Therapists that accept Cash Pay in Illinois

Choosing a cash pay option for mental health care can provide flexibility and access to quality support without the constraints of insurance networks. With 48 verified therapists in Illinois who accept cash pay, you can explore therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to address a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist that has a cash pay option listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability soon, offering you a straightforward path to compassionate, accessible care on your terms.

Find therapists near you in

Chicago

Availability updated: 7/9/2025

Lisa D. Vinson

Lisa D. Vinson, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
14 years of experience
Virtual
Are you avoiding some of life’s most significant moments? Are you overwhelmed or stuck? Is life passing you by with nothing left? Give yourself a little space by taking some time to begin a journey that will help you. In my formal education, I have acquired various certifications and licenses that allow me to provide high-quality clinical services to adults including: 1. Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC): This license enables me to practice as a professional counselor in the state of Illinois. It demonstrates my competency and adherence to ethical standards. 2. Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Addictions Counselor (CAADC): This certification signifies my specialization in helping individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. It demonstrates my expertise in treating addiction-related issues. 3. Certified Co-Occurring Disorder Professional (CODP I): This certification further emphasizes my proficiency in working with clients who have co-occurring mental health disorders and substance abuse issues. It allows me to provide comprehensive care and support to individuals with dual diagnoses. 4. Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-Level 1): This certification validates my knowledge and skills in providing trauma-informed care to clients who have experienced significant psychological distress or trauma. 5. Certified Clinical Complex Trauma Professional (CCTP): This certification recognizes my specialized training and expertise in working with individuals who have endured multiple or ongoing traumas that have deeply impacted their psychological well-being. 6. Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS): This designation indicates that I have met rigorous standards of expertise and experience in providing clinical supervision to aspiring or practicing counselors. It demonstrates my ability to guide and mentor other professionals in the field. These qualifications enable me to provide effective evidence-based therapy while also equipping me with the skills and knowledge to train and support future counselors.

Matt Marder

(he/him)

Matt Marder, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Matt Marder. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and how I might support you on your personal journey. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I offer behavioral therapy to improve and maintain your emotional well-being. I focus on building a trusting relationship with my clients, allowing you to be heard and understood. Initially, we begin where you are and build a treatment plan specifically to meet your needs. My approaches allow you to recognize yourself, think about others, and identify strategies for navigating the daily roller-coaster of life. You may have gone through a loss or be experiencing trouble managing whatever life has thrown your way. I am available to listen and help you succeed in improving yourself, your relationships, or your family life. No matter who you are, or what circumstances you’ve endured, your emotional health and well-being are most important. Feel free to reach out to me for assistance.

Lisa Fuechtmann

(she/her)

Lisa Fuechtmann, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCPC
18 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Master’s level clinician with over 16 years of experience in the field of mental health including working with both children & adults in school & community mental health settings. I founded the school counseling program at Latino Youth High School where I worked with adolescents who were dealing with bullying, family issues, behavioral problems, self harming behavior, & academic issues. My work has ranged from treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, & marital counseling, hypnotherapy, care giver support, anger issues, & management of chronic mental illnesses. I work from a cognitive behavioral framework & also use psychodynamic techniques.

Davida Fuller

(she/her)

Davida Fuller, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$90/session
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there! Welcome! My professional path is driven by a profound dedication to inclusivity and social equity. I center my efforts on fostering mental well-being, providing essential coping skills, breaking down mental health stigma, and emphasizing the transformative and empowering nature of the healing process. In my practice, I adopt a compassionate and empathetic approach to create a secure and affirming space for clients. I guide them through their mental health challenges, helping them discover resilience on their unique journey towards healing. I firmly believe everyone should have a supportive environment to explore their challenges and embark on a personalized path to healing. I started my career as a clinician in community mental health, where I provided crucial support to individuals and families grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients, tailoring evidence-based modalities such as CBT, TF-CBT, and solution-focused therapy to meet their unique needs. In addition to individual therapy, I have facilitated groups for adolescents and adults centered on stress management, emotional regulation, and grief. I am committed to continuous learning and growth. I am excited to bring my passion and dedication to my practice, offering a compassionate and effective therapeutic experience to individuals seeking support and transformation.

