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.
Rebecca Paruszkiewicz
Hello! Thanks for checking out my profile! I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 5 years, working in a community mental health agency in Chicago. I'm originally from Wisconsin, but have an adventurous spirit that keeps taking me elsewhere!! I'm happy to have the chance to provide therapy to those that may not have the time or energy to go sit in someone's office for an hour a week! Working in community mental health, I've helped individuals address a variety of mental health and environmental problems, such as life stressors, anxiety, depression, attention issues, family conflicts, parenting support, etc. In addition, the context of this work was with low-income families who had limited resources and high stress in meeting their families' needs. As human beings, we are never dealing with one thing at a time, and I believe as a therapist, it's important to understand the nuances of how someone's symptoms, environment, and other stressors interact in order to provide the best therapy. I approach each of these issues with a very empathic ear, and learned what I could about the individual in order to provide the best care possible. I take a very strong psycho-educational approach, helping clients to understand the patterns that are ineffective for them, and helping them to develop and understand coping skills, what their function is, and how to utilize them effectively. I believe that the more empowered we are, the more control we can take over our own reactions to stressors and symptoms, and the bigger impact we can have on our own mental health. Thanks for listening, and if you like what you hear, let's talk! I'd love to meet you and support you in the best way that I can!!
Marie-Pierre Sernatinger
Hello! my name is Marie-Pierre. I’m a native of France. I am bilingual but I have lived my entire adult life in the US. I have also raised a family here and have adult children. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a Minor in Women’s Studies, and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois since 2003. Before starting Private Practice, I worked for many years in programs for Chronically Mentally Ill, Chemically Dependent or Dually Diagnosed individuals. These were adults and young adults, men and women both, who, typically, struggled with many other issues as well: chaotic lifestyle or upbringing, traumatic experiences, and often significant health and/or legal problems. No one needs to reach such extremes before seeking help. Pain and suffering come in different forms and degrees, but all are worthy of attention. In my private practice I have been seeing clients for issues such as relationships, family, parenting, work, and stages of life (from the newly graduated to the soon to retire...) Anxiety and depression are often present, as may be AOD use. Whether you feel overburdened, isolated, face difficult decisions, or lack support — There is no need to go it alone. I am Client-Centered in orientation: Establishing a climate in which you feel comfortable and safe, and where trust can develop, is essential to me. But depending on the issues we’re dealing with, I am likely to use a variety of approaches, whether cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, or perhaps insight-oriented, to help you some resolution. You are in charge: At a concert, if you were the conductor, holding the baton, and I the instrument, I would follow your lead attentively to help express the music — as many variations are possible. Likewise, in therapy, it is crucial that I attend to you with care and mindfulness. I may be mirror, validator, support, resource... But the course is yours to mark. Would you tell me no what's going on in your life? Should we get started? Let me accompany you a bit... I would be honored to work with you!
Megan Prior
Everyone needs help sometimes and it takes strength and courage to admit when we are struggling. Seeking support through counseling is a brave step and I am here to assist you in this step by providing resources, strategies and support to help you through whatever difficulty you may be facing. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 9 years of experience in the mental health field; I am dedicated to supporting you along this counseling journey and want you to know that you are not alone. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, some of which include but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment difficulties and parenting problems. I also have extensive experience in working with clients who have experienced and/or been exposed to trauma. My goal as a therapist is to walk along with you through the counseling process by offering hope, healing, support and interventions to utilize in coping with difficulties and challenges. My therapy approach is supportive, engaging and compassionate. I modify my theoretical orientations specifically to fit each of my clients and utilize an electric approach. I look forward to working with you towards meeting your therapeutic goals. There is no better time than the present to seek help.
Dr. Robin Chamberlain
You are courageous in reaching out for counseling. Counseling is a healing/growth/and development process you undertake for yourself. I'm grateful to journey with you. I believe every person holds worth, dignity, and value as someone created by God. There is no one like you! You are special! While you may not believe that, it is important that you know my approach toward you - that is how I view you. I have been a licensed clinical professional counselor for over 30 years and a Doctor of Formational Counseling - explicitly Christian counseling - for over 15 years. I serve individuals and families who are seeking counseling from a Christian perspective. I have over 30 years of experience in serving children, families, and individuals in various capacities and settings; both urban, rural, and internationally. I look forward to connecting with you on this part of your journey through life.
Jennifer, "Jenny" Marder
I obtained my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential in 2016. I have 24 years of experience in social work. My experience includes working with adults, children, teen parents, and teens who face challenges in their lives to reach their fullest potential. My belief is therapy is a safe space to explore and work toward positive outcomes, assisting clients to achieve their therapeutic goals and alleviate stress. I have worked with clients regarding domestic violence, co-dependence, anxiety issues, and parenting topics. In the past I have advocated on behalf of clients which allows the client and families obtain greater success toward their goals. As your therapist, you and I will build a relationship of trust and understanding to work through the issues that are important to you. My work in client home settings, as well as a behavioral hospital and in clinical assessment have included several modalities. I am proficient in Cognitive Behavioral theory, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma work, Stress Management, complicated grief interventions.
