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 44 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.

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Chicago

Availability updated: 8/12/2026

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.
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$80/session

Empowering
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Domestic Violence
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello, my name is Therasa Yehling. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Domestic Violence Professional (CDVP), and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I am a trauma-informed therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience and more than 25 years of experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, grief, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and tailored to each client's unique needs. I believe people are capable of healing and growth, and I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change. I utilize evidence-based and trauma-specific approaches, including CBT, TF-CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, to help clients move toward healing, empowerment, and improved well-being.
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New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Grief
+8
Life can be complicated, let's sort through it together! Hi! I'm Emily, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with clients in both Illinois and Ohio. I believe therapy should be a place where you can show up exactly as you are, without fear of judgment. In our work together, we'll celebrate your successes just as much as we'll work through your struggles, and I'll help you challenge unhelpful thought patterns while honoring the experiences that brought you here. We might even share a laugh along the way! My background is in medical and oncology based social work. In my work, I support children, adolescents, young adults, and families as they navigate serious illness, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and major life transitions. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and strive to create a space where clients of ALL identities feel respected, welcomed, and supported. I earned both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work, with a concentration in Mental Health, from Loyola University Chicago.
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$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anger Management
Anxiety
+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
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$120/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Addiction
Anxiety
+8
Hi – I’m Vicki – do you ever find yourself feeling lost as you wander on a path that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere? Or maybe you’re standing at a fork in the road and you aren’t sure which way to go. No matter what you're going through right now, you can get through it and I can help. I am committed to walking beside you and helping you find your unique path to create a life full of wellness, personal growth, joy and meaning. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol/Other Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 17 years of counseling experience. I specialize in working with individuals 18 years and older who live in Illinois. MY AREAS OF EXPERTISE INCLUDE: SUBSTANCE USE, GRIEF AND LOSS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION. If you are interested in working with a therapist who is committed to creating an authentic, positive collaborative relationship with you, feel free to schedule an appointment with me through GROW.
VirtualAvailable
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$125/session

Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Welcome! I am Kerry White, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am a therapist who understands how life's turning points and trajectories affect overall functioning. Are you balancing your needs & the needs of others? Are you feeling like your cup is half full? Or half empty? Let’s talk about beginning the therapy journey. I offer individual counseling sessions catered to your needs. I believe in meeting you where you are! I believe in you! Have a seat on my virtual couch & let’s embark on your journey to a healthy mind! I have over 9 years of experience helping adults, teens and families in crisis. I'm a licensed Clinical Social Worker in both GA and IL and hold additional certification in Solution Focused modalities. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing issues in a way that helps you. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter. I believe in person centered, & strengths based approaches. This journey is all about you. Therefore, I believe that building upon the strengths that you possess is key to fostering the resilience needed to reach new versions of self. Here at R.I.A Counseling Services LLC. I promote (R)estored Minds, (I)nnovative Thoughts, & (A)bundant Lifestyles through therapy!
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$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Depression
+5
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois, North Carolina, and Connecticut. I am registered to do telehealth in South Carolina and Florida. I have over 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

$150/session

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Health/Medical Issues
Insomnia/Sleep Issues
+10
Dr. Opelt earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University after completing his Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology: Community Counseling from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. During his graduate training, he earned certifications in Trauma Counseling and Multicultural Knowledge Basis in Mental Health Practices, and a graduate minor in Integrated Behavioral Health. Dr. Opelt has completed postdoctoral fellowships in research in Rehabilitation Psychology, with an emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis, at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and in clinical Rehabilitation and Pain Psychology at MedStar Health National Rehabilitation Hospital. He has focused his clinical work on adults who have concerns about insomnia, cognitive impairment, addiction, LGBT+ concerns, caregiver support, transplants, burn survivors, cancer, musculoskeletal diseases like MS and Parkinson’s disease, and those who have amputations. He is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and Illinois.
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking to enhance their mental well-being and alleviate symptoms of distress. Holding a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and bringing years of experience in the medical field (EMS), I have gained a deep understanding of the complex challenges individuals encounter in both their professional and personal lives.
VirtualAvailable
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$300/session

