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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Dr. Tina Lott

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: EdD, LCPC, CADC
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
11 years of experience

Dr. Tina Lott Dr. Lott is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois, Colorado, Maine, and Arizona. She is also a Certified Addictions Counselor (CADC) and Advanced Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Dr. Lott also holds the BC-TMH (Board-certified Tele mental health) credential. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in addiction from Chicago State University. She went on to earn a Master’s degree at Governors State University in 2011 and earned her Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Governors State University in 2018. Dr. Lott belongs to several professional organizations. They include the Illinois Counseling Association (ICA), National Certified Counselors (NCC), and the American Counseling Association (ACA). She is a Board Director on NBCC's CCE Board. Dr. Lott is passionate about working with the mental health community. She is a Core Professor in the School of Counseling at a top-notch university where she teaches counseling to master's and doctoral-level students. Dr. Lott specializes in working with those with co-occurring disorders in the community. She is an advocate for social justice and has a personal and professional goal of addressing issues related to stigma. The stigma associated with mental illness and addiction harms the recovery of the members that she works with. Dr. Lott is helping to increase awareness about stigma through her post-dissertation research endeavors. Dr. Lott’s family consists of 2 Kids, ages 15 and 10, and her wife, Tina. When she is not working, Dr. Lott enjoys working out, painting, traveling, reading, and most of all, spending time with family.

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Chiralaine Natschke

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and have over 15 years of experience in the behavioral healthcare field. Over the years, I have served as a Mental Health Therapist, Child Welfare Supervisor, School Counselor, and Crisis Screener/Therapist. I am experienced with the adults, adolescents, children and families who struggle with adjustment issues, depression, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, and chronic mental illness. Finally, I have been trained in a number of therapeutic evidenced-based practices that I use when working with clients; including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Experiential Therapy, and Stress Management/Mindfulness. I believe in providing goal-directed treatment. This means that a goal or several goals are established after a thorough assessment. All treatment is then planned with the goal in mind and progress is made toward the goal in a time-efficient manner. I use a collaborative approach and supportive stance when working with clients and clients tell me that I am easy for them to talk to. I assume you wish to begin therapy because you desire certain changes in your life. I will do my best to help you achieve your goals, but I cannot guarantee any particular results. You are likely to gain the most benefit from counseling if you are committed to the process and actively engage. You and I will agree upon a frequency that will work best for your needs. I look forward to working with you.

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Kimber Brokaw

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

First let me say how happy I am that you are seeking counseling support. That takes a lot of courage and shows that you want more for yourself and your life! I've been in the social work field for 25 years working non-profit, in the schools and for the last 13 years in private clinical practice. I also serve as a Health and Wellness Coach for clients all over the United States as my own battle with an auto-immune condition led me to find a more natural path. My overall mission is to bring freedom through health – body, soul and spirit – because when we feel better, we do better! My overall areas of expertise are in helping people get “un-stuck” through a better understanding of how they are wired and how they’ve been wounded. I help clients discover the life they most desire to live and teach them how to get into alignment with that desire. I use cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, narrative therapy, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches but I love to use experiential exercises to help people get out of their head and into their heart to find the answers they need for moving forward into their fullest life. I look forward to working with you, Kimber

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Janice Nass

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

For those of us experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness/disability, grief and loss, relationship issues, and work/life balance difficulties, trying to adapt to the changes these issues inevitably bring is a common thread that binds us all together. Change is a natural part of life, but it has ways of bringing up feelings of fear, uncertainty, doubt, and sometimes even apathy and pessimism. Since we cannot control change – we can only control how we respond to it – we often feel “stuck”. Together, we can work to address these feelings and adjust our mindsets so we can become stronger from the inside out. Realizing that we have the power to “course correct” our circumstances can be empowering. Our aim in the therapeutic process is to address change by: *learning to “reframe” the situation and see it differently. We can become more aware of what our minds are saying to us and change the narrative to something that is more aligned with our needs. Sometimes we don’t see the possibilities that change can bring because we are locked in a mindset that this is how things are supposed to be. *re-examining our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. When we know ourselves, our truths, our current beliefs, we can weather change more effectively. Sometimes difficulty comes when we are living out of alignment to our core values. *acknowledging that it can be uncomfortable but that difficult moments to not define us. Although social media may have us believe otherwise, life is not meant to be lived perfectly. We can learn from our mistakes, alter our actions, and see where we can do better. Avoiding discomfort can lead us to miss out on amazing experiences. Together, through the therapeutic process, we can discover what might be on the other side. *identify supports and health self-care practices. We can explore those relationships and practices that are reflections of our worth and learn to let go of those that don’t. The therapeutic process can also address how our communication styles can either enhance or diminish our support systems. These are my beliefs. I blend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), person centered therapy (PCT) and solution focused therapy tailored to each person’s needs. In the past 4 decades as a social worker (yes, it has been that long!), I have worked with individuals in long term care and hospice, both as a social worker and as an administrator, and as a mental health practitioner in group practice settings. If I have learned anything over those years it is this: It is never too late to try something new, to start again, and to create a life we truly desire. We are all connected. Our journeys may look different and feel different, but we are all here on this earth for a reason and for a purpose. Let us discover yours – together.

