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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Joan French

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I've met with many clients who have shared they don't feel really heard or understood by others. As a result-they feel lonely, isolated, and hopeless. I believe that to feel a sense of personal wellness we must also feel heard & connected! Finding and connecting with a counselor is a valuable and courageous choice to move forward! It is important for me to create a space where my clients feel trusting and comfortable. This space is a 'judgement-free zone'. I want to create an atmosphere in relationship to my clients in which they can share those things which might feel 'unspeakable'. It has been my experience that those are the things that need saying. I have a well-seasoned 17+ years of experience working as a therapeutic counselor. I am thankful to be able to do this work! I consider myself to be a resourceful, creative, & patient therapist with a robust combination of life experience, clinical expertise, and therapeutic skill. My trauma-informed approach may be considered integrative, as I will often utilize techniques from: CBT, DBT, IFS, Positive Communication Skill Building, Anger Management, and Art Therapy. I must also add here that I try to incorporate humor, when appropriate. Let's call this 'chuckle healing'. Currently I am accepting individual adult clients 18+. I see a wide variety of clients seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, adjustment concerns, and more. Additionally, I welcome those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, or who are exploring/questioning. I received my Master of Arts Degree in Community Counseling from Governors State University, and I received an Art Therapy Certificate from Northwestern University. I'd consider it an honor to be a part of your journey.

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Jenifer Pittman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and Illinois. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of settings. Life comes with many challenges and we often find ourselves overwhelmed by what has come our way. Together we can identify concerns and find ways to move through life challenges. Through exploring and learning ways to manage emotions, I feel there are opportunities for growth. I believe it is important to identify individual strengths and will guide you towards positive self worth. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term counseling, I will work with you to achieve a greater self-fulfillment. I believe in blending therapeutic approaches and tailoring them to fit each individual's needs. It is important to me that clients feel heard and understood. I create a safe, collaborative environment where clients can explore issues and concerns without fear of judgement. I frequently utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused and mindfulness techniques. My experience includes working with individuals and families through significant life transitions, relationship issues, coping with loss, general emotional distress, anxiety, and addiction. I want to help clients reach their goals by focusing on strengths, identifying thoughts and behaviors that are interfering with their happiness and developing coping skills to improve their quality of life.

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Gina Dickison

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MBA, MS, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

It takes courage to ask for help and I am here to support you on your journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 20 years and certified in Addictions and Employee Assistance Program. I have worked in a variety of workplace settings, dealing with communication, conflict, work life balance and career coaching. I have experience in treating a variety of issues ranging from anxiety, depression, family and marital concerns to addictions and stress management. Throughout my career, I have cultivated skills in addressing trauma, EMDR( Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), grieving, adoption and parenting issues. My style is warm and compassionate. My method is directive and solution focused, drawing on techniques from CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). Together we will partner to set goals and develop an action plan to reach your desired outcome. Dare to achieve your dreams and aspirations in life!! It is an honor and a privilege to work with you! I frequently check messages and will work around your schedule.

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Rene Stockton

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,MSW
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. It is my honor and pleasure to serve our community as a counselor/therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American States. I have encountered a range of adolescent and adult challenges ranging from mental health and trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the concrete change you are looking to achieve in your life. My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art and movement. Let's have a conversation about how to make lasting change in your journey. I will work with anyone with the courage it takes to ask for help.

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David Vaccaro

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

Experienced therapist with over 10 years of experience working with a wide range of client issues. I specialize in several mental health therapies for depression, anxiety and panic, self esteem, trauma and obsessive compulsive disorder. I have also worked with clients from adolescent age, to adult and geriatric. Therapy specializations include client centered therapy, trauma focused therapies (TFCBT), mindfulness based therapies, cognitive behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, crisis counseling, and brain injury therapies. In addition to mental health treatment, I also specialize in substance use treatments such as mindfulness based sobriety and harm reduction counseling. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from Southern Illinois University and went on to receive my graduate degree in mental health social work. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and cat (Molly), running, and traveling to new places. It takes courage to seek out counseling and I am looking forward to hearing from you.

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Gretchen Shay

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LICSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsEating disordersDepression
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Illinois and Alabama with over 13 years of experience working as a social worker/therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addiction, co-dependency, interventions and family dynamic issues. I also have experience working with individuals going through various medical diagnosis as well their caregivers from diagnosis to end of life and grief and loss therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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LaDonna Miller

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
8 years of experience

Oftentimes reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 8 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals! I have experience working with adults with depression, ADHD, anxiety disorders, panic disorders, multicultural issues, and complex trauma. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. My passion for mental health stems from personal experiences with myself and those around me. I grew up with family members living with mental illness and I have personally overcome some mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, the process for getting help can be overwhelming, and it can feel so frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I look forward to speaking with you to see if we are a good fit to partner in your journey!

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Deborah "Debbie" Aimone

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and North Carolina with 30 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 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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Kirsten Munson

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

I am licensed in Illinois with 31 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 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!

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Nikki Suits

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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LaTonya Hill

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

I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, 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. 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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Eleni Kaitson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
4 years of experience

Eleni received her bachelor’s degree in social work at Carthage College and completed her master's degree in social work at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Eleni specializes in working with young adults, but works with all populations. She specialized in school social work and has her certificate in CBITS (Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Trauma in Schools). She is also passionate about working with individuals who have struggled with low self-esteem, life obstacles, body image difficulties, anxiety and trauma. Eleni utilizes a strength-based approach that empowers her clients to embrace who they are. She focuses on integrating treatment models such as commitment and acceptance therapy and Cognitive Behavioral therapy.

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Sherry Coleman

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Dr. John Jones

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist in Illinois with over 20 years of experience. My clinical focus is working with clients who report a wide range of concerns related to addictions and recovery, depression and anxiety; trauma and grief; relationship conflicts and concerns; anger management; adult ADHD challenges; and job and career challenges. Both my therapy and coaching styles are person-centered, values-based, and solution-focused. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and unconditional positive regard. My multimodal approach to therapy combines focused acceptance and commitment (FACT), cognitive-behavioral, humanistic-existential, harm reduction, and self-help facilitation therapies. I provide psychoeducation sessions so clients thoroughly understand the issues they are facing. I tailor all therapy sessions and treatment plans to meet clients' unique and specific needs. With solution-focused therapy, it takes openness, awareness, and committed action to increase psychological flexibility and to achieve a more fulfilling life. I look forward to working with you to support and facilitate such change efforts. Respectfully, John Jones, Ph.D. Licensure & Certifications: • Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Illinois (#072002712) • Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (NBCC) • Certified Professional Counselor (NBCC) • Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider (Evergreen) • Diplomate in Organizational and Consulting Psychology (ABPP) Received PSYPACT Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology in 40 States (APIT #16582; https://psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap).

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Christine Nazario

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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.

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