Consistent therapy sessions can be an effective way for you to take care of your overall health and well-being. By seeking the professional help of a therapist, you can recieve care, support, and guidance from a trusted and licensed individual that has a specialized education in the field of psychology. You can gain clarity and insight through individual or group sessions with a therapist, working through everyday life issues, or even resolving past experiences like childhood trauma. You can also develop different self care strategies to start feeling like your best self again.

Today, online mental health services empower individuals to prioritize self care during challenging times. In Evanston, IL, there are online therapy options available for your unique needs, whether you’re struglling with low self-esteem, feeling overwhelmed during a busy time, or have recently lost a loved one. 

If you’re looking for a therapist, Evanston, IL, has a variety of options. You can review the profiles of licensed therapists below to see which therapeutic approach works for you. Each therapists offers affordable, accessible, and quality online care, making it easier for you to take care of yourself on a day-to-day basis. If you’re a student at Northwestern University seeking affordable healthcare, a parent trying to regain peace and clarity after a busy time, or an individual dealing with a past trauma like sexual abuse, there is compassionate therapists willing to help. 

This is Erika Luhn's avatar and link to their profile

Erika Luhn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Thanks for taking the time to get to know a little bit about me as you make an important decision about your recovery process. Finding the right therapy professional is the first of many important steps you will take and so thank you for taking the time to consider me as someone to work with. I don't take the process of therapy lightly. I have worked in private practice for 14 years and have worked as a therapist for twenty years. My experience is extensive; however, my scope of practice includes working with survivors of trauma, sexual assault/sexual, physical and/or emotional abuse, post traumatic and complex-post traumatic stress, self-harming behaviors, depression, generalized anxiety, grief & loss, family conflict, disorders of personality and finally, working with children & adolescence. I have level I certification in Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and also have completed my post graduate training and supervision using Dialectical & Behavioral Therapy, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

This is Ramon Nolasco's avatar and link to their profile

Ramon Nolasco

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC,LMHC,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am glad that you are taking the first step into the journey of finding inner peace. I have helped adults, teens and children struggling with adaptation, resolution of life tasks, difficulties confronting problematic levels of stress, that may or may not lead to anxiety and/or depression, and any other emotional difficulty such as trauma, grief and addictions. Together, we will find new paths to resolve these challenges and moving closer to a sense of satisfaction and happiness. I provide a therapeutic environment that you can trust and feel confident that together we can find the best solutions to your problems I have been working as a mental health therapist for over 2 decades and I am passionate about seeing the process of change and improvement over time as therapy move forward. I want to guide you to do this using a strength-based method and an eclectic approach during this process as we develop our therapeutic alliance and try to obtain treatment success.

This is Marla Voss's avatar and link to their profile

Marla Voss

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LISW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and in Wisconsin and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Iowa. I am currently accepting clients to work with in both of those states. My experiences come from direct mental health and behavioral health counseling for adults aged 18 and older with a variety of presenting issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, grief as well as coping with physical health concerns, chronic diseases and illness. I approach the therapeutic relationship with sensitivity and respect for people of all cultures. I strive to the therapeutic relationship, and you, with compassion, respect, and warmth. I hope that after each session you have felt heard and understood. My clinical experiences include working in community agencies and private practice. I have worked in healthcare for 30 years with my beginning experience working in a hospital. My therapy style and approach are person centered and strengths-based drawing influence from Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. I help clients design treatment goals specific to them as each person is unique and different approaches work for different people. Whether working towards gaining insight into specific circumstances, symptom relief, improved function, it is my hope we can work collaboratively to achieve it. It takes a lot of strength to work towards finding a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are willing to take that step, it would be a privilege if you would allow me to walk beside you. I will do my best to respond to messages within 24 hours on my days of availability. Currently my hours of availability are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Wednesdays from 8:00 am until 12:00 pm. I am not available on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays for appointments or to respond to messages. **Please note I am fluent in English only. I do not speak any foreign languages."

This is Doriece Choy's avatar and link to their profile

Doriece Choy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Dori Choy and am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the social work field for 20 years, have been a therapist for the past 12 years. My approach is realistic, strengths based and confidence building. I believe that there is value in every life and that hope can be found in any situation. My preference is to work alongside my clients, allowing them to explore their own thoughts and feelings week to week. Feeling heard, supported and understood is the foundation needed to build healthy habits and work through difficult seasons in life.

This is Sheri Bassewitz's avatar and link to their profile

Sheri Bassewitz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesDepressionADHD
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker with 35 years of experience in a variety of settings. At the beginning of my career, I worked in hospice, oncology, and home care agencies for 15 years. I then became certified to work in school settings, where I worked for the next 15 years. For the last five years, I worked in a private practice with children, adolescents, and families, addressing emotional and social challenges that interfere with activities of daily living. Outside of these professional experiences, I have also worked at several camps for children. One was specifically for children with speech and language and social emotional learning challenges. I also volunteered for many summers at The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, which is a camp in Connecticut for children with serious illnesses. Additionally, I have been fortunate to supervise social workers working towards their licenses. Now, as a clinician in private practice, I am thrilled to use my skills to assist children, adolescents, and adults who are facing challenges and stressors in today’s world. My experiences provide me with the skills necessary to support those faced with challenges that accompany anxiety, depression, and social communication disorders as well as ASD and ADHD. My goal as a therapist is to help those with mental health challenges learn tools and strategies to cope with the stressors and challenges of daily life while identifying and defining their own goals.

This is Mark Mikyska's avatar and link to their profile

Mark Mikyska

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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.

This is Melissa Cauthen's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Cauthen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Blessings to you: I am licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 20+ years of professional work experience, with most of those years being in therapeutic situations. My extensive social work experience has allowed me to work with many walks of life, where I have advocated for their best qualities of their life, always. I have much experience working with diverse populations and have the ability to meet people where they are at. I believe my gift of being a minority helps a great deal in this ability. I thrive on positivity and mental wellness, with a clear understanding and vision of one's light. With this gift, I feel I am called to help others live their best lives, and give skills to help keep their light bright. I am a natural promoter of empowerment and hold a great deal of empathy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, etc. 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 Anthony Kokalj's avatar and link to their profile

Anthony Kokalj

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

This is Debbie Powell-Gardner's avatar and link to their profile

Debbie Powell-Gardner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Alicia Fahr's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Alicia Fahr

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia, District of Columbia, Maine, Minnesota, Wisconsin, California, Washington, and Arizona with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients manage chronic illness and chronic pain, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, post-partum anxiety and depression, women's issues, aging issues, loneliness, phobias, career changes, and lack of purpose or direction in life. I practice Existentialism, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Rogerian Counseling, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychoanalytic Therapy, and Rational Emotive Therapy in my counseling sessions depending upon the client’s needs, goals, and personality. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Evanston

Finding the best therapist close by in Evanston can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in Evanston that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Evanston. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Evanston, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Evanston region and in the state of Illinois. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Evanston or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Evanston area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Evanston therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Evanston, elsewhere in Cook, or in the greater state of Illinois.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Evanston area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Evanston therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Evanston due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Evanston may not take health insurance, some in the state of Illinois may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Illinois you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Evanston online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Evanston, Illinois working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Evanston psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Evanston above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Evanston helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Evanston therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Evanston therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Evanston?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Evanston therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Evanston therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Evanston therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Evanston therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in IL, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 60201 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Evanston counselor?

Before seeing your Evanston therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Evanston.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, 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 feedback and advice from a therapist. A Evanston licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a Evanston counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Evanston, Illinois can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Evanston has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Evanston, Illinois

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Evanston.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Evanston:

60201, 60202, 60204, 60208, 60209

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