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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Dorian Ortega

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
7 years of experience

My name is Dorian A. Ortega, LCPC I am a licensed mental health therapist in private practice. My therapeutic approach centers BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ and is inspired by liberation, feminist and multicultural psychology. As a person of color, I believe in focusing on first loving yourself by having therapy as a tool for guiding that process. I am also co-founder of healing poetry circles to introduce accessibility for mental health services. For the passed 2 years, I have organized a series of free poetry healing circles and other events that seek to use art as a culturally relevant, accessible, inclusive tool of expression, education, resistance and community healing in Humboldt Park.  My approach is client-centered and also based in building community wellness. I believe in a practice style of loving yourself first and I encourage building up strengths and help to find holistic ways to heal through mental health challenges. I believe when we create love for ourselves and honor our communication and relationships with ourselves and others, we can build a healthier future for ourselves and our loved ones. I am not only a practitioner but a community advocate for mental health and utilizes poetry, writing, and social media presence to intentionally build intersectional and restorative connections to uplift and liberate marginalized communities.

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Ashley Dehn

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! My name is Ashley. I am a Master's level, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have been providing counseling services for about 6 years. I have experience in working with children as young as 8, adolescents, teens and adults. I counsel those who struggle with personality disorders, mood disorders, such as anxiety or depressive disorders, self harm behaviors, PTSD, OCD, trauma, grief and various addictions. I also commonly work with those who fear abandonment, feel lost in life, do not feel as though they truly know who they are or what their values are, and currently use ineffective coping mechanisms. My treatment often incorporates Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well, teaching the strong relationship between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I incorporate mindfulness and radical acceptance into much of my therapeutic process. In addition, I am an artist, and love to be able to incorporate art into the therapy I provide when possible. My goal is provide therapy at the highest ethical standards, allowing my clients to feel safe and comfortable in a non-judgemental environment. It is among my highest values in life to be kind, empathetic and honest. I love being able to help my clients and I am excited to be able to share my knowledge of life skills to a broader area through the era of telehealth services.

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Brook Linenfelser

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Dr. Margarita Lopez

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictions
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and South Dakota with 8+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Courtney Howell

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. 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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Steven Spears

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

I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with three years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, foster and adoption struggles, and parenting issues. My training and experience also include working with adolescents and teenagers of varying ages. 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.

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Brenda Sullivan-Rice

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 35 years of professional experience working with individuals of all ages. I have helped clients dealing with trauma and abuse, anxiety, depression and general mental health issues. My desire is to see you overcome your problems and thrive in life by providing you with healthy coping skills. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques and I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. 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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Monica Alvarez

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychotherapist in Illinois. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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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Artrice Brewer

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Illinois with over 15 years of professional experience, I am passionate about helping individuals, teens, and families navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in supporting clients dealing with stress, anxiety, PTSD, depression, family conflicts, trauma, and grief. I believe you are the expert of your own story and have the strength to overcome obstacles, grow, and heal. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I am here to support you on your journey. Let’s work together toward positive change.

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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