Linda Gonzalez
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!
Laticia Georgie
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of Illinois and have 10+ years of experience in counseling. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings and have experience supporting clients with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, grief, self-esteem, and substance abuse. I have a strength-based perspective in my counseling approach and I believe that every human being has great worth/value and should be treated with respect, quality care, and compassion. Reaching out for support is a big and important step as well as a great start to your healing journey! There is HOPE! It brings me joy knowing that people reading this are considering reaching out for support. If you are interested in partnering with me on your healing journey, I am looking forward to hearing from you!
Ericka Bassey
I am a clinically licensed social worker, LICSW, who has been providing emotional health services in a variety of settings since 1994. I graduated with an MSW from the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Social Work in 1994. I obtained my LICSW in 2010. I have both clinic and hospital based experience. I have also done a lot of community based mental health work. I am interested in holistic approaches to health and healing. I am open and operate with kindness and compassion. I enjoy partnering with others in their journeys to health, wholeness and well-being. I am practical and my approach is always tailored to the needs of my clients. I always meet my clients where they are and allow them to define their problems and/or crisis.
Ramona Hickey
I am a licensed Illinois therapist with seven years of professional experience. I have a heart for helping clients navigate stress and anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and family conflicts. As a Christian therapist, my approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and the belief that healing and growth are possible through both clinical insight and spiritual support. Therapeutically, I take an eclectic approach—blending evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address unhelpful thought patterns, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to build emotional regulation and interpersonal skills, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients align their actions with their deepest values. When clients desire, I also incorporate spiritual reflection and Christian principles as part of the healing process, fostering both inner peace and personal growth. Meaningful change takes time, care, and collaboration. Therapy isn’t a quick fix—it’s a process of building trust, exploring patterns, and learning practical tools to create lasting transformation. I take time to build a strong foundation with each client because lasting progress begins with safety and understanding. As we move forward, I integrate evidence-based strategies to help you reframe unhelpful thoughts, strengthen emotional awareness, and develop healthier ways of responding to life’s challenges. If you’re looking for meaningful change, you’ve come to the right place. In our work together, I will help you clarify what matters most to you and assist in creating goals that reflect your values and the life you want to build. I will gently challenge you when needed and support you as you take practical steps toward growth and lasting change. Personal growth happens in stages, and my role is to walk alongside you through each one—helping you gain clarity, build confidence, and reconnect with a renewed sense of purpose along the way. Taking the first step toward a more peaceful and purposeful life takes courage. I’m here to walk alongside you in that journey with care and encouragement.
James Michehl
Licensed since 2008, James earned his master’s degree in education from DePaul University in Chicago. Upon graduating he was accepted into the community counseling program at DePaul University. James has worked with children (5-12), adolescents (13-18), young adults (19-24), adults, families, and couples. He has facilitated groups for Autism spectrum patients. He supports first responders including Firefighter Behavioral Health which assist in suicidal prevention for first responders. In addition, he works assisting police departments with Critical stress debriefings. As a trained mediator through DePaul University, James can assist couples who may have differences which require more than just couples’ therapy. James believes therapy is a joint effort between therapist and client. He has a proven track record of success as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and as your therapist, he is committed to provide you the best care possible. Every person is unique which is why there are many different treatments approaches available to you. James is committed to make every effort to provide effective care, your commitment is needed as well to achieve success. Together you and James will create a treatment plan that will be a roadmap to your successful journey. Any barriers to success will be discussed and the plans adjusted as needed. You and James will discuss progress and challenges in an honest, trusting, and confidential manner in order to achieve your desired outcome. James is a certified hypnotherapist and can help with the cessation of smoking, anxiety reduction, weight loss, and gaining confidence. In his spare time James is a wildlife artist and wood carver. His work is displayed in art galleries and online.
Sara Figueroa
Hello! I am Sara Rivera. I am a clinically licensed bilingual (English/Spanish) social worker licensed in the state of Illinois and Wisconsin. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service in New York City, where I am from. I have over 14 years experience in various parts of the field of social work: Child welfare advocacy, substance use disorders, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, sexual assault response advocacy and hospice/grief counseling. I have worked within a variety of settings with diverse individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, educational and other diversified backgrounds, including LGBTQ. In my work as a clinician, I ensure my clients are free from judgement in a safe environment in which they can safely process their feelings while I help to guide them on their journey to healing and/or helping them reach their goals. My focal point is ALWAYS meeting my clients where they are at in life and not where I would like them to be as this is their journey not mine. I utilize a variety of combine clinical approaches that are individualized to each client's needs, all treatment plans are developed together and with the approval of the clients I work. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to beginning our work together soon! With care and attention to all that matters to you, Sara
Sergio Ayala
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.
Katrina Covington
As a military spouse of 23 years, I’ve had the unique opportunity to work in various therapy settings with both military and civilian communities. With 10+ years of professional counseling experience, 4 years in private practice, I’ve helped adults, teens, and children navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, substance use, relationship struggles, parenting, and anger management. I believe everyone’s journey is unique, which is why I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. While my foundation is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I also incorporate techniques from other methods, like Solution-Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, to help you reach your goals. What makes my approach different from others? It’s the attention and care taken to ensure a genuinely client-centered therapeutic experience. I aim to provide a safe, supportive space where we can work together to create positive changes in your life.
Laura Rubenstein
I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Kenneth Vick
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.
Dr. Wende Pannell
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice specializes in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and self-esteem development. I focus on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore personal growth, address communication barriers, and work through challenging emotional experiences. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, whether they're struggling with social anxiety, workplace stress, life transitions, or deeper emotional wounds. My therapeutic work emphasizes holistic healing, helping clients develop self-compassion, rebuild connections, and rediscover their inner strength. I'm committed to walking alongside individuals as they develop healthier coping strategies, process difficult experiences, and create meaningful pathways toward personal transformation. I specialize in supporting older adults and individuals experiencing midlife transitions, chronic health challenges, and complex emotional landscapes. My goal is to provide empathetic, personalized guidance that honors each client's individual experience and potential for healing.
Kendra Spiva
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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.
Keaton El-Talabani
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Melanie Toppmeyer
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I have worked as a school social worker for 12 years. My approach centers on helping individuals cultivate self-love, discover their life purpose, and develop healthy coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and self-esteem concerns. With a faith-informed perspective, I create a compassionate space where clients can explore personal growth, work through anger management, and build resilience. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowering individuals to embrace their inherent worth. Drawing from over a decade of experience as a social worker, I'm committed to walking alongside you as you navigate personal transformation, develop stronger self-compassion, and create meaningful change in your life. Together, we'll work to uncover your strengths and develop practical tools for emotional wellness.
Find a Therapist Near You in Sparland , 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:
- 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 Sparland.
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.