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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This is Dr. Rachel Kinison's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Rachel Kinison

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.007037, FL LMHC MH16436
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dr. Rachel Kinison. You can call me Rachel or Dr. Rach, as my friends lovingly call me. I have my doctorate degree in Pastoral Community Counseling. I have a masters degree in Counseling. I have been counseling for 20 years. I have a few disabilities that I don't let get me down. I have Cerebral Palsy (mild), Dystonia (a movement disorder that is related to Parkinson's), and I suffer from migraines. All of this is managed well with Botox treatments every three months. I live in Illinois and I plan of moving to Florida, where the winters are a lot more milder for me. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. I am also just recently licensed in the state of Florida as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I am very excited about that. I am a fan of classic rock. I love to spend time with my friends. I also enjoy a nice quiet evening at home with my Beagle. I also like to travel, cook, and enjoy a great rock concert. I have worked with children and adults at a community counseling agent. I have also worked in a behavioral health unit at a local hospital. I also have experience in being a counselor in adult probation programs. I have done individual therapy, group therapy, and have training in PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and I usually use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, but not everyone fits just one mold. So, I am a fan of an eclectic form of therapy techniques. I am well rehearsed in relaxation techniques that I am excited about. I am excited to be a part of BetterHealth. I think that I can bring a lot of functioning skills to the table. I believe that how we think, behave, and feel can be improved by just changing one thing to the positive. The rest tends to fall in line. You are the problem solver. I am your compass.

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Dr. Meredith Hayes

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180007472
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I'm a licensed therapist in the state of Illinois. I have been in the field for 15 years working together with people to better their lives. I've been honored to work with many different people going through many different things. My clients have presented with issues such as: Depression; Anxiety/OCD; Addiction; Trauma and Abuse; Eating Disorders; Self-Injury: Bi-Polar; Couples Issues; Life transitions and many more more. I would describe myself as an interactive therapist, one who is engaged in the therapeutic process. I will play an active role in the therapy process. I would be described as a Cognitive Behavioral therapist. That means that we will review your past and present and consider how they have shaped your current patterns. Psychology Today said " Evidence has mounted that CBT can benefit numerous conditions, such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and many others. Research also indicates that CBT can be delivered effectively online, in addition to face-to-face therapy sessions." I look forward to getting to know you and work with you!

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Scott Heise

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180009662
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

Hello, My name is Scott Heise and I am a Licensed mental Health Therapist located in Freeport, Illinois. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in the Community Mental Health model. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology Trinity International University on Deerfield Illinois in 2009. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, mood disorders, post traumatic stress, personality disorders, substance use issues, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I have also worked with clients who struggle with stress, loss, abuse/neglect, and the frustrations of life. I would describe my approach as empathetic, goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Logo Therapy to help my clients set goals and objectives, work through their traumas, and feel empowered once they have met their goals. I enjoy helping people though their challenges in life. If you so desire, I can can provide counseling from a Christian perspective helping people and encouraging them to go deeper with God. I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment, using humor and prayer to work together and reach your goals. Everyone deserves to have someone they can trust and talk to; let me be that person for you. I look forward to working with you to help you meet your therapeutic goals.

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Elizabeth Eugea

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.000826
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
38 years of experience

I appreciate the courage and strength it takes to enter into a counseling relationship and the anxiety that may accompany reaching out to a stranger I am here to support and empower you in your journey to a better life. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) licensed in Illinois with over 36 years of experience in the counseling profession. I have helped clients with a wide variety of life challenges including ADHD, Abuse including Domestic Violence, Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Life Changes/Transitions, Panic and Panic Attacks, Relationship Issues, Self-esteem, Stress, and Work-related and Career Issues. It is my belief that sometimes it is a lack of skills that keep us stuck in life so I also teach therapeutic life skills to manage the difficulties in your life. I think of it as equipping you with tools for your "life skills toolbox". I engage in individual, couple, and family counseling with ages 7 through 99. I specialize in serving teachers and nurses, as well as victims and survivors of domestic violence. I believe in everyone's ability to grow and progress and I will join you on your journey to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. I highly respect the way each individual learns, changes, develops, and grows in their own unique way. I counsel with empathy and compassion and without judgment or condemnation. My goal is to provide a safe, peaceful, encouraging, uplifting, and respectful environment in which you can explore the challenges that interfere with you achieving your goals. My evidence-based counseling approach includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) from a person-centered and humanistic perspective. I am looking forward to helping you live your best life!

