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 461 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: 8/17/2026

New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Women's Issues
Tricia (she/her) earned her undergraduate degree from Marquette University in Social Welfare & Justice, with minors in Psychology and Peace Studies. Driven by a passion for community and healing, she went on to obtain her Master of Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University Chicago. During her graduate studies, Tricia immersed herself in school settings, gaining advanced, comprehensive training in the unique mental health needs of children and families. Today, Tricia brings her expertise to both educational environments and private practice. In her school-based work, she provides critical crisis and ongoing support, conducts safety assessments, connects families with vital community resources, and helps students navigate school-related challenges such as general trauma and school refusal. In her private practice, Tricia specializes in supporting individuals navigating life transitions, depression, anxiety, and the daily pursuit of life balance. She also has dedicated experience working within the LGBTQ+ community, particularly supporting individuals pursuing gender-affirming care. Her Philosophy: Tricia firmly believes that therapy is never "one-size-fits-all." She collaborates closely with her clients to design highly individualized treatment plans tailored to their unique goals. By blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches, Tricia creates a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients feel truly heard. Depending on your needs, sessions may include a blend of structured exercises, practical skills-building, and open-ended discussion. Tricia is passionate about cultivating long-term therapeutic relationships that foster self-awareness, growth, and lasting healing. Her clients frequently describe her as direct, empathetic, and insightful.
Available

$160/session

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+3
Hello my name is Gabby Wnek and I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Illinois. I have been practicing for 8 years. I help adults with anxiety, depressing, stress, and burnout. I help clients identify where they are feeling stuck, educate clients on the nervous system, and provide tools and techniques to regulate the nervous system. My approach with client is very practical so that clients can have a toolbox of skills that they can use for the rest of their lives.
VirtualAvailable

$100/session

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+5
Sometimes it feels like the actual apocalypse is just around the corner. We are bombarded with terrible headline after terrible headline. Inflation is making it harder to pay the bills, let alone have fun, or reach our dreams. With so much going on in the world, it’s no wonder that there are greater rates of anxiety and depression! In the midst of it all, you might be trying to figure out who you are, what you want from life, how to have that honest conversation with your friend, setting boundaries with a parent, whether to switch jobs, learning to be more comfortable in your skin, etc. It’s a lot to manage. I can help. I am a licensed psychologist and consider myself a generalist with a wide variety of clinical interests including issues related to family of origin, self esteem, identity development, issues related to oppression and marginalized identities, depression, anxiety, stress, and interpersonal relationships.
Available

$110/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Self Esteem
+4
Welcome! I'm Sarah! Your story matters. You have value. I don't want you to walk through this pain alone. I work with females who want to work on anxiety, people-pleasing, insecure attachment, emotional regulation, perfectionism, communication, setting boundaries, grief, comparison, self-compassion, shame, building confidence, divorce, health struggles, relational concerns, navigating breakups, practicing self-care, and building a healthy relationship with yourself and others. Whatever is hurting or aching must be tended to. I am a warm, Christian therapist who focuses on creating a space where you can share the painful parts of your story as well as feel supported through practical tools and new perspectives to move forward. In the first few minutes of each session, I teach a tool. These tools have been extremely helpful for me and my clients, so I am passionate to share them and find my clients make more progress! Then I check in with you on what you would like to process for that day. After you share, I focus on processing your feelings and the situation as well as sharing my perspectives and tools. Feel free to reach out to see if I might be a good fit for you!
VirtualAvailable

$100/session

Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+3
Life can feel overwhelming at times, whether you're managing anxiety, depression, past trauma, or navigating major life changes. You don't have to go through it alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide compassionate, evidence-based telehealth therapy through EmpathicPath, making it easy to access support from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I specialize in working with adults and older adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, health changes, retirement, loss of independence, and other life transitions. My goal is to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we'll explore what's holding you back, build practical coping strategies, and work toward greater resilience, emotional well-being, and a more fulfilling life. Wherever you are in your journey, I'm here to help you take the next step with confidence and hope.
Available

