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.

 

This is Stephanie Haywood's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie Haywood

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteem
21 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling. I have more than 20 years experience counseling individuals, couples and families. I enjoy working with people toward meeting their goals and working through their painful experiences. I find that most people don't seek help when they first need it because they believe they can "do it themselves". We live in a DIY (do it yourself) kind of society but I believe God never meant for any of us to go it alone. I am a Christian and God has gifted me to do this kind of work. He led me to become educated in the field but my relationship with Him is what ultimately helps others get through their problems. It takes courage to take the first step in asking for help, so you should be proud of yourself. I don't believe it's an accident that you reached out for help and got me. I look forward to working with you.

This is Lauren Oestmann's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Holly Ambrose's avatar and link to their profile

Holly Ambrose

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Florida with over 30 years of professional social work experience. I have experience in helping clients to cope with stress, anxiety, grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, self-confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and 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.

This is Christina Steele-Lietz's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Steele-Lietz

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,LISW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

To be a confidante, friend, teacher and equal. This is the approach I take to therapy; non-judgmental, identifier of facts, explorer of solutions and compassionate listener through a person’s life experience. Therapy together will be the creation of a lifestyle determined by you on; how to respond to what cannot be controlled and you determining what is best for you, learning how to comfort yourself through pain and suffering, identifying who you are and want to continue to be. I am so glad you are taking this time for yourself and making your health a personal priority. I am licensed in Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+-related issues, & trauma and abuse. Our 'work-space' together will be an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement or rejection. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Curtis Boehne's avatar and link to their profile

Curtis Boehne

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, parenting, anger management and other issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Samuel  Higgerson 's avatar and link to their profile

Samuel Higgerson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Rachel Hoyt's avatar and link to their profile

Rachel Hoyt

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
6 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, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I have experience with adoption, foster care, and non traditional family arrangements. 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.

This is Charlotte Kauffman's avatar and link to their profile

Charlotte Kauffman

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, life transitions and motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience in career counseling, counseling persons experiencing divorce and working with persons experiencing mental illness and their families. I have had the personal experience of dealing with mental illness in two family members, divorce and grief in the loss of one of my children. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am qualified to incorporate spirituality into the counseling if the client desires. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Katie Wooldridge's avatar and link to their profile

Katie Wooldridge

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello! My name is Katie Wooldridge. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I currently have 5 years of professional work experience. I’m excited that you are here and wanting to make the first step towards a positive change. It is my hope that we can work together to help you navigate life’s challenges, make meaningful changes, and work towards a greater well-being and sense of self. Together we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as we work on strategies that align with your values and goals. I understand that therapy can be a personal journey, and it is my goal is to create a safe space for you to feel heard and understood. I believe each person is the expert of their own life. I encourage clients to build upon their strengths in order to create a life they enjoy and are proud of. I will be here to support and empower you as you discover your goals and make meaningful steps in achieving them. If you’re ready to take the first step, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

This is Delia Shaeffer's avatar and link to their profile

Delia Shaeffer

Offering therapy in Illinois
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 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. 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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist