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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Antonio Ellzey, Sr.

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,NCC,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
22 years of experience

Therapeutic Orientation I am Antonio C. Ellzey, Sr., MS, LCPC, NCC received both undergraduate (B. A. / Liberal Arts) and graduate (M. S. / Counseling) degrees at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL, Ph. D. / Counseling Education & Supervision (Student), Adler University, Chicago, IL (2018-Present). I am retired military (Army Reserves) after 20 years. I am married, and I have 4 children, two of whom are adult age. Antonio is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), as well as a National Certified Counselor (NCC). In the Fall of 2018 Antonio entered the Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision at Adler University, Chicago, IL. For many years Antonio has helped clients to discover or recover the zeal of life, and tools needed to manage intense emotions. As a psychotherapist Antonio contends to always be duty bound and obligated to provide genuineness, empathy, and positive regard for any client. Driven with compassion for helping others, Antonio’s counseling experiences have been filled with great edification to help empower others to deal with difficult matters, and to ultimately produce the best viable outcome regardless of the circumstance (s) causing the discomfort. Antonio is noted to be very passionate to help to discover client’s level of functioning in effort to better understand how to help them meet their needs. Antonio has become proficient to help individuals, couples, and families find relief in understanding self and others. It is through some therapeutic assignments and mental health therapy services that many have secured the esteem needed and understanding how to navigate through the natural maturation of forging health relationships with anyone. Antonio along with his wife, has served as chairpersons for the married couples ministry at church for 2 years. Antonio is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (ΑΦΑ) Professional Associations / American Counseling Association (ACA). My approach to therapy shall be the following: A) Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, the short-term therapy technique that can help Clients to find new ways to conduct themselves by shifting their thought patterns. Engaging in CBT can help Clients to diminish stress, manage difficult relationships, and work through other common life challenges. This approach may come with the deep breathing relaxation technique to practice 3x’s per day for 2 weeks, the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) or (Tapping) to practice for 2 weeks, or the anxiety diversion technique to practice for a couple of weeks to help manage intense emotions. B) Psychodynamic therapy may provide Clients insight to their unconscious processes as they are manifested in their present behavior, particularly the dissonance that they might have experienced. This approach would assist to help Clients with self-awareness and understanding of the impact of the past on present behavior. This approach will be met with encouraging Clients to process their feelings with supportive people at least 1x per week to help manage intense emotions and to perhaps unlock potential pint up feelings. Additionally, with this approach, Clients could benefit from asserting themselves more toward others about their needs and to help meet resolve in their collective relationships with others. C) Cognitive therapy approach may help to serve Clients needs by developing alternative ways of thinking and behaving which aims to reduce psychological stress. These collective approaches will serve as an integrative approach to help meet Client’s needs.

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Stefanie Weintraub

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am a child and family counselor licensed in Illinois with over 15 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults.  I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including autism, ADHD, depression, anxiety, struggles with peer relationships, and parenting challenges.  I have worked with children, adolescents and adults to help enhance their personal lives and to strengthen their relationships with peers, siblings, and children.  I take a holistic approach and always strive to create an emotionally supportive environment for each client.  I help each client try to explore his or her thoughts, feelings, and emotions by meeting them where they're at.  I make sure to approach every client with compassion and empathy.  If you are ready to take the next steps to making the changes you've been trying to make, I would love to support and empower you through this process. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Sofia Dickey

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

My name is Sofia Dickey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. Additionally, I am a Certified Addictions Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in residential and outpatient treatment centers for youth with behavioral concerns and adults with various mental health issues. I have also helped a wide variety of individuals from different backgrounds to better manage issues with depression, anxiety, addictions, and trauma. My counseling style is that of acceptance and compassion while using the approaches of cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies as well as motivational interviewing. I am here to listen to you without judgment, and I am here to help. One of the benefits of online therapy involves the added daily support that may not be available through regular outpatient counseling. Therefore, I encourage you to message me at anytime as I check my messages at least once a day every day of the week. I also offer messaging, live chat, phone sessions and video sessions. Although I encourage video sessions, I am available through the means that make you feel the most comfortable. I look forward to working with you and helping you reach your goals.

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David Schwartz

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I provide individual therapy to adults and adolescents, as well as couples and family therapy. My practice is a general outpatient practice, best suited for those who desire improvement in their love life, family life, work life, or in their physical health and wellness. My approach emphasizes the importance of practicing new behaviors outside of the therapy. One practice that has been shown to be helpful, and which in many ways provides a groundwork for psychotherapy, is the practice of mindfulness. Ultimately, my mission as a therapist is to help you live a better, more fulfilling life.

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Eden Bonsonto

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW ,LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! My name is Eden Bonsonto. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and I have been practicing for over 20 years. I have an extensive history working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families in multiple practice settings including hospitals, schools, behavioral health, and private practice. I have focused on crisis intervention, peer support with Police/Fire/EMS, trauma and grief, life changes and adjustment, parenting issues, and mental health. I am also very experienced working with children and families throughout the special education continuum, and have assisted in advocating for IEP and 504 services. I believe you are the expert on your own life and I want to provide you with a safe and respectful environment where you can address the issues that have brought you to BetterHelp. I am aware that not one therapeutic methodology fits all clients equally. It is my goal to build a strong relationship with you, where I can use an eclectic approach that combines a strengths based and solution focused perspective with Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy modalities, to assist you in becoming your healthiest happiest self. It is important to me that you feel connected and that you are receiving the assistance you need. I check my messages daily and I am available via video sessions, live chat, phone sessions, and messaging. I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you.

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Karen Banea

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a wide range of issues including stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I also have experience working with people coping with life changes and associated concerns. I have worked in a variety of settings including employee assistance, outpatient mental health clinics, and schools, and have worked with clients ranging in age from young children to adults. I believe strongly in approaching every client from a place of non-judgment and compassion, and my style in therapy is warm and attentive. I primarily operate from a person-centered perspective, but often combine cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and attachment-centered approaches as well, depending on your particular needs. I also believe in keeping a sense of humor in session- don't be afraid to laugh or joke with me! I respect the courage that it takes to seek therapy and open up about difficult subjects, and I feel honored to be part of that journey with my clients. I look forward to working with you!

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Danielle Larson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Pneurissa Stamps

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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. 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.

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Abijah Castillo

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. 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.

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Kelly Crumrine

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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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