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 369 verified therapists in Illinois who accept cash pay, you can explore therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to address a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist that has a cash pay option listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability soon, offering you a straightforward path to compassionate, accessible care on your terms.

Find therapists near you in

Chicago

Availability updated: 7/5/2025

Wayne Lyons

Wayne Lyons, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am originally from Florida and the Valedictorian of my high school who graduated and played football for Stanford University and The University of Michigan. After creating a nonprofit called Empire For The Youth, I have developed a curriculum for building wholistic life success and have worked in over 20 different schools throughout the united states. I work with all youth from ages 8-80 in helping them identify their life purpose and motivation for why they wake up and live every day. I help to mold daily habits to keep my clients living life full of HOPE...Having Only Positive Energy!

Pam Gehant-Smith

Pam Gehant-Smith, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$160/session
LCPC
30 years of experience
Virtual
With over 30 years of experience, I have a broad and deep experience helping my clients explore their lives to make powerful and meaningful changes that determine how mental health challenges affect their lives. I bring a unique level of warmth, compassion, energy, and enthusiasm into my clinical work. I am a firm believer in “it takes a village” mindset, where together we build a stronger existence. Life can be overwhelming, reaching out for help, guidance and direction is one of our greatest strengths.

Gina Dunphy

(she/her)

Gina Dunphy, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$100/session
LCSW
34 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Krista Jackson

Krista Jackson, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$90/session
LCPC
35 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am Krista A.M. Jackson a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with extensive experience in individual, couples, family, and group therapy. I will empower you to function at your highest level of success through my unique approach that combines clinical expertise, personalized coping strategies, and a deep understanding of human behavior. I hold specializations in Adlerian psychology, behavior modification, and Emotionally Focused Training which allows me to tailor an approach to your specific needs. Whether you're seeking help with personal growth, relationship issues, or academic and career guidance, my solution-focused strategies and comprehensive background in behavioral assessment will provide you with the tools and support needed to overcome challenges and achieve your goals.

Jacqueline Ritz

(she/her)

Jacqueline Ritz, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology/Argosy University in Chicago. I believe the most essential element of therapy is developing a trusting, therapeutic alliance in order to facilitate change. I specialize in integrated treatments for addressing co-occurring disorders, offering genuine compassion, honesty, and humor, along with a trauma informed care approach to treatment. I work independently running a private practice and my experiences include working as an outpatient mental health therapist at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, serving those struggling with mental health issues as well as psychiatric disorders in the community. I have also provided psychotherapy at Family Guidance Centers, assisting those with substance use and psychiatric disorders after completing my internship with Rosecrance Treatment Center working as a substance abuse counselor.

Dr. Maria Escobar

Dr. Maria Escobar, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$175/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
In my clinical work, I gain perspective and understanding of real-life challenges of clients that have experienced personal struggles. My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life issues. The goal is to best support the client to recognize what they need out of therapy.

Kelly Peters

(she/her)

Kelly Peters, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$75/session
LCPC
35 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) in Illinois with a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology, post graduate certifications in : marriage and family therapy, IFS, addictions/ codepencedncy, family therapy, breathwork, DBT, group, and and trauma therapy, practicing for 40 years. I assist clients in their healing, recovery, and increased agency. I will work with individuals and the systems within which they operate.

Marcus Jack

Marcus Jack, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$130/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? I’m here to help you navigate stress, conflict, anxiety, and depression. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, I’ll provide the tools and strategies to improve your well-being, regain control, and move forward with confidence. Together, we'll develop a winning game plan to strengthen your sense of purpose—shifting from struggling day-to-day to truly thriving.

Lisa D. Vinson

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

Lisa Hines

(she/her)

Lisa Hines, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$180/session
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I have over 3 decades of experience working in the fields of mental health and social work. I work with youth, adults, families, and couples who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and school refusal. Prior to private practice, I worked in academia as an administrator of social work programs and as a medical social worker.