Joy Watkins

Joy Watkins, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$180/session
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Healing and restoring individuals and couples as a Therapist and Consultant specializing in Mental Health and Substance Abuse for 20+ years. I have worked with Adults, Adolescents, Teens and Young Adults extensively. I specialize in CBT Therapy, CBT Trauma Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Domestic Violence and Strengths Based Therapy. For individuals or couple experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, fears or any other Mental Health issues I can assist you with combating these issues that are affecting your daily life using a strengths base approach.

Michelle Wong

(she/her)

Michelle Wong, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my master's in social work from Loyola University of Chicago. I have been a social worker for 39 years and practicing as a therapist for 9 years. I have experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, stress, grief and trauma. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I tailor my treatment to meet my client's specific needs and create a safe and non- judgmental space to support my client's healing journey.

Chris Rabe

(she/her)

Chris Rabe, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$100/session
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
You may find yourself experiencing toxic relationships/codependency, eating disorders, drugs & alcohol, anxiety, and perfectionism – the list of the ways we distract and soothe ourselves from discomfort goes on and on. You may find the need to learn more about yourself and your relationships, process life events, share things that are difficult to share with other people, or to explore how past experiences have shaped you. I am passionate about helping clients foster self-awareness by using motivational interviewing, to meet you right where you are. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. I am a National Board Certified Counselor. I have spent over 14 years in the mental health field, and 10 years as a mental health professional. You don’t need to be in a crisis to benefit from therapy. Ongoing wellness is crucial to a balanced life.

Sakina Crosby

(she/her)

Sakina Crosby, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$125/session
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Whether you're dealing with life stressors, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the unhelpful thinking styles, hang-ups, and habits holding you back.

Patrick Cornelius

(he/they)

Patrick Cornelius, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name Patrick and I served in three combat tours: serving our country for nine years as a United States Marine. I decided to serve those that are mentally ill in 2013 after my tour of service. After 5 years of study and schooling I got my start in 2017 in a dual-disorder treatment center conducting Intensive inpatient/outpatient groups and utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy as an approach to treating mental health disorders. Today, I specialize in taking an eclectic approach to using interventions looking at the holistic approaches to the human dynamic. This means looking at a person’s relationships and/or lack, cognitive schemas, their behaviors and habits, their priorities, and then determining how interventions and treatment plans will be formulated. I look at a person’s self-concept and determine holistically how their behaviors, thoughts, and patterns are contributing to their problems and functioning. The skills and tools of a therapist are the personal characteristics they bring into therapy: empathy, active listening these aren’t just attributes that look good on paper but are verbal and non-verbal forms of communication; and its these skills I believe what enables successful outcomes in therapy.

Adriana Cintron

(she/her)

Adriana Cintron, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$90/session
LCSW
2 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Adriana Cintrón and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am a bilingual and bicultural therapist, working with English and Spanish speaking individuals in Illinois. I work mainly with adults who have expressed a need for support and would either like to define goals or have them and would like help to achieve them. I primarily specialize in depression, anxiety, stress and domestic violence counseling.

Soraia Oliveira

(she/her)

Soraia Oliveira, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$100/session
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
As a Latina and Brazilian, I bring a multicultural perspective to my work, with fluency in Spanish, Portuguese, French, and English. I have many years of experience supporting immigrant women and others from diverse backgrounds. I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll work to challenge and reshape narratives that no longer serve you, build tools for resilience, and celebrate the strengths you bring. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a deep commitment to honoring each client’s unique cultural experiences.

Kimberly Spencer

Kimberly Spencer, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$130/session
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) as well as a Certified Alcohol and other Drug counselor. In my career I have partnered with clients with chronic mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder, who also many times had co-occurring disorders such as substance use, but my passion is to work with adults who are attempting to overcome trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, daily life stressors, relationships, and those who are trying to identify and overcome the root causes of emotional pain and overall unhappiness. I have always had great empathy for others. I learned very early in my own life that I strongly wanted to find solutions for anything I identified as “the problem”. This desire is what lead me to the field of Psychology and counseling. Through the field of counseling, I continue my passion of problem solving by helping others identify “problems” and find solutions. My approach to therapy is one that is flexible, non-judgmental, and empathic with the understanding that therapy has to be unique to the individual . Possibilities and solutions are infinite and individualized. Understanding how we perceive the world around us as well as how our thoughts influence our lives is a key part of my approach to therapy. As I partner with clients, we work together to determine what works best for them and use those strategies to bring forth restoration of the mind, body, spirit, and overall emotional well-being.

