Aetna Therapists in Illinois

Accessing therapy covered by Aetna insurance can simplify and reduce the cost of therapy, helping you find therapist that fits your budget. With 536 verified therapists in Illinois accepting Aetna, you can choose from therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy to address concerns like anxiety, depression, or major life changes. Each Grow Therapy-verified provider listed below is open to new clients and has upcoming availability, making it easier to connect with a therapist who meets your needs within the scope of your Aetna plan.

Find therapists near you in

Chicago

Availability updated: 5/25/2025

Eva Reynoso

(she/her)

Eva Reynoso, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Aetna logo
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! Congratulations on taking an important step towards prioritizing your well-being. Navigating the mental health system can be a confusing and difficult process, but you are here and that is already progress. I would like to make that process less daunting and assist you in reaching your desired quality of life. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space for us to process painful past experiences as well as current difficulties. I will provide you with and help you practice a variety of techniques that will empower you to push past your discomfort (and/or trauma) to live the fulfilling lifestyle you are searching for. While addressing your symptoms, we will also explore and expand your personal strengths in order to improve your self-esteem and boost your confidence. Creating a strong foundation of trust in yourself to handle difficult situations is one of the most powerful tools to manage and prevent depression and anxiety-related symptoms. Therapy does not have to be boring or stressful. Together we can explore different creative approaches such as art, mindfulness, games, hands-on activities/worksheets, videos, and books to enhance your experience in ways that feel most meaningful and helpful to you.

Jess Samperio

(she/they)

Jess Samperio, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Aetna logo
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! (Bienvenido/a!). My name is Jess and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe that every person has the right to be heard, to heal, and to grow. I approach therapy from a place of kindness and compassion, openness and curiosity. My work with clients begins from a strengths based place, to ensure that you are seen and understood, taking into account your inherent strengths as well as your areas for growth. I also believe that people are deeply impacted by the world around them and therefore, I focus my work with clients to identify and unpack oppressive forces in their lives. I am fluent in English and Spanish, and have extensive experience providing therapy to children and adults in both languages. My goal is to create a safe space for you to explore any topic without feeling judged or censored. I understand that not everybody heals in the same way, which is why I use a variety of theoretical approaches in my work. Our conversations will be tailored to what works best for your healing and growth. I look forward to working alongside you! Please visit my website for more information and to book appointments with me: I find it easier to schedule clients via my website. Thank you!/Gracias https://www.compassionatehealingtherapycenter.com

Rene Stockton

(he/him)

Rene Stockton, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCSW
34 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. I serve my community as a counselor, therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American cities. I have encountered child, adolescent and adult challenges ranging from trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the soft and more concrete changes you are looking to achieve in your life. My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art, movement, and EMDR.

Brian Katz

Brian Katz, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCPC
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Brian If you feel stuck, and unable to change things, I can help you to start moving again. We can join together and create a strategy for working through the event or dilemma that is stressing you out. Together we can restore or surpass your previous level of productivity and satisfaction. I want to hear your story. I will listen. I will not judge. For the last 18 years, I have helped individuals, families and couples resolve problematic situations. Their experiences often instilled insight, confidence, serenity and hope. My holistic mission is to: • listen empathetically, without judgement • Ease suffering and improve functionality • Teach you to persist when fear and doubt are present • Be equal partners working together to create and implement strategies to resolve, accept and overcome the obstacles that impede your progress I want to • Help you find insight, meaning and purpose • Provide support as you proceed in the direction of your choosing • Teach you how to live more effectively • Create the opportunity for you to smile when it is most needed and least expected I take the time to educate you about the conditions that you experience and the treatment you receive. I believe that self-empowerment begins with self-understanding. I will help you understand why you do what you do and feel what you feel. I have extensive experience treating addicted people in residential in patient treatment, outpatient and aftercare facilities. I advise and treat families struggling to with parents, children and siblings that are addicted

Melissa Pazen

(she/her)

Melissa Pazen, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Aetna logo
LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I received my Master's Degree more than 20 years ago and have been helping people improve their mental health ever since. I love working with women who want to overcome anxiety, depression, grief or trauma. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the most widely accepted therapy available today, to help you reframe thoughts and align your emotions with your thoughts. I help clients become the best version of themselves.

