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.

 

This is Debbie Hayes's avatar and link to their profile

Debbie Hayes

Offering therapy in IL
License: MAC, LCPC, QMHP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am a counselor licensed in Illinois with over 10 years of combined experience working as a caseworker and as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including grief, depression, anxiety,anger issues, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced bi-polar disorder and schizophrenia. My education included a vast array of specialties, including multicultural counseling. I continue my education by completing additional trainings so that I can stay on top of the latest research and best practices. In this way, I can be a better support to you. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in being judgemental. My approach combines client centered, strengths based, existential, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am happy to incorporate Christian based counseling into our sessions. As a Christian myself, I find utilizing a Christian based approach to be one of the most valuable and successful modes of therapy. If you are interested in Christian based counseling, please let me know and we will incorporate this approach into our sessions! It takes great courage to seek assistance in order to have a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change! If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you and to embark upon that journey with you! One step at a time, we can work towards making the changes you need to live a happier, more fulfilling life. I look forward to working with you soon. Debbie Hayes MAC, LCPC, QMHP

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This is Dr. Melody Madaris's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Melody Madaris

Offering therapy in IL
License: CRC,LCPC
AddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of experience. I have spent the bulk of my career working with individuals suffering from trauma, substance abuse, and bipolar disorders. I am able to relate to individuals on a very personal level which typically builds a strong connection of trust. I manage a staff of over 60 individuals at a community mental health center where I am the administrator over co-occurring disorders (substance abuse and mental health). I manage a residential treatment facility, 6 outpatient co-occurring programs, a 24-hour mobile crisis program, an employee assistance program, mental health awareness program, and a substance abuse prevention program. I fully believe that in order to make things in our lives better we must learn how to take charge and change those things that are causing us problems. If change was just as easy as saying "lets change this", the counseling profession wouldn't be around. We all need help targeting the part of our lives where change needs to occur and we need help in starting and maintaining that change. I hope I am able to help you along this road to wellbeing!

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Dr. Michelle Demaray

Offering therapy in IL
License: Ph.D.,Licensed Clinical Psychologist (IL),School Psychologist (IL)
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois as a Clinical Psychologist and a Certified School Psychologist. I have been a professor of Psychology for over 20 years and study both social support and bullying and victimization in schools. I have experience working with parent(s) regarding a wide range of parenting issues regarding their children, teens, and young adults. I have extensive skills in working with youth regarding learning problems, motivation, depression, anxiety, relationship/friendship problems, and ADHD. I predominantly use a cognitive-behavioral approach to counseling. My counseling style is warm, non-judgmental, and respectful. I hope to be able to assist you and/or your children to meet your needs and goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Gloria Wright

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical therapist in Illinois with 25 years of experience as a clinician. My experience includes helping clients with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, stress management, anger management and increasing self-esteem. My approach to therapy focuses on improving your quality of life and helping you to achieve your goals. We would work together to develop a treatment plan specifically tailored to your treatment needs. My approach in establishing a therapeutic relationship is to be compassionate and non- judgmental. It is my sincere desire for you to leave each session feeling more optimistic and hopeful about your future.

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Patricia Marchman

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

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, with over 15 years of therapy experience and a lifetime of wisdom to draw from, which is invaluable! I accept Live video, phone and chat sessions. I can offer clients a holistic psychotherapeutic approach using person-centered, solution-focused therapy. I work with adult women, men, and couples; LGBTQ welcome. Recovery & Addictions; Depression and Anxiety issues, self-identity and self-respect lifestyles, relationships, and interpersonal situations (vocational, career). Witnessing the effects of suicide, I support the Prevention of Suicide through education and talking about suicide openly with all age groups. In working with clients and their families, I have discovered several techniques to address resistance and opposition towards change. Through the use of an eclectic approach utilizing CBT, Person-Centered, and Mindfulness, I identify and focus on maladaptive coping skills and gear therapy toward the development of new healthy and effective ways of dealing with life issues.

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This is Leo Miller's avatar and link to their profile

Leo Miller

Offering therapy in IL
License: MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients and family members deal with stress, anxiety, depression while coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Danielle Cox

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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This is Sheryl Palinski's avatar and link to their profile

Sheryl Palinski

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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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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Phillip Hawk

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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 60618 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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