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Dr. Bernice Young

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
26 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in Illinois. I have worked in the field of counseling for 26 years. My experience is diverse in working with individuals, parents, individuals on parole and probation, and adults seeking strategies for change. I have held a dual career for nearly 20 years as a 911 operator and understand the challenges faced by first responders as well. I am a PhD candidate with research specific to African American men and strategies for success. My work as a psychotherapist include helping people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, parenting challenges, motivation and career challenges, race-based trauma, and beyond. I often work with high profile clients and understand the importance of your privacy in seeking therapy. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I truly enjoy helping people while treating everyone with respect and meeting them where they are. Together, we will establish goals that meet your needs. My counseling approach is based on the personality and need of the client, which include cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, existential therapy, reality therapy, client-centered, and solution-focused. I look forward to working with you.

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Eden Bonsonto

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW ,LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! My name is Eden Bonsonto. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and I have been practicing for over 20 years. I have an extensive history working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families in multiple practice settings including hospitals, schools, behavioral health, and private practice. I have focused on crisis intervention, peer support with Police/Fire/EMS, trauma and grief, life changes and adjustment, parenting issues, and mental health. I am also very experienced working with children and families throughout the special education continuum, and have assisted in advocating for IEP and 504 services. I believe you are the expert on your own life and I want to provide you with a safe and respectful environment where you can address the issues that have brought you to BetterHelp. I am aware that not one therapeutic methodology fits all clients equally. It is my goal to build a strong relationship with you, where I can use an eclectic approach that combines a strengths based and solution focused perspective with Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy modalities, to assist you in becoming your healthiest happiest self. It is important to me that you feel connected and that you are receiving the assistance you need. I check my messages daily and I am available via video sessions, live chat, phone sessions, and messaging. I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you.

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Valentina Gasparro

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA IN CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Hello my name is Valentina Gasparro and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor whom holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology. I have over 20 years experience in working with adults, children and adolescents providing individual therapy, , group and family therapy. I'm very eclectic in my approach and personable and try to help empower clients through mindfulness training, solution focused approaches, trauma focused care, meditative approaches such as EFT to best help clients reach their goals. I believe every client has the potential to promote their “best selves” and therefore making healthy decisions in their lives, which will offer more enrichment in their lives. I’m dedicated to helping clients improve their well being and it’s so exciting and fulfilling in seeing clients positively transforming their lives through therapy — I'm looking forward to helping you on your path to healing and self discovery!

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Richard Heller

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: DMin, MA, LCPC, BCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

It takes courage to take this first step in seeking help with an issue in your life that is troubling you and into looking into counseling. I admire you for this and welcome the opportunity to meet you and help you with the life concern you are facing. My approach is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I will focus on your needs and we will learn together how best to help you. I will treat you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 1998 and am licensed in the state of Illinois. My vocation includes 38 years of pastoral ministry, being a Board Certified Chaplain since 1995, and continue to work as an on-call chaplain for over 21 years. Through my wide range of experiences, I have helped people with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and loss. I look forward in supporting and empowering you through your journey in life.

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Mark Beiser

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I have been working at helping people since 1988. I received a Masters in counseling in 1995 and got the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certificate in Illinois in 2002. I'd like to begin by saying I feel very fortunate to be able to walk with people on their path to healing. I will try to engender trust with you by being genuine and respectful. I've had some success at helping people overcome trauma, depression, and anxiety. Mostly I start by helping people change their choices a little at a time. The hope is that these changes will lead to changes in thoughts; and eventually changes in feelings. Along the way, we often work through resolving issues of motivation and confidence. To accomplish all of this we will likely use a number of proven tools such as mindfulness practice and thought regulation. My goal is to help you make changes as we go along working with you to guide the process and help you develop and accomplish your goals.

