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.

 

This is Philip Zarowny's avatar and link to their profile

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?

This is Carla  Gehle 's avatar and link to their profile

Carla Gehle

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor . "I practice from the approach that I want to see my client's improve their lives, no matter the presenting issue. I have years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families from many different backgrounds and feel that it is important to remember that each client, couple, and family have different goals of counseling and require an individualize therapeutic plan to fit their needs." I earned my Bachelors Degree from North Central College, and my Masters in Clinical Counseling from National Louis University. I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC.) I am a certified ACE personal trainer, also a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, and have completed ACE Nutritional Specialist program. I use my training to treat the whole person, both physical health and mental health. I feel that it is important for a person to focus on their wellness during their counseling journey. I have been in private practice for over 8 years and has previous experience working at hospitals, where I provided psychological assessments and determines the appropriate level of care for patients seeking services. In the past I have worked in non-profit outpatient settings, along with a Therapeutic School which was a training site for psychology professionals. I use my years of experience in different sectors of the counseling field everyday in my practice. I specialize in working with individuals that are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitional and adjustment disorders. I practices with a client centered approach to therapy, using cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and dialect behavioral therapy. I specialize working with couples that have experience trauma, affairs, communication issues, and conflict resolution issues. I have extensive training in relationship counseling theories (Gottman) and have many years of experience working with couples.

This is Erin Taylor's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Taylor

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a professional counselor independently licensed in Illinois after moving back and practicing in Arizona for nearly a decade. I have over 15 years of experience in a wide range of services and populations both in Arizona and Illinois. I have both experience in crisis intervention and outpatient therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, abandonment, abuse, bullying, parenting problems, grief, addiction and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked with schools, DCFS, foster parents, Emergency Rooms, Police/Fire, Psychiatric Hospitals, Psychiatrists, Probation. My internship was completed at a shelter that provided counseling for women in need of therapy for domestic violence situations and sexual assault trauma. I completed an additional internship that focused on substance abuse and addictions. I served working with juveniles on probation/parole initially in Arizona and then entered the crisis world. I then changed to outpatient work with individuals and families for over 5 years before moving back to Illinois. I have been working in a combination of crisis work and outpatient therapy for almost 5 years now. My style is warm, empathetic, supportive and a little humor at times. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I have worked with all populations, including children, adults, LGBTQ+, people of various backgrounds, spiritual beliefs and appreciate diversity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, crisis intervention, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, humanistic, client centered and rational-emotive counseling. I will ensure the treatment plan is unique to you and your specific needs, so this is a team effort. I want you to feel heard, valued, and our interactions to feel genuine and promote your growth and wellness. I know this is difficult and I applaud you for reaching out to take care of yourself, it is so important to take care of mental health and learn tools and ways to carry with you the rest of your life.

This is Lisa Neuweg's avatar and link to their profile

Lisa Neuweg

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. My speciality skills include a certification in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), extensive training and experience working with self-harm issues in adolescents, skilled in mindfulness and self-compassion practices, trained in providing grief counseling to individuals who have experienced pregnancy loss, and trained in using yoga, mindfulness, and basic nutrition to treat trauma. I strive to use an integrative approach in my work with clients, with an emphasis on CBT and mindfulness, based on evidence-based practices and appropriate treatment for each client. I have an excellent ability to build therapeutic relationship and facilitate growth with my clients. I am well respected by my peers in the field and passionate about continuing to provide effective treatment. I believe that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Lauren Oestmann's avatar and link to their profile

Lauren Oestmann

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Welcome! First I would like to commend you on reaching out for help, as I know this can be the most challenging part. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and struggles. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 13 years of experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with families, children and teens, in residential substance abuse, private practice, adoption preservation and corrections. My style can be described as client centered, strength based and solution focused. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused therapy, mindfulness and solution - focused therapy. If you have any questions feel free to reach out by message through Better Help. I look forward to working with you soon.

This is Dr. Paula Alvarez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Paula Alvarez

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: EdD,LCSW,MBA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.

This is Daniel Jennings's avatar and link to their profile

Daniel Jennings

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW ,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, depression, stress & relationship issues. 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.

This is Ana Herrera's avatar and link to their profile

Ana Herrera

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

Hello, I'm so glad that you have taken on this journey of growth and healing. I am excited to be the person who will walk this path with you. My name is Ana and I have been in the helping profession for over 15 years, working with teens and adults. I use an eclectic approach to build our therapeutic relationship and best meet your needs through active listening and empathy. I draw from a variety of methods to create a tailored approach for each individual and situation, which includes training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution Focused Treatment, and Mindfulness. I also incorporate nature walks into practice as part of talk therapy. I also have extensive experience with trauma, anxiety, depression, mindfulness, and first generation college and career work as well as life transitions. I am glad you are here and hope to be able to join you on your journey.

This is Erin Lee's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Lee

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I have been a therapist in Illinois for 20 years working with clients struggling primarily with anxiety, depression, family conflict, parenting, ADHD, and grief/loss. I have a Master's in Social Work degree from University of Illinois at Chicago as well as an additional certification in mindfulness. My therapy approach involves creating a compassionate, calm space where clients can delve into the barriers that make life difficult to manage. Using a solution-focused based therapy infused with dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness training, clients are able to reflect on changes they want to see and make small steps in a positive direction. We all have good intentions but sometimes our busy and overwhelming lives keep us from forming better habits. I encourage clients to access mindfulness and positive self care strategies that are easy to implement for noticeable and effective change so life can be lived to the fullest! I primarily use the LiveChat option for therapy as this has been proven to be a convenient and comfortable platform for many of my clients. If this interests you, please let me know and we will find a time to meet!

This is April Lacey's avatar and link to their profile

April Lacey

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

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.

This is Renee St. Clair's avatar and link to their profile

Renee St. Clair

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and Wisconsin with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, self-compassion, and self-confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I use many types of interventions such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Mindfulness Practices. I am a therapist who believes in working on providing solutions from Day 1 and together we will find solutions for your situation.

This is Sydney Mitchell's avatar and link to their profile

Sydney Mitchell

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have developed a deep love for holistic mental health and helping people connect with themselves to improve their connection with their lives and the people around them. I believes in creating an extremely safe and supportive environment to facilitate a healing environment for clients to thrive. I value the use of compassion, mindfulness, and connection between mind and body that allows for relationships between myself and my clients to form in a gentle and nurturing way.

This is Marisa Riis's avatar and link to their profile

Marisa Riis

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have a great deal of experience with clients who are new parents and those with postpartum depression. 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.

This is Vasiliki Stratikopoulou's avatar and link to their profile

Vasiliki Stratikopoulou

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Whitney Gipson's avatar and link to their profile

Whitney Gipson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

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:

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.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist