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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Troy Gibson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

I hope this finds you well. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in IL with many years of experience working in mental health counseling. I have worked with a diverse range of clients dealing with a variety of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem, as well as relationship concerns. I have also helped many clients experiencing minority stress and or minority trauma. I approach therapy with a sensitivity and predilection for multicultural factors. I have varied experience in multiple settings, including providing individual and group therapy at an inpatient hospital unit and an outpatient hospital unit; as well as providing individual and couples therapy at a private practice. I would describe my style as conversational, strengths based, insight-oriented, and fun. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for us to explore and gain insight while promoting self empowerment. My clinical approach draws from Gestalt therapy and also incorporates Solution-Focused and mindfulness interventions. With me you can expect to be challenged to explore the origin of your problems, develop new awareness, identify pattern behaviors, work through unfinished business and create new strategies for change. Overall, I want to meet you where you’re at and collaborate to make sure our time together works best for you and your needs. I value your courage in taking the next steps on your path to wellness. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey. "When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. " - Fred Rogers

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Raelene Faught

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in Illinois with 10 years of experience. I view this work as helping people heal from hurts and move towards healthier choices and relationships to satisfy legitimate needs. I have worked with clients on issues including anxiety, transition and phase of life concerns, relationships, parenting and trauma. I try to come from a perspective that views you as the expert on your life and I am here to help you learn, heal and change. I use a humanistic approach along with Trauma Informed and Cognitive Behavioral strategies to work towards those goals. I hope that your choice is an easy one and I wish you well.

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Janice Nass

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

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.

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Katina Wilcher

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,MSW,M.Ed
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing therapy services to a diverse group of individuals, albeit an extensive portion of my practice has been providing support to children and their families. I have provided clinical services in a wide range of therapeutic arena such as shelters, inpatient/outpatient hospitals, schools. In doing so, I work with clients with multiple concerns including parenting, depression, school problems, trauma to name a few. I provide trauma-informed care with experience addressing grief, community violence impact, etc. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago in Criminal Justice and a minor in Sociology. I later attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where I earned my Masters in Social Work, focusing clinically on Schools, and my Masters in Education with a focus on Educational Organization and Leadership, respectively. I am currently completing my Doctorate at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a focus on providing services, resources, and access to traditionally marginalized populations. I am a culturally responsive clinician who believes that everyone minimally deserves empathy, respect, compassion, and dignity. I truly believe it is important to meet everyone where they are at, and in doing so, empower and equip my clients to have a voice and choice in their lives- to have agency. My approach is largely client-centered, strength-based, and solution-focused because I believe that clients are the experts on their lives and that everyone has strengths and talents from which we can draw. I use a variety of treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths, and in developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. While this list is not exhaustive, I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Intervention for Trauma in Schools, Mindfulness, Emotional Regulation Strategies, etc. with the goal of supporting clients to move towards a life of stability and happiness. Congratulations on taking the first step in achieving the change you seek. It is an honor to join you and walk alongside you as a critical thought partner on your journey. Specialties: • Parenting concerns • Relationship issues • Self-esteem • Depression • Coping with life changes • School issues and support • Emotional regulation • Effective decision-making Also experienced in: Conflict resolution, LGBT, Abuse and Neglect, Trauma, Behavioral Disorders, Parenting issues ADHD, Special Education Law, Stress Management, Domestic Violence, Homelessness, Birth to 3 Services, Grief and Loss, Attachment Issues, Mental Illness, and more. Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Zones of Regulation, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 23

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Kristy Scholtes

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hello, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a passion for helping others. I have over 15 years experience with people of all ages, who come from various types of backgrounds and have struggled with many different types of challenges. Many of my clients have struggled with anxiety, stress, depression or trauma. I have a significant amount of experience working with young people on the Autism spectrum, with ADHD or with emotional disabilities. Supporting my clients as individuals, as parents or as a family through life experiences is my overall purpose. I strongly believe in building a strong connection first with clients. Our first session together will focus on your goals for treatment and the type of support you are looking for from a therapist. I have strong listening skills and an ability to support others towards whatever their goals may be. I am currently offering direct messaging and LiveChat sessions only. Video and phone session time slots are filled already, so I can not accept any additional clients with the preference for only those services. I know selecting a therapist can be a difficult decision and would be honored to work with you.

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Jennifer Seward

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

Hello, First of all, congratulations on taking that first step toward making positive changes in your life. I would be very humbled and grateful to have the opportunity to partner with you on your journey. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for 20 years and have been in the social work field for more than 30 years. I feel my fresh and practical perspective will allow me to bring a new level to helping others. My experience has been focused on youth and adults who have suffered trauma, painful life events, anxiety and depression. I also have extensive experience working with individuals on addressing parenting concerns. I believe in creating a safe and supportive place for healing. I utilize a holistic approach to therapy examining how the environment of the person impacts their ability to function. I also believe in assisting those I serve in finding solutions to their problems in the most nonjudgmental and efficient manner. I will be open and honest with you during sessions but will always be supportive and respectful.

