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 223 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: 8/10/2026

New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Anger Management
Coping Skills
Grief
Hi everyone, welcome to my profile. I am glad that you are engaged in this journey of self-help and interested in learning more about therapy. I recognize that, for many, therapy, is a big step in trying to improve their lives, and people can be nervous or unfamiliar with therapy, at first. Regardless of any stigmas attached to therapy, I firmly believe in the importance of therapy and that this process has helped many people. I strive to make the therapeutic environment a comfortable and non-judgmental place where clients feel they can fully express themselves. I am originally from New York- born and raised. I moved to Chicago in June of 2025 and I am living and experiencing a new city. I have worked with a variety of clients, including those of different ages and backgrounds. My areas of focus, include, but not limited to, 1) Grief and Loss 2) Family and personal relationships, including divorce, marriage, and romantic relationships 3) Emotional Regulation and anger management, 4) Anxiety and stress 5) Life Transitions.
Available

New to Grow

$120/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
Whether you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or are just looking for a change, therapy is a starting point to offer a safe supportive space to better understand what you are needing to guide you through. I am a licensed counselor with over ten years of experience working with people to offer a compassionate and collaborative space to make lasting, meaningful change.
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

New to Grow

$150/session

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
+10
Welcome! I'm glad that you're here! You are taking an important and courageous first-step towards a better you. I am passionate about helping people navigate life’s ups and downs and discover meaningful, lasting change. I believe therapy should be a collaborative and empowering process, where you feel supported, understood, and truly heard. My approach is client-centered and rooted in empathy, which means I meet you where you are and tailor our work to fit your unique needs and goals. Because no two people are the same, I use an eclectic blend of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you recognize and reshape unhelpful thought patterns, Client-Centered Therapy to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for growth, and Brief Solution-Focused Counseling to help you identify strengths and take practical steps forward. This flexibility allows me to adapt our sessions to what works best for you, whether you’re seeking tools to manage stress, improve relationships, or create positive changes in your daily life. Above all, my goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel comfortable being yourself and confident that you don’t have to go through life’s challenges alone.
Available

$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

New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+3
I believe healing happens when you feel safe, understood, and empowered. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, women's issues, infertility, and spiritual struggles. My approach is warm, collaborative, and holistic, blending evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness while honoring each client's values and goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for change, I'll meet you with compassion and practical tools to help you move forward.
Available

New to Grow

$125/session

Specialties

Coping Skills
Grief
Health/Medical Issues
+6
I have been an LCSW for 6 years. I’ve worked in a variety of settings from child welfare to healthcare. My favorite areas of work include grief & loss, navigating medical diagnosis, and college aged individuals! I would describe my style as laid back but direct. I use a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, solution focused, and EMDR if appropriate.
Available

Often rebooked

$170/session

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Coping Skills
Men's Issues
Spirituality
+6
If you have seen the movie “Groundhog Day” starring Bill Murray as Phil, you would say it is a comedy. But it is more. He finally breaks out of his dull, repetitive life not by changing his surroundings or anyone else; he changes himself. Just like Phil, if you don’t change something, nothing will change. That is the purpose of counseling: to help you try something different, to change something about yourself, to help you become the best YOU. Whether you are in a tough spot or just have issues you want to address, I am here to help. I am a licensed clinical counselor and a licensed marriage and family counselor. I have 30+ years of experience treating: • Addictions • Mental illnesses • Depression • Trauma and abuse recovery • Anger management and more If I can’t help, I will connect you with someone who can. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be looking for and help build the life you so deeply deserve. I currently have daytime openings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for video or online appointments. Starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, and scary all at the same time. Congratulations on taking the first step by reading this. Areas of focus: • Stress, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Paranoia • Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Family of Origin Issues, Career difficulties, Workplace Issues • Grief, Self-esteem, Life Purpose, Coaching • Coping with life changes, Aging and Geriatric Issues, Men's Issues, Midlife Crisis, Young Adult Issues • Codependency, Control Issues, Domestic Violence • Drug and Alcohol Addiction • Forgiveness, Money and Financial Issues Clinical therapy approaches: • Client-Centered • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) • Existential • Solution-Focused • Systems Perspective. License information: • IL Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor 180000552 • IL Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 166000131
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$120/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+7
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and completed my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology 18 years ago. Honestly, I can’t see myself doing anything else. My experience includes working with kids, teens, and adults; people with traumatic brain injury; and developmental and/or intellectual disability in community mental health, state-based inpatient services, and hospital settings for crisis assessments. I have a passion for helping others, and I want to be there to support people dealing with depression, anxiety, past trauma, grief, or anything else being experienced. My strength comes from knowing God has called me into this career, and I genuinely want the best life for you.
Available

