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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Pam Matos

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

I specialize in counseling for depression, anxiety, bipolar, pregnancy/prenatal loss/postpartum, and grief & loss. I have a diverse clinical counseling background providing counseling services to adults. I am passionate about the mind and body counseling experience. I understand the roll thoughts play on our interpretation of the world. I provide a soothing and compassionate environment that focuses on enhancing ones self, thoughts, and confidence. I believe in meeting individuals where they're at and navigating challenging life events together. Throughout my years of experience I have worked with individuals encouraging and providing awareness into their symptoms, thoughts/feelings, and actions. By recognizing what dynamics are contributes to our current state the process of change can begin. In addition to counseling, I have experience with crisis evaluation, Inpatient and Outpatient experience from Vista Medical Center, Lake Behavioral Hospital, and Clearbrook. I have worked in Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) facilitating groups for support, compassion, substance abuse/sobriety, and patient prosperity. I am a dedicated clinician that genuinely believes everyone can live a peaceful and joyful life.

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Bernadette May

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoaching
24 years of experience

Welcome! I'm happy that you are here and seeking to get some support for yourself. That is a brave decision. Counseling relationships can be very awkward at first, so I'd like to let you know what to expect. In our first session, I will spend time asking questions and getting to know more about you by creating an environment that is warm, non-judgmental and that embraces your whole self. This assessment process is essential to help us build an effective plan to meet your goals. As I get to learn more about your goals, we will create some benchmarks that we will be looking to achieve and we will check in on those in subsequent sessions. As a 20 plus year veteran of the field, I have come to learn that these first steps create the basis for our success together. I will then use a variety of therapeutic techniques as we progress in this journey together. As a Social Worker, I also know that no human lives in a vacuum and we can explore the impacts of external systems such as work, school, and relationships with family or a significant other. My ultimate goal is to work myself out of job so that you can independently move forward feeling confident in your ability to thrive. I look forward to meeting you!

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Ramon Nolasco

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,LMHC,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

I am glad that you are taking the first step into the journey of finding inner peace. I have helped adults, teens and children struggling with adaptation, resolution of life tasks, difficulties confronting problematic levels of stress, that may or may not lead to anxiety and/or depression, and any other emotional difficulty such as trauma, grief and addictions. Together, we will find new paths to resolve these challenges and moving closer to a sense of satisfaction and happiness. I provide a therapeutic environment that you can trust and feel confident that together we can find the best solutions to your problems I have been working as a mental health therapist for over 2 decades and I am passionate about seeing the process of change and improvement over time as therapy move forward. I want to guide you to do this using a strength-based method and an eclectic approach during this process as we develop our therapeutic alliance and try to obtain treatment success.

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Khara Harper

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

Life can present challenges in dynamic ways. I believe that healing is a collaborative journey. Choosing to engage professional support is a courageous stride in your journey to healthy well being. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Certified Employee Assistance Professional. My mission is helping others realize their fullest potential. I draw from various evidenced based practices & interventions, to create a tailored approach for each individual and situation. I’m here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Crystal Redd

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Marcus Jack

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS,LCPC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 10 years of professional work experience. I assist clients with concerns relating to stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, family, career, and more. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

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Shobana Shanmugavelayutham

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Allison Brockway

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Bradley University and then went on to The University of Illinois to receive my masters degree in Social Work. Right after graduating, I started working as a school social worker. I recently got married and am now an Army wife, which requires lots of moving and flexibility. I found BetterHelp and love how accessible it makes therapy! I love that you can receive the support you need from the comfort of your own home. I've been working with teens and individuals on this platform for over a year. My greatest joy in life is Jesus and this plays a huge role in how my worldview has been formed. Although, I am very cautious to not bring my own personal views and beliefs into my sessions. Allowing space for where you're at and your views and beliefs. My counseling style is fairly laid back, caring, and warm. My promise to you is to create a safe, respectful, caring place for you to share your thoughts, feelings, and struggles without fear of judgment. I try my best to respect your time, be prepared, and to provide ethical, clinical, and evidence-based knowledge to help meet your therapeutic needs.

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Will Smith

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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