Lisa Amodeo

Lisa Amodeo, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCPC
30 years of experience
Virtual
Lisa Amodeo 30 years of experience and is dual Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. She holds her Master’s Certified Addictions Professional (MCAP) through Florida Certification Board and is Certified Reciprocal Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CRADC) from Illinois Certification Board, Inc. She is trained in EMDR through Emdria. Lisa received her Master’s degree in Educational Psychology in Mental Health Counseling from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1992. She grew up and was raised in South Florida. She has worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, such as detox, residential, PHP, IOP, and aftercare levels of care in substance abuse treatment; as well as community mental health, NorthWestern Medicine medical Floors, Veteran Health Administration with children, young adults, adults, and families.

Candyce Bell

(she/her)

Candyce Bell, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am an Army Veteran and LCPC with a certification as a national certified counselor through the NBCC and have accumulated over 6 years of direct individual/group practice as a licensed counselor. Overall, my experience spans over 10 years working as a crisis, substance use, and mental health counselor in the field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance use. I also have assisted many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is very welcoming and inviting. I believe in honoring the values of respect, sensitivity, compassion, empathy and embracing a holistic point of view to promote mental wellness. It takes courage to make the steps towards a more fulfilling and happier life and embrace change. If you are ready to take that leap into a healthier mind, body, and spirit, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you in your new journey!

Maggie Krol

(she/her)

Maggie Krol, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$75/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Maggie Krol and I am glad we found each other. I am a compassionate and experienced therapist specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction and trauma-informed care. With over 15 years of experience, I provide a safe, confidential space for individuals seeking support with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and personal growth. I graduated from the University of Iowa in 2005 and worked in a variety of small business and social service settings before moving to Florida for my Masters in Social Work. While going to school for my MSW, I worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, hospice, schools and one on one with children. In 2016 I returned to Illinois and in 2019, I received my Professional Educator License (PEL/Type 73) which allows me to work in school settings.

Nupur Sharma

Nupur Sharma, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello everyone, Let me take a few moments to introduce myself. My name is Nupur Sharma. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois. My background includes completing my Bachelor of Science (B.S) Degree from Loyola University Chicago in 2008, and I finished my Masters of Arts (M.A) Degree in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Specialization) in 2011 from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I bring over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional in different settings and with different populations. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and geriatric population over the years across a variety of treatment settings including inpatient mental health unit, addiction center, nursing facilities, memory care, inpatient behavioral hospital, community mental health center, managed care organization and working with insurance.

John D Benton

(he/him)

John D Benton, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
35 years of experience
Virtual
Hello!. My name is John Benton, LCSW from Illinois. I have been a licensed therapist since 2007 working 19 years in a community mental health center. Prior to that i was counseling in group homes for adolescent boys and girls who had serious behavior and thinking problems. I have treated many mental health issues arise in various ethnicities and age groups. I have also supervised staff in properly applying counseling techniques and behavior modifications to help youth successfully reintegrate to their homes of origin, foster homes, and in society in general.

Marsha McIntosh

Marsha McIntosh, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$68/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
My background is in psychotherapy, health coaching, and wellness instruction! Helping others set health goals, inspire change, and conquer their emotional challenges is a vital part of my focus. I have a graduate degree in both counseling and health and have been providing therapy to both men and women of a variety of ages for many years. I have practiced within an agency and with online platforms. Observing clients build the courage to make changes, walk away from unhelpful patterns and take a new path has been a rewarding part of my career!

Melissa Buckley

(she/her)

Melissa Buckley, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$95/session
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Mel B! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from Aurora University in Social Work. For the past 10 years, I’ve helped young adults in their 20s feel more confident, less stressed, and more in control of their lives—and I absolutely love it! My goal is to support you in becoming the best version of yourself. I believe therapy should feel comfortable, safe, and real. I’ll meet you where you are, without judgment, and we’ll find what works best for you. I like to keep things flexible, using a mix of humor, practical tools, and mindset shifts. So, what is my mission? I specialize in working with millennials and Gen Z adults who struggle with: Big Life Decisions – Career changes, moving, grad school, and other major transitions. Relationship Anxiety – Dating, breakups, commitment fears, and finding healthy connections. Confidence & Overthinking – Trusting yourself, making decisions, and quieting self-doubt. Self-Care & Self-Compassion – Taking care of YOU in ways that actually feel good. When I’m not helping clients, I’m a wife and a cat mom to three adorable fur babies. I’m a huge Swiftie, an iced coffee addict, and I love reading young-adult romance books with dashes of humor and magic. I enjoy going for walks, planning future trips, and spending time with family and friends. I’m also a big dreamer—I love setting goals and going after them! If you’re looking for a therapist who is warm, supportive, and will truly listen, I’d love to connect with you. Let’s work together to create a life that feels right for you!

