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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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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Stephanie Dixon

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.024669, NC LCSW C013323
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Has the COVID-19 create anxieties or other mental health challenges for you? Do you need a safe place to share your thoughts and feelings? I am a licensed clinician, who would love to be able to meet 1:1 with you to address your mental health needs. I truly believe in shared decision-making approach to therapy. I approach therapy from a collaborative approach, building relationships, and using evidence-based practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work as well as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I’ve been working in behavioral health since 2003. I have experience in providing individual, group, and family counseling. I have been trained in CBT Therapy, ACT Therapy, DBT Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focus therapy, harm reduction model, Gestalt therapy, and other evidence-based model. Preference: I prefer to work with adults ages 19 and above. I help people with dealing with all types of transitioning, life stressors brought on by relocating, career changes, new mothers, balancing work and life, relationships building, grief and loss, and setting boundaries.

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Deborah Beard

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.006969
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Deborah Beard. I am trained in Marriage & Family Therapy and have served as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for over 25 years. I graduated in 1996 with a Masters degree in Science: Family Therapy from Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. My previous work experience as a Human Resource Manager and a Professor of Education bring relatable life skill experiences into each of my sessions. I have served as a counselor in both public and private mental health agencies, primarily for those seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma and abuse recovery, relationships, and parenting skills. Any client who has the courage to seek counseling is someone worth celebrating. With gentleness and warmth, I try to focus on each of my clients' strengths to help them in the areas they desire to change. I utilize counseling tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Systemic Therapy as appropriate. Each client's faith and moral values are recognized as a wonderful foundation for their desired growth. I look forward to meeting you!

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Neal Harris

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180001053
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

Neal Harris is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology. He has practiced the art of psychotherapy for 40 years. Neal has been a workshop leader in the holistic health and self-enrichment fields since 1985. He owned/directed his own holistic education center for 25 years. Neal's experience stems from training in the United States, China and India. In 1986, he was a member of the first bodywork team invited to a teaching hospital in China to study Tuina, a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine and massage. In 1991, he traveled to India to study with the meditation master and sage, H.W.L. Poonja (Papaji). Neal, until recently, had been teaching Reiki (energy therapy) for almost 30 years and providing Reiki therapy for almost 40 years. He is the author of the book, Pocket Stress Manager & Labyrinth Guide, as well as the relaxation CD, Exit The Storm. Neal as well as his holistic work has been featured on national television including WTTW, Fox, NBC, Discovery Channel and more. He has also been featured in several national magazines including Better Homes & Gardens, Spa Finder, New Age Magazine, Utne Reader and others. In 1997, Neal was the originator of the Earth-Wisdom Labyrinth; Illinois’ first permanent outdoor labyrinth located in Elgin, IL. He has been a consultant on, and the creator of other public labyrinths, fabric traveling labyrinths, finger labyrinths (including his patented brain balancing, communication enhancing double finger labyrinth design known as the Intuipath®) and manuals for creating outdoor labyrinths. For nearly 40 years, Neal led labyrinth workshops around the country and is a founding member of The International Labyrinth Society. In his private therapy practice, Neal assists those individuals who are experiencing a variety of concerns including life-affirming conditions such as Diabetes, Cancer, Heart Disease as well as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ concerns and a host of other issues. To promote healing on many levels, he uses relaxation and meditation training, the Emotional Freedom Technique, Graphotherapy and other targeted practices to assist his clients. This work explores integrative medical options, as well as the psychology and spirituality of illness and recovery. Neal also headed up a 4-year national research study to determine the behavioral effects of his Intuipath® design on children and adolescents with ADHD. Besides his counseling practice, he is also a Certified Pickleball Coach; teaching folks to play smarter not harder for the past 11 years.

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Shayna Rayman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: FL LMHC MH11511, IL LCPC 180.012090
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and Illinois with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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. Please message me to inquire about scheduling.

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Mark Mikyska

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180008022
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I am an individual /group therapist licensed in Illinois with over 17 years of experience working as a therapist and crisis worker in the Chicago area. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, family issues and veteran issues. I also helped many people who have experience trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity and empowering my clients to become their own therapist. My approach combines mindfulness therapy, psychodynamic therapy, trauma focused therapy, existential therapy and internal family systems. 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.

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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.

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Kimberly Ramsay

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.018458
AddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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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Pamela Barrigar

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149019841, MO LCSW 2018012129
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with individuals of all ages. I am licensed in Illinois, Missouri, Florida, Georgia and Arizona with over fourteen years of experience in helping individuals of all ages with depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, self-esteem, and relationship issues. I use a variety of modalities, for example, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I practice as a Christian Counselor, however, I work with individuals from all faith backgrounds with a non-judgmental approach. I know that taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. I am proud of you for taking this step and look forward to walking along side of you on your journey.

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Jacqueline (Jacqui) Taub

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149019966
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients, specifically teens and young adults, with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, & 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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Dr. Wende Pannell

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180-006927
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice specializes in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and self-esteem development. I focus on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore personal growth, address communication barriers, and work through challenging emotional experiences. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, whether they're struggling with social anxiety, workplace stress, life transitions, or deeper emotional wounds. My therapeutic work emphasizes holistic healing, helping clients develop self-compassion, rebuild connections, and rediscover their inner strength. I'm committed to walking alongside individuals as they develop healthier coping strategies, process difficult experiences, and create meaningful pathways toward personal transformation. I specialize in supporting older adults and individuals experiencing midlife transitions, chronic health challenges, and complex emotional landscapes. My goal is to provide empathetic, personalized guidance that honors each client's individual experience and potential for healing.

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Cory Berberich

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.016633
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesADHD
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience, and nearly 6 years in the mental health field overall. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with life changes, & concentration, memory. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). Having worked in the foster care field, an autism clinic, and a private practice setting, I have plenty of experience with almost every type of negative emotion that one can think of. My work in the field has been primarily with adolescents/teenagers, and I find that they are an incredible population to work with. Old enough to understand basic therapy techniques, but young enough to mold themselves into anything that they want to be in life. My current work has a range of working with individuals ranging from age 20, to the age of 11. I am sympathetic to the stressors that teenagers and young adults are facing in our constantly changing world, and I look forward to my interactions with them every day. 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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Joy Johnson

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180017115
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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 Brittany Meredith's avatar and link to their profile

Brittany Meredith

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180017734
Stress, AnxietySelf esteem
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, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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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