Finding a therapist in Chicago, IL to help you navigate life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, even in such a large city. Someone who is looking for a therapist to deal with family dynamics may have different needs than one who is looking for help with emotional regulation, and different still from those who are looking to heal trauma from systemic oppression. 

Therapy is a collaborative process, and it can be essential to find a mental health professional who has the credentials for the specific type of therapy you need, builds a proper rapport with you, and most importantly that you feel comfortable with in a therapeutic setting. If you’re feeling stuck and having trouble getting started, visiting an online therapy platform like BetterHelp can be a simple and effective way to find the right support. 

Mental health challenges aren’t always about diagnosing things like intrusive thoughts or anxiety disorder. Therapy can also be about learning coping skills for stress, learning to manage life’s challenges, or gaining a stronger sense of self and increasing your sense of well-being. BetterHelp has over 30,000 licensed mental health professionals like therapists, social workers, psychologists, and couples counselors. With online therapy, you can find a therapist that specializes in what you need, from applied behavior analysis to cognitive behavioral therapy. 

Online therapy is convenient, as well. Many therapists are now trained in online counseling techniques, and you can meet with these therapists over video chat, texting, or over the phone from the comfort of your own home. For people who may not have the time to get to appointments, or who may not be in a mental space to go to in-person meetings, online therapy can be a gift. 

Therapy can be effective at identifying and healing trauma, or at managing the symptoms of mental health conditions, but may also be a good way to learn more about yourself. If stress at work or home is getting you down, a licensed therapist can offer the coping skills you need to feel better and improve mental health and wellbeing.

 

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Psychologist Laura Husband providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Laura Husband

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149.041051, KY LCSW 3998
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
17 years offering treatment

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker and clinical supervisor with 17 years experience in community mental health settings. I have worked with a wide variety of symptoms and diagnoses including those struggling with depression, anxiety, self harm, anger management, parenting difficulties, stress, family and relationship conflicts. In addition, most of the people I have worked with have experienced some type of trauma including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse/assault. I am a very compassionate, person centered, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma informed clinician. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most influential aspect of involvement in counseling. I use a combination of motivational interviewing, solution focused techniques, CBT, DBT , IFS and mindfulness techniques to offer support, identify and work toward the most desired areas of growth and to provide proven and effective techniques to provide relief and lasting change. I would be honored to work with you and journey toward a brighter and more fulfilled future.

Psychologist Linda Gonzalez providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Linda Gonzalez

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149.019632
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years offering treatment

Hi! I 'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive counseling experience. My approach is collaborative and strength-based and my techniques are influenced by mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. Talk therapy combined with mindfulness-based practices can effectively increase mental clarity, improve emotional regulation and supercharge personal growth. Are you ready to lead to a more fulfilling life? Let's start today!

Psychologist Dr. James English providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Dr. James English

Clinician
License Type(s): IL Psychologist 071.005714
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Maria "Patti" Lorenzo providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Maria "Patti" Lorenzo

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCPC 180013018
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
12 years offering treatment

Hello, and welcome. I’m Patti Lorenzo, a licensed therapist who specializes in helping people develop a healthier inner dialogue and a more compassionate relationship with themselves. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, overthinking, self-criticism, emotional exhaustion, people-pleasing, or feeling “stuck” in old patterns that no longer serve them. Often, the way we speak to ourselves becomes our emotional environment—and therapy can help change that. My approach is supportive, practical, and focused on helping you create meaningful shifts in your everyday life. I believe therapy works best as a collaborative process, where we build awareness, identify patterns, and develop healthier ways of thinking, responding, and caring for yourself emotionally. I work especially well with women navigating life transitions, burnout, identity changes, menopause-related emotional shifts, relationship stress, and the pressure of always having to “hold it together” for others. In our work together, you can expect warmth, honesty, reflection, and gentle accountability. My goal is not only to help you feel heard, but to help you better understand yourself and move toward lasting emotional growth.

