Finding a therapist in Chicago, IL to help you navigate life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, even in such a large city. Someone who is looking for a therapist to deal with family dynamics may have different needs than one who is looking for help with emotional regulation, and different still from those who are looking to heal trauma from systemic oppression. 

Therapy is a collaborative process, and it can be essential to find a mental health professional who has the credentials for the specific type of therapy you need, builds a proper rapport with you, and most importantly that you feel comfortable with in a therapeutic setting. If you’re feeling stuck and having trouble getting started, visiting an online therapy platform like BetterHelp can be a simple and effective way to find the right support. 

Mental health challenges aren’t always about diagnosing things like intrusive thoughts or anxiety disorder. Therapy can also be about learning coping skills for stress, learning to manage life’s challenges, or gaining a stronger sense of self and increasing your sense of well-being. BetterHelp has over 30,000 licensed mental health professionals like therapists, social workers, psychologists, and couples counselors. With online therapy, you can find a therapist that specializes in what you need, from applied behavior analysis to cognitive behavioral therapy. 

Online therapy is convenient, as well. Many therapists are now trained in online counseling techniques, and you can meet with these therapists over video chat, texting, or over the phone from the comfort of your own home. For people who may not have the time to get to appointments, or who may not be in a mental space to go to in-person meetings, online therapy can be a gift. 

Therapy can be effective at identifying and healing trauma, or at managing the symptoms of mental health conditions, but may also be a good way to learn more about yourself. If stress at work or home is getting you down, a licensed therapist can offer the coping skills you need to feel better and improve mental health and wellbeing.

 

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Mary Miller

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
21 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 21 years working with individuals, couples, families and adolescents. I began my career working with high school students in a church setting which I enjoyed, but realized that young people needed so much more for their social and emotional well-being than I knew at that time. During the years, I discovered the power of family dynamics in the mental health of children and adults. This led me to pursue my Master's in Social Work from Aurora University in Illinois and become licensed in Illinois,. I am also licensed in Montana where I lived and worked on the Blackfeet Reservation in a small school and now in Indiana where I currently reside. I have experience with people who have depression, anxiety, PTSD and grief issues. I have also done therapy with survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and have experienced other trauma in their lives. I have a therapy style that draws on several therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Based Therapies. I believe that holistic approaches that acknowledge the mind, body and spirit connection can be very effective with people who are dealing with today's fast paced lives that often lead to stress related problems. Finding balance as we go through life transitions can come by attending to our mental and physical health on a daily basis. I enjoy working with people who are actively engaged in their own health and well-being and have been told that I connect well with people of all ages. I am eager to help you work towards health and balance in your life.

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Nicole Bebiak

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Nicole and I am a licensed counselor in Illinois (LCPC) and Indiana (LMHC). I want to congratulate you for having the courage to take this first step. It can be difficult to realize we need assistance and asking for it means you are ready to move forward, so good for you! I am honored that you are willing to include me in your journey. My purpose is to help others find ways to manage their issues or problems and lead safe, successful lives. I have always loved helping others and have been blessed with the opportunity to provide that help in different ways and different environments. I graduated with my Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 1999. I have been practicing as a counselor since 1999 and have worked at a domestic violence center, crisis lines, community mental health agencies, and a private behavioral health hospital. I have experience assisting others manage issues such as depression, anxiety/panic attacks, unhealthy relationships, self-esteem, social skills, emotional/physical/sexual abuse and trauma, suicidal ideation, self-harm, coping skills, family conflict, grief, communication, problem-solving and those every day issues that can build up over time. My core therapeutic approach is and will always be client-centered, but I considered myself eclectic when it comes to working with a client. So, what does that mean? I believe that you must meet a person where they are and see the whole person not just their mental health or behavioral issues. I act as a guide, support, sounding board, and sometimes a devil’s advocate. I provide a safe space where problems and issues can be discussed and worked through without judgement or fear of repercussions. While many of us would love to have someone tell us exactly what to do to make our problems go away, I feel that takes away a person’s power and pride in their own emotional growth and success. I won’t give you the answers, but I will stand with you every step of the way during the highs and lows to find your own answers. Having 20+ years of experience working with different populations has allowed me to gather a lot of tools for my therapeutic toolbox. I have learned that there really isn’t a text book case, at least I have not met one yet, so I use different techniques from many therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Mindfulness, Dialectic-Behavioral (DBT), Solution- Focused, Play Therapy - it’s not just for kids, Sand Tray, Psychoeducation, Crisis Intervention, and of course empathy to name a few. I am always interested in learning different ways to help people because what works for one person will not always work for another because we are all unique. I believe our differences make us special and need to be understood to help ourselves and our relationships. I look forward to working with you!

