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 English's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. James English

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: Psy.D.,Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Relationship issuesGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

Hello my name is Jim. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working in the counseling field for the past thirty years. I have been privileged to provide counseling and therapy services to individual, couples and families and use an approach that empathizes collaboration and measurable results. My counseling style creates a warm and accepting environment in which people learn to identify and express their feelings so that we can work together to deepen your understanding of feelings and the thoughts that typically accompany them. Once we learn more about our feelings and the thoughts them behind them, we can do more to make changes in thoughts and behaviors that enhance our growth and and help us meet goals. I use various techniques such as those derived from cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and Adlerian Life-Style analysis . These help to make situational changes and to gain awareness of how many of our automatic thoughts, reactions, feelings can be facilitate change once they are understood. This can increase our range of choice and better feelings once we understand more about our personal automatic reactions. My technique and style is helpful for Depression Anxiety Relationship issues Self-Esteem Trauma Growth Shyness/Social Anxiety I am very happy that you are taking these steps to better understand yourself an d work towards more fulfilling relationships in your work, love and friendships and most importantly for your self-care, self-esteem and your relationship to yourself! I look forward to working with you!

This is Dr. Athena Porter's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Athena Porter

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: PhD
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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Pat (Patrick) Granada

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

Hello my name is Pat Granada I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. I am licensed in Illinois. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Truman State University and a Master’s Degree from The University of Illinois School of Social Work. I have worked in many disciplines and populations of Social Work working with children, the physically disabled, the chronically and severe mentally ill, and people with medically induced life changes such as dialysis, and people in hospice. When working with my clients, I provide a warm, supportive and welcoming space that is free from judgement or rejection. I am often told that I am easy to talk with. I enjoy helping individuals meet their desired outcome and I would be delighted to help you reach yours. I have trained social workers to work in the clinical field as well and emphasize the importance of client self change with therapeutic assistance. My therapeutic approaches include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Modification, and Mindfulness. These modalities have proven to be highly effective throughout my years of helping others. "This first message may seem very formal, but it is absolutely necessary that I share with you your legal rights for self-care should you experience a crisis or need a higher LOC (level of care). It includes my availability to you to support you along your counseling journey; and, discusses your HIPPA rights which ensure and protect your right to privacy and confidentiality. These therapeutic requirements for Informed Consent and Duty to Warn are a part of the development of the therapeutic relationship; and, although it may not necessarily apply to you I am required to share this information immediately (Informed Consent) in the event the steps outlined below become necessary so that you understand your rights, feel validated, and know what steps to take: -I am committed to responding to you within 24 hours–I do check my messages at least twice a day, but cannot provide sessions until the evening— with the exception of weekends and holidays; as I am committed during the AM hours to work in my private practice. I will respect your personal time with not interrupting you after 9pm CST daily. If you decide to schedule a live video/phone/chat session with me, you are able to schedule your appointments based on my availability schedule from your dashboard as well under the “SCHEDULE’ tab; I will receive a notice anytime that you schedule an appointment ;It is strongly encouraged that we discuss a time to meet. I cannot guarantee that I can make an appt if not agreed upon by us together. -The platform or dashboard where we communicate for services is open 24 hours a day/7 days a week, with asynchronous messaging where you can chat-in at any time. Please keep in mind that I will respond to you within 24 hours, in the evening at the latest., except on weekends and/or holidays, however, you can respond or initiate contact for when it is convenient to you; -Sharing ‘Duty to Warn’ with you is part of your Informed Consent as it is an ‘ exception’ to your rights to privacy and confidentiality. This means that I am required to inform you that you should call 911 to report an emergency if you are having or begin to have thoughts of suicide or if you are planning suicide. Suicidal Ideation or Planning is an emergency for us both because it involves preservation of your life; my professional and therapeutic duty is to first preserve life. You should inform your love ones and your Emergency Contacts so that they can support you in accessing the help you may need to engage level of care within your community for crises of any nature. “Duty to Warn” also includes thoughts or plans of Homicide (killing or hurting someone else); and, the Abuse or Neglect of the Elderly or Children including indecency or other sexual acts; -If you share any information with me (verbally or written) that falls under the guidelines of “Duty to Warn,” I am required, by Law, to inform the legal authorities and possibly your Emergency Contact immediately if you have not communicated intent to do so or have not already done so. In some cases, if you do have experiences which fall under the “Duty to Warn’ guidelines, you may be required to submit your follow-up evaluation of receiving adequate care within your community to BetterHelp for continued counseling via LOC Tele-therapy; **-Finally, because we are not a crisis center, we can’t provide the counseling services/support that are required in a crisis situation. You can dial 911, 211, or 411; and/or, also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The following website can be accessed, as well, to help you if you are in need of immediate support: http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ ***This is the end of your Informed Consent and Duty to Warn for me as your Therapist; please let me know if you have any questions as we prepare to move forward in your counseling journey…" I applaud you for taking the first step on your path to improving your emotional well being. I look forward to working with you along the way.

