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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Lisa Herman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

"Hope is the feeling you have that the feeling you have isn't permanent." This quote by Jean Kerr is the reason I do what I do. Hope is a powerful feeling that is unfortunately all too easy to lose sight of. Let's work together to restore hopefulness and make the life changes that best serve you. I strive to help clients learn to cope with difficulty and live productively. I believe that to lead a fulfilling life, people need to feel supported and know that stress and conflict can be managed. It is empowering to explore thoughts and understand the impact they have on our feelings and behaviors. The benefit of this process is learning how to shift our thinking so that even if the situation cannot change, our response to it can! I provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Chicago area. working as an individual, couples and family therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, life transitions, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. Life presents challenges that can cause us to become stuck in certain moments because of fear or just not knowing what direction to go. I offer empathetic and supportive services to help clients manage through those times. By working collaboratively to identify and acknowledge the current issues, a trusting and safe environment is created. That environment provides the opportunity for self reflection, challenging and changing of negative thought patterns, bringing about positive change and moving forward.

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Troy Johnson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
LGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoaching
8 years of experience

Welcome! Are you ready for a truly transformative therapy experience? I’m Troy—a therapist who “gets it.” In a world often shaped by heteronormative expectations and conservative viewpoints, I offer a refreshingly affirming and queer-centric approach to therapy. Rooted in inclusivity and guided by a socially conscious, non-religious framework, I specialize in helping clients find authenticity and empowerment. Whether you're navigating personal challenges, exploring your identity, or working through systemic barriers, my practice is a space where you can feel safe, valued, and understood. What I Offer: I work with individuals seeking clarity, growth, and empowerment. My areas of focus include: Exploring and affirming queer identities Addressing anxiety, depression, and life transitions Supporting polyamorous relationships and alternative lifestyles Gender Dysphoria Assessments and Letters of Support for gender-affirming surgery (available through my private practice) My Approach on BetterHelp: I use BetterHelp as a way to meet new clients and introduce myself in a safe, no-commitment environment. It’s an opportunity for us to see if we’re a good match for longer-term work together. My focus here is short-term, goal-oriented care, typically lasting anywhere from 2 to 6 sessions. I don’t provide long-term care on BetterHelp because my availability on this platform is limited; I only accept new BetterHelp clients once or twice a year. If we both agree that continued work together would be beneficial, I’ll help transition you to my private practice, where we can develop a personalized, in-depth approach tailored to your needs. Transition to Private Practice: For long-term therapy, I offer comprehensive services in my private practice, including: Flexible cash rates comparable to subscription costs Insurance options, including United/Optum, BCBS, and Aetna A limited number of discounted session rates for those who qualify Access to my full therapy schedule for greater flexibility To learn more about my private practice, visit www.queertalktherapy.com. About Me: Beyond my professional expertise, I bring warmth, understanding, and a deep commitment to creating a space where you can feel truly seen and heard. My clients describe me as approachable, insightful, and someone who genuinely "gets it." Whether you're working through a challenging time or simply looking to better understand yourself, I’m here to guide you with empathy and evidence-based strategies. Let’s work together to make meaningful, lasting change. I look forward to connecting with you!

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Mary Rodriguez

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

Hello There! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, I have worked in crisis intervention for the past 7years which includes working hospital settings. I have worked with clients with a wide range of crises including, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, OCD, PTSD, post-partum depression, and life challenges. My counseling style is open, and interactive, I believe that not everyone falls under one certain labels and I treat everyone with respect, and compassion. Of course I will tailor our treatment plan and discussions to meet your uniquely specific needs, but approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic, and solution focused therapy. Its a very empowering and rewarding moment that you want to take in order to live a more health life, and I am ready to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Marisol Cruz

