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. Shelia Williamson Collins

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: AK LPC 172820, IL LCPC 180009872
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, CCMHC, LCAS, CCS, SAP, MAC. I am a board certified clinical mental health counselor and addiction counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in behavioral health. I am licensed as a clinical counselor in the states of North Carolina, Illinois, and Alaska. I have a PhD in General Psychology from Northcentral University. I also have a master's degree in Community Counseling and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Chicago State University. I have worked in an adult inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient behavioral clinic, community-based mental health services, and residential substance abuse treatment programs. My counseling style is person-centered. I have a diverse therapeutic approach to counseling. However, my primary approach includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I specialize in mood disorders, anger management, addictions education, and relapse prevention. I believe that everyone has a story to tell; and I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. It would be my honor to work with you to assist you in reaching your healthy goals. Please let me know if you would prefer weekly sessions, and I will do my best to accommodate.

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Jessica Grayer-Brumfield

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IA LISW 134672, IL LCSW 149.017306
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Greetings and Salutations! I am Jessica Brumfield, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Being proactive by seeking help during challenging times is an act of strength. As we progress through life, our perspectives, needs and goals change, which can cause stress, even lead to feeling unfulfilled. Experiencing difficulties in relationships, at work, pressure from family or being uncertain about the future are common issues that often lead people to therapy. You are not alone. Many clients seek to learn coping skills, how to foster healthy relationships, become motivated or want to figure out how to strike a balance in their lives. Therapy has a learning curve and it requires effort, patience, and openness. Results are reflective of the work that is put into it. The goals and pace of sessions will be by your design. I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space and partnering with you to explore your challenges, build on your strengths and make progress towards the changes that you want to see. I look forward to learning more about you and working together. ;)

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Dr. Sha-Rhonda Green

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: NY LCSW 099805, IL LCSW 149028404
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting Black women through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, and significant life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where women can explore their inner worlds, heal from past wounds, and cultivate self-love. My approach honors the unique experiences of Black women—addressing intersectional challenges including prejudice, discrimination, and family dynamics. My therapeutic work focuses on critical areas such as communication skills, life purpose exploration, managing guilt and shame, understanding attachment patterns, and processing mood-related concerns. I believe in empowering clients to develop resilient coping strategies and reclaim their personal narrative. Through a strengths-based, culturally responsive approach, I support individuals in transforming pain into profound personal growth and self-understanding. My goal is to walk alongside you as you rediscover your inherent worth and potential. Actively licensed and currently accepting clients residing in the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.

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Kathryn Klein

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.006421, NV LCPC CP5922-R
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

Hello - I would first like to say I'm not a conventional therapist. I do have professional training and professional experience and degrees, but really, I consider myself a fellow human being here to help another fellow human being. I pull from my knowledge, professional and personal experiences to provide you with insights and guidance. I mostly like to listen, provide feedback and offer solutions in a conversational manner. I feel strongly that this is your healing journey so if you find that my style doesn't work for you, that's okay; but if you want to give me a chance, I'd love to hear your story. I am also currently am not offering any live sessions - just asynchronous messaging. Thank you for reading!

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Jeanna Bradley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.013292, IN LMHC 39003981A
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, and workplace stress with compassionate, personalized care. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including older adults, young professionals, veterans, and individuals managing chronic health conditions. My therapeutic approach centers on building self-love, improving communication, and addressing feelings of isolation and shame. My work is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I provide a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. Whether you're facing life changes, relationship difficulties, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.

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Lisa Leong

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MI LMSW 6801118571, FL LCSW SW23104
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals through life’s emotional complexities with warmth, insight, and care. My approach centers on fostering resilience, deepening self-understanding, and guiding meaningful personal growth. I offer a safe and compassionate space for those navigating stress, anxiety, life transitions, family challenges, and issues related to self-esteem or identity. Together, we explore your experiences, uncover patterns that may be holding you back, and build tools for healing and empowerment. Drawing from widely accepted therapeutic frameworks, I help clients address a range of concerns—from workplace stress and anxiety to relationship dynamics and personal identity exploration. My goal is to support you in cultivating a more authentic connection with yourself and creating a life that feels purposeful and fulfilling.

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Gregory Jenkins

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.014538
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children ages 5 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more. By utilizing a variety of approaches and interventions, such as: EMDR, Theraplay, TRBI, Mindfulness, CBT, Sand Tray-based Therapy, and Neurofeedback, Greg equips trauma survivors with the space, support, and skills necessary to identify triggers, develop healthy coping skills, decrease traumatic symptoms, and practice trauma processing and integration. With his supportive & caring nature, a touch of fun & humor, Greg creates the warm, stress-free, & compassionate environment required for survivors to re-establish safety, a sense of self, & self-trust. Grounded in neuroscience & attachment theory, Greg believes that trauma happens in relationships & thus, a portion of healing also occurs in relationships.

