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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Grant Barlow

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

Greetings, and thank you for considering me as your counselor! My name is Grant Barlow, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor living and working in the Chicago-land area. First, a bit about my experience. During my six years in the mental health field I’ve worked with a wide variety of clients, all with different backgrounds and unique concerns. Some of my more recent experience has been working with individuals who have few resources or external support. From this experience, I’ve learned how critical it is to draw out a person’s inner-strengths and abilities to help them reach their goals or manage their concerns. I believe that each individual is, in many ways, the chief expert on themselves. It’s my goal to align with them, so I can better coach and guide them to find solutions. Secondly, some information about my approach. With each client, I approach using a person-centered model. This means I work hard to foster a trusting relationship as we identify areas of specific focus. My approach tends to be solutions-oriented, while also drawing quite a bit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I’ve also received training in adopting different modes of spirituality into counseling, if this is something that is of interest to you. Whether you’re dealing with recent stressful life transitions, anxiety or depression, relational concerns, addiction, trauma, or any other challenges -- I’ve found that having a counselor present can be monumental in helping a person regain purpose, joy, and vitality in life. The first step can oftentimes be the most intimidating, so again I say thank you for your courage and willingness to take that first step. I look forward to working with you soon.

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Amy McGinnis Hogan

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
17 years of experience

I believe that growth and change are possible. I believe we have the ability to enrich our human experience. I am committed to helping you understand your personal story in a caring and safe therapeutic environment. Together we will examine your inner world in a non-judgmental space that we create together. I use a psychodynamic approach to increase insight, while drawing from solution-based approaches that provide tangible coping skills for managing day to day life. This process of self-examination and increased self-understanding will help identify and overcome the roadblocks standing in the way of reaching your full potential. If you are struggling right now, I encourage you to reach out. I would love the opportunity to collaborate with you on your journey of greater self-discovery, growth and healing.

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Dr. Diana Dobier

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: PsyD,LCP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepression
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Illinois with over 25 years of experience working with a wide range of individual issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career concerns and challenging work experiences, I have assisted individuals experiencing issues with substance abuse, and parenting concerns. I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider, with many years of experience providing treatment in the online environment. My goal in the treatment is to be warm and to create a safe space in which we can build a therapeutic relationship. I believe it is important to provide respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and mindfulness therapy. I use these tools to develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Booking an appointment is the first step to building a better life for yourself. I provide guidance and support as you take that next step towards change. I look forward to working with you!

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Marcelo Gonzalez

Offering therapy in Illinois
LGBTSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with many issues. From feelings of isolation to managing the day to day stress, there are times when you need help finding a new lens view life's experiences. Working from a holistic perspective, my goal is to always provide an encouraging, empathetic and affirming environment to explore new perspectives. I'm experienced in aiding those who are struggling with issues of identity (gender, race, nationality, etc.), low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues, career transitions, LGBTQ-related issues, and acculturation issues. Meeting people where they are at with a judgment-free and authentic approach, I help individuals, couples, and families create room to find new ways to achieve their goals and create insight into the challenges, barriers, and patterns. To help create growth. People represent so many individual identities, from gender, culture, ethnicity, geographic location, etc. I strive to engage and assist each individual in exploring how the culmination one's identities within our society may affect how one walks through the world and the lens they use.

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Duncan Hall

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Nicole Tolentino

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Beginning therapy can sometimes feel scary or intimidating- but it doesn’t have to be! I come from a strengths based, client-centered approach and will make it a priority to move through the treatment process as a team. I welcome young people and adults of all backgrounds and skill sets. We can work together to explore past, present, and future challenges, as well as build self-empowerment and positive regard through a combination of conversation and exercises. My specialty areas include mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, anxiety disorders, and depression. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness. As with most things, there is not a one size fits all approach to therapy. The road to growth, understanding, and progress looks different for everyone. I am here to assist you by providing support and to help you build the necessary skills in order to cope with any difficulties that may arise.

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Eric Crawford

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Michele McShea

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I have been working as a therapist for almost 20 years, and have been honored to work with individuals, couples and groups. I have always believed that we can heal. As we gain confidence in ourselves, we are able to participate in life more and more. The more satisfied we feel with the inner world we create, and our responses to the world around us, the more we find ourselves healing from within and without. As we walk the path toward true and lasting change, both insight and coping help us to move forward. I have helped people to heal from Anxiety and Depression, relationship difficulties, lack of motivation and self-love (sometimes called self-esteem), trauma, abuse and post-traumatic stress, LGBTQ+ related issues, and those pertaining to family of origin. We can heal from our issues, and we can also increase our functioning along the way. Coping can go hand-in-hand with true and lasting healing that leads to a greater sense of peace in our lives. I consider it an honor and privilege to be trusted to walk this path with you.

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Angela Bryant

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,LSCSW,ACSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Missouri and Kansas. I have been in practice for over 10 years. I have experience working as a psychotherapist and consultant. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns from anxiety, depression, life balance, relationship issues, parenting, career challenges and ADHD. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I work with those from young adulthood through geriatrics. I also work in education and have the understanding of what impacts educators, first responders and the like. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don’t believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, solution focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am her to support and empower you.

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Anthony Grady

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, anger management, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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