This is Barbara Wahler's avatar and link to their profile

Barbara Wahler

Offering therapy in Illinois
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
31 years of experience

Are you longing to understand what’s happening in your relationships? Do you find it difficult to reach your child, your partner, your boss? Maybe you're struggling to understand each other and not sure what went wrong... Relationships can be difficult for everyone - for teens, for families, for couples, and for communities. Teens are struggling to discover their identities and that means sometimes they're hard to be around. For bi-racial couples, those in mixed-race blended families, or anyone wrestling with sexual identity it’s hard to know where to turn. Right now things might seem unmanageable, but it won't always be that way. There IS hope; things will get better and I'd like to help. My mission is to help individuals and families move through life's transitions. I serve youth and adults from a variety of backgrounds/cultures who grapple with concerns about identity, self-esteem, parenting, LGBTQ+, relationships, school problems, spirituality and women's issues. I received my Masters in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and for over 30 years I have specialized in re-connecting and opening communication in strained relationships. It's important for me to partner with clients in order to move toward healing. My methods are relational and client-focused, rooted in a background of family systems. I offer support to people wherever they may be and use different methods to connect. We may move, draw, play, listen to music, or merely sit together; always, however, with the goal of moving toward healing and wholeness. Please take that first step toward healing and contact me. Look forward to feeling better and creating a happier life!

This is Marianne Costales-Roman's avatar and link to their profile

Marianne Costales-Roman

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, parenting issues, & anger management. 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 Deborah Taylor's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Taylor

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
47 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 47 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. 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 Dr. Joseph Proctor's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Joseph Proctor

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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. 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 Crystal Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Crystal Williams

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, life work issues, anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence . 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 Michael Peterson's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Peterson

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

My name is Michael Peterson, and I have been working in the field of Social Work for about 10 years. I I am licensed in Illinois and have done counseling for about three years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have held a variety of different types of social work jobs (case worker, crisis clinician, therapist, and more), in a variety of different environments, which I feel gives me a deep, multifaceted approach to counseling. 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 Sherry Coleman's avatar and link to their profile

Sherry Coleman

Offering therapy in Illinois
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence issues. I also have experience working with healthy boundaries and 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Christina Reed's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Reed

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & career difficulties. 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. People come to counseling for many different reasons. For you, it may be an unresolved past issue, a current relationship problem, a clearly defined challenge or an undiscovered struggle. Regardless of your reasons, you should be proud of yourself for taking that step to begin therapy. Counseling should be a confidential, safe place for people to receive support, examine challenges and obstacles, explore relationships, reduce stress, facilitate healing, and discover a path to a meaningful and satisfying life. I look forward to helping you on that journey!

This is Gloria Sanchez's avatar and link to their profile

Gloria Sanchez

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 Maureen Fitzmaurice's avatar and link to their profile

Maureen Fitzmaurice

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Feeling overwhelmed by daily life? Wish you could stop overthinking? You’ve come to the right place. My name is Maureen Fitzmaurice and I’m a licensed therapist in Illinois with over ten years experience treating anxiety, and many more years coping with it myself. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and career difficulties, among other issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My style is best described as casual, relaxed, and caring. While I will guide you with my education and knowledge, I do my best to make sure that you feel comfortable and heard throughout your sessions, and have a say in your treatment. I will tailor our sessions 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.

This is Dr. Antoinette Cardenas's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Antoinette Cardenas

Offering therapy in Illinois
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

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 $65 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 insurance cover the cost of in-person or online therapy with a therapist in Illinois?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

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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