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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Sandra Roberts

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180008852
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
17 years of experience

I am a Christian counselor licensed in the State of Illinois. I attended Lincoln Christian College and Seminary (now Lincoln Christian College) where I earned both my BA and an MA in Counseling. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years experience with with all ages in various settings, including in person and online telehealth, office. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect. When you reach out for help, I will be supportive and non-judgmental. My style is warm and approachable. While I am a Christian counselor and lean heavily on God's truth, it is not my goal to force people into what I believe. While I enjoy working with a variety of people and situations, I have extensive experience with parenting and anger management, including classes for those ordered by the court or for those completing a service plan with DCFS. I also prepared and taught a curriculum for dating (red flags, what to look for, what to avoid, etc.) I have helped clients with depression, anxiety, and healing from domestic violence, childhood abuses and traumas.

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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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Jean Hannigan

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180009787
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Background: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I graduated from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. Additionally, I have obtained certificates in Grief Counseling and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and/or grief related to their relationships or in their daily lives. I have an eclectic background working in the school system, social services, Early Intervention with the State of Illinois, and private practice. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement afterward. Using a non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy we will work together to find your strengths and utilize those strengths to meet your desired goals. Who I Treat: I work with adults, couples, and teens utilizing both client-centered and holistic approaches. My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, gender identity, and LGBTQ issues. I have a particular passion for working with those struggling with or recovering from Narcissistic Abuse. My Treatment Approaches: Client-Centered Therapy / Insight Oriented Therapy / Mindfulness/ CBT / Grief / Problem Solving

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Angela Veach

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180004626
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the state of Illinois with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples . I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, communication issues, career challenges, life stage transitions, anger issues and overall life stress. My counseling style is positive and welcoming. I strive to make the counseling process non intimidating, productive and comforting . My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused and internal family systems therapies.I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek therapy and to take the first steps towards making changes in your life. 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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Dr. Christina Rudawski

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL Psychologist 071.008059
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
16 years of experience

I specialize in therapy with Adults. I am proficient in psychological assessment and psychotherapy. I also utilize Bibliotherapy as needed. Therapy requires work and consistent attendance and participation in weekly sessions. It is an investment you make in yourself. My clients are provided psychoedducation to understand their condition better and also homework to develop new skills to assist them in coping with issues in a more adaptive manner. I believe in the power of self-knowledge. As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential in order to lead a life that is worth celebrating. My goal is to provide you with a safe, secure judgment free environment and to assist you in giving voice to the thoughts and feelings which are difficult to realize and give voice to. I am a lifelong learner and am updating my skills through continuing education classes in order to provide you with the most up to date techniques and services. Difficult situations of the past can’t be changed, however, we can work together to improve your personal self-understanding and resolve challenges in your life. in the present and for the future. Together we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I look forward to meeting you and working with you!

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Stuart Marcus

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149002046, FL LCSW SW19916
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and Illinois with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationships, family conflicts, trauma and abuse. 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!

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Shelia Cisco

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.017063
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

As a licensed therapist serving clients in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on empowering women, particularly those navigating relationship dynamics, personal identity, and healing from past experiences. With expertise in addressing depression, trauma, self-esteem, and intimacy-related concerns, I offer a compassionate, culturally responsive approach. My work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, explore life purpose, and work through difficult experiences like divorce, body image struggles, and interpersonal challenges. Drawing from a holistic perspective, I create a supportive environment that honors each person's unique journey. I'm committed to walking alongside my clients as they cultivate resilience, understanding, and personal growth. Whether you're seeking guidance through relationship issues, processing past trauma, or exploring your identity, I'm dedicated to providing thoughtful, affirming support.

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Christianna Sullivan

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149020276, IL LCPC 180011835
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with over 20 years of working with children and families both professionally and personally. I have over 10 years of volunteer experience working specifically with divorce recovery and family/ adjustment issues and years of professional work experience in various capacities. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. I utilize several therapeutic approaches and I strive to provide an empathetic environment for all individuals. I provide cognitive behavioral therapy and my style is client driven and and solution focused. 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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Dr. Akamin Nkengaka

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149028885
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a Licensed behavioral therapist with 16 years of evidence-based practice experienced. I help clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma informed care, substance abuse, self-esteem, and relationships challenges. My theoretical approach is based on cognitive-behavioral model and holistic approach. That is, patterns of thoughts and feelings are explored, and solution focus based. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilled and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Anthony Grady

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149027150
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, anger management, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. 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!

This is Leticia Boughton Price's avatar and link to their profile

Leticia Boughton Price

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.027076
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience helping people to cope with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Ali Timlin's avatar and link to their profile

Ali Timlin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.029354
Stress, AnxietyLGBTEating disordersDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, eating disorders, & despression. I also have experience working with 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 Tanya Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Tanya Johnson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149030443
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Indiana, I bring 17 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating compassionate, culturally responsive spaces for healing across diverse life experiences. I specialize in addressing challenges related to depression, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach honors each person's unique journey, with a deep commitment to understanding individual experiences of social anxiety, isolation, life transitions, and interpersonal struggles. I offer supportive guidance for women, young adults, and individuals navigating multicultural experiences, workplace challenges, and personal transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop resilient communication skills, process difficult emotions, and cultivate self-compassion. My work is grounded in respect, empathy, and a collaborative approach that empowers clients to discover their inner strengths and create meaningful change.

This is Erin Osborn's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Osborn

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.016002
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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.

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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