Lake Forest is a small town in Northeastern Illinois on the shore of Lake Michigan where the citizens like to hang out on their days off. They also enjoy their natural areas and have 700 acres of parks with over 12 miles of hiking trails. All in all, Lake Forest really is a great place to live. 

However, if you are trying to deal with a mental illness, it is hard to enjoy anything. You may feel isolated or alone, confused, angry, anxious, and depressed. Luckily, Lake Forest has many of the top mental health care experts in the state. Talk to one today about getting help.

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Psychologist Brittany Vaughn providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Brittany Vaughn

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149.021018
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years offering treatment

Welcome to BetterHelp. Life events can cause anyone to experience symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. How you respond to these symptoms makes all the difference in your overall health. Together we will work to identify your goals of managing these symptoms and develop steps to reduce their affect on your day to day life. Sometimes these life events are traumatic, which can cause much longer term effects on your health. Processing trauma, no matter how long ago it happened, is vital to moving forward past the traumatic event. A little bit about me personally. I am a Southern Illinois native. I attended SIU and completed my Bachelor’s of Social Work in December of 2012. After taking a semester off, I moved forward to obtain my Masters of Social Work which I completed in May of 2014. Since completing my education, I have worked as a therapist with adolescents with extreme trauma in a residential setting. I then worked with the public schools in Williamson County to provide therapy in the schools to students with a variety of disorders, including behavior disturbances. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in an outpatient setting for the past 3 years. I have found that therapy is my passion and I look forward to helping you discover how therapy can improve your quality of life.

Psychologist Erin Lee providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Erin Lee

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149.012674
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

For the summer months, I am offering an innovative approach to therapy called "Fitness Fridays." These are sessions that fuse fitness/strength training/cardio with talk therapy. If you are someone who is looking to improve your overall health and find it beneficial to move as you process and talk, this is for you. This is a way to maximize your time and couple two wonderful ways to treat yourself well- therapy and exercise. You just need some basic dumbbells, a set of ear buds, and comfortable clothing. This is a short term approach with a very targeted weekly focus. If you are looking for longer term therapy, this may not be the right fit for you. I have been a therapist in Illinois for 20 years working with clients struggling primarily with anxiety, depression, family conflict, parenting, ADHD, and grief/loss. I have a Master's in Social Work degree from University of Illinois at Chicago as well as an additional certification in mindfulness. My therapy approach involves creating a compassionate, calm space where clients can delve into the barriers that make life difficult to manage. Using a solution-focused based therapy infused with dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness training, clients are able to reflect on changes they want to see and make small steps in a positive direction. We all have good intentions but sometimes our busy and overwhelming lives keep us from forming better habits. I encourage clients to access mindfulness and positive self care strategies that are easy to implement for noticeable and effective change so life can be lived to the fullest!

Psychologist Marilyn Traynor providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Marilyn Traynor

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149006091
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Debra   (Debbie) Shepard providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Debra (Debbie) Shepard

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149016627
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), licensed in Illinois, with over 10 years of clinical and supervisory experience in the behavioral health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, substance use issues, issues of emerging adulthood, parenting issues and career challenges. My therapy style is warm and interactive, individualized to each's client's specific needs. My approach is solution focused and strength based, utilizing evidence-based treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness. I provide a safe, supportive environment in which to collaborate on addressing what is not working in your life. It takes courage to seek to help and take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Misty East providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Misty East

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LCSW 69723, IL LCSW 149015189
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Texas and Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Wayland Smith providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Wayland Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149004102
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
38 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & 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!

Psychologist Kenneth Vick providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Kenneth Vick

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCPC 180.003698
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & relationship issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Susan Broderick providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Susan Broderick

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149.012332
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
20 years offering treatment

I am an Illinois Licensed Clinician Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years of professional work experience. Throughout those years, my clients have ranged from age 5 to adulthood. I have worked with clients with a wide variety of concerns including stress , anxiety, depression, trauma/abuse, parenting issues and grief. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy style is warm, encouraging and focused on personal growth. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to meeting you and embarking on the journey of a healthy, happier you.

Psychologist Ellen Ortiz providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Ellen Ortiz

Clinician
License Type(s): NV LMFT 4252, IL LMFT 166.001711
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

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 honored to support you in that process. I am licensed in Nevada and Illinois with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, stage of life issues & parenting strategies. I would embrace the opportunity to support you no matter who you are or what you believe. You are connecting for a purpose, I would love to help you achieve that purpose. I feel very strongly that video and phone sessions work best. I text only to confirm appointment details or notice of last minute changes.

Psychologist Masi Kadzai providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Masi Kadzai

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149026714
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, Anxiety
6 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like social anxiety, workplace stress, life transitions, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, particularly supporting young adults, women, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering clients to develop self-love, overcome isolation, and explore life purpose. I offer targeted support for those experiencing panic disorders, mood challenges, trauma recovery, and interpersonal dynamics. Drawing from evidence-based practices, using DBT, Mindfulness, and Somatic Experience as part of a therapeutic approach, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. With a deep commitment to understanding each individual's unique journey, I strive to provide affirming, personalized care that honors your lived experiences and supports your path toward healing and growth.

Psychologist Carrie Wallace-Onifade providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Carrie Wallace-Onifade

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149028458
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Kathleen Kaufman providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Kathleen Kaufman

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149009240
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
24 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, (LCSW), in the state of Illinois, with 24+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, abuse and parenting issues. Additionally, I work with both women and men and have an understanding of their unique issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs, focusing on actionable problem-solving and support toward goal achievement. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage...and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Alyssa Burtner providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Alyssa Burtner

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCP 071010012
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-compassion, meaningful connections, and resilient coping strategies. I have extensive experience addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering teens and adults through transformative healing experiences. I create a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore personal growth, overcome anxieties, and rediscover their inner strength. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, feeling isolated, or seeking clarity about life purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine understanding and professional guidance. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop practical tools for managing stress, processing difficult emotions, and building healthier relationships. My practice honors each individual's unique journey, offering compassionate support tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Psychologist Crystal Moore providing different types of therapy in Lake Forest

Crystal Moore

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149.030943
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach is rooted in compassionate, evidence-based care, with a deep commitment to helping clients develop resilience and self-understanding. I have extensive experience addressing challenges related to depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, and mood disorders. My therapeutic practice centers on creating a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I believe in honoring each individual's unique journey, offering personalized support that empowers clients to discover their inner strengths and create positive change. Drawing from trauma-informed and client-centered approaches, I work collaboratively to help individuals build emotional skills, process difficult experiences, and cultivate greater self-compassion. My goal is to walk alongside you, providing thoughtful guidance and unwavering support as you move toward healing and personal transformation.

Find a Therapist Near You in Lake Forest , 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.

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, 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:

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:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Illinois (IL)
  3. 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 Lake Forest.

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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Lake Forest can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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