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. Meredith Hayes's avatar and link to their profile

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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Leah Pavela-Mullins

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149022843, FL LCSW SW7224
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Paula Alvarez

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.023704, MO LCSW 2016036974
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
35 years of experience

Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.

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Marco Nozicka

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149001824, FL LCSW SW17139
Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
40 years of experience

Hello and congratulations on making this important investment in yourself and your future. As the saying goes " the longest journey begins with a single step." Thank you for considering me to support you in your journey. I am a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) an International Coaching Federation (ICF) trained Professional Coach, and a certified Hypnotherapist through the International Association of Counselors and Therapists (IACT). I have over 40 years of experience as a psychotherapist in a variety of cultures including the Caribbean Region and other diverse areas of the United States. I am a graduate of the renowned Jane Adams School of Social Work at the University of Illinois, Chicago Campus, where I studied various models of psychological approaches including one year post-graduate study with the now international expert in family therapy, Dr. Richard Schwartz, Ph.D. I provide a safe, comfortable and confidential environment for self discovery and reflection. I work with individuals, and couples and incorporate motivational, rapid-development forward thinking solution focused approaches in my work. As a Professional Coach and former international executive, I am also skilled in working with individuals who would like to enhance their career opportunities , or performance, within their current companies or who are seeking a career transition. I am certified as a Mediation and Mindfulness Facilitator and have been a dedicated teacher and practitioner of meditation for over three decades. I integrate solution-focused, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive therapy, and mindfulness based stress reduction with hypnosis (as indicated) and have a passion for helping my clients set clear goals and create realistic, inspired, and imaginative approaches to the areas of their lives that they want to change. I apply hypnotherapy approaches for habit and behavioral change that includes weight loss, smoking cessation, and anxiety reduction and other unproductive behaviors. My belief is that all humans have the potential to achieve their dreams and passions and have the strengths, both known, and yet to be discovered, to create a rich, full and purposeful life. I am a long distance, cyclist, a dedicated health enthusiast and a performing musician. I like to incorporate a creative and comprehensive mind-body approach to all of my work. I look forward to the privilege of assisting you in your journey of self-discovery and unimagined potential. Thank you for considering my services.

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Jessica Sance

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.013314
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

My name is Jessica Noemi Sance, I am a clinical therapist with 11 years of experience working in the field of mental health. I am a firm believer that we all are trying our best in life and everyone can benefit in engaging with a therapist. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and guides clients to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to have a more meaningful life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ante/post-partum depression, HIV/AIDS, microaggressions, relationship challenges, self-esteem, domestic violence and trauma. I am transparent and down to earth. I enjoy being a safe place for clients to share their life with. In my down time, I love spending time with family along with food to share as well as, playing and dancing with my almost three year old son. I look forward to working with you.

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Corliss Ivy

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.009200
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page! My name is Corliss Ivy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, with over 18 years of experience caring for people. I work closely with people who want to take the best care of themselves as possible, and identify barriers that interfere with their ability to create the life they want. I have an bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a master's degree in Counseling & Human Services from Roosevelt University in Chicago, Illinois. I completed post-graduate training in the Advanced Psychodynamic Fellowship in Clinical Practice with the University of Chicago, Social Service Administration. I celebrate clients' unique strengths and motives towards self-care. While I integrate the latest findings in psychodynamic psychotherapy, interpersonal neurobiology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness, the core of my work center around partnering with clients to build a therapeutic relationship where they feel safe, supported, and deeply valued. I welcome questions, thoughts, or an opportunity to connect and think together about how I can best support you!

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Christopher "Chris" Dueker

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.005614
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping individuals, couples, and families seeking help to resolve some of their problems with conflict, adjusting to life event stressors, recovering from trauma to become survivors and not victims. Furthermore, I like to help others with addictions of practically every kind to change their habits with replacement thoughts, behaviors, and actions that improve their sense of purpose in life and handling their emotions rather than avoiding them with their maladaptive behaviors. A majority of my training and experience has been on helping clients incorporate positive communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and improve upon their ability to stop negative thinking habits that tend to interfere with change.

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Stephen Edwards

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149020655, NC LCSW C013537
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with experience in the social services field for over 10 years. My passion is working with people to help them grow, reach their potential, set healthy boundaries with others, and know their worth. I enjoy working with men and women. I believe that there are times in life when a little extra help and support can be tremendous, and a therapeutic relationship can truly make a difference in a person’s life during those times. In regard to scheduling, I tend to schedule my meetings with people directly as I have limited availability. Additionally, I require video sessions to meet with clients that I am working with. Please be prepared to meet by video, be stationary, and in a private location. I don't complete sessions while people are driving or with others around to protect privacy and reduce the possibility of a distracted driver incident.

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Carla Dumas

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.005817
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
31 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & parenting issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Donna Beichel

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.006051
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & relationship issues. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 Sandra Estimable's avatar and link to their profile

Sandra Estimable

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: NY LMHC 011901, IL LCPC 180.017546
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental health Counselor within the state of New York. I have over 10 years of experience working with populations of all kinds providing vocational, spiritual, CBT/DBT, and motivational interviewing counseling. I have a person-centered approach guiding clients to their goals. We cannot solve problems using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them. - Albert Einstein.

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Taleatha Welch

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.024535
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

It has always been my desire to serve and bring out the best in people. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts, holding a Master’s in Social Work and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. Growing up in a home where addiction was present, I faced anxiety and depression at an early age. Those experiences shaped my understanding of pain, resilience, and the importance of breaking cycles. I chose a different path; one dedicated to healing, understanding, and helping others do the same. My journey into the human mind and functioning began with curiosity and has evolved into a lifelong passion for guiding others toward growth and balance. My therapeutic approach honors the unique experiences of each individual, particularly focusing on self-love, stress management, and healing through grief and challenging life stages. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotional well-being and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I am dedicated to walking alongside clients during their most vulnerable moments. My work is grounded in understanding, respect, and a genuine belief in each person's capacity for resilience and transformation. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and do the work, I would be honored to join you on that journey. Specialties • Anxiety • Trauma • Grief & Bereavement Evidence-Based Approaches • Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

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

Eric Crawford

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.007671
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

This is Jill Yerkes's avatar and link to their profile

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.

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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