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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Celeste Souza

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW, LCSW,LICSW
LGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I work with people who are facing challenging times in their lives. Sometimes the most valuable think I can do for you is to listen and care. Other times, you might need help identifying the underlying cause of a feeling or conflict in your life. I am trained as a Relational-Cultural Therapist and believe the work of healing happens in relationship (between the client and the therapist as well as in relationships in day-to-day life). I utilize therapeutic skills from a variety of models including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). No matter how big or small the issue you want to discuss, I believe that my therapeutic techniques will be helpful to you. Contact me when you're ready to get started.

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Lori Cheek Gilroy

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

Hello! You have taken a courageous step towards making changes in your life. Asking for help can be hard and I would be honored to walk with you in your journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have 26 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I have helped people with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, life transitions, trauma and caregiver stress. I have worked in several settings over the years including a child welfare program, family counseling clinic, family birthing center, crisis intervention agency and mental health clinic. My counseling style is client-centered, utilizing a holistic approach which addresses mind, body and spirit. I work from a Christ-centered philosophy, knowing that true and lasting healing comes only with God's help. Regardless of your background or beliefs, I believe you have value and I strive to communicate with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. You are the expert in your life and my role is to guide you to find the answers that are already within. I work from a solution-focused, systemic perspective. We will work together to develop treatment goals that meet your unique and specific needs. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Christina Rudawski

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: PsyD,CADC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoaching
14 years of experience

Couples Counseling, Relationship Issues, Cocational Counseling, Health Psychology, Rehabilitation Psychology, Integrated Behavioral Medicine, Medical-Psychiatric Comorbidity, Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, Personality Disorders, Parent Coaching, Parent Skills Training in Positive Discipline, Chronic Pain, and Trauma. I am proficient in psychological assessment and psychotherapy. I also utilize Biofeedback and Bibliotherapy as needed. I believe in the power of self-knowledge. As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential in order to lead a life that is worth celebrating. My goal is to provide you with a safe, secure judgment free environment and to assist you in giving voice to the thoughts and feelings which are difficult to realize and give voice to. I am a lifelong learner and am updating my skills through continuing education classes in order to provide you with the most up to date techniques and services. Difficult situations of the past can’t be changed, however, we can work together to improve your personal self-understanding and resolve challenges in your life. Together we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I look forward to meeting you and working with you!

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Erin Taylor

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a professional counselor independently licensed in Illinois after moving back and practicing in Arizona for nearly a decade. I have over 15 years of experience in a wide range of services and populations both in Arizona and Illinois. I have both experience in crisis intervention and outpatient therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, abandonment, abuse, bullying, parenting problems, grief, addiction and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked with schools, DCFS, foster parents, Emergency Rooms, Police/Fire, Psychiatric Hospitals, Psychiatrists, Probation. My internship was completed at a shelter that provided counseling for women in need of therapy for domestic violence situations and sexual assault trauma. I completed an additional internship that focused on substance abuse and addictions. I served working with juveniles on probation/parole initially in Arizona and then entered the crisis world. I then changed to outpatient work with individuals and families for over 5 years before moving back to Illinois. I have been working in a combination of crisis work and outpatient therapy for almost 5 years now. My style is warm, empathetic, supportive and a little humor at times. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I have worked with all populations, including children, adults, LGBTQ+, people of various backgrounds, spiritual beliefs and appreciate diversity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, crisis intervention, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, humanistic, client centered and rational-emotive counseling. I will ensure the treatment plan is unique to you and your specific needs, so this is a team effort. I want you to feel heard, valued, and our interactions to feel genuine and promote your growth and wellness. I know this is difficult and I applaud you for reaching out to take care of yourself, it is so important to take care of mental health and learn tools and ways to carry with you the rest of your life.

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Renita Willis

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hello, and welcome! My name is Renita Willis, and I am a licensed therapist based in Illinois with over 6 years of professional experience. Choosing to seek therapy is a brave and significant step, and I want to start by saying how proud I am of you for considering this journey toward greater emotional health and well-being. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of helping clients work through a range of challenges, including depression, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, and navigating life transitions. I understand that life can often be overwhelming, filled with moments of unexpected change, deep sadness, or persistent worries. You don’t have to face these moments alone. My goal is to offer you the tools, understanding, and compassionate support you need to regain a sense of balance and fulfillment. In our sessions, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space where you feel truly heard and accepted. I believe that trust is the cornerstone of effective therapy, so I focus on building a strong, genuine connection with my clients. In this space, you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. Whether it’s unpacking complex emotions or learning new ways to approach challenges, I’m here to walk with you step by step. I use a collaborative and tailored approach to therapy that respects your unique experiences and strengths. We’ll work together to identify your goals, develop practical coping strategies, and create a pathway that aligns with your personal values and aspirations. My role is not to tell you what to do but to support you in discovering your own insights and empowering you to make meaningful changes in your life. I use an intergrative approach to therapy incorporating modalities such as emotionally focused individual therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy. I know that the decision to start therapy can feel daunting. It’s not always easy to open up and be vulnerable, especially if you’ve been carrying your struggles alone for some time. But I am here to remind you that it’s okay to take this step at your own pace, and it’s okay to reach out for help. Seeking support is a sign of strength, resilience, and hope for a better tomorrow. Let’s embark on this journey together, creating a space where you can heal, grow, and thrive. If you’re ready to take that first step or just want to learn more about how therapy can benefit you, I’m here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. I will be honored to be a part of your journey toward a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Come on, let's get started.

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Kenneth Vick

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & relationship issues. 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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Andrea Bercos

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have a depth of experience working in community mental health, substance abuse treatment centers, domestic violence and sexual assault centers, the public school system and private practice. I have extensive experience working with issues related to childhood trauma and abuse, addictions, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and LGBTQIA issues, including supporting individuals through the gender transition process. I strive to create an open, safe, and supportive environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared openly without fear of judgment. My clients have described me as safe, free of judgment, empathic, affirming empowering and warm. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to working with you!

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Laurie Gray

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
16 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over 16 years of experience working working with teens, adults, and families. I have helped clients with a variety of presenting issues, including stress anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and ADHD. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. I am passionate about empowering individuals and families through a strength-based, solution-focused approach to care. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am excited to partner with you on this journey!

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Samuel Abraham

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 25 years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes throughout adulthood. Additionally, I have training and experience with Christian pastoral ministry and counseling. I am able to utilize both my clinical and pastoral training in sessions for those clients who prefer a faith based approach in addressing their psychosocial and spiritual needs. 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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Brizel Trinidad

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, coping with life changes. 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.

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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