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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Aundrea "Andie" Moss

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149022082
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hi and Welcome to Better Help! Reaching out for help is a big step and being someone you can easily talk to is something I find essential. My name is Andie Moss and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor located in Chicago, Illinois. My experience has been in a variety of settings including, residential treatment centers, outpatient treatment centers, hospitals, and home based services. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from Loyola University of Chicago. My experience includes working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, and mood disorders. I have also worked with children who have experienced abuse and neglect as well as individuals facing end of life. My approach includes meeting clients with patience, love, and empathy. I do this by approaching our work together with a strength based and person centered lens. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution focused therapy, Strengths Based therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational interviewing to meet you where you are at on your healing journey. My goal is to empower you to live your best life. I am looking forward to our work together and holding the space for you to feel like the best version of yourself. - Andie Moss, LCSW, CADC

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Jana Grooms

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.006514, FL LMHC MH17506
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

Hello, and welcome. I’m glad you’re here. I’m a licensed therapist in both Florida and Illinois with more than 20 years of experience helping clients navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, grief, and major life transitions. I’m a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) trained clinician, and hold the MCAP (Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional) credential. My style is warm, steady, and non-judgmental. I want therapy to feel like a safe place where you can be honest without fear of criticism or pressure. You don’t need to have everything figured out — you just need a space to breathe and someone who understands what it feels like to carry too much for too long. I use a trauma-informed, individualized approach that often includes CBT, solution-focused strategies, and mind-body techniques. With ART, I can help you process distressing memories and emotional triggers in a gentle, accelerated way that many clients find effective when they’ve felt stuck for years. know reaching out for support can feel intimidating, especially if you’re used to being the strong one. You deserve support, too. I’ll meet you with respect, compassion, and practical tools to help you feel more grounded and in control. Together, we’ll work toward healing and toward the life you want to build — at a pace that feels right for you. Whenever you’re ready, I’m here. I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Cassandra April

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180002527
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am an African American female located in the Chicago land area. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor, adjunct professor, and author that has been in the field of counseling for over 30 years. As a therapist who is also a Christian, I assist people in the areas of faith and spiritual matters, if requested. I do not operate according to the medical model and don't work with issues pertaining to psychotropic medications or imbalanced brain chemistry. I operate from the perspective that we all have choices and need to make healthy ones in order to live mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy lives.

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Marla Ferguson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149017002
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Janet Craig

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149-000531
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
35 years of experience

Hello! Janet Craig here. I come to Betterhelp with 30+ years of social work/advocacy/counseling experience. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked in a variety of settings (child welfare, hospice, and the schools), and am comfortable helping people of all ages explore what makes them tick, what causes them pain, and how they can best take care of themselves. Being a human being is hard work no matter your age or life experience. I am especially skilled in helping parents with a variety of parenting issues, and have a passion for working with parents of teenagers. Raising a family is one of life's biggest and most important challenges. I'm here to help parents navigate new territory as their kids grow through adolescence. As a bereavement counselor, I have helped individuals and families cope with loss and it's resulting aftermath. Grief can feel very lonely and overwhelming at times. Sometimes it helps to sort out thoughts and feelings with someone outside the family. That's where I come in. My approach is one of compassion, careful listening, and guiding individuals toward meeting goals that they set for themselves. I firmly believe that people have the capacity to heal themselves, and that no one has to make that journey alone. My approach to my life and profession is that of acceptance, respect and kindness. The bumper sticker on my car says, “Human kind (be both).” My life's motto. EXPERTISE parenting grief/loss stress management relationship issues self-esteem anxiety coping skills

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Mary Rodriguez

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.022998
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello There! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, I have worked in crisis intervention for the past 7years which includes working hospital settings. I have worked with clients with a wide range of crises including, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, OCD, PTSD, post-partum depression, and life challenges. My counseling style is open, and interactive, I believe that not everyone falls under one certain labels and I treat everyone with respect, and compassion. Of course I will tailor our treatment plan and discussions to meet your uniquely specific needs, but approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic, and solution focused therapy. Its a very empowering and rewarding moment that you want to take in order to live a more health life, and I am ready to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Ramona Hickey

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180017236
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a licensed Illinois therapist with seven years of professional experience. I have a heart for helping clients navigate stress and anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and family conflicts. As a Christian therapist, my approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and the belief that healing and growth are possible through both clinical insight and spiritual support. Therapeutically, I take an eclectic approach—blending evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address unhelpful thought patterns, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to build emotional regulation and interpersonal skills, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients align their actions with their deepest values. When clients desire, I also incorporate spiritual reflection and Christian principles as part of the healing process, fostering both inner peace and personal growth. Meaningful change takes time, care, and collaboration. Therapy isn’t a quick fix—it’s a process of building trust, exploring patterns, and learning practical tools to create lasting transformation. I take time to build a strong foundation with each client because lasting progress begins with safety and understanding. As we move forward, I integrate evidence-based strategies to help you reframe unhelpful thoughts, strengthen emotional awareness, and develop healthier ways of responding to life’s challenges. Growth happens in stages—and my role is to walk beside you through each one, helping you find clarity, confidence, and renewed purpose along the way. I aim to provide a supportive and respectful environment where your faith and personal values can be part of the counseling journey, if you choose. Our conversations and treatment plan will be thoughtfully shaped around your individual needs and goals. Taking the first step toward a more peaceful and purposeful life takes courage. I’m here to walk alongside you in that journey with care and encouragement.

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Lauren Oestmann

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.014605
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Welcome! First I would like to commend you on reaching out for help, as I know this can be the most challenging part. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and struggles. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 15 years of experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with families, children and teens, in residential substance abuse, private practice, adoption preservation and corrections. My style can be described as client centered, strength based and solution focused. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused therapy, mindfulness and solution - focused therapy. If you have any questions feel free to reach out by message through Better Help. I look forward to working with you soon.

This is Ellice Lewis's avatar and link to their profile

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!

This is Susan Mellema's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Mellema

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.011313
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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. 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 Sherry Coleman's avatar and link to their profile

Sherry Coleman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.008033
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence issues. I also have experience working with healthy boundaries and 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.

This is Lapree Crawford's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Maria Osmanski's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Osmanski

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149020523
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients work through depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and challenges with self-esteem. I understand that emotional healing is a deeply personal journey, and I'm committed to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences. My therapeutic work focuses on addressing communication difficulties, feelings of isolation, guilt, shame, and struggles with personal control. I believe in empowering clients to develop healthier emotional patterns and build resilience. Through collaborative, evidence-based techniques, I support individuals in understanding their inner experiences and developing meaningful strategies for personal growth. Every person's path to healing is unique, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional expertise. Together, we can work towards understanding your challenges and creating positive, sustainable changes in your life.

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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