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Grief
Older Adults
+2
Greetings! I am Irene Ona, a first generation Fil-Am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My work has been primarily in geriatrics. My niche is older adults at all stages of aging from independence to dependence, family caregiver and risk of burn out, and navigating the healthcare system. My experience comes from volunteering at senior centers, internships as a in-home counselor for my bachelor of social work (BSW) and an outpatient behavioral health clinic counselor for my masters of social work (MSW) specializing in mental health. I used my degrees to serve people in skilled nursing facilities (SNF) and hospice. Aside from my experience in healthcare, my passion is connect to clients who want to live more genuinely and be authentic in their everyday exchanges.
VirtualAvailable
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$120/session

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
+10
Dawn Ernsberger is a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to supporting adolescents and adults in various specialized areas, such as trauma, life transitions, relationships, parenting, forgiveness, stress management, and addressing anxiety and depression. With a master's degree from Indiana University, she brings over two decades of experience counseling hundreds of clients. Ms. Ernsberger possesses a rich background in assisting individuals recovering from emotional abuse and trauma, guiding them towards emotional well-being and completeness. Additionally, she is fluent in both English and Pennsylvania Dutch.
VirtualAvailable
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New to Grow

$120/session

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
+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
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$120/session

Warm
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Addiction
Anxiety
+10
Hello and welcome. Have you been thinking about starting therapy for a while but feel overwhelmed by the idea of where to start? At whatever pace you are comfortable I am here to help you identify and prioritize your issues to begin to overcome the problems that are holding you back from thriving as your best self. Since earning my degree in 2003, I have worked with all age groups in the areas of anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, self-harming, chronic pain, relationship issues, anger management, and life transitions. If you are ready to begin, I am ready to help you get motivated.
VirtualAvailable
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$200/session

Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Chronic Illness
ADHD
Family Conflict
+7
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 provide behavioral therapy to support and enhance your emotional well-being. I prioritize establishing a trusting and collaborative relationship, ensuring you feel heard and understood. Together, we will begin where you are and develop a tailored treatment plan to address your individual needs. My approach encourages self-awareness, understanding of others, and the development of practical strategies for managing life's challenges. Additionally, I am a Certified ADHD Service Provider and Level 1 Gottman Method Trained. 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.
VirtualAvailable
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$120/session

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Grief
Life Transitions
+10
Hello! I'm Jennifer and I am a 52 y/o Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Chicago, IL (cis/het.) I don't use the AI transcription. I have worked in community mental health (13+ years) and as a private therapist (4 years) totaling 17 years in the field. I have experience with significant mental illness, trauma (esp. sexual and domestic violence recovery), and life transitions (finishing college, relationship changes, menopause, etc.) I work with individuals (teens and adults) and couples. I am an accredited trauma therapist (APT) and I am trained in Narrative Therapy. Additionally, I am a "nerd" therapist. I want to hear about what you read, watch, play, etc. We can talk about cosplay and conventions and the like. I like to draw parallels between real life challenges and the stories that we read in books and see on TV and movies (you can expect me to mention the following: INSIDE OUT, ENCANTO, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, X-FILES, STAR WARS, STAR TREK, DOCTOR WHO, the MCU, etc, as well as the whole hero’s journey that we all take.) And I want to hear what stories keep you inspired and motivated. I want to know what you enjoy and feel passionate about. Our primary focus will be on what has brought you to therapy and what you want to work on but I know that there are many paths to these goals. As Tolkien said, “Not all who wander are lost.” So, we might wander a bit but we will wander together. At some point, during our virtual session, you will probably see one or both of my cats and your pets are welcome as well. Trans/queer friendly and welcoming. Now Reading: THE EDGE OF SPACE-TIME Now Watching: DEPARTMENT Q, ABBOTT ELEMENTARY
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Foster Care/Adoption
Grief
+9
I am a LCSW in the state of Illinois and have been practicing for over 10 years. I have experience in the health care field, working with adults of all ages, understanding the aging process, and the many ways that grief appears in our lives. I am a certified grief counselor and help my clients to understand, normalize, and accept the grieving process as they work through these difficult feelings. My practice is focused on using a supportive and collaborative approach to help my clients find strength and resilience in their lives.
VirtualAvailable
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$120/session

Solution oriented
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hello and welcome. I am an LCSW who has 28 years of experience providing therapy to a wide array of clients. I enjoy meeting clients where they are at and helping them to discuss their issues, look at obstacles to making changes, make expectations that are more realistic, and helping them to learn new skills to decrease the negative effects on their life.
VirtualAvailable
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$70/session