Lee Affrunti

Lee Affrunti, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Aetna logo
LP
17 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings and welcome! Are you struggling with worry or panic, sadness, stressful or rapidly changing life circumstances, or traumatic experiences from your past? Stress, overwhelming emotions, or overall frustration with one's current life's path can zap the life energy from even the most stout-hearted among us! My name is Lee, and, as a licensed clinical psychologist, I empower high-functioning individuals struggling with a wide range of challenges to take back their lives and live with meaning and fulfillment. It is your birthright as a human being to experience peace of mind, hope, and joy. In our sessions together, I will help you find and use your strengths and resources to overcome the current challenges keeping you from living your most authentic, engaged, and meaningful life. I appreciate the courage it took for you to reach out to improve the quality of your life. Yes, you absolutely can live your most fulfilling life, and I offer to be your guide who will strive to enlighten, empower, and support you on your journey. I hope we can travel this part of your journey together!

Anna Bartoszek

Anna Bartoszek, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Anna and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. 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. I believe in approaching mental health from a whole person perspective including functional and integrative health and wellness. My style is founded on authenticity which values honesty and directness. I grew up in Poland, came to the United States with my family, graduated from Lewis University, and went on to complete my Master of Arts in Social Work at the University of Chicago, School of Social Work Administration. From there, I moved to the suburbs where I reside with my two sons, and in my free times I enjoy working in my garden, reading, and taking long walks.

Melissa Cauthen

(she/her)

Melissa Cauthen, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 20+ years of professional work experience. My extensive career background has allowed me to work with people from all different situations, where I've advocated for them to have the best quality of life, always. I have lots of experience working with diverse populations and have the ability to meet people where they're at. I thrive on positivity and mental wellness, with a clear understanding and vision of one's light. I'm a natural promoter of empowerment and hold a great deal of empathy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, unique issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, relationship issues, family conflicts and much more. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I'm here to support and empower you in that journey.

Tiffany Woods

Tiffany Woods, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have 11+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in different therapeutic settings who have various diagnoses and come from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I am also a certified life coach and I find great joy in working collaboratively with my clients and their families.

John D Benton

(he/him)

John D Benton, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCSW
35 years of experience
Virtual
Hello!. My name is John Benton, LCSW from Illinois. I have been a licensed therapist since 2007 working 19 years in a community mental health center. Prior to that i was counseling in group homes for adolescent boys and girls who had serious behavior and thinking problems. I have treated many mental health issues arise in various ethnicities and age groups. I have also supervised staff in properly applying counseling techniques and behavior modifications to help youth successfully reintegrate to their homes of origin, foster homes, and in society in general.

Shelly Mark Lewin

(he/him)

Shelly Mark Lewin, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Shelly Mark Lewin, and I am deeply honored to be joining the team of therapists at Grow Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families in a variety of settings including private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, hospitals, healthcare systems, hospice care, and private organizations. My work is informed by my own personal life experience with mental health challenges and my goal is always to provide you with support and guidance during difficult times and on your healing journey. My professional career includes clinical positions in renown healthcare organizations including Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Joint Commission in Chicago, Kaiser Permanente in California and Mount Sinai Health System In New York City. I have extensive experience working with multi-cultural and diverse populations providing individual and group therapy, case management and crisis intervention. Throughout my career I have always advocated for the uninsured, underinsured and low-income clients.

Vanessa Torres Garcia

(she/her)

Vanessa Torres Garcia, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Aetna logo
LP
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with almost 10 years of experience working with diverse populations within a variety of settings including hospitals, forensic/correctional facilities, underserved communities, and private practice. My education includes a formal component of Neuropsychological rehab. I specialize in working with adults/elders experiencing adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational difficulties or cognitive deficits. As a dynamic/motivated professional, I like to see each day as a new opportunity to challenge and improve myself. Traveling to different countries, cooking and dancing are always part of my journey of personal growth and appreciation.