New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

ADHD
Learning Disabilities
School Issues
+3
I am a calm and compassionate individual who takes an interactive approach to therapy. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel truly heard, understood, and valued. Together, we will explore your concerns, identify meaningful solutions, and work collaboratively to help you navigate challenges and achieve your personal goals. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a background in Psychology and Sociology, I will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our sessions. I’m also certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid, a training that focuses on anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health challenges our youth face every day.
Available

$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Postpartum
+2
Are you experiencing stress, sadness, anxiety, or overwhelming feelings? I know how to help you. I help support individuals and families find clarity, direction, and reach solutions while decreasing stress. Entering the process of therapy can be daunting and intimidating, but my goal is to make it comfortable for everyone. Creating a strong rapport/ therapeutic alliance is a priority of mine. I engage each client with a warm, empathic, and accepting demeanor, while building rapport and holistically addressing and integrating each aspect of their biological, psychological, and social experiences. I believe in creating a safe space and environment for each client, allowing them the freedom to introspect and work toward achieving goals.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who values honesty, connection, and practical support. I work with adults who may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of what needs to change. I try to create a space where clients can be open without feeling judged or pressured. Therapy with me is conversational, supportive, and focused on helping you better understand yourself and move forward in a way that feels realistic.
Available

$135/session

Solution oriented
Holistic
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Substance Misuse
+10
Welcome! I’m a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addiction Counselor with more than 20 years of experience—and this work is truly my passion. As someone who came to this as a second career, I consider it an honor and privilege to walk alongside young adults and adults as they navigate life’s challenges. I provide counseling for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, substance misuse, process addictions, anger, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, empowering, and collaborative. I believe that every person has the strength and wisdom to create meaningful change, and I strive to offer a safe, respectful, and supportive space where you can explore, heal, and grow. My role as a therapist is to guide, advocate, and support you as you find your voice and build a more balanced and fulfilling life. I meet clients where they are, honoring the belief that you are the expert of your own experience. To ensure each person receives the focused care and attention they deserve, I intentionally keep a small caseload. This allows me to be fully present and responsive to each client’s unique needs. I take an integrated, person-centered approach that draws from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and meditation practices, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Every treatment plan is developed collaboratively, tailored to your goals, preferences, and pace—because therapy should fit you, not the other way around. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more grounded life, I would be honored to support you on that journey.
VirtualAvailable

$110/session

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
+3
Hello and welcome to therapy. I offer a conversational style of therapy where we explore your concerns and needs from the very beginning. As a licensed psychotherapist with experience in therapy and corporate coaching, I help clients move from overwhelm and burnout to feeling grounded, clear, and capable. Here’s how I can support you: Are you experiencing life stress, anxiety, and change? If you feel mentally exhausted or overwhelmed, we’ll work together to ease anxiety and help you feel steadier and more in control. I also support neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD, using practical, realistic strategies tailored to their needs. Are you struggling with work stress, burnout, and career transitions? If work feels draining, uncertain, or unsustainable, you don’t have to navigate it alone. With a doctorate in organizational leadership and years of corporate coaching and training experience, I help professionals manage workplace stress, make effective decisions, clarify career goals, and communicate more effectively at work. Are you needed personal development or life coaching? If you’re repeating the same struggles or feeling uncertain about what comes next, we can find a new way forward. Together, we’ll build healthier habits, navigate challenges more effectively, and help you feel more confident and authentic in your life. My approach is warm, grounded, and practical. Clients often say they feel truly heard and leave sessions with clear, useful next steps—not just insight. We’ll move at a pace that feels comfortable while focusing on what helps you feel better and function more effectively in daily life. I offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. You’re welcome to book directly—I look forward to working with you.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$200/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My work with clients is integrative, collaborative, and eclectic. I tailor strategies, tools, and skills to each individual's strengths, while also identifying areas that may benefit from support. I follow a client-centered philosophy, respecting you as the expert of your own life—while recognizing that even experts need help at times. My clinical education, skills, and experiences are further enhanced by my education and experience in learning systems and brain dominance - basically how people learn. This is an important part of a successful therapeutic relationship and finding the right approach for my clients.
Available