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
5 years of experience

My name is Marisol Cruz, and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have 24 years of experience working as a school counselor with children from kindergarten through 12th grade. I have worked with students with various diagnoses. My main objective in working with students is to help them by supporting and guiding them so they can carry on a daily routine in school and any environment. A partnership is developed, whereby children and adolescents are actively involved in helping to create personal growth and development in their lives. I work with families (not family counseling) helping them to create an environment that will establish routines at home so that the changes can be implemented and the children and adolescents feel a sense of support and accountability. I offer wraparound services to help families with the resources they need to live productive lives. Also, I provide services for adults with mild/ moderate depression, anxiety, relational support, life coaching, and more. Sessions will focus on the clients and their immediate needs. At the start of the sessions, we will discuss anything on their mind then concentrate on the main goal of the therapy session and work together towards meeting expectations. The therapeutic process will be empathetic, and compassionate, and the client should feel safe to express themselves in a non-judgmental environment. Specialty: Behavior Anxiety Depression ADHD Clinical approaches: CBT Client Center Therapy Motivational Interviewing Years of experience: 4

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Rita Seggelke

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW, LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoaching
3 years of experience

My name is Rita Seggelke and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Illinois. I have been a Social Worker for over 30 years. I graduated from the U. of I. in 1988 with a specialty in Child Welfare and additional certification in School Social Work. I received my LCSW in 1991. My experience includes many years working with families experiencing various problems including, divorce; child abuse or neglect; blended family issues; custody/marital issues; general relationship issues; career issues and major life transitions. I am a certified Life Coach, a former Hospice Social Worker and have been a Red Cross volunteer. I have deployed to several National disasters including, Hurricane Sandy and Hurricane Harvey. I enjoy working with women who are divorced, widowed or never married and looking to enrich their lives with new possibilities. Finally, I am a Christian and available to discuss your presenting issues from a faith-based perspective, if that is your preference. I am a therapist, who is compassionate and a good listener. I look forward to meeting you and developing a relationship that will be rewarding and help you reach YOUR stated goals.

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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!

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LaToya Bragg-Finch

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Marilyn Verbiscer

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,LMFT,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
24 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) since 1999. I have successfully worked with a variety of individual, couple and family issues such as healing from the trauma of infidelity, ineffective communication, conflict management issues, premarital counseling, relationship dissatisfaction, sexual issues, divorce, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, sleep issues, poor self-esteem, sexual issues, etc. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Master of Science degree in Child Development and Family Studies from Purdue University. I am a Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, a Certified Gottman Seven Principles Leader and a Board Certified TeleMental Health Professional (BC-TMH). I have published and presented on the topics of infidelity, tele-mental health, clinical supervision, tele-supervision and clinical documentation. I have also taught psychology courses at Purdue University and Illinois Institute of Technology. I generally check my messages each day, Monday through Friday, during standard business hours and respond as quickly as I can. My goal is to respond within 24 hours during the weekdays. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or other professional responsibilities. I prefer to do therapy via weekly live video sessions as therapy progresses much more quickly with this modality which means you will feel relief much faster. Live video sessions are usually 30 to 45 minutes long. Currently, all of my evening appointments are full. Most of my availability is between 11:00AM Central and 3:00PM Central, Monday through Thursday. Regarding scheduling, I do not use my BetterHelp calendar as I prefer to make appointments directly with you. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Brenda Rogers

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
10 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, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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Deborah (Debbie) Connery

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
33 years of experience

Hello and welcome! I have been helping Illinois adults feel better for over 30 years. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I support clients seeking professional help with diverse life situations. It can be hard to reach out and so it is my goal to help clients feel comfortable about their decision to have me join them on their unique paths. I firmly believe that empathy, compassion, openness, and respect are critical to helping an individual move forward when any of the following have caused disruptions, confusion, or brought life to a screeching halt: Depression Anxiety Life Transitions Stress Trauma and Abuse Grief and Loss There is always a way through, but therapy is most effective when the client and I work together to identify strengths and search out hidden areas of hope for life enrichment. I don't believe in a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. I find cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing to be useful domains to create a therapy experience that is tailored to the needs of each individual. I look forward to joining you. We'll face it together.

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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