Find a therapist in Illinois
If you're not sure where to start, Octave can match you with a therapist in Illinois based on your needs and preferences, making it easier to move forward with confidence.
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Meredith Schroeder
LPCC
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Alzheimer's/Dementia, Anxiety +7 moreI work with adults who are ready to explore their inner world in a supportive, nonjudgmental space. If you're feeling overwhelmed by caregiving or longing to reconnect with your creativity and sense of purpose, you do not have to navigate those feelings alone. My approach blends mindfulness, self-compassion, and creative expression to help you feel more grounded, inspired, and connected to yourself. In our first few sessions, we’ll create art side by side to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences through color, texture, and image—no art experience needed, just a willingness to be open and curious.Next available:Sat Sep 19 @ 6PM
Susan Bowes
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Caregiver Burnout +5 moreSue integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy to create a flexible, client-centered approach that honors each individual’s unique story. By combining practical tools with reflective exploration, she helps clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, reframe limiting beliefs, and reclaim personal narratives. Her work is grounded in empowerment, curiosity, and compassion, offering a space where meaningful change becomes not only possible, but deeply personal. Together we explore meaningful change.Next available:Tue Sep 22 @ 10PM
- Get A Cost Estimate
Get a detailed cost estimate
We can determine what you can expect to pay for therapy sessions by looking up your plan information.
It typically takes less than a minute.
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Jessica Tapia
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +7 moreI provide a warm, collaborative, and culturally responsive approach to therapy. My style is relational and strengths-based, using evidence-based practices like CBT, solution-focused techniques, and mindfulness to support lasting growth. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, family conflict, life transitions, and self-esteem. I especially support BIPOC and first-generation adult children of immigrants, creating a safe space to be seen while building coping skills and confidence to thrive.Next available:Mon Sep 21 @ 8PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Amanda Hill
LMHC
Virtual
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +7 moreMy approach to therapy is thoughtful, collaborative, and focused on meaningful, lasting change. I work with adults navigating anxiety, burnout, and life transitions, many of whom feel stretched by the demands of work, relationships, and family life. Together, we explore patterns, build practical coping tools, and create space for clarity and growth. I draw from CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to support emotional balance and resilience. For clients who value it, I also welcome integrating faith and spirituality into therapy.Next available:Wed Sep 23 @ 7PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Alesia Lacy
LPCC
Virtual
Specializes in Addiction (not substance use), ADHD +11 moreHello and welcome. If you’ve been thinking about starting therapy but feel overwhelmed about where to begin, I’m here to help. I work with you at your own pace to identify and prioritize what’s holding you back so you can start moving toward your best self. My goal is to offer a welcoming, non-judgmental space where you can feel empowered. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach and draw from a range of treatment modalities tailored to your needs and goals.Next available:Tue Sep 22 @ 8PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Laura Elk-Weist
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Depression +7 moreI understand how painful it can feel when parts of you don’t seem to “fit.” As a queer therapist, I hold space for people from diverse and marginalized backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and highly sensitive individuals. I work with concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges through a trauma-informed, culturally aware lens. I believe you already hold the capacity for change, and my role is to walk alongside you with guidance, skills, and support.Next available:Fri Sep 25 @ 4PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Mallory Mareski
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder +14 moreSpeaks SpanishI approach the therapy space with my clients as a partnership, building on our strengths and creating trust to navigate the areas causing you the most stress. I adapt my style based on each client’s needs, balancing directness and softness depending on what works best for you. I use a trauma-based lens to help us understand how past experiences can impact current behaviors, whether or not you identify with the word “trauma.” Therapy can be tough work, so I also bring levity and humor into sessions in the hope that you feel you are making progress toward your goals while also having an enjoyable experience.Next available:Mon Sep 21 @ 3PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Jared Robl
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Anxiety +12 moreI work with individuals and couples navigating relationship challenges, major life transitions, and significant ruptures. Therapy offers accountability, clarity, and the opportunity to shift painful beliefs about yourself that may have taken hold. Real healing begins when someone is willing to sit with you through moments you’ve faced alone. My approach is warm, conversational, and insight-oriented. If you’re carrying something heavy or hard to say out loud, you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. When you’re ready, we can begin the work together.Next available:Thu Sep 24 @ 4PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Georgia Angelakos
