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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Kristen Kasperek
Hi, my name is Kristen Kasperek and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and a National Certified Counselor. I have 8 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples in individual and group settings. I worked as a Psycho Social Rehabilitation Therapist for quite some time where I became certified in OCD as well as PTSD. I have vast experience working with those who suffer from chronic mental illness including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I also have a wealth of experience working with those struggling with self-esteem, self-worth, poor relationships, and grief. I enjoy providing support in a variety of ways to my clients to help remind them of how important they are. I currently work with undergraduate and graduate students helping them to discover their true selves through the help of MBTI and Strong Interest Inventory and putting that into play by aiding them in selecting individually appropriate degree programs. I have learned in my years as a Career Counselor that people often stay in ill fitting jobs because they don't see a way out. I love nothing more than to help someone recognize their passion and guide them towards making it a reality. I enjoy assisting my clients with self discovery, the job search process, as well as resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, and negotiation tactics. No matter where you are in your life, I believe you should be doing what you love and I want to help you get there. My approach is to develop a relaxed, non-threatening, and non-clinical professional relationship with my clients. I recognize that the first step to a better life is often the most difficult. I help my clients with that first step and the path that follows. Together, we develop individualized strategies that produce results and lead to a more fulfilling life. In terms of my education, I earned my Master's Degree in Community Counseling with a focus in Mental Illness as well as Career Counseling. My undergraduate degree is in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. If you are searching for direction, inner peace, or need help getting past an obstacle in your personal or professional life, I would welcome the opportunity to work with you.
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Stephanie Harris
Welcome! My name is Stephanie Harris and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Vermont, but currently living in Chicago. I am happy to help you with whatever you are facing in life right now. I take a very Person-Centered approach to counseling. I believe you know yourself better than anyone else and ultimately know what is best for you. It would be my job as your therapist to help you discover what that is. I would also like to help you recognize your strengths and build your confidence. Together, we can work towards getting the things you want out of life and living with meaning, fulfillment, and joy. I work with individual adults and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, abuse, addiction, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and more. I have specialized training in helping people recover from trauma. In addition to using talk therapy, I am also an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, which can help people form new, more healing interpretations about their traumatic memories. Trauma can have a profound effect on how people view the world and relate to others, which is why a trauma-informed approach to treatment can be very helpful. I will help people heal from their painful and distressing experiences so they are able to feel more safe and secure in the world now. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Vermont and a Master’s degree in Counseling from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. I have experience working in private practice, crisis centers, in-patient hospitals, employee assistance programs, community mental health centers, and primary care clinics. I have worked with adults, couples, people with developmental disabilities, survivors of sexual abuse, people of the Latinx population, couples with infertility issues, and people facing deportation. I believe these experiences have helped me find multiple ways to connect with others and help them reach their goals.
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Thomas Zimm
I am a licensed clinical social worker who graduated from Jane Addams school of Social Work where I obtained a Master of Social Work Degree. I have over 10 years of experience working with children and adults who have experienced abuse, neglect, domestic violence, separation, and loss, depression. Furthermore, I have refined my skills working with adolescents and families impacted by depression, bipolar, substance abuse, interpersonal violence, and homelessness., My years of expertise have taught me the importance of engagement, validating, and supporting those who have experienced pain, suffering, and loss. My approach is supportive, collaborative, and I focus on advocacy rather than diagnose or labels. My approach combines mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, feminist, attachment, and psycho-dynamic theories. It takes courage to see the need for therapy and perseverance to take the steps required to initiate therapy. I will be available to you for support, a witness to your experience, and a supporter of your journey toward your ultimate goal.
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Erika Luhn
Thanks for taking the time to get to know a little bit about me as you make an important decision about your recovery process. Finding the right therapy professional is the first of many important steps you will take and so thank you for taking the time to consider me as someone to work with. I don't take the process of therapy lightly. I have worked in private practice for 14 years and have worked as a therapist for twenty years. My experience is extensive; however, my scope of practice includes working with survivors of trauma, sexual assault/sexual, physical and/or emotional abuse, post traumatic and complex-post traumatic stress, self-harming behaviors, depression, generalized anxiety, grief & loss, family conflict, disorders of personality and finally, working with children & adolescence. I have level I certification in Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and also have completed my post graduate training and supervision using Dialectical & Behavioral Therapy, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
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Wendy Suey
I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & eating disorders. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Dealing with pain takes courage and often times help. Learning to manage life more effectively may take some time, but I am here to help you find a place that brings emotional security and peace. P.S. if you are just wanting someone to talk to because you are having a bad day, I may not your therapist. If you are looking to make a significant impact on your life and do the hard work, let’s see what we can do together!
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Sherilynn "Sheri" Asuoha
Everyone deserves to live their best life. Hi! I am Dr. Sheri. I am licensed in Illinois and Texas with over 15 years of professional work experience with humans and families across the lifespan. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. We set goals and we create a plan to accomplish those goals with respect to your values. I walk with you every step of the way. Your future is bright. Your journey is great and glorious. Thank you for trusting me to walk with you and major congratulations for taking the first step!
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Morgan Hulock
I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Rae Bardell
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, ADHD, OCD, depression, & coping with life changes. I work with my 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 to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
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Elif "April" Ilkmen
Nisan Ilkmen, Ph. D., LMFT is the Clinical Training Director of Northern Illinois University department of Marriage and Family Therapy. Dr. Ilkmen’s teaching and clinical interests are related to attachment in romantic relationships and issues of social justice in the field of psychotherapy. Dr. Ilkmen grew up in Turkey, has lived in Canada, and now resides in the U.S. Her immigration experience, and multi-cultural background allowed her to become a culturally sensitive clinician and professor. Her clinical approach is the attachment-based model, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a model that permeates her clinical practice as well as her teaching and supervision methods. Her approach to therapy is informed by psychodynamic models, helping each individual to understand their unique struggles in the past and present in order to facilitate internal change. Dr. Ilkmen practices in Turkish, French and English.
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Cory Berberich
I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience, and nearly 6 years in the mental health field overall. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with life changes, & concentration, memory. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). Having worked in the foster care field, an autism clinic, and a private practice setting, I have plenty of experience with almost every type of negative emotion that one can think of. My work in the field has been primarily with adolescents/teenagers, and I find that they are an incredible population to work with. Old enough to understand basic therapy techniques, but young enough to mold themselves into anything that they want to be in life. My current work has a range of working with individuals ranging from age 20, to the age of 11. I am sympathetic to the stressors that teenagers and young adults are facing in our constantly changing world, and I look forward to my interactions with them every day. I work with my 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 to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
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