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Thomas Buckner

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.013446
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey, with expertise in addressing depression, trauma, self-esteem challenges, and mood disorders. Please note that Better Help (or any specialty site) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or require immediate support. In such situations, please contact 911 or local emergency services. Alternatively, you can call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with a crisis counselor immediately. I offer a supportive space for exploring life's most profound challenges, including social anxiety, relationship dynamics, personal growth, and healing from past experiences. My therapeutic style centers on understanding individual strengths and creating meaningful pathways toward emotional wellness. My practice embraces diverse experiences and perspectives, with a commitment to providing affirming, respectful care. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship transitions, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I believe in the power of collaborative healing, where we work together to uncover your inherent resilience and develop practical strategies for sustainable emotional well-being. My goal is to help you cultivate self-understanding, build meaningful connections, and move toward a more fulfilling life.

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Ajibola Obajimi

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180011550
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients in coping with addictions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Duncan Hall

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149015171
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
28 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with nearly three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate stress, relationship dynamics, self-esteem concerns, and interpersonal communication difficulties. I bring a compassionate and direct approach to addressing issues such as social anxiety, workplace challenges, mood disorders, and personal growth. My expertise spans working with diverse populations, including young adults, older adults experiencing midlife transitions, and individuals managing anxiety, panic attacks, and relationship complexities. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding individual experiences, developing practical coping strategies, and supporting clients in building healthier emotional patterns. I am committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges, develop resilience, and work towards meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with communication barriers, relationship dynamics, or personal growth obstacles, I aim to provide thoughtful, personalized guidance tailored to your unique journey.

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Juanita Dunn

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180002259
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
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, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Janice Hodge's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Janice Hodge

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180000822
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

As a licensed counselor in Illinois with 30 years of professional experience, I am also board certified as Pastoral Psychotherapist. My wide experience includes working with anxiety, depression, relationship , marriage, family and parenting concerns. We will join together to develop a trusting and safe relationship.. Living a more fulfilling life requires commitment. As beginning counseling is a courageous decision, it has been stated that ‘healing begins as soon as you call.’

This is Shannon Almeida's avatar and link to their profile

Shannon Almeida

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LMFT 166.001408
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi, I’m Shannon. I’m a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults, with a primary focus on women and femmes mental health, through identity shifts, self-esteem challenges, trauma recovery, and the complexities of intergenerational family dynamics. As a queer, neurodivergent white woman from the U.S. living with chronic fatigue and pain, I approach therapy with lived empathy, cultural humility, and a feminist, systems-aware lens. I center gender-affirming care, the often-invisible labor of caregiving, navigating identity-based and system oppression stress, and holding everything together. I also recognize the ways my whiteness shapes my experiences both in and out of the therapy room, and I remain actively engaged in unlearning, accountability, and using my privilege to create more equitable spaces. I work best with those who feel stuck in roles like people-pleaser, perfectionist, caretaker, or “the strong one,” and are ready to explore the stories behind those roles. Many of my clients are navigating life transitions, burnout, relational stress, or the quiet grief of asking, “Who am I now?” Especially those who are single, solo parenting, or consciously breaking cycles from their family of origin. My style is laid-back, compassionate, and collaborative—with a bit of humor when it helps. I’ve been described as warm, direct, and grounding. I offer individual therapy for adults (18+) only (I do not work with couples, children, or families at this time). Clinically, I integrate narrative therapy, mindfulness and acceptance-based practices (like ACT and DBT), trauma-informed care, and Positive Discipline for parents wanting a non-punitive, values-based approach. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Together, we can work to untangle what’s no longer serving you and move toward grounded self-trust, emotional clarity, and more aligned choices.

This is Adele Duba-Nagel's avatar and link to their profile

Adele Duba-Nagel

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149029181
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am an Illinois licensed clinical social worker with over 12 years of experience helping individuals coping with grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, family conflicts, improving motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and addictions. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am pleased you chose to place your trust in us. I take a person-centered approach when working with my clients. This means that our work is collaborative and based on your goals for the specific areas you'd like to focus on. I collaborate with clients to explore their entire person: your physical and mental health, your core beliefs and history, your living and working environments, and what gives your life meaning and purpose. I endeavor to meet my clients where they are. I do not view my clients as "having problems" or worse, "being a problem". Rather, we are just human beings having human experiences - and, because humans are social beings, we often need to turn to others for help. Healing is a process of discovery and change. The support and guidance of a therapist can help bring out the best in you. Together we embark on a path of exploration and discovery. We identify your strengths, and confront and learn to cope with challenges. Your best self emerges, and you'll discover that creating and maintaining meaningful relationships, and enhancing your enjoyment of life is not only possible, it is an adventure.

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 BetterHelp therapists in Illinois does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in Illinois 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person Illinois therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in Illinois?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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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