How to find the right therapist in Illinois

When choosing a therapist in Illinois, it's best to reflect on what you’re looking for and ask yourself which of the following criteria are most important to you: Do they accept your insurance? Do you need a therapist who specializes in a specific mental health concern such as depression, anxiety, or trauma? Are you looking for someone to work with you individually? Or are you looking for someone to support you as a couple or family? Would you be more comfortable partnering with a therapist of a certain race, gender expression, sexual orientation, religious, or cultural background?

Can I use my insurance?

Yes! Therapists on the Rula platform are in-network with most major insurance plans. Rula patients typically pay $15 per session, although your individual cost may vary based on your insurance benefits and deductible. We’ll work with your insurance to confirm your estimated per-session cost before your first appointment. Ready to get started? Click here to browse available therapists who accept your insurance.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

There’s no right or wrong reason to start therapy. Whether you’re seeking help navigating a life transition or managing symptoms of anxiety or depression, therapy is an effective treatment for many types of concerns – all you need is an open mind and a general sense of what you’d like to explore with a therapist. Still unsure? Head to our blog to learn more.

How soon can I meet with a therapist?

Therapists in Rula’s network are available to meet as soon as tomorrow. Click here to explore therapists and book your first session in minutes.

What should I consider when choosing a therapist?

It depends on your personal preferences and goals. Whether you’re seeking a therapist who specializes in certain mental health conditions, shares your ethnic background, or is available to meet at your preferred time – Rula makes it easy to search and filter by what matters most to you. If you don’t feel like your first choice was a match, don’t worry – we’ll help you switch to a different therapist in our network. Check out our blog post for more pointers on finding your best-fit therapist.

How do I know if I need therapy or psychiatry?

If you’re experiencing severe symptoms that interfere with your daily functioning, you may want to consider starting with a psychiatric provider who can assess your needs and prescribe medication if deemed necessary. If your symptoms are mild or moderate, therapy may be a better starting point. No matter where you begin your journey – your provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that’s based on your individual needs and concerns. Still unsure? Visit our blog to learn more about the differences.

Does Rula offer in-person appointments?

Currently, Rula offers in-person therapy in some states. For those living in other states, there are many benefits to online therapy!

Can Rula help me find a therapist?

Absolutely. Rula’s network of 10,000+ licensed providers represent more than 80 clinical specialties and a diverse range of backgrounds – making it easier to find the care you need. Once you provide us with some basic information, we’ll generate a curated list of in-network therapists who are licensed in your state and accepting new patients. From there, you can filter by what matters most to you and explore individual biographies until you find a match. Ready to get started?

What types of care can I access through Rula?

Providers in Rula’s network specialize in individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and psychiatric care (i.e., medication management).

Who is eligible to access care through Rula?

Individuals aged 5 and older are eligible to receive care in any state where Rula is available.

How will I meet with my therapist?

Rula specializes in online therapy – giving you the flexibility to meet with your therapist from wherever you’re most comfortable. We’ll send you an appointment reminder containing a secure link to your scheduled Zoom session approximately 24 hours before your session.

Connect with Grief therapists in Illinois

Need help? 323-745-8323

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

42 therapists

Tyrone Ford

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

10+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Tyrone Ford, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tyrone has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Clinical Social Work/Practice with Families from Saint Louis University.

Fairview Heights, IL

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Attuned

Motivational

My focus areas include anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, and substance use, among others.

Next appointmentMonday, Sep 7th

Available virtually

Lindsey Vargas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Lindsey Vargas, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lindsey has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from Dominican University.

Chicago, IL

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Self Esteem

Trauma and PTSD

Women's Issues

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Empowering

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I wholeheartedly love my job. I hope to help you with leading your best life.

Next appointmentMonday, Aug 31st

Available virtually

Lisa Leong

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

•

11+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Lisa Leong, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lisa has a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University College, New Brunswick.

Illinois

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Stress

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Empowering

When things feel off or overwhelming, it helps to have a steady place to sort through it. We’ll look at what’s shifting, make sense of it together, and consider options that support real progress and relief.

Next appointmentSunday, Aug 30th

Available virtually

Scott Dollinger

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCP

•

28+ years

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like Scott Dollinger, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Scott has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) Clinical Psychology from Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) Counseling Psychology from Benedictine University.

Glen Ellyn, IL

Specialties

Grief

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Candid

Collaborative

I help clients with anxiety, depression, relationships, personal and professional performance, ADHD and neurodivergence, and recovery from all types of trauma. My goal is to support you in achieving meaningful change and improved well-being.

Next appointmentWednesday, Sep 2nd

Available virtually

Candice Dowden

LCSW

•

9+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Candice Dowden, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Candice has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Chicago State University.