$120/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+6
Hi there, I am Sammy a Licensed Clinical professional counselor. If you are reading this, you may be exploring options to relieve some stress or tackle some of life’s challenges. I am here to support you with whatever it is you are experiencing. I am committed to helping you walk away from each session with support, care, empathic unconditional understanding, and of course a tablespoon of chuckles as well. I have experience in multiple settings treating a wide range of issues using evidence-based practice and can also support you. Make the call you will not regret. I am also a couples therapist helping you create safety with the people who matter most. Reach out to me and I would be more than happy to find time options that work for you. I use EFT to assist you to identify the inner emotional turmoil and to help you make sense of and understand your partner.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Family Therapy
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
+3
I work with adults, children & teens, and their families. My approach to therapy is restorative and invitational. I encourage you to keep an open mind, trust the therapeutic process, and be willing to take thoughtful risks as we work together. My goal is to help you build the insight, knowledge, and skills needed to address your concerns and create meaningful, lasting change. I have more than 25 years of experience helping adults, children & teens, and families in crisis from my private practice. I have also worked in schools, with law enforcement and military personnel and their families, in correctional facilities, and I have been a clinical director for an inpatient hospitals and a residential treatment center. Additionally, I worked in the Canadian Arctic, traveling monthly to train and consult in education, healthcare, and correctional facilities for over 20 years.
Available

New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Mood Disorders
Serious Mental Illness
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing for over 30 years. I have spent my career helping others travel down their own path. I have extensive experience working with families of children with special needs. I enjoy working with single mothers, teens and tweens. I have experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum as well as those who are "Highly Sensitive". I strive to help individuals build resilience in the face of trauma and life's challenges. I have extensive experience working with incarcerated individuals. I have first hand experience managing the stress associated with working as a first responder. I enjoy working with people with mental illness and personality disorders. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change.
Available

New to Grow

$150/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
As a licensed clinical social worker, I provide compassionate counseling that is designed around what each person may be struggling with. My hope for you is to help enhance well-being, build self-awareness, restore emotional balance and foster healing and acceptance. With over 20 years experience in the field, I have seen how depression, anxiety, PTSD, among many other issues can impact our ability to thrive. I specialize in working through bad news, failures or unwanted changes that we all experience and find a way through with hope and direction. I established Fail Safe Counseling for this purpose.
Available

New to Grow

$125/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Couples Counseling
+10
Hello! My name is Gayle. I am kind and warm, but honest and straightforward. My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, meaning I will meet you with empathy and understanding, regardless of the issues that are causing you distress. At times, life's stressors seem insurmountable, and it feels as though it’s difficult to just get through the day. I can help guide you toward a resolution and healing. I am adept at working with individuals or couples with a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, relational conflict, trauma, life transitions, and I specialize in OCD and BiPolar Disorders.
Available

$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+10
Hi, I’m Alyssa, a licensed clinical social worker who works with teens and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and life transitions. I have over three years of experience helping clients better understand themselves, manage overwhelming emotions, and build healthier relationships with themselves and others. I believe therapy should feel both supportive and practical, so I focus on helping clients gain insight while also learning tools they can use in their everyday lives. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each individual, because no two people or journeys are the same.
VirtualAvailable

