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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Aaron Swerdlove

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

Greetings citizens of the universe my name is Aaron Swerdlove and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Chicago Illinois. In 2003 I completed my Masters degree at The University of Illinois-Chicago, Jane Addams College of Social Work. Over the years I’ve learned a few things, for instance sometimes the best advice is the advice not given. Another thing I’ve learned is to not be so judgmental of others. Indeed I have begun a counseling/therapy practice and I do offer support, guidance, and understanding. My approach is integrative because there is not a one size fits all when it comes to problems and difficulties in life. The client’s prerogative is super important . Adversity, difficulties, rough patches, problems, failures, etc are bound to happen in life and sometimes people need assistance to get through and understand what it is they are experiencing. I think therapy and counseling can be very useful in this endeavor. Making a little bit more space internally can result in more freedom and peace within. Changing the narrative of our storylines or understanding our experience in a different way can be liberating. Therapy/counseling can definitely help accomplish this. Go for it you are worth it. I’d love the opportunity to help.

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Dr. Dominique Horton

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dominique and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings where I have served youth and families, young adults and for the past 10 years school-aged children. While I served young people in this role, services to their adult caregivers were key to client success. I earned my Master’s in social work from Southern Illinois Carbondale and I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis’ Brown School of Social Work. I have also had the wonderful opportunity to serve as a White House intern under the Obama Administration, developing a deeper understanding around the complexities of social issues within the United States. I would describe my therapy style as non-judgmental, empathetic, friendly, supportive, and warm. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, and I work collaboratively with the client to achieve their desired goals through a variety of tailored evidence-based treatment modalities. I believe: -Cultural humility, as well as compassionate and confidential care, are essential to effective counseling -Clients voices should be heard, and their needs validated -Clients possess the power and the ability to make necessary change in order that they may live abundant, peaceful, and purpose-filled lives. I am so very happy that you have taken the step to find support in reaching your goals for overall wellness and I am grateful for the opportunity to support you in your journey.

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Sue (Suzanne) Trezevant

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Family conflicts
3 years of experience

Welcome to Betterhelp! It takes courage to open the door to change. I am committed to providing you support as you consider steps toward that change. My therapeutic style is strengths-based and client-centered. I am here to support and empower you. For over 25 years, my career has focused on individuals and their families. I have extensive experience with conflict resolution, domestic violence, trauma, abuse, neglect, grief and loss, sexual abuse and communication issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois and a graduate of Jane Addams School of Social Work (University of Illinois at Chicago).

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Larcetta Linear

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,LCPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with over 25 years of experience in the counseling field. I have worked with individuals with varying mental health challenges such as stress, anxiety, and depression as well relationship, self-esteem and work/career challenges. I have also worked with individuals dealing with a combination of physical and mental health challenges such as chronic pain with depression. My approached is person-centered and solution focused; I meet you where you are and tailor my approach to suit your needs. We will set goals that focus on you, your needs, and growth. You will find me to be an authentic, empathetic and empowering therapist invested in your health and well-being. I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Jenna Lebersfeld

Offering therapy in Illinois
LGBTSleeping disordersParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
8 years of experience

Hi there. I know how challenging it can be to handle the stresses and difficulties life throws at you. I want you to know I am here to support you and walk this path alongside you. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Illinois with 8 years of experience working as a therapist. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, such as those with autism, ADHD, and behavioral challenges, as well as LGBTQAI+ individuals. I have also worked with clients with a wide range of other concerns including anxiety, family relationship difficulties, and parenting challenges. My therapy style is very warm, understanding, and collaborative. I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and I am an expert in psychology, so when we work together, we can figure out what will work best for you to help you live a life that is happy and fulfilling. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance commitment therapy with elements of mindfulness and meditation within the family and community contexts. 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! -Dr. Jenna

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Dr. Kathryn (Kitty) Klee

Offering therapy in Illinois
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Herbert Stricklin

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jean Hannigan

Offering therapy in Illinois
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Background: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I graduated from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. Additionally, I have obtained certificates in Grief Counseling and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and/or grief related to their relationships or in their daily lives. I have an eclectic background working in the school system, social services, Early Intervention with the State of Illinois, and private practice. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement afterward. Using a non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy we will work together to find your strengths and utilize those strengths to meet your desired goals. Who I Treat: I work with adults, couples, and teens utilizing both client-centered and holistic approaches. My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, gender identity, and LGBTQ issues. I have a particular passion for working with those struggling with or recovering from Narcissistic Abuse. My Treatment Approaches: Client-Centered Therapy / Insight Oriented Therapy / Mindfulness/ CBT / Grief / Problem Solving

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Erin Clark Benedict

Offering therapy in Illinois
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & dealing with life changes. 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. I hope that we can collaborate to help you use your strengths and develop strategies to manage the issues you bring to the table. 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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Kristin Agnew

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 11,181,370 people live in IL, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Illinois support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Illinois?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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