Park Forest, IL

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Motivational

Life is full of challenges. I believe that everyone has the right to achieve an engaged, balanced, and satisfying life. Are you ready to start feeling better? You don't have to do it alone.

Next appointmentThursday, Sep 3rd

Available virtually

Sara Bennett

LCSW

•

5+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Sara Bennett, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sara has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.

Edwardsville, IL

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Divorce

Style

Practical

Warm

Supportive

Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You're not alone. I help people navigate difficult situations or periods of life through care and compassion. My goal is to really see you and help you through the storm. I want you to feel grounded, gain confidence, and be able to build the life you want.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

David Vaccaro

LCSW

•

6+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like David Vaccaro, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

David has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale.

Illinois

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Collaborative

Feeling stressed or uncertain? You’re not alone. I help clients navigate anxiety, self-doubt, and life changes with curiosity and compassion. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to yourself and the life you want to create

Next appointmentTuesday, Sep 1st

Available virtually

Shelia Jenkins

LCSW

•

1+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Shelia Jenkins, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shelia has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Mississippi Valley State University.

Illinois

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Parenting

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Supportive

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker offering telehealth therapy across multiple states. I specialize in supporting individuals and families through anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship challenges.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Lynette Garber

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

•

1+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Lynette Garber, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lynette has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Metropolitan State University of Denver.

Illinois

Specialties

Grief

ADHD

Style

Insightful

Attuned

Affirming

Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and healing! I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health therapist. I strive to help individuals navigate the complexities of their mental and emotional well-being. My focus is to incorporate compassion and humor to help build self-awareness, resiliency, and freedom from unhealthy patterns.

Next appointmentMonday, Aug 31st

Available virtually

Anna Bartoszek

LCSW

•

2+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Anna Bartoszek, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Anna has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from The University of Chicago.

Palos Heights, IL

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Domestic Violence

Panic Attacks

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Collaborative

I partner with my clients to help them discover and transcend challenges that may be holding them back in their lives. I believe that we all deserve to live free from shame, guilt, and emotional pain. Let's build a partnership to help you create the life you desire.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Kendra Spiva

LCSW

•

1+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Kendra Spiva, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Kendra has a Social Worker (SW) in Social Work Bachelors and Master's from University of St. Francis.

Illinois

Specialties

Grief

Aging

Anxiety

Depression

Developmental Disorders

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Supportive

I work with people facing mental health concerns, providing compassionate and effective support to individuals and couples navigating life challenges. My goal is to help you achieve profound understanding that leads to meaningful change in behavior and overall well-being.

Next appointmentMonday, Aug 31st

Available virtually

Miguel Lopez

LCSW

•

2+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Miguel Lopez, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Miguel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Walden University.

Illinois

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Substance Use

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Supportive

I create a supportive space where you can share openly about what brings you to therapy. My focus is on listening carefully to your needs and helping you develop practical tools to move forward with clarity and confidence in your daily life.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Ala Saleh

LCPC

•

6+ years

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPCs), like Ala Saleh, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ala has a Master of Health Science (MHS) in Addiction Psychology Counseling from Governors State University.

Chicago, IL

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Depression

Relationship Issues

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Collaborative

I provide compassionate counseling support tailored to your unique needs. Through careful assessment and collaboration, we'll find the approach that works best for you. My goal is to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Patricia Aguado

LCSW

•

24+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Patricia Aguado, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

Chicago, IL

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I help adolescents and adults navigate trauma, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, identity formation and conflict, Latino/a/x concerns, multicultural issues, first-generation acculturation conflict, and physical health-related adjustment.

Next appointmentMonday, Aug 31st

Available virtually

Schales Nagle

LCSW

•

32+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Schales Nagle, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Schales has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Children and Youth from Washington University, Saint Louis.

Taylorville, IL

Specialties

Grief

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

School Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Warm

Supportive

I focus on what brings you to counseling, finding out your strengths, what you have tried in relation to your identified issue, and ways you think I could help you make better progress. I focus on children and families.

Next appointmentSaturday, Sep 19th

Available virtually

Nadia Bhatti

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

1+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Nadia Bhatti, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Nadia has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Aurora University.

Warrenville, IL

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Practical

Gentle

Supportive

I believe prioritizing your mental health is the key to happiness and stability. I focus on clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, and life changes. As a relational and solution-focused therapist, my approach welcomes lasting change. I also use EMDR therapy to help process and resolve traumatic memories.

Next appointmentSunday, Aug 30th

Available virtually

Abby Brooks

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCPC

•

3+ years

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPCs), like Abby Brooks, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Abby has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling from Governors State University.

Homewood, IL

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

LGBTQIA+

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Empowering

You deserve to feel supported. The courage it takes to reach out tells me how strong and resilient you already are. I believe you hold an authentic voice and inner light, and I’m here to help you reconnect with it and let it shine with confidence.

