creating an atmosphere that is judgment free and emotionally safe, because the best, most sustained changes happen when you are able to completely be yourself. Your past and present decisions and experiences do not have to define you; change is possible! You are the expert in your own life, and I believe that the key to success lies within you. Let's find it together. I look forward to working with you!
Clarence McCray
I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & depression. 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.
Vincent Saxon
I am a current Licensed clinical social worker in Wisconsin with more than 5 years of professional work experience. I specialize in working with clients who may struggle with anxiety, depression, substance use, persistent mental illness, LGBTQ+ related issues, & trauma and abuse. I truly believe everyone deserves compassion and a safe space to land. Therapy sessions are all about what you need and how I can facilitate you reaching your goals! I’m here to support & empower you in your ongoing journey of creating a life worth living.
Deandra Bueno
Hello, I'm Deandra and you can call me Dee. I am so proud of you for taking a chance on yourself. I understand that asking for help can feel foreign and difficult, so I hope you recognize the courage it takes to reach out. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas and in Illinois with 14 years of experience in the helping field. My favorite therapeutic approaches include CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Radical Acceptance, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Somatic Release. I also encourage you to tap into your preferred practice of spirituality, if any. If you don't know where to start, that is okay; we can figure it out together. We'll create goals and check-ins, and most importantly, we will always move at your pace. My goal is to help you feel safe, comfortable, and empowered while keeping you accountable. This way, you may lead the life you’re meant to live with confidence and security in yourself. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am laid-back, understanding, and open-minded, and I am happy to meet you where you are. I specialize in working with individuals dealing with Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Children's mental/behavioral health, Developmental disabilities, Gender identity, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, PTSD, Somatic Symptom Disorder, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Autism spectrum support, Depression, Family relationships, Parenting Issues, Communication Issues, Grief/Bereavement, LGBTQIA+ support, Life transitions, Multicultural/Diversity issues, Spirituality, Stress, and Trauma. I am here to support you in this process. Please feel free to message me with any questions you may have. With gratitude, Dee
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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- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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