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Wendy Gilchrist

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC, MBA, MAAT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

I come to BetterHelp with personal maturity, shared humanitarian values, and clinical practice in varied settings. My professional career began as a not-for-profit entrepreneur following an MBA. I have developed organizations assisting homeless boys and abused women as well as creating business opportunities for disadvantaged populations to become economically self-sufficient. Since beginning my education as a License Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC MAAT and YTT), I have worked as a therapist with individuals of all ages, with families and in group settings, and have in-depth exposure to clinical contexts involving trauma and loss. I have worked as a therapist in hospitals in the psychiatric unit and lately in a recognized trauma informed program.

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Elizabeth Brice

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I enjoy working with people with a variety of motivations for starting therapy. While I specialize in working with postpartum moms and intended parents experiencing infertility, I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. I work with individuals and couples. My job isn’t to tell someone what to do or how to think. Sometimes, my job is to hold heavy emotions, thoughts, memories with you. Sometimes, it’s to sort out the big box of thoughts you’re carrying around and decide what to keep and what to move away from. I am passionate about normalizing the challenges of new parenthood, the deep pain of infertility, and the discomfort that can be a part of the journey we’re all on to live closer to our most well selves. We may share silence, questions, or laughter together. I encourage my clients to bring their whole selves into our work, and humor is usually a big part of that! My approach to therapy is to employ evidenced-based interventions. I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Wellness Recovery Action Plans and Exposure Response Prevention. I integrate the tenets of many clinical treatment modalities to meet each patient’s unique needs. You’re the expert in your own story, I’ll pull out my toolbox and we work together to fine tune what will meet your specific needs! I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Trinity Christian College and completed my Master’s degree in Social Work from Jane Addams College of Social Work at University of Illinois-Chicago. Before becoming a full-time therapist, I worked at nonprofits across the city with experience in domestic violence, refugee resettlement, and housing. I am always pursuing training to become a more skilled clinician, I am currently in process of completing my Perinatal Mental Health Certification.

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Tade Akere

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Christina Reed

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping 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, parenting issues, & 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. People come to counseling for many different reasons. For you, it may be an unresolved past issue, a current relationship problem, a clearly defined challenge or an undiscovered struggle. Regardless of your reasons, you should be proud of yourself for taking that step to begin therapy. Counseling should be a confidential, safe place for people to receive support, examine challenges and obstacles, explore relationships, reduce stress, facilitate healing, and discover a path to a meaningful and satisfying life. I look forward to helping you on that journey!

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Lisa Leong

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello! I am a trained clinical social worker with 16 years of experience. My experience is in major hospital systems in New York City, Houston, and New Jersey and the past three years specifically servicing BetterHelp subscribers. Most of my experience involves bringing tranquility, organization, and resolution to very complex and emotional situations. I utilize cultural sensitivity and my experience to navigate diverse backgrounds and work through the challenges being faced. In my work, I have been involved during times of stress and anxiety, challenging relationships, life changes, and many more. My goal is to listen to what is causing stress and offer the support needed to overcome it or manage it better. I hope to offer some tools to utilize in navigating these challenging situations for a more optimal outcome. I have traveled to various cities such as Bangkok, Paris, Madrid, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Cancun, Caribbean, London, Amsterdam, San Diego, Chicago, Oklahoma City, Memphis, Orlando, San Francisco, Montreal, Calgary, Banff, Edmonton, and more. During my travels, I mainly focus on learning about the culture and understanding the history of the area and its people. My passion is to help and coach people to be their best selves!

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Amanda Halawa-Mahdi

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, & executive coaching. I have extensive experience working with teens and their families in the juvenile justice system with an emphasis on behavior change techniques ranging from general defiance to serious criminal activity including sexual offenses. I am also trained as a Professional Coach through the Co-Active Training Institute, where I empower leaders to develop confidence, align their values, develop increased self-awareness and enhance their decision making skills. I also have extensive knowledge in diversity, equity and inclusion and actively work to dismantle personal and systemic biases and promote fairness in my practice. 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.

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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