Next appointmentTuesday, Sep 8th

Available virtually

This set of providers was curated just for you.

Want personalized assistance finding the right fit? Call or text our team at 323-745-8323.

Previous providers

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

$15 / session

typical cost patients pay through Rula

Nationwide coverage:

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

100+ insurance plans accepted

140M total lives covered

Millions of sessions completed

Network

We hold providers to high clinical standards so you can trust the care you receive.

15,000+

licensed providers

Match

The right provider makes all the difference. We help you find someone who truly fits your needs—the first time.

98%

of searches result in an exact match

Progress

Care should make a difference. Our approach helps you track progress you can feel.

93%

of patients report feeling better after treatment through Rula

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

EMDR DBT Psychiatry

Couples therapy Child therapy Grief counseling Psychodynamic therapy

Sex therapy Family counseling Borderline personality Cognitive behavioral (CBT)

Find a therapist near you

Chicago Arlington Heights Aurora Bloomington Bolingbrook Champaign Cicero Decatur Des Plaines Elgin Evanston Joliet Naperville Palatine Peoria Rockford Schaumburg Skokie Springfield Waukegan

Find providers by preference

Exploring online therapy for grief

Grief and its impact on life

Grief is a natural response to loss, often felt deeply when we lose someone or something important to us. It can manifest in various ways, including sadness, anger, confusion, and a sense of isolation. Grief can significantly impact daily life, affecting one’s ability to function in personal and professional settings. Navigating through grief is a deeply personal process and can be critical for emotional healing and moving forward.

The importance of therapy for grief

Engaging with a grief therapist can be helpful for those struggling with loss. Therapists specializing in grief can provide support and understanding, helping you to process complex emotions and cope with the pain of loss. Therapy can offer a safe space to explore feelings of grief, learn to adjust to life after loss, and develop strategies for healing and finding a new sense of normalcy.

Effective therapeutic approaches for grief

Various therapeutic methods can be effective in supporting people through grief:

Advantages of online therapy for grief

Online grief therapy offers several practical benefits. It can be accessible and convenient, allowing you to connect with therapists from the comfort and privacy of your own home, providing a secure space to openly discuss and process your feelings during such a sensitive and personal time. The sessions are flexible and can be scheduled according to your needs, accommodating the unpredictable nature of grief.

Tips for choosing the right grief therapist

FAQs about grief therapy and therapists

When to seek a grief therapist?

Consider seeking a grief therapist if your grief feels overwhelming, is affecting your ability to carry on with daily activities, or if you're struggling to move forward. Common signs include persistent sadness, inability to enjoy life, or feeling stuck in your grief. Therapy can provide a guided pathway through the grieving process, helping you to cope with the loss and a renewed sense of purpose.

What is the typical duration of therapy for grief?

The length of grief therapy varies for each person, depending on the nature of the loss and personal coping mechanisms. Some may find short-term therapy beneficial, while others might engage in longer-term support. Grief therapy is often flexible, with the therapist adapting to your changing needs over time.

What to expect in your first grief therapy session?

In the first session, you'll likely share your story of loss and discuss how it’s impacting your life. Your therapist should listen empathetically, ask questions, and work toward establishing a supportive and understanding relationship. This session sets the foundation for your grief therapy journey.

How to find a qualified therapist for grief?

A qualified therapist for grief should have specialized training in grief counseling or therapy. Look for therapists with experience in dealing with your specific situation, and credentials in therapies you’d like to explore.

Does insurance cover grief therapy sessions?

Insurance coverage for grief therapy can vary. After you've booked your first session, Rula verifies your insurance coverage and follows up with a cost estimate, including any required copayments.

Can grief therapy be conducted online?

Yes, grief therapy can be effectively conducted online. It offers a flexible and accessible option, allowing you to receive support in a setting that feels most comfortable for you, especially during a time of mourning. Therapy techniques can be adapted for virtual sessions, ensuring you receive care tailored to your needs and recovery journey.

Connect with Grief therapists in Illinois

Quality care comes first at Rula

Tyrone Ford

Lindsey Vargas

Lisa Leong

Scott Dollinger

Candice Dowden

Sara Bennett

David Vaccaro

Shelia Jenkins

Lynette Garber

Anna Bartoszek

Kendra Spiva

Miguel Lopez

Ala Saleh

Patricia Aguado

Schales Nagle

Nadia Bhatti

Abby Brooks

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

$15 / session

Network

15,000+

Match

98%

Progress

93%

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Find a therapist near you

Find providers by preference

Couples & family

By gender

En español

By age

By identity

We’re here when you need us

We’re here when you need us

Here to help