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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Aldo Hernandez

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issues
29 years of experience

Hello! I am Aldo P. Hernandez LCSW, a bilingual Spanish speaking therapist with 26 years of social work experience. I understand the range of emotions clients deal with when it comes to individual issues, parenting, and relationship issues. You will find me to be an active listener, a creative and critical thinker to address any issue in Interpersonal communication. I am interested in understanding your perspective, so you can feel heard and understood. I look forward to working with you to address the issues that you may be facing in your life. As a therapist I provide a sobering experience, as I have been told by my clients. My methods are Cognitive Behavioral and psychoanalytic. I provide therapy via: Phone, Video, Live chat. I can also provide you with practical and useful information that can be put into practice quickly to address any immediate concerns. You will find me friendly and engaging, and on this platform very often for your convenience. I will end by giving you reassurance that things will be fine in the end. "Therapists don't let friends drink and drama." (Due to high demand, I am sorry to report I no longer have evening availability: 5pm CT to 8pm CT)

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Luanne Maniacek

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsGriefDepression
40 years of experience

Hello! I applaud you for taking this step to move forward in your life seeking alternative solutions and support. My name is Luanne Maniacek and I have over 25 years of experience helping those motivated who struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions or those of family members, co-dependency, and care giving concerns. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and Certified Alcohol and Drug Addictions Counselor, I’ve worked successfully with a wide spectrum of age groups, cultural back grounds, sexual orientation, and beliefs. I also have experience supervising graduate level therapist interns and therapist counselors working in community mental health centers as well as leading crisis intervention teams. My approach to therapy is strength based. I’d like to help you identify and capitalize on your strengths and find ways create new resources and skills in order to overcome your struggles. I use Interpersonal and Humanistic Modalities of treatment. For those struggling with addictions, I encourage either a disease model or harm reduction, whichever is clinically appropriate. My style is empathic and supportive, yet I'll challenge you at times, to promote your growth and movement towards positive change and success. I’m highly skilled at Motivation Interviewing and "listening between the words." In working with you, my first priority is coming to a complete understanding of your perspective, struggles, history, style, expectations, goals, and needs in therapist. Moving forward, open communication about your progress is vital, essential, and ongoing. Let’s get started working together!

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Dr. Cindy Cook

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: DSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
23 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and starting where they are at. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a 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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David Schwartz

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I provide individual therapy to adults and adolescents, as well as couples and family therapy. My practice is a general outpatient practice, best suited for those who desire improvement in their love life, family life, work life, or in their physical health and wellness. My approach emphasizes the importance of practicing new behaviors outside of the therapy. One practice that has been shown to be helpful, and which in many ways provides a groundwork for psychotherapy, is the practice of mindfulness. Ultimately, my mission as a therapist is to help you live a better, more fulfilling life.

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Aimee Bequette-Chaney

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC),Licensed Associate Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LASOP),Master of Science (MS)
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
12 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in Illinois with more than ten years of professional experience working with clients of all ages (including families). I have provided years of crisis intervention in schools and emergency rooms. I have provided individual and group therapy in various settings including outpatient, residential, and corrections. My approach to therapy is secular, apolitical, and based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This is a very concrete, time-limited, client driven approach that allows individuals to develop a skill set that they are empowered to use to manage distressing thoughts and intense emotions across a wide range of mental health issues. I teach people to be their own therapist. I have extensive experience working with trauma (simple and complex), and I utilize trauma informed care approaches to help address the root causes of trauma-related symptoms so individuals can overcome the adversity related to traumatic experiences and continue to live rich and healthy lives. I am experienced with providing some court ordered programs such as Anger Management and Divorce Education. I have worked with many families over the years to provide support and assistance for parents struggling with managing behavioral issues in the home. I am certified to provide Parent Management Training (a structured parenting course) and basic behavior management. I want to work to end the stigma with utilizing mental health professionals. I want my clients to feel like checking in with me is just like seeing a family doctor for the occasional illness or injury. I am open to all clients, and provide a safe, non-judgmental space to process their feelings and learn to manage them. I believe the world would be a better place if we all took care of our mental health by seeing a therapist for general care, and I would love to start with you!

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Laura White

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I’m so glad you’ve made the decision to start personal therapy through BetterHelp! I truly believe therapy is for everyone. Therapy can be such a wonderful catalyst for improving your life and getting things on track the way you want them. My therapy style is empathetic and respectful, and I believe in creating a safe space that optimizes reflection, healing, growth, and fulfillment. I strongly believe that you are the "expert in you" meaning that you know yourself best, and I highly value your input and experiences in our work together. My approach is collaborative, and we will decide the agenda for each session together. I am a clinical counselor licensed in Illinois with 13 years experience working in mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide array of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with life changes, self-esteem issues, parenting problems, ADHD, and ASD. I hold a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science and I have been fortunate enough to work in a variety of settings, ranging from community mental health, to private practice. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based techniques to help you recognize your strengths and develop skills that will help you address your specific needs and live your best life.I'd love to be an ally for you on your journey to better health and fulfillment! I look forward to working with you!