Warm

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
+10
My name is Liliana Gómez, and I am a bilingual (Spanish & English) and bicultural clinical social worker. At the heart of my profession lies a commitment to holistic health, where integrating mind, body, and spirit is paramount. If you are struggling to manage mental illness and/or physical chronic illnesses, I can help you navigate the feelings that arise and teach you practical skills. I believe healing is relational and that the relationship to ourselves is the most important relationship there is so if you are interested in enhancing your relationships feel free to reach out. My hope is that together we can develop a plan to make life a little less overwhelming and more enjoyable. I have been providing services a social worker for 10 years and as a therapist 6 years now. I provide individual therapy emphasizing strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma informed approaches for diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I generally practice from a relational lens and integrate evidenced based practices such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), solution-focused brief therapy, and internal family systems (IFS). I also like to incorporate community resources and collaborate with natural supports.
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Crisis Intervention
+10
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois and Maine. I have experience working with clients in crisis with severe mental illness to adults experiencing depression and anxiety with chronic complex medical conditions. Coping with life challenges is not something you have to go through alone. Many people seek therapy for support, information, and new ideas on how to better handle the curve balls that life can throw sometimes. I believe that human beings are incredibly resilient and sometimes need assistance in recognizing their own inner strength to create positive changes in their lives. The therapeutic relationship should be collaborative, built upon both mutual respect and independence, and I hope to empower my clients to find opportunities for personal growth so that they can move forward with their goals. I have been a great support to those experiencing significant changes in their lives such as new medical diagnosis or crisis events. Be proud of making this step forward toward your best self. I look forward to working together!
VirtualAvailable
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$150/session

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Depression
LGBTQ
+8
Hello! I have been continuously licensed as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. I grew up poor in inner city Cleveland. I was the 1st in my family to complete a college degree of any kind. I was a truck driver before I became a psychologist. I have a neuromuscular disability which effects my lower arms and hands and lower legs and feet. I use a wheelchair for long distances but I can walk a little. I graduated with a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University in 1992. I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 1998.
VirtualAvailable
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$125/session

Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of work, parenting, or life in general? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I work with adults who are struggling to manage stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression, especially those trying to juggle the pressures of professional and personal responsibilities. I have a special focus on supporting educators and school professionals who often give so much to others that their own well-being takes a back seat. Together, we’ll create a supportive, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change. My approach is warm, practical, and tailored to help you feel better and find a sense of balance again. Before transitioning into private practice, I spent 34 years working in public schools, helping students, families, and staff navigate life’s challenges. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how stress shows up across all areas of life—and how important it is to have a safe place to process, heal, and grow.
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
+9
In today's world, mental health support is needed more than ever. Mental health IS health. It's time to end the stigma and realize it's okay to not be okay. Finding a therapist can be a daunting process but congratulations on taking the first step! As a therapist, I am to foster an environment that is warm, collaborative, supportive, and nonjudgmental. Born and raised in Massachusetts, I earned my Masters in Social Work from Boston College after receiving my Bachelors of Arts degree in history. In addition to Massachusetts, I am also licensed in the states of Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Illinois. Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege to work with a vast array of individuals from all walks of life including children and adolescents, adults, seniors, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. As a telehealth provider, I only treat adults over the age of 22.
VirtualAvailable
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$150/session

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+10
I’m Kimberly M. Brooks, LCSW. I help adults and couples facing anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship strain, and emotional overwhelm find clarity and peace. My style is warm, direct, and grounding. I offer practical tools, honest insight, and optional faith-integrated support to help you heal, strengthen your relationships, and move forward with confidence. Clients often tell me they appreciate the calm space I create, the clarity that comes from honest conversations, and the steady guidance that helps them move forward.
VirtualAvailable
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$150/session

Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Grief
+10
In 2008, I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. After 10 months of treatment, I realized I wanted to work with other cancer fighters and their loved ones. Since my career change to social work and therapy, my experience has broadened to include refugee resettlement, hospice social work, medical social work, and trauma-informed therapy. I am passionate about supporting my clients through grief, trauma, chronic and terminal illness, anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family therapy, and parent training. My goal is to foster an environment where my clients feel supported, validated, and empowered.
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New to Grow

$80/session

Specialties

Chronic Illness
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful choice. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. My practice focuses on supporting adults facing anxiety, depression, and substance dependency, with dedicated experience serving veterans, military families, and the LGBTQ+ community. I use a compassionate, strengths-based approach to help you navigate life’s toughest challenges and build a path toward lasting healing and happiness.
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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. For example, your selected specialty, Chronic Illness, is filtering therapists in Illinois that work with patients with similar concerns.

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.