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. John Cooley's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. John Cooley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180007169
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
32 years of experience

My name is Dr. John Cooley. I have a Master of Arts Degree in Psychological Counseling from Southeast Missouri State University and Ph.D in Psychology from California Southern University. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and I am a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. I have 25 years of counseling experience working with Adults and Families who present with a variety of mental health and substance abuse problems. I have worked in outpatient and hospital settings. My treatment approach is very eclectic. I draw from a lot of counseling theories that can best fit a person's needs. Some of those include Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Treatment. I believe that clients have the resources within them to make positive changes so as to improve the quality of their lives. I provide a warm compassionate approach to counseling and want my clients to feel that they have been heard, validated and understood. At the same time I help clients find solutions to their problems and learn valuable coping skills to manage the problems they are experiencing. I look forward to working with you!

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Donald Shawler

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180005917
Stress, AnxietyLGBTAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Donald (Don) Shawler ia a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who uses an integrative approach to working with adults dealing with depression, anxiety and other mental health problems. This integrative approach involves a person centered technique to help clients identify and address issues in an accepting, non-judgmental and safe environment. Using Cognitive based techniques, clients are taught to re-frame thoughts that hold them back and impact emotional and mental well being. Mr. Shawler also helps clients address anger issues by teaching anger management skills. With over 20 years of experience, Mr. Shawler has been successful working with many individuals dealing with a wide range of issues.

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Edilberto (Bert) Bibat

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.002057
AddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Bert Bibat. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I have been working in the field of counseling and psychotherapy for over 25 years and continue to find my work personally rewarding. I currently maintain a private practice in DesPlaines, Illinois where I provide Individual, Couples, Family and Group therapy for those suffering with chemical and behavioral addictions, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship and family issues, anger management, and parenting skills therapy/training. Although my professional education and training have provided me with the intellectual skills and theoretical constructs which guide me in my work, I see myself as a therapist who counsels from the heart. I draw inspiration from my own life experiences and my own spiritual journey; both positive and negative. In providing a safe, supportive, and genuinely caring environment, you are free to openly express your concerns without fear of judgement. When trust is nurtured and established in the client/therapist relationship, insight and change happen. It is then that true emotional and spiritual healing can begin. I hope to gain your trust! I look forward to hearing from you.

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Dr. Athena Porter

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.002727
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

Welcome! I am a person, who like many other human beings, has skills and talents. As a qualified mental health care provider with a doctorate in Clinical/Community Psychology, I have been using my talents to help people afflicted with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychological disorders. While I appreciate the wide-range benefits of an eclectic approach, I prefer and tend to apply cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and sociocultural models in counseling and therapy sessions. I view life as a journey in which we, as human beings, use our mind, body, and spirit to solve problems, overcome adversity, and enjoy life. Besides helping people alleviate symptoms derived from mental illness, I provide support for personal growth within the context life coaching and wellness sessions. The span of my career is more than twenty years. The local and global scopes of my vision as a healer, have led me to provide community psychology services in Chicagoland, numerous cities in other parts of the United States, and Ghana (Africa). These community-wide services entail conducting presentations at community health fairs, disseminating information for various type of awareness campaigns (examples: suicide prevention, domestic violence, PTSD, HIV/AIDS, smoking cessation, substance abuse, and Covid19). Moreover, I have imparted information about mental health through the media. I love providing psychological services! I am grateful to be gifted as a healer! Furthermore, I look forward to serving you! Enjoy balance in body, mind, and spirit, Dr. Athena Porter

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Cheri Sinnott Springer

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149003655
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

Hello! Thank you for choosing to read my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with experience serving a wide variety of populations. I teach Introduction to Counseling and Introduction to Social Work (wrote the text for that class) at a local community college. I have been a Board Member of NASW (National Association of Social Workers) and am an instructor for the Licensure Exam Preparation Class. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Although I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, I do lean heavily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I also incorporate effective communication strategies and provide support in identifying additional resources outside of our time together. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I look forward to the possibility of working with you. Cheri Sinnott Springer, LCSW

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Nicholas Smith

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180010190
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

If you’re feeling stuck, unmotivated, frustrated, hopeless, lost or ready for a life pivot; you’ve come to the right place. I can help you find a way to live in accordance to your values and goals, by helping manage your emotions more effectively. Sessions will provide insight into how your own thought processes work and identification of where some of your thought processes begin, and how to challenge them for growth. From practicing in the student counseling center at Moody Bible Institute, hospital inpatient psychiatric unit, private practice, and a drug & alcohol addiction treatment center, I bring dedication alongside my strong and varied experiences to help you or your loved one. Being a counselor means more to me than a job, it is an interest in the psychology and philosophy, but most of all, helping my clients. Whether life seems difficult right now or you are noticing an area that needs addressed or explored, my goal is to walk alongside in your journey with compassion and professional insight. I use a variety of theories and approaches to fit each individual, and look forward to working with you as you start your pivoting journey.

