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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Kristine Vazquez

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

"Is it normal to be sad this long? Everybody worries about something, right? Why is it so hard for me to leave this unhappy relationship? How do I stop being so angry all the time? Why can’t I stop my addiction? … What’s wrong with me? " These are questions that at one point or another I’ve heard my clients ask and I work towards assuring them that: 1) there is nothing wrong with you; and 2) I do not know what you SHOULD do, BUT I will definitely help you figure out what will work best for YOU. My role as your therapist is to support, teach, and encourage you as you go through your learning process without judgment. I use Brief CBT (12 sessions model), DBT and Motivational interviewing interventions, through LIVE PHONE sessions, to work with individuals struggling with a wide range of concerns including: depression, poor self-esteem, anxiety difficulties, relationship challenges, parenting difficulties, addictions, and trauma. I have experience providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and youth. I use the techniques and skills that I learned through my master's program in clinical counseling, with a focus on trauma, and years of experience to facilitate your evolution of self. This is done through setting goals and increasing your emotional intelligence. Through live sessions we are able to have the most effective level of communication and therefore yielding timely positive progress. Text/ messaging communication is used to augment live video/phone sessions. My goal is to help you start feeling better as soon as possible. Now, research shows that the relationship between the therapist and the client is the most important indicator of a positive outcome. I am direct but compassionate and relaxed yet professional. Using a collaborative approach and evidenced-based interventions/ techniques we will work together to increase your insight on patterns of negative thinking and behaviors that impact your daily life. By providing you with practical strategies and techniques, that you can apply to life’s daily challenges, you will begin to feel more empowered to make the needed long term changes. These are some tips that will help you be successful in psychotherapy: • Remember that therapy is not a ‘Magic Pill’ (meeting once a week for a video session and then pushing it out of your mind, leads to very slow progress) • Be patience with yourself (feeling better will take practice) • You are your own expert (the more I learn about you, the more I can be of assistance) • Know that therapist help you learn how to solve your problems, rather than solving them for you Making the decision to seek therapy is the first step to saying that you deserve a happier, more fulfilling life. I can assure you that if you commit yourself to the treatment experience and are receptive to implementing evidence-based interventions, you will have the outcome from therapy that you desire. I am here to support you in your personal evolution to a better version of yourself.

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Caryn Kelley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help. I hope together we can work to improve your life! My name is Caryn Kelley. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience in different settings. I have a Masters of Social Work from Arizona State University and have been certified as a LCSW since 1988. In my practice I have seen clients struggling with self-esteem issues, family conflict, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addiction and multiple medical issues. My approach utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Client Centered, Empathetic Listening, Motivational Interviewing and Supportive allow my client's the space to explore life issues, gain much needed clarity and foster confidence to make changes. Our time together will be a safe place to vent, allow yourself to experience true emotions and gain insight and ability to trust your own thoughts, decisions and plans. My counseling style will include time to get to know you, hear about your strengths and struggles, things that make you happy and areas that upset you. Then with a warm, caring style, we will further explore your challenges and concerns, perhaps offering a new viewpoint or path for you to follow to make changes. Sometimes having a kind, supportive person in your corner will be enough, other times some motivational conversation will be the flash point for change. I believe you have the inner strength in you, and with a positive, therapeutic relationship, can feel better. I am looking forward to working with you to support you in taking the first steps toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

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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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Kevin Shepherd

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I have always been a big fan of Dolly Parton's quote "If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving a new one." However, paving a new path for ourselves can be overwhelming and I feel that no one should have to do that alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in the field of social services. I became a therapist to help people navigate life transitions and cope with anxiety disorders. I have worked in a variety of settings including social service agencies and private practice groups. The majority of my work has been assisting undergraduate and graduate students with navigating their challenging academic programs as well as assisting young professionals (especially new teachers and social workers) to navigate the anxiety and stress associated with starting their career which can present numerous challenges with anxiety and setting boundaries. I have also developed experience in assisting adult gay men in coming out by being an informed clinician in processing the challenges that have come with living with unaccepting family members and friend groups and providing support and coping strategies to deal with this difficult process. As a lifelong gamer myself, who has played on numerous video game competitive teams, I am informed and affirming about video games. This is an important quality for some client's to be aware of as I feel this quality about me allows a reduction in the propensity for introducing a negative bias toward video games in the therapy space. Therapy is a flexible space that looks different for every client. However, in general, you can expect a client-centered approach and I tend to also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. As you begin to start paving that new road, I'll come along and help guide this process using these tools and provide support, help you build awareness, work toward a reduction in symptoms, and provide encouragement as you move through your experience.

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Rita Singh

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
25 years of experience

Real help starts here... Life can be hard so you deserve GOOD THERAPY with the RIGHT THERAPIST! Unfortunately, not everyone will have a good therapy experience or know what to expect. Good therapy includes feeling safe, accepted (not judged), supported and listened to. Good therapy will help you move forward with your needs and goals in mind a little bit every session and, if you don't know what those goals are, you should be assisted in sorting that out. Good therapy is not about just talking or wanting you to take the lead all of the time. Good therapy is a collaborative process. I strive to provide the people I work with that model of good therapy. I want you to feel like we are a good fit, that you feel connected and safe in talking with me, that you feel you are striving for something important for yourself and working your way to it, that you feel understood and never judged, that you are being educated on issues and given specific scientifically and clinically backed tools to address those things, and that you feel supported and cared about along the way. I like to think of therapist and client as Sherpa and traveler. You have a destination in mind to try to get to and I, as your Sherpa, am there to guide you and get you there as quickly and safely as possible since I know the terrain and pathways. Don't settle for less. You deserve to find your happiness! With my 25 years of professional work experience and have run my own private practice since 2006. I would love to be your therapist Sherpa for your personal journey. Please reach out to see if we are a good fit and, if not, I will be happy to help you figure out who might be better suited for you. Feel free to schedule yourself in any opening I have. If none of the times/ days work for your schedule just message me and we can find an alternative time that I can schedule you in between my private practice insurance and self-pay clients. I hope to hear from you soon. Best to you on your journey!

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McKayla Hayse

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepressionCoping 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, trauma and abuse, eating disorders, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our sessions 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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Brian Stella

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 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, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Kristena Partridge

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 2 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, 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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Teresa Yu

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello! My name is Teresa Yu and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) in the State of Illinois. I have over 3 years of experience working with a diverse client population from children to adults and with concerns ranging from day-to-day stress, life transitions, anxiety, adjustment, to trauma. I specialized working in multicultural therapeutic spaces, interacting with culturally diverse, BIPOC clients focusing on adjustment, acculturation stress, family separation, and migration trauma. I am fluent in Mandarin. I am often described to have a calm, caring personality with moments of humor. I like to listen empathetically, clarify and summarize, before inviting processing. I recognize one approach does not fit all, I like to remain flexible and explore a working balance where you feel engaged while being challenged towards your identified goals. I like to highlight your strengths and achievements to empower positive changes. Depending on your needs, I frequently utilize Attachment, Regulation, Competency framework, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused processing, mindfulness, therapeutic, or art activities in my sessions. My goal is to hold a therapeutic space where you feel engaged to share what’s on your mind from your daily experiences to your concerns without feeling judged. It takes courage to open up your stories and seek support, and I am here to hear you and honor what you are going through.

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Clarence McCray

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & 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.

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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