LPCC
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Animal Loss +13 moreWhat happens when our well-intentioned—but sometimes uncooperative—brains try to protect us from harm? Stress, also known as anxiety, shows up, often with its friends depression and trauma. I invite you to join me on a journey of self-discovery to understand how your brain and body have helped you survive life’s challenges. Together, we’ll tap into grace, self-compassion, and the many strengths and resources you already have. I look forward to meeting you!Next available:Tue Sep 22 @ 3PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Holly Fak
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +12 moreMy counseling style is warm, affirming, interactive, and collaborative, using a strengths-based, client-centered, solution-focused approach. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have experience in crisis counseling in Emergency Departments and inpatient psychiatric units, as well as in domestic violence and community-based therapy for children and families. I enjoy supporting new mothers, caregivers, and those working through grief and loss.Next available:Thu Sep 24 @ 2PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Phyllis Gould
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Addiction (not substance use), ADHD +32 moreSpeaks French, German +3 moreSI QUIERES VER UN TERAPISTA QUE COMPRENDE TU CULTURA Y HABLA TU IDIOMA, ¡YO PUEDO AYUDARTE! TAMBÉM FALO PORTUGUÊS! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor. I specialize in cultural issues and offer therapy in Spanish, French, Brazilian Portuguese, Polish, and German. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I use different approaches with different clients because people are unique. I see myself as a consultant offering honest guidance—you are the expert on yourself.Next available:Wed Sep 23 @ 10PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Eric Tessmann
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +10 moreJoy and suffering are two sides of the same coin, but it’s easy to lose balance and feel stuck in pain. You’re not alone. Hope is real, and healing is possible. My purpose is to help you rediscover calm, peace, and stability. In a warm, non-judgmental space, you can release what you’ve been carrying. Whether you’re working through trauma, setting goals, or navigating life’s challenges, I’m here to support you. Let’s take that first step toward healing together.Next available:Thu Sep 24 @ 5PM
- Get A Cost Estimate
Get a detailed cost estimate
We can determine what you can expect to pay for therapy sessions by looking up your plan information.
It typically takes less than a minute.
Janet Hahn
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +17 moreI help adults, adolescents (14+), and couples navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges with compassion and practical support. My approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Drawing from my background as a hospital social worker, school social worker, and teacher, I bring a unique perspective to therapy. Together, we'll explore patterns, process difficult emotions, and build lasting skills to foster healing, resilience, and meaningful change.Next available:Mon Sep 21 @ 10PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Melissa Pollard
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +12 moreWhen life feels like too much—your heart races, your chest tightens, tension builds, and your mind loops the same worries—anxiety isn’t just in your head. It’s in your body, your breath, your sleep, and your ability to get through the day. If that sounds familiar, you’re not broken—and you’re definitely not alone. I help individuals struggling with anxiety build tools to calm the nervous system, restore balance, and reconnect with themselves. You deserve to feel good—not just survive, but truly thrive.Next available:Mon Sep 21 @ 4PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Bret Bertrand
LMHC
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +17 moreMy goal is to support and motivate people to move forward in life with hope. I work with individuals and couples navigating life’s transitions and challenges. I also have experience supporting those impacted by addiction, shame, grief, and family conflict. While we can’t change the past, we can work together to understand and overcome its impact. I believe in building a path toward healing, growth, and freedom—one step at a time.Next available:Tue Sep 22 @ 12PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Jendaya Clark
LPCC
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +8 moreMy approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness. I work with clients to build on their strengths, develop practical tools, and navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. I specialize in supporting young adults through transitions, anxiety, identity exploration, and relationship stress, always tailoring therapy to your unique goals, values, and lived experience. Above all, I strive to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to grow.Next available:Mon Sep 21 @ 4PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Amanda Scott
LPCC
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +7 moreMy focus is helping clients set clear goals and work with themselves rather than against themselves, using strategies and skills to navigate life’s challenges more effectively. I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space focused on understanding and removing the blocks that keep clients stuck. In sessions, we create plans, challenges, or activities to help clients move closer to their goals, building progress with each session.Next available:Wed Sep 23 @ 7PM
Teresa Teacher
