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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Dr. Brad Burklow

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS, LCPC, LPHA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issues
25 years of experience

Welcome. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 30 years of continuous experience as a mental health therapist, program manager, clinical supervisor, trainer, and clinical director in various settings, including primary care and a community mental health agency. After being with Better Help for about 5 years, I have found that this process works best when it is client driven, and my general therapeutic philosophy is that honest self exploration is the engine of good therapy. I may give direction at times and even advice if it is solicited, but usually the client holds the key to better life satisfaction and mental well-being. I see my role as a partner and facilitator of that process. It takes a surprisingly short amount of time to cover the main issues and develop some sort of strategy going forward by applying what we know works in mental health and relationship therapy. Modern brain science demonstrates that by being aware and mindful of our own automatic patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and changing the focus of our attention...as well as HOW we attend to our inner and outer worlds, we can quite literally change and alter the neural pathways in our own brain to improve well-being. I do think Better Help is unique in the way that it maximizes convenience and quality mental health services at the same time. So many people don't have access to competent, quality, affordable mental health care. I truly love getting to do this on a daily basis. I have had the privilege of talking with men and women all over the world about their stories, each unique in their own way, and yet I find the same psychological themes no matter what country or culture they come from. I love working for Better Help because even after all of the traditional therapy I have done in the past, I still have learned so much from my online clients and have been inspired by their courage and resilience displayed in the face of life’s challenges.

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Hannah Noel

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! I’m Hannah, a clinical social worker licensed in Illinois with 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients of all ages in individual, family, and group settings. I believe that forming a secure therapeutic relationship is essential for the client’s success. Some specialties I work with are: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, interpersonal relationships, abuse, and trauma. My counseling style is friendly, open, and collaborative. I recognize that it is not an easy task to ask for help, or to share certain thoughts and feelings with another person. My approach utilizes a combination of different therapeutic interventions tailored to each client’s need. I am versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, among several other modalities. I believe in helping my clients unlock their fullest potential and discovering their ability to overcome challenges they encounter. I look forward to working with you!

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Karen Hill-Davis

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families cope with a variety challenges that life has presented them with. I will help you regain perspective and control. My approach is cognitive behavioral and solution focused. My style is open and supportive. We will begin by starting where you are in defining the issues and clarifying what your goals will be. I have specific experience with adjustment to life changes related to health issues, aging, life care planning and bereavement. Through the therapeutic relationship, l will help you recognize your strengths so you can become empowered to effect positive change in your life.

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Brittany Johnson

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

Hello, My name is Brittany Johnson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. Prior to being licensed I received my B.A. in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master of Social Work from University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). The majority of my experience has been working with youth of all ages as a school social worker. However, I am more than excited to be expanding my practice to a more individualized clinical based setting. Throughout the years I have worked very closely with my students and their families to manage and overcome challenges including but not limited to stress, anxiety, traumatic experiences, injustices, relationship barriers, mental health diagnosis and various unexpected life changes. Since working with adults on this platform I have also grown a strong passion to support life changes and mental health barriers with them as well! My approach to therapy is very client centered, you come first! I aim to meet people wherever they are while also challenging them to grow at a pace that they are comfortable with. I allow for flexibility to work through what the client feels is important and to collaborate on goals and progress regularly. I completely understand that it is impossible to get to know anyone from a bio. However, I would be honored if you decide to trust me with the commitment of supporting you through this journey. If you feel it is time to take a leap of faith you are probably right. We all have to start somewhere and I am here to walk you through this journey step by step!

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Fritz Gelin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Ed.D.,LCPC,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I currently hold an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) and a CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor), both from the State of Illinois. Professionally, I am the Program Coordinator at a crisis center, but I have over 15 years of experience working with clients presenting with a wide range of issues, including bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I draw my counseling strengths from using a Person-Centered Therapy approach. I believe that the therapy space is for the client to have a voice and options available for adequate problem solving. I am certified in CBT, but I use an eclectic approach integrating various counseling models. At times, we are faced with a difficult task, and we may need some assistance. If you feel ready for therapy/counseling, I am here to provide you the help you need. Thank you.

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Ramona Zarate

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

In 2007, I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Marquette University, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I continued my education at Marquette University and received my Master of Arts in Community Counseling with a specialization in substance abuse and co-occurring disorders, in 2010. I have worked with community mental health agencies and hospitals, helping individuals with mental health and substance use disorders regain control of their lives. I have worked in the community with women and men dealing with depression, anxiety and addiction. I worked as a substance use case manager and closely with family service agencies to assess and link individuals to the therapeutic services that best fit their needs. As a therapist, I have collaborated with physicians to ensure quality and continuity of care. I understand that the journey in therapy is a personal one and I am committed to the privacy and confidentiality of the individuals with whom I work. I also understand the importance of caring for the whole person and integrating health services. I work with clients to build a treatment plan that best meets their specific needs. I take a strength-based approach to counseling where my clients come first. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC) in Illinois.

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John Collins

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I have years of experience helping clients cope with both the symptoms as well as the underlying causes of their struggles with issues of anxiety, trauma and PTSD, depression, difficulty managing anger, alcohol or other substance use disorders, and relational difficulties that often stem from low self-confidence and the need for updated and enhanced communication skills. My clinical style combines a personal approach that aims to make the client feel genuinely understood, supported, and safe. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions that help to update coping skills and strategies, while operating from a psychodynamic base that can facilitate both shorter- and longer-term psychodynamic psychotherapy for deeper-reaching, more stable positive change. I am also certified to provide EMDR when appropriate. I received a Master's degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago in 2010. I currently reside in Louisiana.

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Shayna Rayman

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and Illinois with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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. Please message me to inquire about scheduling.

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Kathleen Griffin

Offering therapy in Illinois
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with life transitions. Additionally, I help with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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.

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Jennifer Wolf

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoachingADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & executive and professional coaching. 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 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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