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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Bernice Banks

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149009745
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with an extensive and diverse experience working with adults, children, couples, and families. I earned my master’s degree from the University of Chicago in Illinois in 1997. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University in Illinois with a major in psychology. I enjoy the work I do and have worked in both the public and private sectors in the fields of social services and mental health. Having worked with children and families and the many challenges they face for more than 20 years, I know that the decision to seek professional help can often be a very difficult one. If you are trying to make that decision right now, it may help you to know that I am someone who is not here to judge you, and who really believes that there is a way out for you that together we can find. You have already taken the most important step by acknowledging that, for now, this is something you cannot handle alone. I have been in private practice for the past 12 years and currently specialize in marriage, couples and family therapy. I also have a background in child and adolescent mental health and have worked with families extensively around these issues. Other areas of expertise include Grief and Loss, Depression, Stress, and Anxiety, My approach to therapy is that it should be used as a tool to provide the knowledge, help, and support needed to understand problems and develop skills to cope with them. I use Cognitive Behavioral techniques to help clients develop insight and new skills.. Most importantly, I want to empower my clients so that they are able to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences, make informed choices about what actions they need to take, and develop skills that will help them handle difficult situations in the future. Working together, I believe we can accomplish those goals.

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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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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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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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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.

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Grace Hobson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180013035
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
7 years of experience

Grace Hobson was born and raised in the South Suburbs of Chicago. Grace attended Saint Xavier University, in Chicago, Illinois and majored in Psychology. In 2009, Grace received a Bachelor of Science degree. Afterwards, she got accepted in the graduate program at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology (Argosy University), Chicago campus. At Argosy, Grace decided to study Counseling. During her graduate work, she did an early internship at Calumet Counseling, where she provided treatment plans and counseling for individuals with substance abuse related issues. She finished up her internship field work at Unity Parenting and Counseling where she provided counseling for individuals with HIV/AIDS. In 2013, Grace received a Masters of Arts degree in Community Counseling. Grace has provided therapy to victims of domestic violence, human trafficking , persons with histories of various trauma. Grace is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Grace specializes in issues surrounding anxiety, depression, death, grief and loss. Grace's overall goal in counseling is to build a great working relationship with you and to give you the interpersonal tools you need to be be well and effective. Grace understands that navigating the planet earth is scary. Counseling and therapy can help you develop a personal map that works for you! Grace's counseling approach overall is psycho dynamic. Psychodynamic Therapy Psychodynamic therapy focuses on self-awareness of the patient's actions and behaviors. Psychodynamic therapy is like CBT in that it works to understand how beliefs, thoughts, behavior, and emotions are interconnected. However, it focuses on the unconscious beliefs and emotions that tend to trigger the negative thoughts, emotions, and behavior, rather than conscious, automatic thoughts that occur in initial reaction to situations. (Betterhelp.com, 2020) Grace's style is very warm, positive, energetic and caring. One of her life time goals is to provide affordable and confidential mental health services to those who may not have traditional access to mental health providers.

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Herbert Stricklin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180-003022
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
35 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, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Ross Lafleur

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.015153
Stress, AnxietyDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) with 9 years of experience working directly with clients. I have worked in private practice and hospital settings with a very wide variety of populations. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. My approach is broadly cognitive-behavioral with a particular emphasis on mindfulness-based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I have personal experience in the performing arts so I do understand some of the unique concerns of artists as well. 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! Education: MS in Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

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Sarah Lamie

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149016693
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 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, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Vasiliki Stratikopoulou

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149027865
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, holistic care that addresses a wide range of life challenges. I have extensive experience helping clients work through depression, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, trauma, and grief. My therapeutic practice focuses on empowering individuals to develop deeper self-understanding and resilience. I'm particularly passionate about supporting clients through transitions like workplace challenges, midlife shifts, and personal transformations. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, processing difficult life experiences, or seeking to enhance personal growth, I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space. I believe in tailoring treatment to each person's unique journey, drawing from evidence-based approaches to help you build meaningful connections, overcome emotional barriers, and rediscover your inner strength. My goal is to walk alongside you as you develop healthier coping strategies and move toward greater emotional well-being.

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Daniaja Davis-Chambers

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

I am licensed in Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with transitions, anxiety, relationship issues, religious trauma, and postpartum mental health concerns. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Amanda Halawa-Mahdi's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Halawa-Mahdi

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149010179
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, & executive coaching. I have extensive experience working with teens and their families in the juvenile justice system with an emphasis on behavior change techniques ranging from general defiance to serious criminal activity including sexual offenses. I am also trained as a Professional Coach through the Co-Active Training Institute, where I empower leaders to develop confidence, align their values, develop increased self-awareness and enhance their decision making skills. I also have extensive knowledge in diversity, equity and inclusion and actively work to dismantle personal and systemic biases and promote fairness in my practice. 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.

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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 Patrick Miranda's avatar and link to their profile

Patrick Miranda

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180015417
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Nebraska – Omaha. I have worked in multiple treatment settings, including residential and outpatient services for substance use disorders. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families with a range of therapeutic issues, including addiction, mood disorders, trauma, and suicidality. I especially enjoy working with those in the LGBTQ+ community. I believe no one should have to struggle alone, and I am blessed with the privilege of watching people grow. I enjoy those small moments in therapy when someone gains clarity about themselves. I think life is hard, and it’s okay to ask for help. In my work, I utilize a blend of CBT and DBT with Existential theories. I find that understanding our beliefs, values, and thoughts helps to navigate life in a healthier manner. In my personal life, I read a lot and enjoy playing video games.

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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