$75/session

Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Family Conflict
Men's Issues
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hey there! I am a LCSW based in Illinois. I recieved my Master's degree from Aurora University and have been working in the mental health field for approximately 10 years. I have a passion for working with clients navigating addiction, who have experienced trauma and/ or have experienced involvment in the criminal justice system. I also enjoy working with teens and adults delaing with life transitions and family of origin issues. I am LGBTQ friendly and gender affirming.
VirtualAvailable

$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+3
I have been practicing Social Work/Counseling for 34 years. I am very passionate about what I do, and enjoy seeing clients set goals and take active steps to achieving those goals. I love getting to know my clients, and forming a safe place for them to explore ways they want to overcome barriers to growth and change. It is truly a privilege to meet in the therapeutic space and witness the growth that human beings can make when they are met where they are at and given the unconditional positive regard they deserve.
VirtualAvailable

$119/session

Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
Crisis Intervention
Life Transitions
+10
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) who offers a supportive, compassionate space where clients can feel seen, heard, and understood. I work with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, substance use concerns, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based practices, with a strong emphasis on building trust and emotional safety. Together, we focus on increasing self-awareness, strengthening coping skills, and supporting meaningful, sustainable change so clients can feel more confident, balanced, and empowered in their daily lives.
VirtualAvailable

$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are navigating depression, anxiety, or challenges with managing emotions. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to make lasting change. Because I believe healing begins with a strong foundation, I focus on building a genuine, supportive relationship with every client. My style is eclectic, and I strive to individualize treatment for each client. I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. Together, we will explore your strengths, work through challenges, and create space for growth and new beginnings. If you’re ready for a fresh start, I’d be honored to walk alongside you in your healing journey.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$120/session

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Grief
Health/Medical Issues
+10
Entering the world of personal psychotherapy can be an exciting, yet a foreboding area, if you've not had that opportunity previously, I believe that my first goal is to be welcoming to each and every person. Over some weeks, we will explore your inner pursuits which will help you feel more comfortable in who you are and who you desire to be. For me personally, being alongside you, is a privilege that few people get to have, so I treat it as a sacred opportunity. Helping individuals reach their potential or heal a broken heart is an enormous responsibility, but also one a therapist will approach with care and encouragement.
Available

$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has spent over 20 years working in community mental health, crisis intervention, and private practice. That experience has given me a deep understanding of what people actually need to feel better — not just textbook answers, but real, practical support that meets you where you are. You'll work with someone who has seen a lot, judges nothing, and genuinely believes in your capacity to heal.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Empowering
Warm
Open-Minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+5
Hello and welcome! You've taken a great step by considering if therapy could be right for you. Many situations and life circumstances bring people to this space, and I look forward to talking with you more about your unique story. If you're even wondering if therapy might be right for you, then the answer is yes! My name is Emma Peters. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. I received my Masters degree in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health) at the University of Arkansas. While in Arkansas I worked with adolescents with maladaptive sexual behaviors and co-ocurring disorders in an inpatient setting. Upon relocating to Illinois, I spent several years working in substance use treatment settings, including residential/inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient programs. I've spent the last several years focusing on individual therapy. While in this space, I have developed a passion for working with young adults and supporting the unique challenges they face today. This journey can feel a bit overwhelming at times. I believe in bringing authenticity, compassion, and even a bit of humor into the therapy space to support and empower you through life's most difficult moments.
Available

Often rebooked

$125/session

Solution oriented
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Peer Relationships
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Life can be overwhelming, messy, and genuinely hard sometimes—and that’s completely okay. For nearly a decade, I’ve supported adults navigating anxiety, trauma, and relationship struggles, helping them feel more grounded, confident, and connected in their lives. While working together, we’ll slow things down to truly understand what you’re going through, explore what matters most to you, and discover practical, realistic ways to move forward. I'm not here to tell you what to do, but to work with you by listening, offering options, and supporting you as you work through challenges and build a life that feels more manageable, meaningful, and true to who you are. I bring warmth, compassion, and even some humor into the process, because healing doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time.
VirtualAvailable

