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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Marsha Perfetti-McIntosh

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC,MA,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Your personal growth and your well-being are important! I am so glad that you are willing to take the first step by seeking out a licensed therapist to help you on this journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a MS in Health and an MA in Counseling with more than twenty years teaching experience in the areas of health and human sexuality. For nearly thirty years while working for a non-profit agency, I aided individuals between the ages of 18 and 50 as they faced major life changes and role adjustments. If you are seeking clarity in some areas of your life, if you want to learn new techniques to cope with difficult situations, or if you'd like to focus on personal growth~ counseling is a positive choice! I utilize evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I have helped those facing adjustment disorders, dealing with chronic stress, struggling with relationship challenges and coping with both anxiety and depression. Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to supporting and encouraging individuals as they address concerns, build on their strengths, and reach their goals. I treat everyone with sensitivity, compassion, and respect. My response time for initial first contact is within 24 hours of request and live sessions are available Monday through Friday between 9am and 3pm. I look forward to working with you!

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Tabitha Peppmuller

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) with 12 years of experience. Most of that time I have worked with anxiety and attention issues with families, parents, children and adults. I also have knowledge working on general mental health, stress, anger, and recently have done a dive into post-partum depression and women's issues. I value my relationships with clients and handling their needs with care and understanding, while still motivating for changes they seek to make in their own life. I believe that each person has the right to feel comfortable in their own skin. As a therapist I do a lot of listening (and reading) and focus a lot on challenging thoughts and inner dialogue. I will provide a warm and safe environment and like to look at both traditional therapeutic interventions as well as some unique perspectives and insights based on each persons comfort and circumstance. I believe that nature and the outdoors can be exceptionally healing and that can be found in my practice as well. I look forward to learning and helping more if I am the right person for you.

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Todd Nelson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

Hello, my name is Todd Nelson. I grew up and currently live in Central Illinois. I began work in as a millwright/carpenter until the job market faltered in the early 80s. It was time to go back to school. With a wife and child, I opted to join the Air Force to help with those expenses. After Desert storm and 10 years of active duty, I left the military. While working on my Master's degree in counseling, I worked as an on-call therapist for an out-patient mental health clinic. I went on to become a full-time therapist with that clinic until I went on as a therapist at an in- patient facility for youth. After a few years there, I went back to my former clinic. In 2009, I took a full time position as Mental Health Professional within the Illinois Department of Corrections. In total, I have 29 years of experience in the mental health field. If I were to describe my counseling approach, I would have to say that everyone has their own "ship to sail throughout life and my purpose is to help the captain navigate". Within that description, I would say I use a person centered, solution focused approach. I am very laid back and I don't get caught up in citing any schools of psychology or therapy; what I call psychobabble. My other interests outside the field are motorcycling and wood working. Currently, I am accepting new clients, though there are no evening openings. If you are interested in setting an appointment, please let me know your preference for time to meet. Do not schedule appointments, as I do my own scheduling. Let's chat.

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Jennifer Piester

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental health, education, and corrections. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self harm and suicidal ideations, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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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Jason Rohacs

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and North Carolina with over 20 years of professional work experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, couple, family and relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and grief and loss. I get to know you as a unique individual and this understanding powers your path forward. I listen more than I talk, but I also frequently give out of session assignments that are tailored just for you. I am deeply spiritual yet I make our sessions solely about you, what you believe and what you want to address and change. You are always put first and will feel heard, understood and welcomed.

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Brenda Post

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
25 years of experience

I have been a clinician for 25 years and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois as well as the State of Tennessee. I have both Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Illinois Social Work, Urbana, IL. I provide counseling and assessment for adults and have extensive experience working with elderly and Veteran individuals with diverse and complicated issues. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, relationships, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey by providing a secure, attentive, and supportive environment.

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Bethany Besand

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan and Missouri with 13 years of professional work experience as a licensed therapist though I have been in the social service field for over 25 years. 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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Jessica Hobart

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin with 4 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, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Shannon Flynn

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Beth Williams

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am passionate about helping the clients I serve as they navigate life challenges. With nearly two decades of experience in wilderness settings as well as clinical settings, I have helped my clients with trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, addiction, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, aging, and family dynamics. I seek to build a connection of trust, understanding, and empathy with my clients. Listening to your concerns and helping you discover the best path for your circumstances is always my primary focus. I use a variety of techniques in treatment, tailoring to best meet the individual needs of the client. Some of my favorites combine mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy such as meditation, mindfulness practices, identifying unproductive thought patterns and reshaping them to create new behavioral patterns.

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Francesca Cooley

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Indiana, Georgia,Minnesota, and Texas with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Lisa Leong

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello! I am a trained clinical social worker with 16 years of experience. My experience is in major hospital systems in New York City, Houston, and New Jersey and the past three years specifically servicing BetterHelp subscribers. Most of my experience involves bringing tranquility, organization, and resolution to very complex and emotional situations. I utilize cultural sensitivity and my experience to navigate diverse backgrounds and work through the challenges being faced. In my work, I have been involved during times of stress and anxiety, challenging relationships, life changes, and many more. My goal is to listen to what is causing stress and offer the support needed to overcome it or manage it better. I hope to offer some tools to utilize in navigating these challenging situations for a more optimal outcome. I have traveled to various cities such as Bangkok, Paris, Madrid, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Cancun, Caribbean, London, Amsterdam, San Diego, Chicago, Oklahoma City, Memphis, Orlando, San Francisco, Montreal, Calgary, Banff, Edmonton, and more. During my travels, I mainly focus on learning about the culture and understanding the history of the area and its people. My passion is to help and coach people to be their best selves!

How can therapists in Illinois support you?

Therapists in Illinois can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 11,181,370 people live in Illinois, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in Illinois may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that BetterHelp does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why are many residents in the state of Illinois working with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county in Illinois, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

Mental health counselors in Illinois support clients with varying issues, which can include:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some commonly asked questions can be found below.

How much does a therapist cost?

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

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

How do I know if I should get a therapist?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions in Illinois can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy safe?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

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