Shanita Brown

(she/her)

Shanita Brown, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Aetna logo
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a seasoned therapist who has worked in the field in different entities for the past 18 years. As a therapist, it is my job and duty to help you feel, think and function better. Although I've worked with many clients who had different experiences, I am specially gifted in working with clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, managing anger, personality conflicts, and building positive relationships. I will use therapeutic models that work for you.

Michael Parks

Michael Parks, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
I am a 47-year-old white Christian male that has been married for 29 years. I have three kids 26,19 and 16. I also have a spunky granddaughter who is five years old. I have a Master in Psych, as well as a MSW in Social Work. I also carry a CADC for work in Substance Abuse. I received my MSW from SIUC in Carbondale Illinois. I have been working in Mental health for the last 19 years in one way or another. I currently work at my day job with children 5-12, to assist with ADD, Anger, Sexual Abuse, grief etc. I have also worked with adults in the past. I am looking to be that calm helping hand in the storm that you are experiencing.

Rachelle Barmann

Rachelle Barmann, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Aetna logo
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a LCPC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and Board-certified art therapist. I take a holistic approach in helping each client heal from trauma, face transitions and challenges, build self-esteem, and learn to love themselves and their lives. Through my work with trauma, I understand how childhood experiences can impact everything from our relationships as adults, our self-esteem, anxiety, parenting, etc. Frequently, it isn't until adulthood that we begin to look at our lives and discover how our childhood influences our choices, relationships, personality, emotions, addictions etc. By healing past trauma, we can find freedom, understanding and compassion for ourselves. In addition to EMDR, I use elements of polyvgal theory, mindfulness, IFS techniques, and body-based bottom up approaches based on the work of current neuroscience. I take a strength-based positive approach, helping clients discover their true and authentic selves.

Sara Herman

(she/her)

Sara Herman, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Aetna logo
LCPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Are you finding your anxiety or anger more difficult to manage? Is life becoming increasingly overwhelming? Knowing where to begin can feel like a challenge—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I’m here to help. I’m a seasoned therapist with extensive experience supporting adults through anxiety, anger, trauma, and substance use challenges. My background includes working across a variety of settings, including higher levels of care, private practice, schools, and court-ordered treatment. This breadth of experience has deepened my ability to meet clients wherever they are in their journey. My clinical approach is strength-based and eclectic, drawing from Integrative Family Systems, DBT, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed care. I have a particular interest in working with individuals struggling with ADHD, substance use, self-perception, body image issues and desires to increase self-efficacy. My style is direct, humorous, and grounded in empathy. I aim to create a space where clients feel safe, seen, and empowered to reconnect with their own inner wisdom.

Deborah Danner

(she/her)

Deborah Danner, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Going through tough experiences is hard enough. Going through tough experiences while feeling alone and unconnected can be even more daunting. I take a person-focused approach, where you are the expert in your life. I integrate play with the therapeutic alliance while treating several disorders including depression and anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Walk through this tough journey with someone on your team, you don't have to do this alone.

Patricia V Voloschin-Weiner

Patricia V Voloschin-Weiner, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Aetna logo
LCPC
38 years of experience
Virtual
I have been providing English and Spanish speaking families in the Chicago area with a wide range of psychological and counseling services since 1985. In our sessions we will explore your feelings, beliefs, or behaviors which are of concern to you and/or your family and identify aspects of yourself or your life that you would like to change. Issues we can discuss can include coping with life challenges, relationship issues, parenting stress, dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma or issues regarding work related stress. I have a Bachelors of Arts in Social Work and Psychology from Michigan State University, Masters of Arts in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University and a Masters in Public Health from the University of Illinois-Chicago. I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Social Worker. I am a certified Divorce Mediator.