Gina Grigas

(she/her)

Gina Grigas, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$130/session
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. I have worked in the mental health field since 2013, starting out in community mental health and crisis services. I work primarily with teens and adults, specializing in challenges facing early adulthood (18-25). I have extensive experience in crisis services and outpatient treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions. We will work collaboratively to foster a positive relationship and help you develop the language and skills to manage all of life's challenges. I am passionate about everyone finding their place in this world and creating meaningful connections. Life is not easy but we can get through this together.

Jordan Meehan

(she/her)

Jordan Meehan, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Life can get messy, overwhelming, and so hard sometimes—and that’s okay! The realities of life are rarely easy, but you can develop ways to go about your life without having to suffer. For the past 9 years, I’ve been helping adults who feel stuck in anxiety, trauma, and relationship struggles find their footing again. We’ll explore what’s going on in your life, figure out what matters most, and find practical, realistic ways to help you feel more grounded and overcome your challenges. I’m here to listen, offer options, and support you as you create a life that feels more manageable and meaningful—always with warmth, compassion, and a little humor when you need it.

Martha Tierney

(she/her)

Martha Tierney, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$75/session
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois. I earned my MSW in 2005 from the University of Minnesota. I have supported many clients experiencing life transitions such as career and relationship changes. Additionally, I have many years of experience supporting people around aging, Alzheimer's disease, caregiving and grief. I am drawn to this work because I believe everyone deserves to feel understood and supported as they face the ups and downs of life.

Elisa Holtman

Elisa Holtman, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Elisa Holtman. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I received my Masters from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I have been primarily providing therapy in schools for the past 14 years and have been a Social Worker for 22 years. I have worked with children as young as 3 and adults in their nineties. The majority of my practice has been with 11-14 year old children/teens. Due to my experience in the school system, I have a unique perspective on what children/teens experience today in the school setting and can help guide a student and/or parents in navigating this world.

Danielle Oehme

Danielle Oehme, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am Danielle Oehme, founder and licensed clinical professional counselor for Hope and Healing Counseling. I have over 10 years experience working in the mental health field with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and supportive. I will work to help you create a life that you look forward to living. I strive to assist you in learning effective tools to achieve your goals, as well as find meaningful change, self-understanding, and acceptance. I will work with you to help promote self-awareness, identify patterns, and initiate the process of change.

Arlette Millan

(she/her)

Arlette Millan, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been in practice for six years. I support clients dealing with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, school and work burnout and caregiver stress and burnout. I believe each person’s mental health journey is unique, and effective treatment should align with their specific goals.

Vanessa Martinez

Vanessa Martinez, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$80/session
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have had experience in the mental health field for over 3 years. My previous experience was working with kids and teens on the spectrum. Currently, I work with those over the age of 13. I like to use a variety of therapy techniques depending on the client's needs and expectations.

Ellen Rodman

Ellen Rodman, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Rehabilitation Counseling Psychology. I began my career working with severe trauma and persistent mental illness. This gave her a unique perspective on life and how quickly one can loose the life as we know it...and how wellness can suddenly elude us. To grieve loss and restore wellness, I believes a strong therapeutic relationship. I use a client centered approach in establishing rapport. Having worked in the most challenging neighborhoods of the inner city, I have seen the best and worst of human nature. What impressed me the most, is the inner strength I saw in people, under the most difficult of circumstances. It is this impression, this knowledge, that guides me to focus on an individuals’ capacity to overcome hardship, pain and despair. I use a holistic approach to therapy as I do not believe any one approach works for all, as each and every person is unique and different. I believe with compassion, care and empathy, one can be empowered to make the necessary changes to become more happy, fulfilled and to grow.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Illinois rather than a city like Chicago?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Illinois from Rockford to Springfield! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Illinois.

Will my therapist take insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on Coping Skills?

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, Coping Skills, is filtering therapists in Illinois that work with patients with similar concerns.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.