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. John Cooley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180007169
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
32 years of experience

My name is Dr. John Cooley. I have a Master of Arts Degree in Psychological Counseling from Southeast Missouri State University and Ph.D in Psychology from California Southern University. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and I am a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. I have 25 years of counseling experience working with Adults and Families who present with a variety of mental health and substance abuse problems. I have worked in outpatient and hospital settings. My treatment approach is very eclectic. I draw from a lot of counseling theories that can best fit a person's needs. Some of those include Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Treatment. I believe that clients have the resources within them to make positive changes so as to improve the quality of their lives. I provide a warm compassionate approach to counseling and want my clients to feel that they have been heard, validated and understood. At the same time I help clients find solutions to their problems and learn valuable coping skills to manage the problems they are experiencing. I look forward to working with you!

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Jean Hannigan

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180009787
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Background: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I graduated from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. Additionally, I have obtained certificates in Grief Counseling and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and/or grief related to their relationships or in their daily lives. I have an eclectic background working in the school system, social services, Early Intervention with the State of Illinois, and private practice. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement afterward. Using a non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy we will work together to find your strengths and utilize those strengths to meet your desired goals. Who I Treat: I work with adults, couples, and teens utilizing both client-centered and holistic approaches. My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, gender identity, and LGBTQ issues. I have a particular passion for working with those struggling with or recovering from Narcissistic Abuse. My Treatment Approaches: Client-Centered Therapy / Insight Oriented Therapy / Mindfulness/ CBT / Grief / Problem Solving

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Lydia Schatzel

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149019521
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
12 years of experience

I believe in maintaining a strong and positive rapport because through that trust, we can really get work done. I treat everyone with respect and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and mindfulness with a solution focused approach that is client centered. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. As a therapist, it is my job to provide the tools and coping skills to navigate this thing called life. I will work diligently to be that empathetic and supportive hand to help you through tough times and emerge on the other side feeling stronger and more capable to take on whatever new challenges come your way. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 10 years of experience working as a crisis worker, care coordinator, and therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including various behavioral health conditions, substance abuse, history of trauma, relationships, and stages of development. I have additionally addressed abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

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Deborah Beard

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.006969
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Deborah Beard. I am trained in Marriage & Family Therapy and have served as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 25 years. I graduated in 1996 with a Masters degree in Science: Family Therapy from Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. My previous work experience as a Human Resource Manager and a Professor of Education bring relatable life skill experiences into each of my sessions. I have served as a counselor in both public and private mental health agencies, primarily for those seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma and abuse recovery, relationships, and parenting skills. Any client who has the courage to seek counseling is someone worth celebrating. With gentleness and warmth, I try to focus on each of my clients' strengths to help them in the areas they desire to change. I utilize counseling tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Systemic Therapy as appropriate. Each client's faith and moral values are recognized as a wonderful foundation for their desired growth. I look forward to meeting you!

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Benita Whitfield

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149013710, MA LICSW LICSW127501
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
26 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Illinois and Massachusetts with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, relationship dynamics, parenting struggles, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to addressing issues like social anxiety, self-esteem, communication barriers, and emotional healing. My therapeutic work spans diverse experiences, from supporting young adults and caregivers to addressing workplace challenges, trauma recovery, and midlife transitions. I'm deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I offer a holistic, person-centered approach that honors each client's individual journey. Whether you're confronting anxiety, relationship difficulties, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.

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Kendra Riley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149014428, IN LCSW 34005784A
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

Hi, my name is Kendra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Indiana and Illinois. I graduated from the Indiana University School of Social Work. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients who are having difficulty coping with various life stressors, including anxiety, depression, loss/ grief, and relationship challenges. My approach is to listen, provide support, and motivate clients to discover their strengths. Everyone is unique, so I don't believe in a cookie cutter approach. I know that it's not always easy to reach out for help but it's one of the bravest things that one can do. I'm here to support you whenever you're ready. I am available for appointments Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays in the evening.

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Lisa Leong

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 027568, MI LMSW 6801118571
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 where you can explore your experiences with consideration for yourself, practice generosity toward differences in thought and perspective, and engage in inquiry to better understand your inner world. Together, we 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 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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Debra Bryant

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149001379
Relationship issuesGriefBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, bipolar disorder, anxiety and 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Daniaja Davis-Chambers

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149023512
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with transitions, anxiety, relationship issues, religious trauma, and postpartum mental health concerns. 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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Jessica Wall

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MA LICSW LICSW1141121, IL LCSW 149006946
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
31 years of experience

I am licensed clinical Social Worker in Connecticut and Illinois with 31 years of experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults in psychotherapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. 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. We will work together to understand how your past has influenced your current circumstances and work through the feelings, conflicts and tensions that disrupt your life. It takes courage to begin therapy but the benefits are innumerable.

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Lapree Crawford

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149028999
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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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Joy Raggs

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149027365
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring 14 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief, and personal growth. I specialize in creating compassionate, affirming spaces where individuals can explore their emotional landscapes and develop meaningful strategies for healing. My approach is deeply client-centered, focusing on areas like self-love, communication, social connections, and personal purpose. I work closely with clients experiencing diverse challenges, including workplace stress, mood fluctuations, life transitions, and interpersonal dynamics. Whether supporting young adults, caregivers, or individuals managing chronic conditions, I strive to offer empathetic, personalized guidance. I am committed to understanding each person's unique journey, honoring their experiences, and supporting their path toward emotional wellness and self-discovery. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaboration, respect, and empowerment, helping clients build resilience and cultivate deeper self-understanding.

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Jill Yerkes

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149012959
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30+ years of professional work experience, including the last 18 with my clinical license. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression . I also have experience helping to cope with life changes. 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.

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Shanelle Clayberg

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149021714
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with more than 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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 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 $70 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 BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp has joined with major insurance carriers in select states to provide in-network therapy coverage. Coverage may vary by plan, provider, and therapist availability. Insured members pay an average co-pay of $19 per session. Average co-pay is based on current insured BetterHelp members. Explore insurance coverage in major cities like ArlingtonCorpus ChristiPlanoLubbockJacksonvilleMiamiTampaOrlandoSt. PetersburgPort St. LucieHialeahCape CoralTallahasse and Fort Lauderdale.

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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