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DaVaughn Jackson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MO LPC 2009022179, IL LCPC 180006664
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
18 years of experience

Hi, Thank you for sharing information about yourself! I'm so happy that you reached out for help; it takes a lot of courage! I am DaVaughn Jackson, a licensed therapist. You can read more about my background, education, experience, and counseling approach by clicking on my name on this page. I appreciate you considering me for therapy!! Let's consider our first interaction as a consultation "try out" where you can see if I'm a good fit for you or not. But let me explain my response time and availability if you plan to continue. I have twenty, 30 minute sessions: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm. We can meet live via video, phone or chat sessions once per week for 30 minutes or 45 minutes max; anything further would be at additional cost to you. I will respond via text in the BetterHelp platform multiple times per day as needed. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or crisis, please report to the hospital of your choice, call 911 or 988. I like to provide education and homework related to your issues to drive our session discussions. Are you willing to complete assignments to address your issues? The BetterHelp platform offers a journal feature which may be helpful to assign for expressing your thoughts and feelings. Are you willing to complete journal entries if asked? Please let me know if these services work for you. Best Regards in Your Mental Health Journey! ~DaVaughn

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David Fox

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149020830, IA LISW 132994
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois and Indiana, I have spent most of my career working to help people that have experienced trauma understand their own narrative. Sometimes, life events occur in adulthood that necessitate short term intervention to assist us to process, understand and reset. My treatment approach involves not only listening, but more importantly, hearing exactly what each person chooses to tell me so that I can understand their unique issue and help them move forward. Your treatment plan will be created by you and for you so that the piece of you that has been impacted is made whole. I look forward to meeting you and working together to empower you to be excited about today, tomorrow and your future.

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Ellice Lewis

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: TX LPC 92598, IL LCPC 180017495
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Catholic Christian providing pastoral counseling, in love with the LORD, and looking forward to walking pathways drenched in grace with you!

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Dr. Susan Hanson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.010653
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
22 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate challenges related to stress, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, and personal growth. I offer a compassionate, affirming approach that honors each person's unique journey. My expertise spans a wide range of concerns, including communication difficulties, social anxiety, life transitions, family dynamics, and personal identity exploration. I am particularly committed to creating a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults, and those seeking a progressive, non-religious therapeutic space. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding individual experiences, whether you're dealing with workplace stress, relationship challenges, family conflicts, or personal growth obstacles. I strive to help clients develop stronger self-love, improve communication skills, and find meaningful connections in their lives. I believe in empowering individuals to discover their inner strength, overcome barriers, and create more fulfilling lives. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your specific needs and support your personal transformation.

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Vadim Sitnyakovskiy

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.008673
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, confidence, and depression. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Denise Mercherson's avatar and link to their profile

Denise Mercherson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149019311
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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 stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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.

This is Kendra Spiva's avatar and link to their profile

Kendra Spiva

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.028015
Stress, AnxietyGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping 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 stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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.

This is Jamie Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Jamie Smith

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149017940
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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 it is great that you are getting started!

This is Hyun Joo Kim's avatar and link to their profile

Hyun Joo Kim

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LMFT 166.012051, CA LMFT 53972
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Georgia, Illinois, Oregon and Washington with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Tanya Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Tanya Johnson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149030443
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Indiana, I bring 17 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating compassionate, culturally responsive spaces for healing across diverse life experiences. I specialize in addressing challenges related to depression, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach honors each person's unique journey, with a deep commitment to understanding individual experiences of social anxiety, isolation, life transitions, and interpersonal struggles. I offer supportive guidance for women, young adults, and individuals navigating multicultural experiences, workplace challenges, and personal transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop resilient communication skills, process difficult emotions, and cultivate self-compassion. My work is grounded in respect, empathy, and a collaborative approach that empowers clients to discover their inner strengths and create meaningful change.

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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