Jody Yeh-Shinbrood
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in North Dakota and licensed in both North Dakota and Illinois. I have over 18 years experience working with individuals and families facing many challenges including depression, stress and anxiety, adjustment to life changes, loss and grief, family conflict, anger management, parenting issues, problem solving and decision making. I also have extensive experience working with families of children with special needs as well as experience in medical settings working with individuals and families facing major medical crises and issues. I believe that you already have the strength and ability to overcome the obstacles standing in the way of experiencing the joy and quality of life you deserve. My goal is to provide you with a warm, supportive, and respectful environment where you can safely explore the tools which can help you reach your potential. I believe the therapy experience should be positive, attentive, and validating. I will help you express your thoughts, feelings, emotions and needs and use research based approaches to help you meet your life goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is one in which you will choose your own goals and uncover what you truly value. Together we work on solutions and developing your strengths through motivational interviewing, symptom targeted intervention (STI) and solution focused (brief) therapy which gives you, the client, the power to fix your own problems instead of relying on therapy in the future. I look forward to working with you!
Skip Dettman
Hello, I am a LCSW currently licensed in Illinois and Florida, I am also a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois and am a certified hypnotherapist. Additionally I have a degree in behavioral forensics. I have worked in the field for going on 15 years assisting individuals with many concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, as well as all types of addiction disorders. My therapy style is to meet the client where they are and work alongside them to address their concerns. I am not the expert of any clients, instead focusing on developing a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship to begin to address the concerns of the client. My therapy styles range form cognitive behavioral therapy to hypnotherapy, utilizing what works best for the client and what they are most comfortable with. ENtering therapy and asking for help is one of the most courageous things anyone can do, and I am here to assist you.
Tonia Green
Tonia T. Green, is a MSW, LCSW who has been practicing in the field of Social Services since 1995. Tonia has been a Licensed Clinician since 1999 and at that time added Behavioral Health services to her co-founded private practice ITAV Enterprises, LLC. Her 25 years of experience has graced her with knowledge gleaned from: community/leadership work like her time at St. Louis Crisis Nursery; skill grooming opportunities through teaching future professionals at Saint Louis University and GWB Washington University Schools of Social Work. Her time in community and chronic health at People's Health Center and Davita Dialysis, has enhanced her understanding and ability to deliver, to some of our most vulnerable populations, synchronized care for the mind and body, in pursuit of Total Wellness. Tonia's latest expansion project is one of specialized care. In 2019, she helped develop and launch - The Kidney Wellcare Group. This is just another example of her dedication to effecting positive change. She is excited to continue her journey as a Heart Speak Facilitator and Wellness Coach with Full Circle Strategies. Populations of interest include, but are not limited to Chronic health care issues, Kidney disease, Parenting education/challenges ( Triple P Certification) , Trans-racial Fostering and Adoption, Race-Based Trauma and Care Giver Support. Tonia uses eclectic therapeutic interventions with a primary client centered based approach. Clients feel safe, helped and better overall after working with her. Tonia believes that we all are working to be our best selves; and it's okay to have help. So, let get started.
April Lacey
Welcome! My name is April Lacey and I am a licensed counselor in Illinois. Taking the first step to seeking a happier and fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you through that process. My vision for therapy is to create a safe and encouraging space for clients to share their experiences while recognizing their strengths to cope with life's challenges. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings such psychiatric units, crisis lines, community mental health working with youth and families impacted by the juvenile justice system, and group practice. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, and parenting concerns. I use an integrative approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered, Trauma- Focused, Mindfulness, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help my clients. My approach focuses on fostering a strong collaborative relationship with clients to reach their goals. I value genuineness and believe in meeting clients where they are, treating everyone with respect and compassion.
Tiffany Edwards
I am licensed in Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Rachel Hoyt
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.
Bethany Besand
I am licensed in California, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan and Missouri with 13 years of professional work experience as a licensed therapist though I have been in the social service field for over 25 years. 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.
Donica Reints
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over fifteen years of professional work experience. I was raised in a very small farming community about two hours outside of Chicago. I attended undergraduate school at Judson University and my Masters of Social Work at Aurora University. I have experience in many areas including grief, crisis, mediation, parental conflicts, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Having clients share their stories with me is a responsibility that I do not take lightly. I focus on listening and understanding what they are going through, helping them to carry the challenges they face in life so that they are less alone. I believe that meaningful conversations can truly be the catalyst for major change, and a trusting relationship with an objective therapist can make a huge impact. I push my clients to grow and strive to be the best version of themselves through a combination of empathy, authenticity, relatability, and directness. My empathy, transparency and humorous nature allows clients to quickly establish a therapeutic connection with me. My objective is to help my clients achieve their goals, whether independent or relational, in the most efficient way possible while feeling supported throughout the whole process. I strongly believe in validating my client’s experiences and emotions in therapy while also challenging them in order to promote growth. My therapeutic style is based on the individual that I’m working with. I prioritize rapport building and using the therapeutic relationship as a starting point for change. I tend to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to focus on how our thinking affects our lives, as well as a strengths-based and solutions-focused approach which offers concrete action items to use here and now. I understand that a person’s desire to improve their life is all that is needed to get started. I work to validate client’s feelings while also pushing them to reach the potential that they have set forth for themselves. If a client is inclined to dig deeper, I typically take a Psychodynamic approach which allows the client to reflect on patterns that may have a deeply rooted history. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Katie Wooldridge
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.
Cheryl Nelson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri with over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients for a broad range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I have also helped many clients with chronic illnesses including HIV/AIDS. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines client centered, solution focused and strengths based counseling to meet your needs. It takes courage to seek professional help and even more courage to implement change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
Popular cities in Illinois
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- Naperville, IL
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- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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