Psychologist Jean Hannigan providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Jean Hannigan

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCPC 180009787
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

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

Psychologist Deborah Beard providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Deborah Beard

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCPC 180.006969
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Margaret Couch providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Margaret Couch

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149011307
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
41 years offering treatment

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the state of Illinois. I also have a Masters Degree in Education. I have over 30 years of experience working in the field of mental health. I consider it a privilege to have been invited into the lives of others as they seek to improve their daily lives. I believe in meeting my clients where they are. Not where they are ‘expected’ to be. I will work with you as a whole person, not just as a diagnosis. I believe in an individual’s inherent dignity and right to self determination. I would love to join you on your journey to positive change.

Psychologist Ingrid Wheeler providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Ingrid Wheeler

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149.017207
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful life strategies. I have extensive experience addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, life transitions, and interpersonal dynamics. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their experiences and develop healthier coping mechanisms. I work collaboratively with clients across diverse backgrounds, including women, Veterans, caregivers, and individuals managing workplace stress, social anxiety, and personal growth challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients build self-esteem, improve communication, process trauma, and develop skills for managing stress and emotional complexity. My goal is to support you in discovering your inner strengths and creating positive, sustainable changes in your life.

Psychologist Dr. James Bedell providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Dr. James Bedell

Clinician
License Type(s): IL Psychologist 071004954
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
38 years offering treatment

I am a clinical psychologist with 38 years of experience. I have worked with couples, families, individuals, groups, forensic clients including those in the criminal system as well as clients who are involved in the family court system. My core approach is to quickly appraise the psycho-social, biological, and spiritual components of my client's lives, seeking to target and move towards solutions seeking to ameliorate the suffering that their symptoms reflect. I am a non-judgemental therapist, who seeks to build an alliance with my clients to create a sense of safety and respect. I look at symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, as multi-modal, including early childhood attachment problems as well as cognitive dysfunctions and biological influences. I seek to view people wholistically, not as people who have problems, but instead as courageous individuals who have done the best they could as a result of what has happened to them. Most clients that I have worked with consider me as easy to talk to while also conceptualizing their issues well and intervening effectively. I would love to work with you in a collaborative effort to solve and lessen the pain that you may be struggling with.

Psychologist Sergio Ayala providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Sergio Ayala

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCPC 180016866, IA LMHC 094835
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Iowa and Illinois with 9 years of professional clinical work experience. I have a Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling, a Masters of Divinity with 4 Units of Clinical Pastoral Education, and over 15 years of Ministerial/Pastoral Practice. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & dementia caregiver stress. 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.

Psychologist Emily Angelico providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Emily Angelico

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149014571
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesADHD
7 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience as a social worker. I am also an English teacher and have lived in Spain for 7 years and understand small and big life transitions, especially as it relates to living in another country, speaking a different language and experiencing culture shock and cultural differences. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & career difficulties. I want my clients to feel they can be open, comfortable and know they are in a safe environment without fear of judgment. I am here to support you in whatever way I can.

Psychologist Clarence McCray providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Clarence McCray

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149027144
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & 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.

Psychologist Folashade Olatunbosun providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Folashade Olatunbosun

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149029632
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with over 20years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Sarah Broida providing different types of therapy in Chicago

Sarah Broida

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149031502
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
3 years offering treatment

As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating stress, anxiety, career challenges, and professional burnout. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on helping clients develop resilient coping strategies and meaningful personal growth. With a deep understanding of the complex emotional landscapes people encounter, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, build emotional strength, and discover practical pathways forward. My therapeutic work centers on empowering individuals to understand their unique strengths and develop effective tools for managing life's challenges. I am committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine care as they work towards their personal and professional goals.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Chicago, Illinois

Finding a therapist near you in Chicago, Illinois starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Illinois is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Illinois, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Illinois, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Illinois

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Illinois, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Illinois

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in Illinois

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Illinois, including residents in Chicago.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Illinois do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Chicago, Illinois

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Chicago and the surrounding IL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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