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +11 moreI work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including underserved communities, transitioning immigrants, couples, families, and multicultural individuals. Life can feel overwhelming when you're facing difficult experiences, major transitions, relationship challenges, or the effects of trauma. I provide a supportive, welcoming space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. Together, we explore how past experiences may be impacting your present while building on your strengths. My goal is to help you develop insight, confidence, resilience, and practical tools to create meaningful, lasting change.Next available:Wed Sep 23 @ 9PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Saulena Antanaviciene
LPCC
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +7 moreDo you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or obsessive thoughts, often imagining the worst? Have you noticed your child is preoccupied with excessive worry or fears? You are not alone, and effective help is available. I specialize in supporting adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, BFRB, PTSD, and co-occurring conditions such as depression. While anxiety is a focus of my work, I tailor every treatment plan to the unique needs of each client.Next available:Thu Sep 24 @ 2PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Monique Sullivan
LMHC
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +12 moreWelcome! I provide therapy to individuals experiencing deep pain and help them grow toward living a healthy life and becoming the best version of themselves. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a vital part of the counseling process. You are the expert of your life—I’m here to offer support and a safe space to explore your authentic self. I believe each person holds the power to create change when given the space and tools to do so. I’m here to help you discover that power so you can live your best life.Next available:Wed Sep 23 @ 6PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Dipa Patel
LPCC
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +8 moreSpeaks GujaratiI take a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy, working with clients to identify concerns, set meaningful goals, and develop practical strategies for growth. I support clients in embracing their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in the present moment while building effective coping skills. I believe in empowering clients by honoring their unique strengths, values, and cultural identities within a safe, supportive space. I value teamwork and involve support systems and providers to promote lasting progress and improved functioning.Next available:Wed Sep 23 @ 3PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Clarice Jonela
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Animal Loss, Anxiety +16 moreI provide a supportive space for adult clients to manage stress, anxiety, and life transitions. Feeling anxious at times is completely normal, but when it starts to take over, therapy can help. Together, we’ll build coping skills, self-care routines, and assertive communication strategies using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and DBT to foster resilience, confidence, and personal growth.Next available:Mon Sep 21 @ 7PM
- Get A Cost Estimate
Get a detailed cost estimate
We can determine what you can expect to pay for therapy sessions by looking up your plan information.
It typically takes less than a minute.
High Satisfaction Rate
Rida Rashid
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Couples Therapy (2+ adults in session) +14 moreSpeaks UrduI support individuals and couples across the lifespan who are navigating uncertainty around identity, relationships, family expectations, or major life transitions. I focus on building a warm, compassionate connection, knowing the therapeutic relationship is a strong predictor of meaningful change. I tailor therapy to your needs while gently challenging patterns that no longer serve you, using relational therapy, CBT, art-based interventions, and somatic-based therapy to support insight and regulation. As a trauma-sensitive yoga teacher, I integrate mind–body practices to support holistic healing in a culturally attentive way.Next available:Thu Sep 24 @ 9PM
Jennifer Rodriguez
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Anxiety +10 moreSpeaks SpanishMy therapy style is companion-based, strengths-focused, and centered on helping you know that you are in the driver's seat of your care. I will ask for feedback often about your comfort level and whether you feel we are making progress toward your personal goals. As an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-certified professional, I often utilize Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and expressive arts or mindfulness techniques to support the identification of feelings and increased mastery of strategies that help you feel your emotions, acknowledge them, and lovingly let them go.Next available:Mon Sep 21 @ 6PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Huma Pekcan
LMFT
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Animal Loss, Anxiety +14 moreMy approach to therapy is grounded in curiosity and compassion. I help clients explore the patterns, emotions, and early experiences that shape their current struggles, fostering insight for meaningful and lasting change. Sessions often include reflecting on relational dynamics, building self-awareness, and discovering new ways of relating to yourself and others with authenticity and self-compassion. I also integrate a mind-body perspective, recognizing how stress and emotional pain can manifest physically. My goal is to provide a reflective space to explore, heal, and move toward a more grounded self.Next available:Mon Sep 21 @ 2PM
Frequently asked questions about therapists in Illinois
What matters for your care is that your therapist is licensed in the state where you live. To see an Octave therapist, you are matched with a clinician licensed in Illinois, whether you meet online or in person. Some licenses fall under interstate agreements that let a therapist practice in more than one state, but you never have to sort that out yourself. Octave confirms every therapist is licensed to work with Illinois residents before matching you.
