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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Teresa Adams

Offering therapy in IL
License: MAMFT, LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

Hi, my name is Teresa Adams and I am passionate about marriage, family, relationships and the problems surrounding them. I am a graduate from Mississippi University for Women, with a B.S. in Food and Nutrition and a M.A. from Reformed Theological Seminary in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have been in the relationship field for over 20 years and have been a professional in the field for 10 years. I am Gottman I Certified, Prepare/Enrich Assessment Certified and SYMBIS Assessment Certified as well. I have been through me continuing education trainings in anxiety, depression, stress, conflict, communication, sexual issues and many more. In addition, my husband and I have written a marriage manual/book entitled Marriage: What To Do Before and After You Say, "I Do". When anxiety, depression and stress comes into the relationship/family, a feeling of uncertainty and hopeless erodes the mind. I want to help you eliminate the anxiety, depression, and stress in your relationship/family so life is manageable and peaceful. As a Christian counselor, with Biblical training, the answer to your problem is within your grasp. I have been married for 38 years and have raised four children. I believe the family is the fabric of your society and without the family our society is in deep trouble. Many issues have come to me and I am not afraid to ask the hard questions to help you through a difficult time. As a wife, mother, and counselor, I am caring, compassionate and warm in my delivery to my client. I am not judgmental and nothing surprises me. I can help!!

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Amelia Lambert

Offering therapy in IL
License: MSW,LCSW,CADC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

• B.A. in Human Services from National-Louis University • MSW from Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe Throughout our lives we are challenged by obstacles that can be difficult to manage on our own. Reaching out for help in those times can be incredibly difficult. Working with a therapist during those struggles in life can help find the insight into some of the most rewarding and positive changes we make; leading to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. The first step in making changes in your life begins now. I have been working the mental health field for over 16 years with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction & co-dependency issues, and relationship or family dynamics. I have provided services in outpatient, inpatient, residential, as well as rehabilitation long-term care settings to clients ranging in age from adolescent to geriatric, both in individual and group sessions. My professional philosophy stems from the belief that every person deserves to live fully; with hope for the future and the self-respect to believe you are worthy of it. I believe every individual is capable of change and possesses the resiliency within ourselves to improve our lives. We will work together to identify the aspects of yourself that are not working for you and discover a healthier direction for your life.

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Dr. Nancy Michuda

Offering therapy in IL
License: Ph.D.,M.S.,B.A.
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
28 years of experience

I received my MS & PhD from the University of Miami, in Florida, with a major in Developmental/Pediatric Psychology, and am a Licensed Psychologist in the States of Florida since 1993 and the Illinois since1997. I specialize in addressing the needs and concerns of children, adolescents/young adults, and their famiies. My approach is eclectic and draws from several evidenced-based psycho-therapeutic approaches while integrating the mind-body connection of mindfulness throughout the exploration of your concerns and needs, and in providing you and/or your child with required self care to best assist you and them in building and increasing your window(s) of tolerance, always sensitive to addressing your, your child's, and your family's needs with warmth and compassion. I will look to you and your input frequently, to assure that I am addressing everything that is bothering you, to allow you to feel better, happier, and more empowered in your life.

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Skip Dettman

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW ,CAADC ,CHt
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

Hello, I am a LCSW currently licensed in Illinois and Florida, I am also a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois and am a certified hypnotherapist. Additionally I have a degree in behavioral forensics. I have worked in the field for going on 15 years assisting individuals with many concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, as well as all types of addiction disorders. My therapy style is to meet the client where they are and work alongside them to address their concerns. I am not the expert of any clients, instead focusing on developing a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship to begin to address the concerns of the client. My therapy styles range form cognitive behavioral therapy to hypnotherapy, utilizing what works best for the client and what they are most comfortable with. ENtering therapy and asking for help is one of the most courageous things anyone can do, and I am here to assist you.

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Petia Detchevska

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCPC,CADC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I understand that sometimes life can be a challenge! But with help and support, we can heal, change, and find inspiration to grow physically, mentally, and spiritually. I am here to listen with a warm heart, to challenge negative thoughts, to motivate you to achieve your goals and to lead you to overall well-being. My name is Petia. I graduated from National Louis University in Chicago, IL 2017 with a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have experience in behavioral mental health; working in different settings, populations and age groups. My preferred treatment approaches are client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and goal setting.

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Edria Johnson

Offering therapy in IL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of Illinois with over 10+ years of therapy experience working with young adults, adults and the older adult population. I have experience working with a variety of concerns including depression, relationship issues, self esteem, women issues, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, and grief I consider my therapy style to be warm, empathetic, welcoming, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity and as the expert in their life. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at and providing support and relevant interventions based on my client’s needs. My approach is integrated and combines but is not limited to Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Client Centered , Psychodynamic. Attachment Theory and Mindfulness . It can be a big step to reach out for help. Just know you are making all the right choices if it means having a healthier and happier mental wellbeing. As your therapist it will be my pleasure to help empower, guide and support you on this journey. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Laura Rubenstein's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Rubenstein

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
22 years of experience

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.

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This is Andrienne Horton-Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Andrienne Horton-Smith

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am adept in the implementation of individual & group counseling, life coaching, and mentoring, specifically focusing on the importance of understanding one’s concept of self-worth. My expertise is in helping clients with processing emotional stressors triggered by anxiety, depression and unresolved generational trauma. I believe that you are the expert of your life story with many strengths and emerging strengths that will assist you in processing the emotional stressors that challenge you. Taking the first step towards seeking a more fulfilling and joyous life takes courage. I am here to support you in that journey, and I look forward to working with you!

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Katherine Porter

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma & abuse, depression and issues with aging. You know yourself and what you need better than anyone. You are the expert and I am here to help you. I am here to hold your hand as you walk through life's challenges. I can provide education, guidance and safety planning. In therapy, we will identify your strengths and then set small goals that lead to greater goals. I look forward to meeting you and helping you at your own pace. I am here to support & empower you in your journey. Should you feel in need of urgent help or that you are in crisis at any time during our work together; please call 1-800-273-TALK or (1-800-273-8255) 24 hours a day; or 988 for mental health emergencies. This forum does not provide any type of emergency services, so I want to be sure you know who to contact if you need immediate help.

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Rachel Weeks

Offering therapy in IL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois with over 5 years of direct clinical work. I have worked in a variety of settings, including community based programs, residential programs, hospitals, emergency shelters, crisis mental health and private practice. I graduated with my undergraduate and graduate degree in social work from Aurora University in 2018 and 2019, respectively. I worked as a Licensed Social Worker from 2020-2023 and in April 2023 I completed the requirements for full licensure per the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. I believe that everyone deserves to have access to judgement free support. A successful therapeutic process always starts with a positive connection between therapist and client. My sessions include warmth, empathy and humor (maybe) to provide a safe and comfortable space for all clients. I know how overwhelming starting therapy can be, and I congratulate you on taking this step. Whether this is your first experience with therapy, or you’re a pro, I am looking forward to supporting you on your journey to health and wellness! “No one is you, and that is your power.” -Dave Grohl

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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 60696 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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