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

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

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

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

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

 

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Scott Heise

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, My name is Scott Heise and I am a Licensed mental Health Therapist located in Freeport, Illinois. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in the Community Mental Health model. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology Trinity International University on Deerfield Illinois in 2009. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, mood disorders, post traumatic stress, personality disorders, substance use issues, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I have also worked with clients who struggle with stress, loss, abuse/neglect, and the frustrations of life. I would describe my approach as empathetic, goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Logo Therapy to help my clients set goals and objectives, work through their traumas, and feel empowered once they have met their goals. I enjoy helping people though their challenges in life. If you so desire, I can can provide counseling from a Christian perspective helping people and encouraging them to go deeper with God. I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment, using humor and prayer to work together and reach your goals. Everyone deserves to have someone they can trust and talk to; let me be that person for you. I look forward to working with you to help you meet your therapeutic goals.

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Richard Heller

Offering therapy in IL
License: DMin, MA, LCPC, BCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

It takes courage to take this first step in seeking help with an issue in your life that is troubling you and into looking into counseling. I admire you for this and welcome the opportunity to meet you and help you with the life concern you are facing. My approach is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I will focus on your needs and we will learn together how best to help you. I will treat you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 1998 and am licensed in the state of Illinois. My vocation includes 38 years of pastoral ministry, being a Board Certified Chaplain since 1995, and continue to work as an on-call chaplain for over 21 years. Through my wide range of experiences, I have helped people with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and loss. I look forward in supporting and empowering you through your journey in life.

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Rhonda Johnson

Offering therapy in IL
License: LPC,ADC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyDepression
6 years of experience

Hello. I have practiced in the healing arts for the past 14 years helping people develop a clearer mind/body connection. I embarked on a career in counseling 6 years ago to help people strengthen their connection with themselves. I view the counseling process as an alliance between client and therapist and considers the client as the experts of their lives. Within the structure of the therapeutic relationship, clients can access their inner strengths and promote change. My theoretic approach is based on the belief that clients oversee their counseling experience. They will learn the aspects of their life that they can control and what they cannot. Clients will understand that the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which they will be expected to put in the effort for homework, be accountable, and present within counseling alliance. My goal as a counselor is to provide a safe environment where we can explore your primary interests, develop goals, and determines strengths and assets as you move toward your aspirations. I earned a M. Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Clemson University, in Clemson, SC. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Psycho-Educational Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. My areas of specialized training and expertise include anxiety, depression, adjustment in the wake of divorce, survivors of trauma, and people in recovery from alcohol and drugs. I have formal training in co-occurring substance abuse disorders. Specialties: Stress, Anxiety Trauma, abuse Grief Depression Clinical approaches: CBT, Solution Focused, Client Centered

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Sarah Gura

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 14 years of professional counseling experience, and 20 years of service in the mental health field. I believe that therapy should be worthwhile, so I look forward to making psychology useful to you. I enjoy helping clients with their stress, anxiety, panic, depression, relationship, and trauma concerns. Let's get started and get you some relief! www.selfcarepath.com

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Allison Gale

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

Thank you for reaching out. My name is Allison and I am a licensed therapist in the states of Illinois and Indiana. I look forward to meeting you and learning more about your individual needs. My hope for you is that you will find our sessions to be a safe space where you can share, feel supported, and grow. I enjoy incorporating art and mindfulness into sessions and am able to provide exercises for you to work on outside of our session time. I have six years of counseling experience helping clients manage depression, anxiety, career changes, relationship issues and goals, parenting and postpartum struggles and complex trauma healing. I believe you are the expert of your story and look forward to meeting you exactly where you are in this present moment. Your feelings and experiences are valid; reaching out for support shows your strength. When I am not working I enjoy reading, hiking, and working on art projects. I look forward to connecting with you!

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Ozell Adams

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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.

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Deborah Gleason

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Alabama and the state of Illinois with over 6 years experience as a social worker. I am also certified as a Somatic Activated Healer under Sah D'Simone. I specialize in treatment for anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I work to meet my clients where they are at and provided strategies if necessary. I have worked with teens in a group home setting to help them improve self esteem and maximize their potential in everyday life. I practice from a spiritual lens understanding that everyone has a divine purpose that can be tapped into at any time. I’m here to help support and empower you.

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This is Renee St. Clair's avatar and link to their profile

Renee St. Clair

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and Wisconsin with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, self-compassion, and self-confidence. 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. I use many types of interventions such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Mindfulness Practices. I am a therapist who believes in working on providing solutions from Day 1 and together we will find solutions for your situation.

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Jessica Hobart

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Hallie Henry

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist serving clients in both Ohio and Illinois. I’ve had the privilege of supporting adult women and men, teens and children in both individual and group settings. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, family conflicts, life transitions, grief and loss, attachment issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence and healing from traumatic experiences. I believe in a collaborative approach where we will work together to identify your goals, address challenges you’re facing and build upon your existing strengths. Seeking a path of growth and change is a courageous act and I’m honored to support you in that process. I look forward to working with you!

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How to find counseling in Chicago

Finding the best therapist close by in Chicago 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Chicago. 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 Chicago, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Chicago or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Chicago area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find 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 Chicago, elsewhere in Cook, or in the greater state of Illinois.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

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

Therapists in Chicago, 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Chicago 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 Chicago helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Chicago 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:

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 Chicago 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?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.

A psychologist 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 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 Chicago 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 lot of people in IL, providers 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 60632 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

Before seeing your 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. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist 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. A Chicago 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Chicago, 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.

Chicago 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?

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

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 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 Chicago.

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

60018, 60106, 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, 60605, 60606, 60607, 60608, 60609, 60610, 60611, 60612, 60613, 60614, 60615, 60616, 60617, 60618, 60619, 60620, 60621, 60622, 60623, 60624, 60625, 60626, 60628, 60629, 60630, 60631, 60632, 60633, 60634, 60636, 60637, 60638, 60639, 60640, 60641, 60642, 60643, 60644, 60645, 60646, 60647, 60649, 60651, 60652, 60653, 60654, 60655, 60656, 60657, 60659, 60660, 60661, 60664, 60666, 60668, 60669, 60670, 60673, 60674, 60675, 60677, 60678, 60680, 60681, 60684, 60685, 60686, 60687, 60688, 60689, 60690, 60691, 60693, 60694, 60695, 60696, 60697, 60699, 60701, 60707, 60827

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