To practice in Illinois, a therapist must hold an active Illinois license. That means completing a master's or doctoral degree in a mental health field, finishing thousands of hours of supervised clinical work, and passing a national or state licensing exam. Licenses are renewed on a schedule and require ongoing education. Every Octave therapist practicing in Illinois holds a current Illinois license, reviewed by our clinical team before they join.
Illinois therapists practice under several license types, most commonly Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT), and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC). You may also work with psychologists who hold a PhD or PsyD. All are qualified to provide talk therapy, and the right fit depends on what you want to work on more than the letters after their name. Octave works with licensed therapists across these credentials in Illinois.
Yes. If your Octave therapist in Illinois is not the right fit, you can switch at any time at no additional cost. Finding the right match matters more than getting it right on the first try, and it is common to need a session or two to know. Just let us know and we will help you find another licensed Illinois therapist who suits your needs.
No. You do not need a diagnosis, a referral, or a specific reason to start therapy in Illinois. Many people see a Illinois therapist to work through stress, relationships, life changes, or feelings that are hard to name. Your therapist focuses on your goals and what you want to get out of care, not on putting a label on you.
Start with what you want to work on, then look for a Illinois therapist whose experience and approach match. Practical fit counts too: whether they take your insurance, their availability, and whether you feel comfortable with them. With Octave, you answer a few questions during intake and get matched with a licensed Illinois therapist who fits your needs, so you do not have to sort through directories on your own.
Look for an active Illinois license, which confirms the therapist has met the education, training, and exam requirements to practice in Illinois. Common credentials include LCSW, LMFT, and LPC, along with psychologists who hold a PhD or PsyD. Beyond the license, check that their experience lines up with what you want to work on. Every Octave therapist in Illinois is licensed and reviewed for credentials, experience, and clinical approach before joining the platform.
In everyday use, "therapist" and "counselor" often mean the same thing: a trained professional who provides talk therapy. Both can be licensed to treat mental health concerns, and what matters most is their license, training, and experience, not the title they use. Octave connects you with licensed Illinois therapists whose background fits what you are looking for.
A therapist provides talk therapy to help you work through thoughts, feelings, and behavior. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication. Some people work with both. Octave provides therapy in Illinois, and if medication is something you want to explore, your therapist can talk it through with you and help coordinate care with an outside prescriber.
"Therapist" is a broad term for any licensed professional who provides talk therapy. A psychologist is one kind of therapist, someone with a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) who may also do psychological testing. Both provide therapy, and for most people the choice comes down to fit and experience rather than the specific degree. Octave works with licensed Illinois therapists across these backgrounds.
The most important things are a valid Illinois license, experience with what you want to work on, and an approach you feel comfortable with. Practical details matter too: whether they are in-network with your insurance, how soon they are available, and whether you connect with them in early sessions. Octave weighs these factors when matching you with a licensed Illinois therapist, so you are paired with someone who fits both your needs and your schedule.