$80/session

Challenging
Intelligent

Specialties

Domestic Violence
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
+8
My name is Melissa Chovan, and I have been in private practice since 2014, first in Illinois and since 2019 in Alabama. Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges, with a particular focus on trauma-informed care and trauma treatment. My goal is to provide a supportive, compassionate, and culturally sensitive environment where clients feel safe to explore their experiences, develop healthy coping skills, and work toward meaningful healing and personal growth.
Available

$185/session

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
+8
Hello, I'm Kimberly Mula, Psy.D. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals utilizing a collaborative approach to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients where concerns can be explored, individual strengths can be recognized, and personal growth can occur. I recognize and acknowledge the initial steps of seeking therapy can be confusing while also empowering. With this in mind, I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows individuals to explore obstacles with concerns related to Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and self-care. I understand how complicated life can be and how overwhelming it can become when you or a loved one struggles. I understand the importance of early identification, assessment, and intervention. I believe change occurs with the assistance and support of family, friends, and significant others. Together, we will identify your challenges and goals. We will collaborate to identify options and strategies you can use to meet these goals. I have received a Master's Degree and a Doctoral Degree from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology, Argosy University. Throughout my 20-year career, my training and work experiences varied to include community mental health, intensive inpatient and outpatient treatment settings, as well as working in the foster care system. These experiences have prepared me to advocate for my clients and provide culturally diverse and evidence-based treatments.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$150/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+5
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of yourself? You don’t have to figure it all out alone. I work with adults who are navigating anxiety, self-esteem struggles, and major life transitions—especially when life feels different than expected or you’re struggling to figure out what comes next. Maybe you overthink everything, second-guess yourself, feel like you’re never doing enough, or find yourself constantly trying to keep everything together. Maybe you’re going through a transition that has left you questioning who you are, what you want, or where you fit. Therapy can be a space to slow down, understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and begin making changes that feel meaningful and realistic. My approach is warm, genuine, collaborative, and direct. I want you to feel comfortable being completely yourself while also feeling supported in challenging the patterns that may be keeping you stuck. I have particular professional interests in supporting individuals through bariatric surgery or GLP-1 journey and the emotional changes that can accompany significant weight or lifestyle changes. You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. We can start exactly where you are.
Available

$125/session

Direct
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
+9
Welcome to Integrated Mind & Body Counseling I believe healing happens through connection. Over the years, I’ve learned that people are stronger than they realize. Even in difficult seasons, there is an underlying capacity for resilience that can be rediscovered and strengthened with the right support. My passion is helping people build resilience by deepening self-understanding, strengthening relationships, and developing practical skills to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence.
Available

$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+6
I am a Bilingual (Spanish) Clinical Social Worker. I am experienced in working with a variety of issues including immigrant and minority issues, trauma, obesity, brain injury, PTSD, abuse, infertility, chronic medical illness, attachment, grief and loss, pet loss, adoption, ADHD, anxiety, depression and coping with divorce and co-parenting. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Chicago. I am EMDR trained and have worked extensively with those who have lived with chronic trauma experiences. I have lived in Bolivia, Guatemala and Spain. I use a variety of interventions, including art and drawing, to spur the introspection process on the path to healing. I strongly recommend combining a mind and body approach to help you connect with and reveal your true inner self.
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

$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

$75/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Fertility & Reproduction Issues
+6
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with individuals of all ages. I support clients navigating infertility, pregnancy-related concerns, grief and loss, trauma, as well as depression and anxiety. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, and I have received specialized training in EMDR. I am committed to creating a supportive, compassionate space where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered in their healing.
Available

$170/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+4
Hi there, so glad you're here! I most often work with clients who are looking to improve their self-esteem, manage daily stress, work on communication, learn to set and uphold boundaries, and those who are experiencing life transitions. I am a clinical social worker, licensed both in Wisconsin and Illinois, and I have been practicing as a therapist for 10 years now.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$90/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+3
I am able to see the strengths in most of my clients; for example if they are poor students and failing school, I can see their resilience in other areas. I am opened minded and non-judgmental, as long as one does not advocating harm to themselves or others. I hope to identify what's working for you, as far as support systems, coping skills and values.
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.