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Marie-Pierre Sernatinger

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello! my name is Marie-Pierre. I’m a native of France. I am bilingual but I have lived my entire adult life in the US. I have also raised a family here and have adult children. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a Minor in Women’s Studies, and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois since 2003. Before starting Private Practice, I worked for many years in programs for Chronically Mentally Ill, Chemically Dependent or Dually Diagnosed individuals. These were adults and young adults, men and women both, who, typically, struggled with many other issues as well: chaotic lifestyle or upbringing, traumatic experiences, and often significant health and/or legal problems. No one needs to reach such extremes before seeking help. Pain and suffering come in different forms and degrees, but all are worthy of attention. In my private practice I have been seeing clients for issues such as relationships, family, parenting, work, and stages of life (from the newly graduated to the soon to retire...) Anxiety and depression are often present, as may be AOD use. Whether you feel overburdened, isolated, face difficult decisions, or lack support — There is no need to go it alone. I am Client-Centered in orientation: Establishing a climate in which you feel comfortable and safe, and where trust can develop, is essential to me. But depending on the issues we’re dealing with, I am likely to use a variety of approaches, whether cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, or perhaps insight-oriented, to help you some resolution. You are in charge: At a concert, if you were the conductor, holding the baton, and I the instrument, I would follow your lead attentively to help express the music — as many variations are possible. Likewise, in therapy, it is crucial that I attend to you with care and mindfulness. I may be mirror, validator, support, resource... But the course is yours to mark. Would you tell me no what's going on in your life? Should we get started? Let me accompany you a bit... I would be honored to work with you!

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Megan Heary

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
4 years of experience

Hello! My name is Megan Heary. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor who graduated from Adler University with my masters in counseling and a specialization in forensic psychology. Additionally, I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a former Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC). Since becoming a therapist, I have worked in a number of treatment settings including outpatient treatment, drug court programs, and residential treatment facilities. In addition to treating substance use disorders, I am passionate for treating compulsive behaviors of any kind and have experience working with patients who struggle with eating disorders, self-injury, OCD, trichotillomania, as well as sex and love addictions. My primary work experience is at the residential/inpatient level of care and I have worked in a number of trauma-informed facilities performing individual, group, and family therapy. I have treated adolescents, young adults, and adults and has a particular passion for treating patients who live with co-occurring disorders. My well-rounded experience make me a perfect fit if you are seeking support for post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, substance use, personality disorders, and mood disorders. I continue to expand on my education and experience and I am interested in becoming a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). When treating addictions, I incorporate modern 12-step concepts as I understand that the Big Book is limited in it’s approach to supporting persons of color and female identifying persons. Additionally, I have a strong DBT and ACT theoretical orientation incorporating evidence-based skills of mindfulness and emotion regulation in all my sessions. For those seeking treatment for eating disorders, I am an advocate for the Health at Every Size movement and follows an All Foods Fit model. I combine humor and laughter with unwavering empathy and support in each session while creating a safe environment for personal growth and change to take place.

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Lori Cheek Gilroy

Offering therapy in IL
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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Deborah "Debbie" Aimone

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and North Carolina with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Dr. Benjamin Lough

Offering therapy in IL
GriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping clients to cope with life changes as they navigate the big questions of life. My therapeutic approach is integrative, with a focus on existential-humanistic, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapy methods. I operate on the understanding that each person is unique, and that different approaches work best for different people. My counseling style is interactive and holistic. We will work on resolving your present challenges by looking at schemas or "life traps" that you developed in your past but continue to carry into your current ways of thinking about the world. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I look forward to working with you as you navigate your journey.

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Amy Smith

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & bipolar disorder. 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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Katie Tapert Mercado

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, 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. 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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Hannah Chapman

Offering therapy in IL
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related 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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How to find counseling in Chicago

Finding the best therapist close by in Chicago can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Chicago. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Chicago, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Chicago or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Chicago area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Chicago, elsewhere in Cook, or in the greater state of Illinois.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Chicago area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Chicago therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Chicago due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Chicago may not take health insurance, some in the state of Illinois may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Illinois you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Chicago, Illinois working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Chicago above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Chicago helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Chicago therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Chicago therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Chicago therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in IL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 60620 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Chicago counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, 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 feedback and advice. A Chicago licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Chicago, Illinois can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Chicago has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Chicago.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Chicago:

60018, 60106, 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, 60605, 60606, 60607, 60608, 60609, 60610, 60611, 60612, 60613, 60614, 60615, 60616, 60617, 60618, 60619, 60620, 60621, 60622, 60623, 60624, 60625, 60626, 60628, 60629, 60630, 60631, 60632, 60633, 60634, 60636, 60637, 60638, 60639, 60640, 60641, 60642, 60643, 60644, 60645, 60646, 60647, 60649, 60651, 60652, 60653, 60654, 60655, 60656, 60657, 60659, 60660, 60661, 60664, 60666, 60668, 60669, 60670, 60673, 60674, 60675, 60677, 60678, 60680, 60681, 60684, 60685, 60686, 60687, 60688, 60689, 60690, 60691, 60693, 60694, 60695, 60696, 60697, 60699, 60701, 60707, 60827

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