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William Edleman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149002574
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
32 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, career difficulties, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Lori Mattix

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.000371
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
37 years of experience

I have been a licensed clinical social worker for 35 years. I have experience providing individual , group, and family counseling to teens, adults and families. I have background in the areas of anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management and foster care and adoption. I truly enjoy working with people and my goal is to assist my clients in managing a variety of concerns . It is important to me to establish a safe, non-judgmental environment, and to show respect to all my clients. I don't have one approach I utilize, as I feel everyone is an individual and it is important to develop a plan once I have your input and together we decide on the direction your counseling will take. I recognize that for some, deciding to attend counseling can be a challenge. I am here to provide the support, flexibility and trust you need to succeed. Once you choose to begin counseling to address the concerns you have, I will be there to assist and support you in the process.

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Lisa Leong

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: AZ LCSW LCSW-22269, IL LCSW 027568
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

My approach is supportive and practical, focused on making real, steady progress in ways that feel sustainable. I work with individuals navigating a range of concerns, including anxiety, workplace stress, social anxiety, low self-esteem, communication challenges, conflict avoidance, perfectionism, people pleasing, relationship dynamics, identity questions, grief, and life changes. My goal is to help you feel more connected to yourself and more grounded in the life you want to create. Together, we’ll find tools that work for you so you can meet future challenges with more clarity and confidence. People are complex, and each person brings their own history, strengths, and struggles. I meet you where you are, stay steady through the hard parts, and keep the work collaborative and respectful.

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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.

This is Darwin Allen's avatar and link to their profile

Darwin Allen

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180004266
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, and abuse, & as motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe in finding the root issues behind the problems and resolving them. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Kathleen Griffin's avatar and link to their profile

Kathleen Griffin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.010989
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with life transitions. Additionally, I help with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Patricia Presley's avatar and link to their profile

Patricia Presley

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149029483, MO LCSW 2022032372
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 3 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 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 Juanita Dunn's avatar and link to their profile

Juanita Dunn

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180002259
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & 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 I am proud of you for getting started!

Find Therapy Near You in Illinois

Finding a licensed therapist near you in Illinois can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

With a population of 11,181,370, Illinois is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Illinois, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Illinois (IL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Knox, McDonough, Washington, DuPage, Ogle, Franklin, Whiteside, Clinton, Edwards, Mercer, Warren, McHenry, Madison, Wabash, Moultrie, Champaign, Marion, St. Clair, Henry, Scott, Cook, Effingham, Union, Vermilion, Lee, McLean, Rock Island, Crawford, Lake, Jo Daviess, Will, Douglas, Cass, Macon, Bureau, Tazewell, Kankakee, Iroquois, Coles, Christian, Fulton, Menard, Logan, Sangamon, Hancock, Kane, Jackson, LaSalle, Randolph, Wayne, Pike, Peoria, Calhoun, Mason, Woodford, Johnson, Hamilton, Jefferson, Boone, Piatt, Macoupin, Adams, Henderson, Lawrence, Fayette, Jasper, Edgar, Kendall, Grundy, Stark, Massac, Pope, Schuyler, White, Williamson, Montgomery, Ford, Alexander, Richland, Livingston, Saline, Greene, Clark, Hardin, Stephenson, Carroll, Morgan, Winnebago, Clay, De Witt, Monroe, DeKalb, Gallatin, Shelby, Perry, Jersey, Pulaski, Putnam, Cumberland, Bond, Marshall, Brown, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Illinois with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Illinois

When searching for a therapist near me in Illinois, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Illinois, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Illinois.

Finding a therapist near you that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in Illinois want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Illinois without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Illinois (IL)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in Illinois

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Illinois, including residents in Knox, McDonough, Washington, DuPage, Ogle, Franklin, Whiteside, Clinton, Edwards, Mercer, Warren, McHenry, Madison, Wabash, Moultrie, Champaign, Marion, St. Clair, Henry, Scott, Cook, Effingham, Union, Vermilion, Lee, McLean, Rock Island, Crawford, Lake, Jo Daviess, Will, Douglas, Cass, Macon, Bureau, Tazewell, Kankakee, Iroquois, Coles, Christian, Fulton, Menard, Logan, Sangamon, Hancock, Kane, Jackson, LaSalle, Randolph, Wayne, Pike, Peoria, Calhoun, Mason, Woodford, Johnson, Hamilton, Jefferson, Boone, Piatt, Macoupin, Adams, Henderson, Lawrence, Fayette, Jasper, Edgar, Kendall, Grundy, Stark, Massac, Pope, Schuyler, White, Williamson, Montgomery, Ford, Alexander, Richland, Livingston, Saline, Greene, Clark, Hardin, Stephenson, Carroll, Morgan, Winnebago, Clay, De Witt, Monroe, DeKalb, Gallatin, Shelby, Perry, Jersey, Pulaski, Putnam, Cumberland, Bond, Marshall, Brown.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Illinois do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times for online therapy may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

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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