Charlene Mabins

(she/her)

Charlene Mabins, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and have been practicing for over 10 years and over 35 years in Life Coaching. I help adults who are between the ages of 25-75 that are struggling with chronic illnesses, Stress, life challenges. Clients will reflect on challenging situations and learn new coping skills to help them with their life's journey in difficulty times.

Amanda Berenguel Smolka

(she/her)

Amanda Berenguel Smolka, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been formally practicing therapy for 5+ years; though I've been an informal therapist for family and friends since my adolescent years. I work mostly with teens and families with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, by teaching DBT, CBT, ACT, and Executive Functioning skills. I have worked in an inpatient hospital and how work in a Partial Hospitalization Program while also doing private practice on the side. I am also a wife (since 2007) and mother (since 2011) so relationships, family dynamics, children with mental health concerns are also part of my daily life.

Lauren Christina

(she/they)

Lauren Christina, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$250/session
LCPC
14 years of experience
Virtual
I’ve spent the last 14 years working in community mental health—walking alongside people who’ve carried heavy stories, survived deep hurt, and kept going when the world didn’t make it easy. Folks who’ve survived trauma, systems that failed them, deep loneliness, and years of having to shrink themselves just to get by. I specialize in complex trauma—the kind that doesn’t come from one event, but from years of not being safe, not being seen, or having to constantly shift how you show up in the world to fit in, keep the peace, or avoid harm—whether that meant people-pleasing, staying small, or never letting your real self be fully known. I show up to this work with honesty, compassion, and deep respect for your autonomy. I won’t ask you to retell your trauma unless you want to. I won’t rush your process—but I won’t sugarcoat things either. I believe that healing doesn’t mean changing who you are—it means coming home to yourself: To your strength. Your boundaries. Your voice. And the parts of you that were buried along the way. This is a space where you don’t have to hide, shrink, or translate yourself. I practice from an LGBTQ+ affirming and anti-oppressive lens, which means I’m always working to make this a space where all of you are welcome—including your identities, your history, your culture, and the ways you’ve had to navigate a world that doesn’t always make room for you. If you’ve ever been told you’re “too much,” “too sensitive,” or “not enough,” this space was made for you. You’ve done what you needed to do to survive. Now it’s time to stop surviving quietly—and start living boldly.

Alice Fitzgerald

(she/her)

Alice Fitzgerald, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello- I’m Alice I enjoy helping others change, grow and solve lifelong challenges. I have my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Counseling including specialization in substance abuse and Adlerian theory from Adler University in Chicago. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor. I have a history of working in different types of settings from community mental health providing services to children, families and adults, emergency room settings determining if hospitalization is necessary, department of corrections with maximum security inmates, online therapy organization providing video, text and phone services and a private practice. Given my variety of experiences with clients and setting, I feel my greatest strength is the ability to listen and understand what the client is hoping to achieve in therapy. I want to help you be successful in your life, your relationships and career. I want to provide a safe, non judgmental environment for you to share your feelings, thoughts and issues.

Shavone Williams-Moss

Shavone Williams-Moss, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$180/session
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Shavone Marie Williams-Moss, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I entered the field of social work largely because of my family background; I was raised by a single father while my mother struggled with substance abuse and mental health issues and could not perform her role as a parent. One day as an adult in my 20's, I saw my mother sitting on a bench on the main street in Kentucky. I welcomed her into my home only to discover she not only suffered from homelessness but bipolar disorder, major depression, and substance abuse. My mother lived with me for a year, after which she passed away. This situation made me wonder, what if, in her younger years, she would have met someone who was supportive, understanding, kind, selfless, and invested in helping her be the best version of her, she could be. It was then that I decided to enter the Social Work Field. I wanted to provide help to those who could not help themselves and aid to those in need.

Payal Sud

Payal Sud, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a South Asian, first-generation licensed clinical social worker( LCSW) based in Illinois. I have been in the field for over 20 years. I help marginalized communities navigate the world and put their mind, body, and soul back together. I utilize holistic and integrative methods to assist individuals in their mental health journey in a safe and comfortable space.

