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. James English

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Psy.D.,Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Relationship issuesGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

Hello my name is Jim. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working in the counseling field for the past thirty years. I have been privileged to provide counseling and therapy services to individual, couples and families and use an approach that empathizes collaboration and measurable results. My counseling style creates a warm and accepting environment in which people learn to identify and express their feelings so that we can work together to deepen your understanding of feelings and the thoughts that typically accompany them. Once we learn more about our feelings and the thoughts them behind them, we can do more to make changes in thoughts and behaviors that enhance our growth and and help us meet goals. I use various techniques such as those derived from cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and Adlerian Life-Style analysis . These help to make situational changes and to gain awareness of how many of our automatic thoughts, reactions, feelings can be facilitate change once they are understood. This can increase our range of choice and better feelings once we understand more about our personal automatic reactions. My technique and style is helpful for Depression Anxiety Relationship issues Self-Esteem Trauma Growth Shyness/Social Anxiety I am very happy that you are taking these steps to better understand yourself an d work towards more fulfilling relationships in your work, love and friendships and most importantly for your self-care, self-esteem and your relationship to yourself! I look forward to working with you!

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DaVaughn Jackson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
18 years of experience

Hi, Thank you for sharing information about yourself! I'm so happy that you reached out for help; it takes a lot of courage! I am DaVaughn Jackson, a licensed therapist. You can read more about my background, education, experience, and counseling approach by clicking on my name on this page. I appreciate you considering me for therapy!! Let's consider our first interaction as a consultation "try out" where you can see if I'm a good fit for you or not. But let me explain my response time and availability if you plan to continue. I have twenty, 30 minute sessions: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm. We can meet live via video, phone or chat sessions once per week for 30 minutes or 45 minutes max; anything further would be at additional cost to you. I will respond via text in the BetterHelp platform multiple times per day as needed. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or crisis, please report to the hospital of your choice, call 911 or 988. I like to provide education and homework related to your issues to drive our session discussions. Are you willing to complete assignments to address your issues? The BetterHelp platform offers a journal feature which may be helpful to assign for expressing your thoughts and feelings. Are you willing to complete journal entries if asked? Please let me know if these services work for you. Best Regards in Your Mental Health Journey! ~DaVaughn

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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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Heather Michael

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I obtained my Master's degree and I am currently pursuing my doctorate at Aurora University. I works with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents dealing with a variety of problem areas including Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma, and coping skills. my clients describe my personal style as kind, caring, insightful, thought-provoking, and as utilizing a sense of humor. I have a passion for working with people, and helping them cope with, adjust to, and overcome the difficulties life can bring. I provide emotional support and professional guidance that will help clients move forward and grow. In therapy, I offer a safe space in which you can experience trust, acceptance, and genuine positive regard. My approach toward therapy is tailored to each client's individual needs. I may use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Therapy, and Solution-Focused therapy as I work with you to find the best path for you to reach your goals.

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Lauren Oestmann

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Welcome! First I would like to commend you on reaching out for help, as I know this can be the most challenging part. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and struggles. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 13 years of experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with families, children and teens, in residential substance abuse, private practice, adoption preservation and corrections. My style can be described as client centered, strength based and solution focused. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused therapy, mindfulness and solution - focused therapy. If you have any questions feel free to reach out by message through Better Help. I look forward to working with you soon.

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Nicole Sodawasser

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Glen Ensinger

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementADHD
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois , Colorado and Georgia with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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.

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Misty Spencer

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Almario Crawford

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

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!

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Cheryl Watson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Dr. Antonio Champion

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
17 years of experience

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.

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Ana Sikula

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 15+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, holistic counseling, family conflicts, parenting issues & blended families. As a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer I have lived abroad, speak Spanish, and enjoy working with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. 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. In my free time I am a dedicated partner, and mom of two boys. I am passionate about nutritious cooking, holistic and spiritual development, lifelong learning, community building, financial planning, and travel. 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. Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions!

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Kenyatta Black

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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David Lovely

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
4 years of experience

I'm a licensed therapist in Illinois with four years of clinical experience and a lifetime of lived experience navigating trauma, identity, and systems that weren’t built for us. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, attention and memory issues, and identity exploration—especially around queerness, gender, kink, and relationships that don’t follow the standard script. My practice is a judgment-free zone. I bring curiosity, honesty, and warmth into the room, and I do my best to make space for all the parts of you—especially the ones you’ve been told are too much, too complicated, or too messy. You don’t have to edit yourself here. Starting therapy can be hard. Let’s be real: change is hard. But if you're ready to move toward something better, I’m here to help you sort through what’s not working, figure out what is, and build a life that actually fits.

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 BetterHelp therapists in Illinois does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in Illinois 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

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

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in Illinois?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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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