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.

Aili Wachtel
Hello and welcome - I appreciate your visit to my page! I see counseling as a collaboration between client and counselor - clients want to feel their best and function at full potential, and my role is to provide quality, customized care to help them do that. I am a big believer that even small changes can significantly impact internal well-being and external influence. I partner with clients to identify and build on strengths so they can face challenges, create solutions, and feel better. Licensed in Illinois and Connecticut for 20 years, I have worked as counselor, consultant, coach, and advisor in both higher education and private practice. Much of my work has been with clients transitioning from one life phase or role to another. Change can be hard, and people who ask for help as they face it are brave. With an approach specific to each individual, consisting of a personalized set of strategies drawn largely from humanistic, cognitive, acceptance and commitment, and solution focused therapies, I support and encourage clients as they work to adjust to new roles, situations, expectations, and realities and help them cope with the resulting symptoms and feelings. It is a privilege to help clients work through a difficult time as they progress through life’s inevitable changes, and I would be honored to work with you!

Dr. Tina Lott
Dr. Tina Lott Dr. Lott is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois, Colorado, Maine, Washington and Arizona. She is also a Certified Addictions Counselor (CADC) and Advanced Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Dr. Lott also holds the BC-TMH (Board-certified Tele mental health) credential. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in addiction from Chicago State University. She went on to earn a Master’s degree at Governors State University in 2011 and earned her Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Governors State University in 2018. Dr. Lott belongs to several professional organizations. They include the Illinois Counseling Association (ICA), National Certified Counselors (NCC), and the American Counseling Association (ACA). She is a Board Director on NBCC's CCE Board. Dr. Lott is passionate about working with the mental health community. She is a Core Professor in the School of Counseling at a top-notch university where she teaches counseling to master's and doctoral-level students. Dr. Lott specializes in working with those with co-occurring disorders in the community. She is an advocate for social justice and has a personal and professional goal of addressing issues related to stigma. The stigma associated with mental illness and addiction harms the recovery of the members that she works with. Dr. Lott is helping to increase awareness about stigma through her post-dissertation research endeavors. Dr. Lott’s family consists of 2 Kids, ages 16 and 10, and her wife, Tina. When she is not working, Dr. Lott enjoys working out, painting, traveling, reading, and most of all, spending time with family.

Thérèse Fletcher
Welcome! My name is Thérèse Fletcher, I have dedicated my life to the service of helping others. About Me: The majority of my career has been focused on working with extremely vulnerable communities in urban settings. I enjoy helping all types of people with problems big and small. Relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, emotional stress, and chronic illnesses, are among the many areas that I have helped my clients effectively deal with and overcome. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and it's my responsibility to meet a client where they are and to help them set appropriate, beneficial goals for themselves. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am a licensed independent clinician with more than 11 years in medical and social services fields. I also have supervised and trained other social workers. I believe a successfully therapeutic relationship is one based on respect. I believe in a strength based approach which uplifts confidence and empowers you as an individual. My approach includes working together to develop specific methods and perspectives that will not only help you resolve your current issue, but give you the tools to make your life from today onward more fulfilling and satisfying. I know that the decision to seek professional help can often be a very difficult one. If you are trying to make that decision right now, it may help you to know that I am someone who is not here to judge you, and who really believes that there is a way out for you that together we can find. You have already taken the most important step by acknowledging that, for now, this is something you cannot handle alone. So if you feel overwhelmed or unfulfilled, your online search has brought you to the right place. I can help you with emotional issues such as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, anger, and stress. I also help you with other areas of your life that become affected by these issues such as relationships, communication, work or your education. I can provide accountability as you work through the growth process. I can provide short-term solution oriented treatment as well as long-term emotional processing. Your treatment goals and how much you will benefit from services are completely up to you but I will be here to guide you every step of the way. I'm grateful to BetterHelp for giving a therapeutic resource to people that may otherwise not have access to counseling services, and I applaud individuals that are currently looking to make changes they need in their lives. It takes a lot of strength and courage to critically think about what you need. You’ve already taken the first, and most difficult step, so contact me if you are ready to start the course towards a better You. I look forward to helping empower you to live your best life!

Dr. Meredith Hayes
I'm a licensed therapist in the state of Illinois. I have been in the field for 15 years working together with people to better their lives. I've been honored to work with many different people going through many different things. My clients have presented with issues such as: Depression; Anxiety/OCD; Addiction; Trauma and Abuse; Eating Disorders; Self-Injury: Bi-Polar; Couples Issues; Life transitions and many more more. I would describe myself as an interactive therapist, one who is engaged in the therapeutic process. I will play an active role in the therapy process. I would be described as a Cognitive Behavioral therapist. That means that we will review your past and present and consider how they have shaped your current patterns. Psychology Today said " Evidence has mounted that CBT can benefit numerous conditions, such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and many others. Research also indicates that CBT can be delivered effectively online, in addition to face-to-face therapy sessions." I look forward to getting to know you and work with you!

