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. James (Jimmy) Clifton's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. James (Jimmy) Clifton

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.002153, VT LCMHC 068.0135294
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

My name is Dr. James W. Clifton. I am licensed in the State of Indiana as a Mental Health Counselor and as a Clinical Social Worker. I am also licensed in Idaho (LCPC), Vermont (LCMHC), Utah (CMHC), Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Georgia as a Licensed Professional Counselor, and in New Hampshire as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I have a Master of Science in Psychology from California Coast University, a Master of Science in Health Services with a Concentration in Community Heath from California College of Heath Sciences, and a Doctor of Arts in Theology and Chaplaincy from JJBIHL. I teach clients how to change their thinking, be responsible for their feelings, and make better choices. I look forward to working 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. 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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Myrna Pledger

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.006251
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years of experience

I was trained as a Community Counselor and as such, I am prepared to work with the issues and concerns that occur with individuals and families in the community, and everyone lives in a community. As you can imagine, there are not many individual situations I have not encountered. In the beginning of my career, I worked with children behaving violently or inappropriately in school environments primarily. I realized that the child experiencing mental health difficulties is a member of a family experiencing mental health difficulties as a system. I believe that most maladaptive behavior is learned from the family environment or may be from inherited tendencies. I also believe that many problems you see in both children and adults are the results of having to be in close proximity to someone who is a narcissist or someone who is exhibiting enough narcissistic traits to be dangerous to those with whom they associate. I am licensed in the state of Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have over 10 years of experience working as a Counselor. I specialize in treating survivors of narcissistic abuse both mental, spiritual and physical. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I am faith-based as I myself believe it is important to recognize The Creator when attempting to offer help to His people. My therapy style is truth-based, educationally focused and kind. I believe in treating anyone in the manner that I would want to be treated if I was in their situation. I don't believe in labels, but I do believe in presenting examples of others who have overcome similar circumstances. I am primarily faith or Christian based. I am solutions focused and combine cognitive-behavioral and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Charlotte Newsom

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180013326
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, my name is Charlotte D. Newsom. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have thirty years of progressive experience in the field of mental health. Twenty of those years, I functioned as a psychotherapist working with individuals, specifically veterans who have chronic mental illnesses such as PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, and many other disorders. I have an extensive background working with clients with symptomatic issues such as suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, and child abuse/neglect. Besides, interpersonal matters, couples relationship issues, parenting problems, child neglect/abuse, and emotional/physical abuse. My professional history includes having a Master's Degree in Clinical Professional Psychology, and as stated above, I am a Licensed Clinical Profession Counselor (LCPC). I have an honorary membership with Roosevelt University Psi Chi Honor Society. And most recently, and for many years that past was awarded an Outstanding Performance Appraisal from the Jesse Brown VA Hospital for my exceptional clinical skills, dedication to excellence, and having a professional and compassionate relationship with patients and staff. My counseling techniques consist of being a good listener and fully understanding your emotions and reasoning. I have a flair for counseling that requires flexibility and attentiveness to develop coping skills to strengthen your abilities to succeed. I approach therapy by combining short-term and long-term treatment planning to meet your specific need. Your treatment plan will include integrating evidence-based treatment using the best available data with clinical knowledge and expertise while considering your personal needs and preferences. For example, short-term therapy consists of cognitive-behavioral therapy, behavior therapy, reality therapy for problem-solving, motivational enhancement therapy for addiction-related issues, and psychoeducation to improve insight into multiple problems. At the same time, long-term treatment may combine client-centered treatment that focuses on empathy and positive regard, psychodynamic therapy, and free association techniques to engage the client to talk. It takes courage to attend therapy, and it takes dedication to see it through. Just remember each day brings about new opportunities for change. So, let's work together to explore your goals for therapy; thank you.

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Angela Mitchell

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180014052
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Hello, my name is Angela Mitchell and I have Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has had the privilege of gaining counseling experience for over 14 years in a variety of Mental Health settings. I have experience in counseling individuals, couples and facilitating groups. Some of the modalities that I may include in therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. My goal is to encourage you and walk with you in order to help aid you with finding balance in your life. Change for the better can sometimes be challenging but the payoff has the potential to resolve issues, experience greater clarity, confidence, and certainty. I look forward to meeting and working with you!

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Nicholas Smith

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180010190
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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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Juanette Plato

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180014671, IN LMHC 39004915A
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Cathalene Silver

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180002821, IL LMFT 166000506
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

As a seasoned therapist with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on creating a compassionate, affirming space for clients navigating diverse experiences, including LGBTQ+ identities, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress, and interpersonal challenges. My approach is particularly attuned to the unique needs of individuals experiencing social anxiety, workplace stress, life purpose exploration, and emotional healing. I'm committed to supporting clients through transitions like midlife changes, young adult challenges, and relationship transformations. My therapeutic style centers on building self-love, improving communication, and helping clients overcome feelings of isolation and shame. I offer a warm, non-judgmental environment that honors each person's individual journey, with specialized understanding of multicultural experiences and diverse life circumstances.

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Dr. Mary Weeden

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149006727, WI LCSW 9075 - 123
Stress, AnxietyGriefEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social work therapist in both Wisconsin and Illinois with three decades of professional experience, including as a registered nurse. My clinical experience includes eating disorders, depressive disorders, issues with anxiety, stress, loss and grief, motivation, self-esteem, & confidence. 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 will support and empower you in that journey.

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Susan Bowes

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149011825
LGBTGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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

Susan Zacharias

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.011955
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I accept that we all bump or run into rough patches in our life journey. It can be easy or difficult to match up with a person to work through these rough patches. I have been in health care for 40 years and professional counseling for 20 years. I have witnessed a great deal of suffering and spiritual and emotional growth, in others and myself. I take time to learn about the person who comes my way. I believe not every "technique" fits every person. I find using EMDR or guided imagery to reveal a person's deeper concerns fairly quickly, but I draw from other techniques and educational approaches as seems best fit. I am someone who embraces the effectiveness of 12 step programs for a possible solution to addictive compulsions but I totally accept those sorts of approaches are not for everyone .I will forward handouts I think might be helpful to you to guide a session or for later review by you. I look forward to meeting you at this time in your life journey.

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Shanelle Clayberg

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149021714
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with more than 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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 Dhionis Tartari's avatar and link to their profile

Dhionis Tartari

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.017516, WI LPC 12056 - 125
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin and Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with particular expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, and anger management. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to develop meaningful strategies for personal growth and emotional well-being. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences and develop resilience. My professional training equips me to support diverse client needs, respecting individual perspectives and backgrounds. Whether you're seeking support through life transitions, emotional struggles, or personal development, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.

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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