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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Dr. Meredith Hayes

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Psy.D,L.C.P.C.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I'm a licensed therapist in the state of Illinois. I have been in the field for 15 years working together with people to better their lives. I've been honored to work with many different people going through many different things. My clients have presented with issues such as: Depression; Anxiety/OCD; Addiction; Trauma and Abuse; Eating Disorders; Self-Injury: Bi-Polar; Couples Issues; Life transitions and many more more. I would describe myself as an interactive therapist, one who is engaged in the therapeutic process. I will play an active role in the therapy process. I would be described as a Cognitive Behavioral therapist. That means that we will review your past and present and consider how they have shaped your current patterns. Psychology Today said " Evidence has mounted that CBT can benefit numerous conditions, such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and many others. Research also indicates that CBT can be delivered effectively online, in addition to face-to-face therapy sessions." I look forward to getting to know you and work with you!

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Dr. Thomas Kadela

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Ph.D.,LCSW,BCD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersAnger managementDepression
26 years of experience

Hi – I’m Dr. Kadela and it’s nice to “meet” you. They wanted me to write a little about myself so here you go! Note – if you have insomnia this might just put you to sleep – so enjoy that perk at no charge! - Why are you on BetterHelp? I have over 26 years of assessment and treatment experience. I only work with 1-2 clients at a time on BetterHelp since I work full time with the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and am also a United States Army National Guard Behavioral Health Officer (neither of which I formally represent here). BetterHelp allows me to work with cool people like you in a more casual setting. Before coming to the DVA I specialized in children and families. - What would our sessions look like? Well – that’s really up to you! I may have gone to school for a long time to be called “Dr.” but you’ve spent a long time being you – and you’re the expert of you! So we are both experts, and therefore equals, in this partnership. So YOU get to pick how we spend our time together. Do you want Executive Coaching? Or to use me as more of a sounding board for your thoughts and feelings (sometimes known as Gestalt Therapy)? Do you want to target an issue like Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Sleep, Communication or Anger? If that’s the case you can choose an Evidenced Based Psychotherapy (EBP). EBPs are well researched and have proven outcomes. They almost always involve homework in-between our sessions. You can see you have a lot of choices and we can talk about what’s right for you, and what you think would be best, but I am formally trained in: • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) • Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression (CBT-D) • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP) • Social Skills Therapy (SST) • Anger Management (AM) • Solution Focused Brief Psychotherapy (SFBP) • Problem Solving (PS) No matter what we do I take a holistic approach. I believe we need to balance Body, Mind and Spirit (however you define Spirit). When one of them is out of whack (not a technical term) the other two go wonky (again not a technical term). It’s like driving a vehicle with three round tires and one square – it’s very clunky and uncomfortable! - Resume/Curriculum Vita OK – here is the boring stuff. I’ve been practicing for over 26 years and during that time I’ve taught/teach at University at both the Graduate and Undergraduate levels. I’ve published in a few journals. I’m Board Certified in my discipline. I’ve worked and/or supervised inpatient, outpatient and residential treatment programs. I’ve been on the conference circuit and given many workshops and keynote speeches. I’ve held job titles such as Chief Clinical Officer of National Programs, State Director, Chief Administrative Officer, Training Director, Supervisor of Specialty Programs, etc. I am a US Army Combat Veteran. Let me know if you want more details as I’m happy to share. I hope I get to meet you!

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LaShara Shaw

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

Hello. My name is LaShara, and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified rehabilitation counselor. I am also a Doctoral candidate for Pastoral and Christian Counseling. It has been my pleasure working with consumers of varied ages, from children to senior citizens. My aim is to discover areas of difficulties and build strengths to foster a flourishing and meaningful life. I endorse an integrative perspective of treatment to acknowledge the contexts of the body, mind, environment, and spirituality within treatment settings. I work in secular and Christian settings, and I respond to the goals of the consumers. I embrace compassion, empathy, and recognition that life has moments of suffering, but through value-driven committed action, there can be beautiful outcomes. It will be wonderful to hear from you soon. Thank you.

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Joni Spohn

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
34 years of experience

I am an experienced clinician with years of practice. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families. I have had extensive experience both in and out of hospital settings and enjoy working with people to problem solve and affirm their experiences. I often give homework assignments which can be done during sessions.

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Fritz Gelin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Ed.D.,LCPC,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I currently hold an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) and a CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor), both from the State of Illinois. Professionally, I am the Program Coordinator at a crisis center, but I have over 15 years of experience working with clients presenting with a wide range of issues, including bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I draw my counseling strengths from using a Person-Centered Therapy approach. I believe that the therapy space is for the client to have a voice and options available for adequate problem solving. I am certified in CBT, but I use an eclectic approach integrating various counseling models. At times, we are faced with a difficult task, and we may need some assistance. If you feel ready for therapy/counseling, I am here to provide you the help you need. Thank you.

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Valentina Gasparro

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA IN CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Hello my name is Valentina Gasparro and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor whom holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology. I have over 20 years experience in working with adults, children and adolescents providing individual therapy, , group and family therapy. I'm very eclectic in my approach and personable and try to help empower clients through mindfulness training, solution focused approaches, trauma focused care, meditative approaches such as EFT to best help clients reach their goals. I believe every client has the potential to promote their “best selves” and therefore making healthy decisions in their lives, which will offer more enrichment in their lives. I’m dedicated to helping clients improve their well being and it’s so exciting and fulfilling in seeing clients positively transforming their lives through therapy — I'm looking forward to helping you on your path to healing and self discovery!

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Sara Barrientos

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the Social Work field since 2007. My experience in the field of Social Work has given me the opportunity to work with children and families, at-risk homeless youth, adolescent/adult behavioral health, and senior citizens. For the past 10 years, I have been working in an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed for senior citizens struggling with depression and anxiety, however I also have experience working with individuals facing marital/relationship issues, parenting issues, and loss. As a therapist, I will work to uplift, encourage, and motivate you to find the best solutions for yourself. I strive to be a compassionate, caring, and understanding individual who will respect you for who you are, right where you are in your journey. My goal in this profession is to help you achieve the goals you create for yourself and provide you with the accountability you need to succeed. I am so glad we matched and I look forward to what's in store for you!

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Sara Gonzalez

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & parenting issues. 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.

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Chaunte Wilder

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which allows clients to restructure their thinking and change their lives. My belief is that if people can change the way that they think and view things, then they can change their lives! My goal as your counselor is to empower you as well as increase your self-awareness. I offer a warm, genuine, and gentle approach which allows my clients to feel understood and respected. Additionally, I provide a safe place for clients to feel supported and willing to share their experiences in order to reach their optimal mental wellness.

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Paula Randant

Offering therapy in Illinois
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 11,181,370 people live in IL, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Illinois support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Illinois?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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