Cassie Perez

(she/her)

Cassie Perez, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$160/session
LCPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! Congratulations on taking your first steps to bettering your mental health. My name is Cassandra (Cassie). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Michigan) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (IL) who has worked with a wide range of clients from young children to adults and families. I believe that each individual is unique and special; therefore, I prefer an eclectic and collaborative approach to counseling; developing the treatment plan to reflect your unique needs. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Attachment Therapy and aspects of Theraplay. I often utilize strengths-based and person-centered methods.

Judith Lites Nelson

(she/her)

Judith Lites Nelson, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$75/session
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! Thanks for pausing your search to take a look at my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and clinical mental health counselor educator (EdD). My experience has been trauma-focused with emphasis on the experiences of those who have survived group-focused negative experiences. Resilience is the hallmark of survivors of interpersonal violence, and through a strength-based focus, we will work together to reinforce your unique, perhaps forgotten, talents and abilities.

Melissa Cauthen

(she/her)

Melissa Cauthen, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$75/session
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.

Sandy Esparza

(she/her)

Sandy Esparza, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Sandy and I am a therapist based in Chicago. Do you have a nagging sense that you aren't living the life you truly want? I enjoy supporting individuals of all ages to explore their hopes and consider what is holding them back from creating a life they truly desire. I specialize in trauma and have experience working with LGBTQIA+ clients, families, adolescents, juvenile justice-involved youth, and professionals managing stress. I know therapy can seem like an overwhelming idea, whether it is a painful past or self-doubt, I will walk with you to the other side.

Tekoa Jaddua

Tekoa Jaddua, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Tekoa. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in Addiction Therapy, I address the multifaceted challenges that often accompany substance use. If drugs or alcohol have negatively impacted your life, affecting your stability, family relationships, or career, and you feel trapped in a cycle of desperation, I offer a supportive path forward. I am committed to understanding your aspirations for sobriety, recovery, and overall well-being. Together, we will navigate the complexities of this journey in a safe and collaborative space, addressing underlying issues such as low self-worth, shame, guilt, unforgiveness, denial, dishonesty, pain, and loss. My therapeutic approach is direct and solution-focused. We will collaboratively explore the factors contributing to your current situation and develop a clear plan for positive change. While acknowledging the impact of external circumstances, I emphasize personal responsibility for life choices and the capacity for self-directed change. You possess the strength to achieve your goals, and I am here to partner with you in that process.

Gita Tewari

(she/her)

Gita Tewari, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$70/session
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I have experience working with adults, adolescents and children struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, low self-esteem and key life transitions. I provide a safe and accepting space where you can be open and honest with the difficulties you are experiencing in your life. Prior to returning to school for a counseling degree, I worked in the corporate and nonprofit sectors for many years as an editor and writer and I bring that unique perspective and experience to my work with clients. My multicultural background is also an asset in working with diverse populations. I utilize a strengths-based approach when working with clients while creating a safe and accepting space where you can be open and honest with the difficulties you are experiencing in your life. Because I view therapy as a collaborative process, I will be checking in with you throughout our time together to review your initial goals for therapy and to ensure that you continue to feel heard and understood in therapy. It takes courage to seek out counseling. If you are ready take that step, I am here to support, encourage and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Gina Gaston

(she/her)

Gina Gaston, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$175/session
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hi I’m Gina! Do you know that everyone feels overwhelmed from time to time? Balancing the demands of life, family, and work can be challenging. I have PhD and MSW from the University of Illinois at Chicago. I am a highly trained therapist with experience helping people recover and achieve their personal and professional goals. My approach is filtered through a diverse lens that views all clients as having the ability to work through challenges. Sometimes all you need is a little help to move forward. Building upon your strengths and past coping mechanisms will help you develop better ways of managing stress and conflict. There are many interventions such as meditation, cognitive behavioral, family systems and solution focused therapy that can be used to tackle the issues affecting your emotional wellbeing. I know seeking therapy can feel scary, but you are making the right decision. Contact me today so we can discuss how therapy can help you.

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 insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available 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 Racism?

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. For example, your selected specialty, Racism, is filtering therapists in Illinois that work with patients with similar concerns.

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.