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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Philip Zarowny

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW ,CADC
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Welcome! I want you to know I am so glad you reached out for help, that is very courageous and wise. The willingness and desire to do something different is fundamental to growing. You are right to hope that things can change and will get better. This is work we can’t do alone and the results are not instantaneous, though with effort and a little faith I’m sure you will discover the answers you seek. There is not really a typical problem. I treat people, not a diagnosis! This is about you. Mine is a client-centered approach, emphasizing strengths-based and goal-focused therapies. My role is in providing a safe space for you to explore what you are experiencing. Everyone’s journey is different. We will explore strategies together finding out what works for you. This may require a little thinking outside the box, using your innate creativity to learn about yourself. As a father to an LGBTQ+ child I understand how difficult navigating identity can be in a slowly shifting culture. Your comfort and peace of mind when seeking counseling are important and I strive to create an understanding environment regardless of where you come from and who you are. Here is a little information about me. I graduated in 2009 with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. Since then, I have worked in a variety of positions treating a diverse range of issues, most recently as a substance abuse counselor. With all the co-occuring issues that predate and accompany addiction, I have learned that primarily my clients are people who just want to be happy. I have worked in both outpatient and residential treatment programs, utilizing an arsenal of evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, REBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness and other approaches. Before social work, I had a long career in television news. Working as a street photographer and editor helped me develop deep empathy for the complexities of peoples’ struggles in all walks of life. Helping to change the world through storytelling inspired me to help change the world one person’s story at a time. From my professional and personal experience, I can guarantee, that though it may be tough at times, you will benefit from the journey. Now is your opportunity to use the present moment to grow and meet a stranger, the real you. So what’s going on with you, why have you sought out help?

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Charlotte Newsom

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, my name is Charlotte D. Newsom. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have thirty years of progressive experience in the field of mental health. Twenty of those years, I functioned as a psychotherapist working with individuals, specifically veterans who have chronic mental illnesses such as PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, and many other disorders. I have an extensive background working with clients with symptomatic issues such as suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, and child abuse/neglect. Besides, interpersonal matters, couples relationship issues, parenting problems, child neglect/abuse, and emotional/physical abuse. My professional history includes having a Master's Degree in Clinical Professional Psychology, and as stated above, I am a Licensed Clinical Profession Counselor (LCPC). I have an honorary membership with Roosevelt University Psi Chi Honor Society. And most recently, and for many years that past was awarded an Outstanding Performance Appraisal from the Jesse Brown VA Hospital for my exceptional clinical skills, dedication to excellence, and having a professional and compassionate relationship with patients and staff. My counseling techniques consist of being a good listener and fully understanding your emotions and reasoning. I have a flair for counseling that requires flexibility and attentiveness to develop coping skills to strengthen your abilities to succeed. I approach therapy by combining short-term and long-term treatment planning to meet your specific need. Your treatment plan will include integrating evidence-based treatment using the best available data with clinical knowledge and expertise while considering your personal needs and preferences. For example, short-term therapy consists of cognitive-behavioral therapy, behavior therapy, reality therapy for problem-solving, motivational enhancement therapy for addiction-related issues, and psychoeducation to improve insight into multiple problems. At the same time, long-term treatment may combine client-centered treatment that focuses on empathy and positive regard, psychodynamic therapy, and free association techniques to engage the client to talk. It takes courage to attend therapy, and it takes dedication to see it through. Just remember each day brings about new opportunities for change. So, let's work together to explore your goals for therapy; thank you.

