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.

 

Read more
This is Dr. Paula Alvarez's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is David Fox's avatar and link to their profile

David Fox

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149020830, IA LISW 132994
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois and Indiana, I have spent most of my career working to help people that have experienced trauma understand their own narrative. Sometimes, life events occur in adulthood that necessitate short term intervention to assist us to process, understand and reset. My treatment approach involves not only listening, but more importantly, hearing exactly what each person chooses to tell me so that I can understand their unique issue and help them move forward. Your treatment plan will be created by you and for you so that the piece of you that has been impacted is made whole. I look forward to meeting you and working together to empower you to be excited about today, tomorrow and your future.

This is Jessica Sance's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Sance

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.013314
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

My name is Jessica Noemi Sance, I am a clinical therapist with 11 years of experience working in the field of mental health. I am a firm believer that we all are trying our best in life and everyone can benefit in engaging with a therapist. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and guides clients to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to have a more meaningful life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ante/post-partum depression, HIV/AIDS, microaggressions, relationship challenges, self-esteem, domestic violence and trauma. I am transparent and down to earth. I enjoy being a safe place for clients to share their life with. In my down time, I love spending time with family along with food to share as well as, playing and dancing with my almost three year old son. I look forward to working with you.

This is Dorothy Carskadon's avatar and link to their profile

Dorothy Carskadon

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149008764, TX LCSW 104727
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
26 years of experience

Hi: I am Dorrie or Dorothy, whichever you prefer. I have been a counselor for 28 years - 24 years working with Veterans and their families and the last 4 years on Better Help. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of South Carolina. The foundation of therapy I use is positive psychology, the cognitive behavioral approach, emotional literacy, and intentional living to guide you through your issues. Positive psychology helps you to explore yourself through recognizing the positives in your life and accentuating them. The cognitive behavioral approach enables you to examine your decisions through understanding the connection between your thoughts, beliefs, physical reactions/responses, and behaviors. The emotional literacy approach examines how your emotions influence your decisions. I call myself a resource counselor because I will provide you with a wealth of materials, including handouts, worksheets, articles, videos, and internet links, to review and hopefully apply to your life. I am a Christian and believe that the Bible expresses wisdom and encourages love. God made each of us unique, and "God saw that it was good." I am an LGBTQ+ counselor. As an experienced therapist, I will tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. My goal is to equip you with the tools to make informed decisions and help you enjoy life to the fullest.

This is Krystal Kemp's avatar and link to their profile

Krystal Kemp

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149.029002, KS LSCSW LSCSW 05575
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Kansas, I bring 17 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients to cultivate self-love, navigate interpersonal challenges, and develop resilient coping strategies. I specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, workplace stress, and multicultural experiences. My approach honors each person's unique journey, with particular sensitivity to women's issues, young adult challenges, and the nuanced experiences of marginalized communities. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their deepest struggles and strengths. Whether you're managing social anxiety, processing grief, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise. My background reflects a deep understanding of diverse human experiences, and I'm passionate about supporting individuals as they rediscover their inherent worth and potential for growth.

This is Darwin Allen's avatar and link to their profile

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.

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

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!

This is Kenneth Leggin's avatar and link to their profile

Kenneth Leggin

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149006397
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
6 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with 30 years of professional experience. My work is rooted in a trauma-informed approach that recognizes the strength and resilience each person brings to therapy. I have supported clients through family conflicts, parenting challenges, motivation and self-esteem concerns, confidence building, and career difficulties. In our work together, I strive to create a safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions at your own pace. I honor the impact that past experiences—including trauma and adversity—can have on your well-being, relationships, and daily life. My role is to support you with compassion, transparency, and respect, helping you feel grounded, understood, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process. Reaching out for help reflects courage and hope. Taking steps toward healing and a more fulfilling life can feel vulnerable, and you don’t have to navigate that journey alone. I am here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support as you build the life you want and deserve.

This is JoAnna Cole's avatar and link to their profile

JoAnna Cole

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.016674
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over a decade of hands on experience across school systems, crisis response, child welfare, and community mental health. Currently pursuing my Doctorate in International Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, I am passionate about offering therapy that is rooted in advocacy, cultural awareness, and whole person healing. My work has always centered those most impacted by systems, and I am committed to creating emotionally safe, culturally attuned spaces where people can be seen, heard, and restored. As a therapist, I integrate trauma-informed care, strengths-based practice, and solution focused therapy with a deep respect for identity, community, and resilience. I believe that healing is both personal and collective, and that mental health support should be tailored, empowering, and affirming.

This is Carrie Wallace-Onifade's avatar and link to their profile

Carrie Wallace-Onifade

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCSW 149028458
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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 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 John Michael Quinn's avatar and link to their profile

John Michael Quinn

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180006854
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, & relationship issues. I also have experience working with depression. My life motto is "Life in Balance". 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 Eileen Westerman's avatar and link to their profile

Eileen Westerman

Offering therapy in Illinois
License: IL LCPC 180.016557
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Specializing in women's mental health needs, I support each client to identify and meet her specific needs in order to promote healing, self-growth, breaking negative life cycles, and the achievement of her goals. I have specific focus in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, life purpose, grief/loss, attachment, and family systems. Whether it's healing deep areas of trauma and loss or managing daily life stress, I walk alongside clients as they journey towards healing and making positive life changes. My clients often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed and stuck, but after working together, they often feel more hopeful, empowered, and purposeful. Together we can work to take steps to help you make positive changes. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming and scary. Therapy helps us to know that were are not alone in our journey! We can take steps together as you move towards healing and purpose.

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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist