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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Ashley Andersen

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Ashley Pratt. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and have been in practice for the past seven years. Over that time, I have refined my counseling skills by providing individual, couples, and family counseling to individuals five to older adult in inpatient psychiatric settings, residential settings, community outreach programs, and in private practice. I have a direct, solution-focused approach, which aids individuals in addressing problematic behaviors and thought processes which are negatively impacting their life. I have experience supporting individuals in managing anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, trauma, self-harm and suicidal thoughts, and substance use. I also have experience working with individuals who are managing chronic medical conditions as well as mental health issues. My philosophy focuses on building a respectful, honest, and collaborative relationship with my clients. I believe each client is the expert on themselves and their needs. Through providing a warm, safe, and supportive therapeutic space, my hope is to help individuals identify their own goals for therapy and guide them in managing hurdles in their life. In our work together, we will search for the root of the issues you are experiencing and learn to nurture the underlying issues. My personal areas of expertise include a holistic and eclectic approach using Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral techniques, and trauma informed approaches. I enjoy teaching interventions which can be used in a variety of settings, such as relaxation techniques and thought reframing. I believe we cannot address challenges in life in isolation, and I hope to offer the support needed to overcome any challenges in life.

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Karen Hill-Davis

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families cope with a variety challenges that life has presented them with. I will help you regain perspective and control. My approach is cognitive behavioral and solution focused. My style is open and supportive. We will begin by starting where you are in defining the issues and clarifying what your goals will be. I have specific experience with adjustment to life changes related to health issues, aging, life care planning and bereavement. Through the therapeutic relationship, l will help you recognize your strengths so you can become empowered to effect positive change in your life.

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Parinben Shah

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Change is the only constant and it can be difficult to embrace these persistent ups and downs. Sometimes we need a little help navigating ways in managing our challenging emotions. Hence, I take a warm, empathetic, and “real” approach to therapy. I believe maintaining a personable and professional relationship helps build a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I've found that creating a safe non-judgemental space has empowered my clients to regain control of their lives. My clients come from all walks of life. Each with their own unique experiences. I recognize therapy varies from person to person, therefore, I utilize a variety of person-centered modalities through a culturally competent lens. My primary experience has been with adolescents and adults suffering from domestic violence, sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, and sexual kinks in individual and group settings.

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Sofia Dickey

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

My name is Sofia Dickey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. Additionally, I am a Certified Addictions Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have worked in residential and outpatient treatment centers for youth with behavioral concerns and adults with various mental health issues. I have also helped a wide variety of individuals from different backgrounds to better manage issues with depression, anxiety, addictions, and trauma. My counseling style is that of acceptance and compassion while using the approaches of cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies as well as motivational interviewing. I am here to listen to you without judgment, and I am here to help. One of the benefits of online therapy involves the added daily support that may not be available through regular outpatient counseling. Therefore, I encourage you to message me at anytime as I check my messages at least once a day every day of the week. I also offer messaging, live chat, phone sessions and video sessions. Although I encourage video sessions, I am available through the means that make you feel the most comfortable. I look forward to working with you and helping you reach your goals.

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Jennifer, "Jenny" Marder

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I obtained my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential in 2016. I have 24 years of experience in social work. My experience includes working with adults, children, teen parents, and teens who face challenges in their lives to reach their fullest potential. My belief is therapy is a safe space to explore and work toward positive outcomes, assisting clients to achieve their therapeutic goals and alleviate stress. I have worked with clients regarding domestic violence, co-dependence, anxiety issues, and parenting topics. In the past I have advocated on behalf of clients which allows the client and families obtain greater success toward their goals. As your therapist, you and I will build a relationship of trust and understanding to work through the issues that are important to you. My work in client home settings, as well as a behavioral hospital and in clinical assessment have included several modalities. I am proficient in Cognitive Behavioral theory, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma work, Stress Management, complicated grief interventions.

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Marla Voss

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW, LISW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

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

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John Horsley

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW,LCAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I'm John Horsley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor both in the state of Indiana. I graduated from Indiana University with a Master's Degree in Social Work. I have worked extensively with individuals and families who have dealt with substance use disorders and complications from substance use disorders. I've also focused on working with individuals who have experienced trauma and secondary trauma. I've practiced in a variety of settings and seeing a variety of clients with various struggles. I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the foundation and essential component in the change process. I believe in meeting individuals where they are in the growth process and partnering with them to walk through change together. I have developed many tools for the toolbox and understand that each person has unique needs and requires unique approaches. Most of all, I want to respect the place my client is at and make sure they are feeling safe and motivated. Congratulations on taking the first step on your journey. It would be an honor to walk it with you.

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Geneen McGowan

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. 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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Sydney Mitchell

Offering therapy in IL
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have developed a deep love for holistic mental health and helping people connect with themselves to improve their connection with their lives and the people around them. I believes in creating an extremely safe and supportive environment to facilitate a healing environment for clients to thrive. I value the use of compassion, mindfulness, and connection between mind and body that allows for relationships between myself and my clients to form in a gentle and nurturing way.

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Tiara Banks

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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.

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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 60657 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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