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 Elizabeth Eugea's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Eugea

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.000826
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
38 years of experience

I appreciate the courage and strength it takes to enter into a counseling relationship and the anxiety that may accompany reaching out to a stranger I am here to support and empower you in your journey to a better life. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) licensed in Illinois with over 36 years of experience in the counseling profession. I have helped clients with a wide variety of life challenges including ADHD, Abuse including Domestic Violence, Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Life Changes/Transitions, Panic and Panic Attacks, Relationship Issues, Self-esteem, Stress, and Work-related and Career Issues. It is my belief that sometimes it is a lack of skills that keep us stuck in life so I also teach therapeutic life skills to manage the difficulties in your life. I think of it as equipping you with tools for your "life skills toolbox". I engage in individual, couple, and family counseling with ages 7 through 99. I specialize in serving teachers and nurses, as well as victims and survivors of domestic violence. I believe in everyone's ability to grow and progress and I will join you on your journey to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. I highly respect the way each individual learns, changes, develops, and grows in their own unique way. I counsel with empathy and compassion and without judgment or condemnation. My goal is to provide a safe, peaceful, encouraging, uplifting, and respectful environment in which you can explore the challenges that interfere with you achieving your goals. My evidence-based counseling approach includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) from a person-centered and humanistic perspective. I am looking forward to helping you live your best life!

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Dr. Paula Alvarez

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

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

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Janice Nass

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149014364, FL LCSW SW18054
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

For those of us experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness/disability, grief and loss, relationship issues, and work/life balance difficulties, trying to adapt to the changes these issues inevitably bring is a common thread that binds us all together. Change is a natural part of life, but it has ways of bringing up feelings of fear, uncertainty, doubt, and sometimes even apathy and pessimism. Since we cannot control change – we can only control how we respond to it – we often feel “stuck”. Together, we can work to address these feelings and adjust our mindsets so we can become stronger from the inside out. Realizing that we have the power to “course correct” our circumstances can be empowering. Our aim in the therapeutic process is to address change by: *learning to “reframe” the situation and see it differently. We can become more aware of what our minds are saying to us and change the narrative to something that is more aligned with our needs. Sometimes we don’t see the possibilities that change can bring because we are locked in a mindset that this is how things are supposed to be. *re-examining our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. When we know ourselves, our truths, our current beliefs, we can weather change more effectively. Sometimes difficulty comes when we are living out of alignment to our core values. *acknowledging that it can be uncomfortable but that difficult moments to not define us. Although social media may have us believe otherwise, life is not meant to be lived perfectly. We can learn from our mistakes, alter our actions, and see where we can do better. Avoiding discomfort can lead us to miss out on amazing experiences. Together, through the therapeutic process, we can discover what might be on the other side. *identify supports and health self-care practices. We can explore those relationships and practices that are reflections of our worth and learn to let go of those that don’t. The therapeutic process can also address how our communication styles can either enhance or diminish our support systems. These are my beliefs. I blend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), person centered therapy (PCT) and solution focused therapy tailored to each person’s needs. In the past 4 decades as a social worker (yes, it has been that long!), I have worked with individuals in long term care and hospice, both as a social worker and as an administrator, and as a mental health practitioner in group practice settings. If I have learned anything over those years it is this: It is never too late to try something new, to start again, and to create a life we truly desire. We are all connected. Our journeys may look different and feel different, but we are all here on this earth for a reason and for a purpose. Let us discover yours – together.

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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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Lisa Leong

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 027568, MI LMSW 6801118571
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals through life’s emotional complexities with warmth, insight, and care. My approach centers on fostering resilience, deepening self-understanding, and guiding meaningful personal growth. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your experiences with consideration for yourself, practice generosity toward differences in thought and perspective, and engage in inquiry to better understand your inner world. Together, we uncover patterns that may be holding you back and build tools for healing and empowerment. Drawing from widely accepted therapeutic frameworks, I help clients address a range of concerns—from workplace stress and anxiety to relationship dynamics and identity exploration. My goal is to support you in cultivating a more authentic connection with yourself and creating a life that feels purposeful and fulfilling.

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Susan Hoffstetter

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.006754
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
16 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 addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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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Jocelyn Acoff

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: MO LPC 2024042067, IL LCPC 180.014768
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois, Missouri, and Texas, with over 11 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a Certified OCD Specialist and have received training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I have extensive experience supporting clients who are navigating stress and anxiety, motivation challenges, self-esteem and confidence concerns, career difficulties, addiction, psychotic disorders, and depression. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and that you possess many strengths that can help you overcome the challenges you face. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and taking that first step toward change is a powerful one. I am here to support and empower you on that journey.

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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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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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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 Malissa Dieterle's avatar and link to their profile

Malissa Dieterle

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180003908
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Michelle Lehto Flores's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Lehto Flores

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.014932
AddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a master’s degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. My passion for helping others is rooted in lived experience. I understand the challenges of navigating mental health struggles, addiction, and limited access to support. Over the years, I’ve worked with diverse populations, including individuals facing major life transitions, trauma, and high stress. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I draw from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused techniques, and mindfulness to help clients gain clarity, build coping skills, and move toward meaningful change. I believe in meeting people where they are, honoring their strengths, and creating a safe, supportive space for growth. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready to invest in your well-being, I’m here to help you find stability, resilience, and a renewed sense of direction.

This is Pamela Altman's avatar and link to their profile

Pamela Altman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149016166
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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.

This is Terry Schnoll's avatar and link to their profile

Terry Schnoll

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180002424
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoachingADHD
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, executive coaching, professional coaching, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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!

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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