$250/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+1
Do you want to finally feel heard and make progress with an experienced therapist? Whether you are facing big life decisions, having relationship issues, or healing from complex trauma, there is hope in recovery. I have extensive experience with providing mental health therapy, clinical supervision, and program management. Additional experience includes working with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, attention deficit disorder, mood disorders, personality disorders, and family relations issues.
VirtualAvailable

$125/session

Solution oriented
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hello Potential Client! Welcome to my Practice. My name is Amanda Strobel and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC). I have had an opportunity to practice behavioral health therapy in many settings over the last 25+ years. My overall goal is to support my clients through their therapeutic journey including supporting them through life transitions, stressful or overwhelming situations, grief or loss issues or executive counseling for career advancement. You will find that I have worked in a variety of therapy settings including: private practice both in person and virtual, inpatient/outpatient, corporate settings, residential, therapeutic day schools, mentally ill substance abuse and oncology wellness centers. In those setting I provided therapy on a variety of mental health issues. I spent the first 15 years of my career working with children, adolescents and young adults working through: physical/sexual and neglect issues, anxiety/panic/OCD, depression, bi-polar disorder, suicidal ideation and actions, family conflicts, boundary setting and substance abuse issues. I have also worked with the overall family unit to address family conflict, parenting issues and relationship building. In more recent years my focus has been on grief/loss issues, coping skills, self care, executive consulting and counseling, life transitional issues and working through major life changes and choices. I would love to support you as you take your first steps towards achieving your goals-please reach out and schedule an appointment.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$150/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+8
I’m Lauren Alexander, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, clinical supervisor, counselor educator, and trauma-informed psychotherapist. I support adults who may look like they have it all together on the outside, yet feel overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or exhausted from carrying so much. My work is especially centered on supporting high-achieving Black women, helping professionals, caregivers, and individuals navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship stress, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and the impact of childhood or intergenerational trauma. I offer a warm, reflective, and culturally responsive space where clients can slow down, understand their patterns, challenge old narratives, and begin reconnecting with themselves in a more grounded and compassionate way.
Available

$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+10
Hi I'm Shan :) ! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who's been working as a therapist since 2018. I'm big hearted, non judgmental and believe in the healing power of authenticity. I've worked with adults of all ages on a wide scope of issues and strongly believe that I learn and grow alongside each and every person I work with.
VirtualAvailable

$125/session

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

ADHD
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello, as a licensed clinical social worker with fourteen years of clinical experience I specialize in treating simple and complex trauma, neurodivergent traits (ADHD, ASD, sensitivities) and along with general mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. I draw on a number of tools to identify and resolve the underlying events and experiences that contribute to distress and disruption including CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR and Somatic Experiencing. You deserve to work with someone who hears you and understands your experience(s) and offers action plans for healing. I help my clients create the change they are seeking. In my practice you will be seen and heard in a secure, safe place with free from judgement. I am so fortunate to be working with people who want to make meaningful changes in their lives so they can find the happiness they deserve! Its takes courage and bravery to do this work and I am here for the journey.
VirtualAvailable

$130/session

Authentic
Direct
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
I’m Lauren Dircks, LCSW, a licensed therapist in Illinois with immediate openings. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or life transitions and longing for a safe space to turn? My passion is creating a supportive, empowering space where you feel truly seen as you heal and grow. Along with talk therapy, I offer EMDR for trauma recovery. I welcome teens, adults, seniors, and caregivers from all walks of life, offering a safe, inclusive space to be your authentic self. I support clients with anxiety, depression, grief, LGBTQ+ needs, perinatal care, dementia and caregiver stress, relationship conflict, anger, stress, self-esteem, and life transitions.
Available
Frequently asked questions

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in Illinois. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.