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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Erika Figgers

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years in the Chicagoland area. I have experience working with individuals impacted by mental health, trauma, substance abuse, HIV, grief/loss and homelessness. I am passionate about my work because I feel everyone has the capacity to learn, change and create a better quality of life. I approach my clients with holistic counseling to look at all areas of their life to create strategies to meet your needs. I also integrate cognitive behavioral, solution focused, trauma informed care and strengths perspective into our sessions. I recognize it is not easy to be vulnerable and can be uncomfortable to open up to a stranger about very personal issues. I am honored to be that person and will greet you with empathy ,patience, honesty and no judgement. I look forward to starting this journey with you!

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Dorothy Carskadon

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
26 years of experience

Please call me Dorrie. I have been a counselor for 24 years primarily working with Veterans and their families. I am excited to be on Better Help to use my clinical experience on this online platform. I like to use worksheets and journals to get to know you when we are not doing sessions. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of South Carolina. I use positive psychology, cognitive behavioral approach and emotional literacy to guide you through your issues. Positive psychology helps you to explore yourself through recognizing the positives in your life and accentuating them. The cognitive behavior approach helps you look closely at the decisions you make and the emotional literacy approach looks at how your emotions effect your decisions. I call myself a resource counselor because I will give you lots of material - handouts, worksheets, and internet links - to review and hopefully apply to your life. I am Christian and believe using the Bible that expresses wisdom and encourages love. God made each of us unique and "God saw that it was good." As an experienced therapist, I will adjust my style to your needs. My goal is to help you enjoy life.

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Dr. Susan Hanson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Doctorate Social Work,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hello and welcome, My name is Dr. Susan Hanson. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. As a parent and a therapist, I understand the need for teens and adults to continue to seek counsel & guidance as they navigate challenges in life. This is the beginning of your journey, a safe place, for you to overcome complex behavioral concerns. A place where you can focus on successfully developing the skills needed to create the productive life that you want. I offer Premiere Telehealth Treatment & Behavioral Health in a supportive environment. I specialize in mood & anxiety disorders, trauma recovery, military & first responders, family & relationship topics; boundaries, family roles, healthy communication, and more. I refer out clients who have drug & alcohol addictions, and clients with suicidal thoughts, as their primary diagnosis or are a large part of their current lifestyle. Additionally, I do not provide any third parties or any of your information to third parties, nor can I write any letters to individuals on your behalf for any reason, court, custody, DUI, etc. For that, you need to be working with the courts and with an in-person therapist and with the therapist's consent. I have worked with thousands of clients over the years, and every one of them has had their own story to tell. No two people are in the same situation. The most important factor in effective therapy is when the therapist and client collaborate and create a sense of meaning and hope. I will help you learn how to successfully manage symptoms, overcome challenges, and develop the skills needed to return to the productive life that you want. I am here to help you through this difficult time. Start your journey now.

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Charley Smith

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and addiction. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and patient-centered therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Charley

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Danielle Washington

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

As a natural helper, I have committed myself and my knowledge towards helping others manage mental health symptoms & improve overall functioning in a safe & healthy way. My ideal client is one who is committed to achieving goals and is willing to work towards prioritizing him or herself toward positive change. Everyone is different, & as a therapist I do not believe there is a quick fix prescription for symptoms & diagnosis. I use a strength based approach to empower and encourage each client towards the achievement of their goals. As a LCPC (licensed clinical professional counselor) with over 10 years of experience in the field of counseling, I have found that it is most important to facilitate the best environment for change. If you are reading this, I commend you for taking a major step toward changing your life for the better. I strive to partner with my client to discover inconsistencies and plan for solutions through evidence and faith based interventions. With my formula to decrease your unwanted symptoms and increase your coping skills, I will help you to become the best version of yourself. My faith in God is what has been a cornerstone in my life and I have overcome many obstacles that seemed impossible and unbearable. I believe God has equipped me with several gifts and allowed to me combine the expertise of mental health counseling with biblical truths, and prayer to help improve of the lives of His children. I use proven mental health modalities along with Christian counseling (when requested) to provide a treatment plan with realistic and timely goals. *Graduated 2012 - Masters of Arts in Community Counseling - Argosy University Chicago *Licensed Clinical Professional Counseling - State of IL - #180013083

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Susan Flynn

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

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional counseling work experience, numerous years in the corporate world with many years of life experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Jessica Kuilan

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,MHTCM
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in working with a diverse group of individuals, crisis settings, mandatory programs, healthcare, etc. My primary goal is to use my expertise to improve the optimum functioning and self-management potential of the individuals I work with. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client’s individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, etc. to assist clients with anger management, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and chronic illness, etc. Everyone - no matter what age, class, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. will come across certain barriers in life that need re-evaluation. You have already taken the first step toward taking care of your well-being and now is a great time to start!

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Elif "April" Ilkmen

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesAnger management
6 years of experience

Nisan Ilkmen, Ph. D., LMFT is the Clinical Training Director of Northern Illinois University department of Marriage and Family Therapy. Dr. Ilkmen’s teaching and clinical interests are related to attachment in romantic relationships and issues of social justice in the field of psychotherapy. Dr. Ilkmen grew up in Turkey, has lived in Canada, and now resides in the U.S. Her immigration experience, and multi-cultural background allowed her to become a culturally sensitive clinician and professor. Her clinical approach is the attachment-based model, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a model that permeates her clinical practice as well as her teaching and supervision methods. Her approach to therapy is informed by psychodynamic models, helping each individual to understand their unique struggles in the past and present in order to facilitate internal change. Dr. Ilkmen practices in Turkish, French and English.

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Abani Dhewajoo

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I have been working as a professional social worker for the past 13 years and I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of experience as a therapist. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. My therapy style is warm and interactive and I use strength based perspective. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectic-behavior, humanistic and psychodynamic therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Carla Stewart

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with depression. 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.
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