Nicole Bebiak
Welcome! My name is Nicole and I am a licensed counselor in Illinois (LCPC) and Indiana (LMHC). I want to congratulate you for having the courage to take this first step. It can be difficult to realize we need assistance and asking for it means you are ready to move forward, so good for you! I am honored that you are willing to include me in your journey. My purpose is to help others find ways to manage their issues or problems and lead safe, successful lives. I have always loved helping others and have been blessed with the opportunity to provide that help in different ways and different environments. I graduated with my Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 1999. I have been practicing as a counselor since 1999 and have worked at a domestic violence center, crisis lines, community mental health agencies, and a private behavioral health hospital. I have experience assisting others manage issues such as depression, anxiety/panic attacks, unhealthy relationships, self-esteem, social skills, emotional/physical/sexual abuse and trauma, suicidal ideation, self-harm, coping skills, family conflict, grief, communication, problem-solving and those every day issues that can build up over time. My core therapeutic approach is and will always be client-centered, but I considered myself eclectic when it comes to working with a client. So, what does that mean? I believe that you must meet a person where they are and see the whole person not just their mental health or behavioral issues. I act as a guide, support, sounding board, and sometimes a devil’s advocate. I provide a safe space where problems and issues can be discussed and worked through without judgement or fear of repercussions. While many of us would love to have someone tell us exactly what to do to make our problems go away, I feel that takes away a person’s power and pride in their own emotional growth and success. I won’t give you the answers, but I will stand with you every step of the way during the highs and lows to find your own answers. Having 20+ years of experience working with different populations has allowed me to gather a lot of tools for my therapeutic toolbox. I have learned that there really isn’t a text book case, at least I have not met one yet, so I use different techniques from many therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Mindfulness, Dialectic-Behavioral (DBT), Solution- Focused, Play Therapy - it’s not just for kids, Sand Tray, Psychoeducation, Crisis Intervention, and of course empathy to name a few. I am always interested in learning different ways to help people because what works for one person will not always work for another because we are all unique. I believe our differences make us special and need to be understood to help ourselves and our relationships. I look forward to working with you!

Lisa Bicket
Sometimes life doesn't go the way that we would like it to. Sometimes we don't feel our best. Sometimes we realize that our past is affecting us more than our present. Sometimes we don't know what is going on, but we are sick and tired of being sick and tired. We all have different experiences and that is what makes us unique and what makes counseling so exciting to me. I recognize you are the expert of your life, it is not my job to tell you how to live or what to do, but it is my desire that all clients end treatment with a few tools in their toolbox to better manage whatever circumstances may come their way. I am a down to Earth person and use a lot of analogies and education with clients when discussing ideas that may be new to them, so they can find the language to understand something or a skill to change the things that are not working for them any longer. Then you can take these ideas with you to use in the future. I am a social worker with over 20 years of experience working with clients from infants (support to parents) to geriatrics. I love helping clients find out more about themselves through conversation and discussions that focus on moving forward while understanding how they got where they are today. I often use a solution focused approach along with rational-emotive behavioral therapy. But switch it up based on the individual and their goals and needs. Together with the client goals will be set and reassessed consistently to make sure that what is being addressed is meeting their needs and assisting them towards ongoing wellness. One of the most important part of therapy for me is for you to know you are not in this alone.

Deveta Gelispie
I am licensed in Illinois with six years of therapeutic experience working with diverse populations with an emphasis on Mental health, interpersonal conflict, trauma-informed, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused. Effective interventions can be tailored to support your journey; however, the most pivotal include connection, empathy, and listening to your truth. I am here to guide you as you explore.

Heather Breems
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your individual and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Jennifer Smith
I am licensed in Indiana with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 have a history of working with families, individuals, teens, adults, and couples. One of my strengths is helping parents as they navigate the path of parenthood. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Elivia Ahrens
I am a licensed therapist in the state of Illinois with five years of professional experience. I specialize in supporting clients through a variety of challenges, including stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, anger management, and depression. I believe each individual is the expert of their own story and possesses unique strengths that can be harnessed to overcome life’s challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life requires courage, and I commend you for considering that journey. I am here to support and empower you every step of the way.
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:
- 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 feature
- 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 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.
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