Carrie Parr

(she/her)

Carrie Parr, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Aetna logo
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
We live in a fast passed society, and it can be hard to keep up with all of our various life roles and responsibilities. Those who are making mental health a priority in their lives are notably the most satisfied and happy individuals in our American culture. I am a social worker by trade, and I have been a licensed clinician for over 20 years. I offer my clients a safe space to express their feelings, get to know themselves on a deeper level, and learn skills to take control of their thoughts and emotions. I guide my clients at their own pace to define and achieve their therapy goals. I believe that all people have it within themselves to optimize their own growth and success in all areas of life. Guiding you in your effort to achieve your definition of personal success and satisfaction is the ultimate objective.

Daffaney Burnside

(she/her)

Daffaney Burnside, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Aetna logo
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
As a child, I always wanted to pursue a career where I could assist with an individual’s growth, creativity and happiness. I learned at a young age the struggles that life can bring, not only through the inevitable, but also through situational traumas that we at times have to face and endure. Being an active member in the clinical field of helping professionals, I have certainly learned the importance of patience, empathy and peace. Identifying and securing ones’ purpose in life, creates the true masterpiece of one’s story. My goal is to assist you in your journey to self-actualization. ​

Frank F Wagner

(he/him)

Frank F Wagner, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Aetna logo
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker trained in the MSW and PhD program at Loyola in Chicago. I have done graduate studies in Philosphy and majored in Literature, Economics and Finance. I have practiced as a psychotherapist and also taught in the graduate school for over twenty years. I help people understand and work thru the problems we all have in our lives, our relationships and our work.

Teretha Lewis

Teretha Lewis, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Teretha Lewis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist in the Chicagoland area. I completed my Master of Social Work Degree with a specialization in Mental Health from Loyola University Chicago. For most of my career I have worked in various settings with the therapeutic community with individuals who have experienced trauma and are struggling to manage their daily lives. I specialize in treatment of children/adolescents, adults, and families struggling with Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Sexualized Behavior Problems and PTSD. In my work my goal is to assist my clients to develop greater insight and effective strategies to manage stressful and distressing situations in their lives. Because no single treatment is suited for all, I tailor sessions with each client's unique style and needs. I believe therapy can be one of the most healing technique for someone to overcome challenges in their lives.

Charles King

(he/him)

Charles King, LMFT - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
I am a husband of 13 years, a father of a 10 y/o neurodivergent son and a 6 y/o precocious daughter, a veteran of the US Navy with 12 years served, including 1 deployment, and a geek. I am what the Japanese culture describes as an otaku, in that I work to support my passions. In my free time I enjoy video games (mostly on Nintendo Switch), movies (all kinds, although my favorite is the 2005 animated Transformers movie), books (current favorite author is Brandon Sanderson), and spending time with my family.

Maggie Krol

(she/her)

Maggie Krol, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Aetna logo
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Maggie Krol and I am glad we found each other. I am a compassionate and experienced therapist specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction and trauma-informed care. With over 15 years of experience, I provide a safe, confidential space for individuals seeking support with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and personal growth. I graduated from the University of Iowa in 2005 and worked in a variety of small business and social service settings before moving to Florida for my Masters in Social Work. While going to school for my MSW, I worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, hospice, schools and one on one with children. In 2016 I returned to Illinois and in 2019, I received my Professional Educator License (PEL/Type 73) which allows me to work in school settings.

Renee Rodgers

(she/her)

Renee Rodgers, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Aetna logo
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a psychotherapist and Clinical Social Worker with 23 years experience providing mental health care for individuals, couples and families. I have experience providing brief and long-term therapy with adolescents and adults coping with a spectrum of mental health conditions; grief and loss; relationship issues; occupational problems and social injustices. It's exciting when relief and hope grow from therapy and the relationship supports meaningful change.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Illinois rather than a city like Chicago?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Illinois from Rockford to Springfield! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Illinois.

Will my therapist take Aetna?

Yes! If you use Aetna you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Aetna you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.