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 574 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: 8/7/2026

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

$100/session

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

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

$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

$95/session

Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Women's Issues
+1
Hello! My name is Amaris, and I’m glad you’re here :) Do you ever feel like you’re carrying more than your share — emotionally, mentally, or relationally? Do you find yourself doubting your needs, overthinking decisions, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s wellbeing? Many women move through the world with expectations and pressures that shape how they show up. My work focuses on helping women understand the “why” behind their emotions and behaviors so they can move through life with more clarity, confidence, and self‑trust. Sometimes personal growth means recognizing that you’re either going to deal with your stuff, or your stuff is going to deal with you. Therapy is a powerful place to begin that process.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$115/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Men's Issues
Parenting
+10
Hello! I'm so glad you've found your way here. As a Christian, husband and father myself, my goal is to help you thrive in life, not just survive. Whether you are a new or soon to be parent navigating the beautiful, chaotic, and often overwhelming journey of raising a child, or a dedicated spouse seeking tools to strengthen your relationship and connect more deeply, I understand the weight and the joy of those roles. My practice is inspired by Christian values of hope, unconditional worth, and peace—as beautifully captured in Matthew 10—I approach therapy with genuine compassion and a client-centered focus. Whether your faith in Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of your life or you are simply looking for a therapist who respects these values, I offer an integrative, non-judgmental approach. Together, we'll work toward restoring your peace, empowering you to make positive changes, and nurturing the incredible person you already are. I look forward to walking this path with you.
Available

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

$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

$65/session

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Welcome to my profile! I am a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a deep commitment to client-centered care. With over a decade of dedicated service in the VA system, as well as over 30 years of work in mental health and child welfare, I offer a steady, trauma-informed perspective for individuals navigating life's complexities. My practice is built on a foundation of experience and deep listening, providing a safe, calm environment where you can work toward your goals at a pace that feels right for you. I use evidence based treatment for conditions such as PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, including CBT for Insomnia, CBT for depression, CPT for PTSD, as well as talk therapy, all to help address your concerns.
Available

$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

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

$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

$150/session

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Dissociative Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
We all have different life experiences that can create conflict and stress. It can be confusing to navigate. I am an individual who has lived experience with many different types of conflict that includes trauma, medical neglect and more. With perspective from these experiences and the insight from my educational background, I can provide mindful guidance to assist you on your journey. I am ready to meet you where you are and together, we'll develop practical tools to help you feel more confident navigating challenges, strengthen your resilience, and create lasting positive change. Through therapeutic strategies and interventions, that are designed to meet your specific needs, we can turn the stress and conflict into enrichment in your life.
Available

$150/session

Direct
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Racism
Trauma and PTSD
+10
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.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$150/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
You can enter therapy for a variety of reasons. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients begin to address their presenting issues by creating a feeling of safety, mutual respect, and providing you with unconditional support. I have a Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Illinois University and a Masters of Social Work degree from the University of Illinois. I have extensive experience in working with ethnic and cultural diverse communities, LGBTQ+, Military Service Members, Veterans, and adult men and women with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma.
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

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

New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who is passionate about helping people navigate life's challenges with compassion, curiosity, and practical support. I provide a warm, collaborative environment where you can feel safe exploring difficult emotions, building healthier coping strategies, and working toward meaningful, lasting change. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, ADHD, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I'm here to help you move forward at a pace that feels right for you.
Available

$150/session

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Anger Management
Coping Skills
+8
Hello, my name is Holly. I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience dedicated to empowering clients be the best version of themselves. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and collaborative using a strengths-based, client centered approach. My clinical experience includes working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have extensive training in crisis counseling in the Emergency Department and inpatient psychiatric units. I have worked in domestic violence and provided community-based therapy to children and families. I enjoy working with new mothers, caregivers, and those working through grief and loss.
VirtualAvailable

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

New to Grow

$120/session

Specialties

Addiction
Domestic Violence
LGBTQ
+3
I earned a Master of Social Work from Aurora University and hold the title of Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) and a Certified Domestic Violence Professional (CDVP). I employ an eclectic range of therapeutic modalities that are implemented through a trauma-informed lens, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In my leisure time, I enjoy socializing with my family and friends, meditation, nature walks, camping, gaming, and engaging in self-care activities. Favorite Quotes: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu. “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far – go together.” – Unknown.
Available

$125/session

Authentic
Direct
Warm

Specialties

Family Conflict
Family Therapy
Parenting
+10
Debbie is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is 100% Telehealth, not providing in-person treatment at this time. She has provided counseling services to individuals, couples, adolescents and families since 1992. Debbie provides therapy for Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional families, blended families, codependency, communication problems, marriage, depression/anxiety, family counseling, infidelity, parenting & stress management. She has attended John Gottman conferences and uses the Gottman method with couples. She is an active, directive, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused therapist who has worked with diverse cultures, ethnicities, sexual orientations and religions. Debbie's approach focuses on empowering her clients with the knowledge they need to become more effective in managing life's challenges. The wounded inner child is one of her special interests. She is down- to -earth and genuine. She will challenge you, assign homework assignments, and suggest YouTube videos/articles/ TedTalks/Podcasts
VirtualAvailable

$120/session

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
I am Licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with 10+ years of experience providing mental health services to adults and children with a multitude of clinical issues such as depression, anxiety, bi-polar, and other related disorders. I obtained my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from Chicago State University in 2015. I am trained in Complex PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder), ARC (Attachment, Regulation and Competency), Trauma Treatment, and SPARC (Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress), as well as an additional 40 hours of training regarding domestic violence and abuse. My background includes positions in residential settings, case management, and clinical counseling as both a therapist and as a supervisor. As a clinician I implement Cognitive Behavior Therapy interventions to help in a clients replace maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns with more realistic and proactive behaviors and thoughts.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Intelligent
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+10
Hello! My name is Kamaria Excell and I am a therapist, yoga teacher, and floral designer passionate about supporting you on the journey of living a life that is truly your own. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and focused on creating real lasting change versus temporary bandaid fixes. I support clients in better understanding their inner world and all parts of themselves so that they can divest from old coping skills and lean into a life that is pleasurable, because the most powerful act of creation on this life journey will always be the act of creating ourselves.
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.