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Shelley Hill

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
25 years of experience

Hello! I am licensed in the state of IL (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) and have practiced as an individual and couples therapist for 25 years. My experience brings a breadth and depth of knowledge to the table with years of working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-worth issues, addictions among other matters that may cause disturbance in one's life. Whether you are looking for safe space to support processing feelings or directive type of guidance I have the skill set to meet you where you are. Allow me to share with you a little about my style. I think people can tell us what they are thinking and feeling but people don't cause their thoughts and feelings. I think that happens from a place below the level of conscious awareness. More than likely if what you are presenting was something to figure out solely from an intellectual level you wouldn't be coming to a therapist. It would probably already be resolved, done and dusted. Intellectual understanding is valuable and will happen. My approach allows change to be natural and long lasting through several modalities we can utilize in our work together. I intend to show up with compassion, presence, respect and desire to fully understand (along with some well-placed humor) to make healthy shifts. I appreciate the time, initiative, and "lean in" it takes making steps toward a happier healthier life. I look forwarded to getting started!

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Marcelo Gonzalez

Offering therapy in Illinois
LGBTSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with many issues. From feelings of isolation to managing the day to day stress, there are times when you need help finding a new lens view life's experiences. Working from a holistic perspective, my goal is to always provide an encouraging, empathetic and affirming environment to explore new perspectives. I'm experienced in aiding those who are struggling with issues of identity (gender, race, nationality, etc.), low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues, career transitions, LGBTQ-related issues, and acculturation issues. Meeting people where they are at with a judgment-free and authentic approach, I help individuals, couples, and families create room to find new ways to achieve their goals and create insight into the challenges, barriers, and patterns. To help create growth. People represent so many individual identities, from gender, culture, ethnicity, geographic location, etc. I strive to engage and assist each individual in exploring how the culmination one's identities within our society may affect how one walks through the world and the lens they use.

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Teresa Yu

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello! My name is Teresa Yu and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) in the State of Illinois. I have over 3 years of experience working with a diverse client population from children to adults and with concerns ranging from day-to-day stress, life transitions, anxiety, adjustment, to trauma. I specialized working in multicultural therapeutic spaces, interacting with culturally diverse, BIPOC clients focusing on adjustment, acculturation stress, family separation, and migration trauma. I am fluent in Mandarin. I am often described to have a calm, caring personality with moments of humor. I like to listen empathetically, clarify and summarize, before inviting processing. I recognize one approach does not fit all, I like to remain flexible and explore a working balance where you feel engaged while being challenged towards your identified goals. I like to highlight your strengths and achievements to empower positive changes. Depending on your needs, I frequently utilize Attachment, Regulation, Competency framework, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused processing, mindfulness, therapeutic, or art activities in my sessions. My goal is to hold a therapeutic space where you feel engaged to share what’s on your mind from your daily experiences to your concerns without feeling judged. It takes courage to open up your stories and seek support, and I am here to hear you and honor what you are going through.

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Emily Angelico

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience as a social worker. I am also an English teacher and have lived in Spain for 5 years and understand small and big life transitions, especially as it relates to living in another country, speaking a different language and experiencing culture shock and cultural differences. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & career difficulties. I want my clients to feel they can be open, comfortable and know they are in a safe environment without fear of judgment. I am here to support you in whatever way I can.

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Debra Bryant

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesGriefBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
38 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, bipolar disorder, anxiety and 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Malekapukhrajbanu "Maleka" Qureshi

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, Anxiety
15 years of experience

My name is Maleka Qureshi, I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have specialized training and working experience with adolescence and adults with Intellectual and developmental disabilities. I provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services. I speak English, Urdu, Hindi, and Gujarati. I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. The majority of my experience has been working with young adults and adults with dual diagnosis of mental illness, substance related and addictive disorders. I have provided therapy to individuals as well as support to their families. I also have experience helping individuals with phobia, stress and anxiety, anger control problems, low self-esteem, family conflicts and couple/ relationship counseling. I have a passion for helping others achieve more fulfillment and balance in their lives. My approach is to combine different types of psychotherapy and counseling techniques to help you discover and unlock negative thoughts, and patterns of the past, which will allow you to focus on the present and feel more fulfilled and achieve your goals for the future. It is my experience that my clients know themselves better than anyone, they are their own (and my) best resource when it comes to treatment. I see therapy as a joint venture where our knowledge and skills are combined to create solutions. 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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Carla Brown

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Arkansas with over 10 years of experience providing therapy to adults. I began my career working in a community mental health center and currently I have my own practice. I spend most of my time working with client's who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I most enjoy working with couples. I take a straight forward, practical approach in order to do the most work in the least amount of time so you can get back to enjoying your life as soon as possible. I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I meet you where you are and help you to get where you want to be. I know beginning therapy can be anxiety provoking and I strive to make the therapeutic process as comfortable as possible. So try to relax and let's get started! I look forward to talking to you.

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J'lessa Yelder

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf 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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Lisa Leong

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello! I am a trained clinical social worker with 16 years of experience. My experience is in major hospital systems in New York City, Houston, and New Jersey and the past three years specifically servicing BetterHelp subscribers. Most of my experience involves bringing tranquility, organization, and resolution to very complex and emotional situations. I utilize cultural sensitivity and my experience to navigate diverse backgrounds and work through the challenges being faced. In my work, I have been involved during times of stress and anxiety, challenging relationships, life changes, and many more. My goal is to listen to what is causing stress and offer the support needed to overcome it or manage it better. I hope to offer some tools to utilize in navigating these challenging situations for a more optimal outcome. I have traveled to various cities such as Bangkok, Paris, Madrid, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Cancun, Caribbean, London, Amsterdam, San Diego, Chicago, Oklahoma City, Memphis, Orlando, San Francisco, Montreal, Calgary, Banff, Edmonton, and more. During my travels, I mainly focus on learning about the culture and understanding the history of the area and its people. My passion is to help and coach people to be their best selves!

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:

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.

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