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Karyn Lockerman-Elliott

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: BSW, MS, MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

It takes a great deal of courage to admit that you feel different, that you are experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety, or you just feel off and would like to talk to someone who is trained and licensed to help you. College, family, relationships, and life and career goals are difficult no matter what stage of life you are in and sometimes it helps to talk to a professional who can teach you skills to manage your emotions or can listen to you without judgment. I am a licensed therapist who has been practicing for more than 15 years. I work with individuals, families, and couples. I have 57 hours post masters in gender studies and think that everyone has the right to live a life that they love and to be successful in their goals while navigating life in this chaotic world we live in. I am licensed to practice in Florida, Illinois, and Iowa. I have 15 + years of experience in issues from depression, anxiety, gender identity, same-sex relationships, alternative relationships, trauma and abuse, and family issues. I have 57+ hours post-masters in Gender Studies and believe all peoples should live their lives fully and understand how to make their unique style and relationships work for them.

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Karen Roach

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over 20 years experience working with kids, adults, and families. My passion is helping you resolve stress and anxiety that impacts your day to day life. I especially love supporting women, moms and educators to better understand the behaviors and emotions of kids that causes disruption to the family or school environment. My therapeutic approach is understanding, non-judgmental and collaborative. I lean into my expertise of the stress response system and use a variety of modalities to help balance the stress response while also building a client's toolbox of strategies. Other professional work includes school social work and teaching graduate level students in a Master of Social Work program. As a full-time school social worker, my general availability for phone and video sessions will be early mornings and mid to late afternoons during the typical school year. Messaging is also convenient and accessible throughout each day! I'm excited to get to know you and support you on your journey!

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Marcelo Gonzalez

Offering therapy in Illinois
LGBTSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with many issues. From feelings of isolation to managing the day to day stress, there are times when you need help finding a new lens view life's experiences. Working from a holistic perspective, my goal is to always provide an encouraging, empathetic and affirming environment to explore new perspectives. I'm experienced in aiding those who are struggling with issues of identity (gender, race, nationality, etc.), low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues, career transitions, LGBTQ-related issues, and acculturation issues. Meeting people where they are at with a judgment-free and authentic approach, I help individuals, couples, and families create room to find new ways to achieve their goals and create insight into the challenges, barriers, and patterns. To help create growth. People represent so many individual identities, from gender, culture, ethnicity, geographic location, etc. I strive to engage and assist each individual in exploring how the culmination one's identities within our society may affect how one walks through the world and the lens they use.

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Brenda Post

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
25 years of experience

I have been a clinician for 25 years and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois as well as the State of Tennessee. I have both Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Illinois Social Work, Urbana, IL. I provide counseling and assessment for adults and have extensive experience working with elderly and Veteran individuals with diverse and complicated issues. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, relationships, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey by providing a secure, attentive, and supportive environment.

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Lindsay Hager

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

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, eating disorders, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Carrah Demos

Offering therapy in Illinois
Grief
7 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor in Illinois with 6 years of counseling experience, and 9 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in inpatient hospital settings, schools, and hospice. For the last 5 years, my specialty has been in grief counseling, but I also have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, self-love, and relationship issues. Starting counseling can be scary, so I work with clients to create a safe space where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. I am a person-centered therapist that also incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy into sessions. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Dr. Janice Hodge

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

As a licensed counselor in Illinois with 30 years of professional experience, I am also board certified as Pastoral Psychotherapist. My wide experience includes working with anxiety, depression, relationship , marriage, family and parenting concerns. We will join together to develop a trusting and safe relationship.. Living a more fulfilling life requires commitment. As beginning counseling is a courageous decision, it has been stated that ‘healing begins as soon as you call.’

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Robert Kraft

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over15 years of professional experience. I want to support you in bringing forth your best. I embrace the adage, “When you are ready for the next step, you will approach that step.” As a therapist, I see my role as helping you become the person you want to be. The change process requires (1) self-exploration (which may require you to talk about difficult and challenging issues, and (2) stepping out of your “comfort zone” (when you feel ready) to try new behaviors. As you talk about the situation you are in and the challenges you face, I may ask questions such as, "How have you previously approached similar challenges?" What worked? What didn't work? What can you do to improve your chance for success? If you seem to be taking a self-limiting perspective, I might suggest replacing the self-limiting/self-defeating messages you are giving yourself with messages that are more appreciative and optimistic about who you are and what you have to offer (like “I am worthy” or “I am good at ________.”) What If you don’t think you are worthy or what if you don’t think you are good at ________? Then, I will ask you to explain how you concluded that. Or else, I may merely sit with you in support of you, leaving it up to you to tap into your gifts and bring them forth. Whatever you come up with, I will listen to you and reflect back what I am hearing from you, possibly offer my perspective, and hope that you can put it together to give it your best.

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Leslie Salmon

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Illinois with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, grief, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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