Bernice Banks
I am a licensed clinical social worker with an extensive and diverse experience working with adults, children, couples, and families. I earned my master’s degree from the University of Chicago in Illinois in 1997. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University in Illinois with a major in psychology. I enjoy the work I do and have worked in both the public and private sectors in the fields of social services and mental health. Having worked with children and families and the many challenges they face for more than 20 years, I know that the decision to seek professional help can often be a very difficult one. If you are trying to make that decision right now, it may help you to know that I am someone who is not here to judge you, and who really believes that there is a way out for you that together we can find. You have already taken the most important step by acknowledging that, for now, this is something you cannot handle alone. I have been in private practice for the past 12 years and currently specialize in marriage, couples and family therapy. I also have a background in child and adolescent mental health and have worked with families extensively around these issues. Other areas of expertise include Grief and Loss, Depression, Stress, and Anxiety, My approach to therapy is that it should be used as a tool to provide the knowledge, help, and support needed to understand problems and develop skills to cope with them. I use Cognitive Behavioral techniques to help clients develop insight and new skills.. Most importantly, I want to empower my clients so that they are able to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences, make informed choices about what actions they need to take, and develop skills that will help them handle difficult situations in the future. Working together, I believe we can accomplish those goals.
Donald Shawler
Donald (Don) Shawler ia a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who uses an integrative approach to working with adults dealing with depression, anxiety and other mental health problems. This integrative approach involves a person centered technique to help clients identify and address issues in an accepting, non-judgmental and safe environment. Using Cognitive based techniques, clients are taught to re-frame thoughts that hold them back and impact emotional and mental well being. Mr. Shawler also helps clients address anger issues by teaching anger management skills. With over 20 years of experience, Mr. Shawler has been successful working with many individuals dealing with a wide range of issues.
Dr. Athena Porter
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
Mark German
As a licensed therapist with over three decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach integrates compassionate, evidence-based strategies to address challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I offer a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and work towards meaningful personal transformation. My expertise spans diverse areas including communication challenges, social anxiety, life purpose exploration, grief recovery, and interpersonal relationship healing. My practice is grounded in understanding each individual's unique journey, with a commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can authentically engage with their experiences. Whether you're navigating workplace stress, relationship transitions, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with professional insight and genuine care.
Jessica Sance
My name is Jessica Noemi Sance, I am a clinical therapist with 13 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 seven year old son. I look forward to working with you.
Margaret Wilson
I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. 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.
Marilyn Traynor
As a seasoned therapist with four decades of clinical experience in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, grief, and significant life transitions. I offer compassionate, depth-oriented counseling for adults seeking understanding and healing. My approach is particularly attuned to issues affecting midlife and older adults, including caregiver stress, aging-related concerns, chronic health challenges, and emotional well-being during major life changes. My therapeutic work addresses a wide range of emotional experiences—from workplace stress and relationship dynamics to trauma recovery and self-esteem building. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult feelings, develop resilient coping strategies, and rediscover personal strength and purpose. I'm committed to providing thoughtful, individualized care that honors each person's unique journey and supports meaningful personal growth.
Jendaya Clark
Hello! I'm Jendaya, and I have several years of experience in community mental health and individual/group counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes such as quarantine, graduation, weddings/marriage, aging parents, illness/cancer and fertility concerns . 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'd be happy to assist if you'd like to meet.
Lisa Allen
As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients work through stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and grief. I also have training and understanding of how to work with people with Disabilities including but not limited to: Autism, ADHD. I approach therapy with deep compassion and a commitment to understanding each person's unique journey. My practice centers on empowering clients to cultivate self-love, discover life purpose, and develop meaningful pathways to personal healing and growth. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, challenge limiting beliefs, and develop resilient strategies for emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, respectful, and tailored to meet the individual needs of each client. I believe in the transformative power of understanding oneself, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside my clients as they build stronger, more authentic connections with themselves and others.
Christianna Sullivan
I am licensed in Illinois with over 20 years of working with children and families both professionally and personally. I have over 10 years of volunteer experience working specifically with divorce recovery and family/ adjustment issues and years of professional work experience in various capacities. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. I utilize several therapeutic approaches and I strive to provide an empathetic environment for all individuals. I provide cognitive behavioral therapy and my style is client driven and and solution focused. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Erica Gilmore
I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have had my license for 7 years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Susan Blanchard
Hi there! I'm Susan and I am licensed in Texas and Wisconsin with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.
Christina Reed
I am licensed in Illinois with over 25 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 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!
Tishina Davis
As a licensed therapist serving Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering young adults through transformative healing experiences, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma recovery. My approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity and understanding, particularly for individuals experiencing workplace stress, discrimination, and personal identity struggles. I create a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore self-love, communication patterns, and pathways toward personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop resilience, process challenging experiences, and reconnect with their inherent strengths. Whether you're wrestling with isolation, shame, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise.
Find a Therapist Near You in Hardin , Illinois
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Illinois can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
With a population of Illinois_POPULATION, Illinois is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Illinois, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Illinois (IL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Illinois_COUNTIES, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Illinois with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Illinois
When searching for a therapist near me in Illinois, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Illinois, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Illinois.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Illinois want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Illinois without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Illinois (IL)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Illinois
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Illinois, including residents in Illinois_COUNTIES.
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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.