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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Amelia Lambert

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

• B.A. in Human Services from National-Louis University • MSW from Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe Throughout our lives we are challenged by obstacles that can be difficult to manage on our own. Reaching out for help in those times can be incredibly difficult. Working with a therapist during those struggles in life can help find the insight into some of the most rewarding and positive changes we make; leading to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. The first step in making changes in your life begins now. I have been working the mental health field for over 16 years with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction & co-dependency issues, and relationship or family dynamics. I have provided services in outpatient, inpatient, residential, as well as rehabilitation long-term care settings to clients ranging in age from adolescent to geriatric, both in individual and group sessions. My professional philosophy stems from the belief that every person deserves to live fully; with hope for the future and the self-respect to believe you are worthy of it. I believe every individual is capable of change and possesses the resiliency within ourselves to improve our lives. We will work together to identify the aspects of yourself that are not working for you and discover a healthier direction for your life.

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Jewel Kristine (Kristy) Hemmele

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

Hello, my name is Kristy. I have been a licensed clinical professional counselor for over 25 years. Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone also has encountered struggle of some type.. I use primarily solution focused techniques and my faith to help individuals, couples and families find help and feel empowered. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes a great deal of courage to take that first step to reach out and ask for help when going through struggles and attempting to make life changes. I commend you for taking that step and I look forward to hearing your story.

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Rachel Goodwin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LPC,LCDC,LCPC
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
3 years of experience

I am a skilled Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). With years of personal experience and recovery behind me, I specialize in the treatment of addictions, eating disorders, trauma and LGBTQ+ issues. Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Mindfulness. My first priority is to create a safe and affirming environment that will foster personal growth and allow clients to achieve their identified goals. I aim to work collaboratively with clients to empower them to step into their stories and live authentically.

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Lauren Madden

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

Clinical Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, serving nonprofit agencies for the past 8 years, highlighting practice in Responsible Eclecticism and the Contextual Model for treatment of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. Currently, I am serving the addiction community working primarily with men and young adults. Prior experience includes work with sex offenders, chronic mental illness, crisis management, and life change support. Picking a counselor is a tough thing, especially when you are unsure what you fully need. Let me help! Individualized care begins by leading clients into self-awareness, with emphasis on overall wellness and exploration of interests, strengths, and abilities among the various domains of life. Coining terms like the “Treatment Crush”, importance is placed on developing rapport and the significance of the therapeutic relationship in bettering client outcomes.

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Dr. Susan Hanson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Doctorate Social Work,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hello and welcome, My name is Dr. Susan Hanson. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. As a parent and a therapist, I understand the need for teens and adults to continue to seek counsel & guidance as they navigate challenges in life. This is the beginning of your journey, a safe place, for you to overcome complex behavioral concerns. A place where you can focus on successfully developing the skills needed to create the productive life that you want. I offer Premiere Telehealth Treatment & Behavioral Health in a supportive environment. I specialize in mood & anxiety disorders, trauma recovery, military & first responders, family & relationship topics; boundaries, family roles, healthy communication, and more. I refer out clients who have drug & alcohol addictions, and clients with suicidal thoughts, as their primary diagnosis or are a large part of their current lifestyle. Additionally, I do not provide any third parties or any of your information to third parties, nor can I write any letters to individuals on your behalf for any reason, court, custody, DUI, etc. For that, you need to be working with the courts and with an in-person therapist and with the therapist's consent. I have worked with thousands of clients over the years, and every one of them has had their own story to tell. No two people are in the same situation. The most important factor in effective therapy is when the therapist and client collaborate and create a sense of meaning and hope. I will help you learn how to successfully manage symptoms, overcome challenges, and develop the skills needed to return to the productive life that you want. I am here to help you through this difficult time. Start your journey now.

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Dr. Diana Dobier

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: PsyD,LCP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepression
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Illinois with over 25 years of experience working with a wide range of individual issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career concerns and challenging work experiences, I have assisted individuals experiencing issues with substance abuse, and parenting concerns. I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider, with many years of experience providing treatment in the online environment. My goal in the treatment is to be warm and to create a safe space in which we can build a therapeutic relationship. I believe it is important to provide respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and mindfulness therapy. I use these tools to develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Booking an appointment is the first step to building a better life for yourself. I provide guidance and support as you take that next step towards change. I look forward to working with you!

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Carole Sandusky

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, sleeping disorders, anger management, & 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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Susan Burrows

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyDepression
38 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety and 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. I encourage you to write as often and as much as you would like. This room is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I typically respond with 24 hours, but respond sooner to new clients. Please be patient as I may be attending to professional or personal responsibilities. I am available for live sessions on Wednesday day and evening, Thursday day and evening and Friday day and usually evening. Please schedule at least 12 hours in advance. If there is a message that you need a quick response to, please mark 'urgent'. I will get back to you as soon as possible. Please remember if you are having an emergency, go to your nearest hospital or call 988 which is the crisis hotline.

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Ross Lafleur

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) with 9 years of experience working directly with clients. I have worked in private practice and hospital settings with a very wide variety of populations. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. My approach is broadly cognitive-behavioral with a particular emphasis on mindfulness-based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I have personal experience in the performing arts so I do understand some of the unique concerns of artists as well. 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! Education: MS in Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

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Erin Harris Smith

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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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Irene Batista

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a bilingual therapist licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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!

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Samantha Donovan

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. Substance use disorders and recovery are other areas I am experienced in. 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.

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Erin Fabrizio

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 14 years of counseling experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. My work in counseling has largely been with young adults, including college students and athletes, and I have also provided therapy for children and older adults. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that every person has, and can discover many strengths within, that assist in overcoming life's challenges. 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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Latosha Fowlkes

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Missouri with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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 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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