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Elizabeth Brice

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I enjoy working with people with a variety of motivations for starting therapy. While I specialize in working with postpartum moms and intended parents experiencing infertility, I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. I work with individuals and couples. My job isn’t to tell someone what to do or how to think. Sometimes, my job is to hold heavy emotions, thoughts, memories with you. Sometimes, it’s to sort out the big box of thoughts you’re carrying around and decide what to keep and what to move away from. I am passionate about normalizing the challenges of new parenthood, the deep pain of infertility, and the discomfort that can be a part of the journey we’re all on to live closer to our most well selves. We may share silence, questions, or laughter together. I encourage my clients to bring their whole selves into our work, and humor is usually a big part of that! My approach to therapy is to employ evidenced-based interventions. I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Wellness Recovery Action Plans and Exposure Response Prevention. I integrate the tenets of many clinical treatment modalities to meet each patient’s unique needs. You’re the expert in your own story, I’ll pull out my toolbox and we work together to fine tune what will meet your specific needs! I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Trinity Christian College and completed my Master’s degree in Social Work from Jane Addams College of Social Work at University of Illinois-Chicago. Before becoming a full-time therapist, I worked at nonprofits across the city with experience in domestic violence, refugee resettlement, and housing. I am always pursuing training to become a more skilled clinician, I am currently in process of completing my Perinatal Mental Health Certification.

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Marilyn Verbiscer

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,LMFT,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
24 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) since 1999. I have successfully worked with a variety of individual, couple and family issues such as healing from the trauma of infidelity, ineffective communication, conflict management issues, premarital counseling, relationship dissatisfaction, sexual issues, divorce, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, sleep issues, poor self-esteem, sexual issues, etc. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Master of Science degree in Child Development and Family Studies from Purdue University. I am a Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, a Certified Gottman Seven Principles Leader and a Board Certified TeleMental Health Professional (BC-TMH). I have published and presented on the topics of infidelity, tele-mental health, clinical supervision, tele-supervision and clinical documentation. I have also taught psychology courses at Purdue University and Illinois Institute of Technology. I generally check my messages each day, Monday through Friday, during standard business hours and respond as quickly as I can. My goal is to respond within 24 hours during the weekdays. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or other professional responsibilities. I prefer to do therapy via weekly live video sessions as therapy progresses much more quickly with this modality which means you will feel relief much faster. Live video sessions are usually 30 to 45 minutes long. Currently, all of my evening appointments are full. Most of my availability is between 11:00AM Central and 3:00PM Central, Monday through Thursday. Regarding scheduling, I do not use my BetterHelp calendar as I prefer to make appointments directly with you. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Christianna Sullivan

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 20 years of working with children and families both professionally and personally. I have over 10 years of volunteer experience working specifically with divorce recovery and family/ adjustment issues and years of professional work experience in various capacities. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I utilize several therapeutic approaches and I strive to provide an empathetic environment for all individuals. I provide cognitive behavioral therapy and my style is client driven and and solution focused. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Susan Wilson

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

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jennifer Vandivort

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Illinois. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, medical and private case management. While in those settings, I have worked with clients who were experiencing a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety and panic disorders, substance abuse, physical and emotional abuse, domestic violence, families navigating difficult dynamics within the home, parental concerns re: to children who are diagnosed with emotional or behavioral issues, to families coping with aging parents and medical decisions. My approach to therapy is to work specifically with you to determine a treatment plan that best fits your unique needs and situation. It is a huge step to start this process and my hope for you is to find a safe and caring environment that supports you on your wellness journey. I look forward to meeting you!

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Antonina Barr

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Karla Suarez

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 9 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with clients of all ages, from children to adults, and have a strong focus on supporting minority communities. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I strive to provide a safe, compassionate, culturally sensitive, and client-centered approach to therapy. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating life transitions, I am here to offer support and tools for growth and healing. Let's work together to create a path toward well-being.

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Shawna Malone

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

Hello! My name is Shawna. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over 20 years of professional work experience. Integrity, compassion and empathy are at the core of my practice. Your treatment goals are top priority, 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. My experience includes working with individuals with different abilities, crisis intervention, child welfare, pregnant and parenting homeless youth, and early childhood education. I have helped clients navigate stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. It would be an honor to go on this journey with you. Remember, everything is temporary. Shawna

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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