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 363 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

$100/session

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Do you ever get caught off guard by a feeling that seems to come out of the blue? In some cases, you can "power through it" and not let it impact you too much, but other times it seems to get the best of you. Perhaps a little voice shows up and says "You shouldn't be feeling that way" or some version of "toughen up". While these ideas seem good in theory, they just don't take into account these feelings that are present. I help adults navigate the complexities of trauma, anxiety, addiction, and relationships through a compassionate, judgment-free approach. Using an eclectic, CBT-based framework, I support clients—especially creatives—on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My own experiences with family trauma shape my understanding, allowing me to provide empathetic and personalized care.
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New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anger Management
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.
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$130/session

Authentic
Direct
Open-minded

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Depression
+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.
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$135/session

Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Career Counseling
+9
I'm Daphne, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping adults, couples, and families move through life’s challenges. My approach to therapy is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and focused on the whole person. I believe in meeting you where you are, honoring your story, and working together to build on your strengths. Through safe and supportive telehealth services, I have helped clients manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, work through relationship issues My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and rooted in seeing the whole person. Healing begins in a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood. With over 20 years of clinical experience, I have provided compassionate therapy to adults, couples, families, veterans, college students, and professionals. I address mental illness, life transitions, and relationship challenges with a client-centered and integrative perspective.
VirtualAvailable
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New to Grow

$150/session

Specialties

Coping Skills
Chronic Illness
Dissociative Disorders
+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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$175/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Welcome! I’m so glad you have found your way here. Often we get swept up in the competing demands around us and forgo what we need. We can lose ourselves without even realizing it or maybe we never had the chance in the first place. Before we know it, we are stuck thinking, "Why can’t I seem to do what’s most important to me? What is most important to me anyway?" My hope is that together we can find healing and create a life you want to live. I think of my role as a guide offering a new perspective. A light in the dark. A little background of me, my name is Kel and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Illinois. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression I am also passionate about navigating relationships, spirituality, and late diagnosed Autism. With my client centered approach we will tailor interventions to meet your specific needs. I am a Certified Autism Specialist and level one Internal Family Systems (IFS) training enjoy incorporating art of all kinds. In addition, I am a Reiki Master and Certified Pranic Healer. My previous experience includes 11 years of working in a variety of behavioral health settings, including outpatient therapy, intensive outpatient, inpatient, and residential programs. In 2017 I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. I would love to meet with you, get to know you, and develop a plan together to get you where you want to go.
VirtualAvailable
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New to Grow

$150/session

Specialties

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

$100/session

Specialties

Coping Skills
ADHD
Learning Disabilities
+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.
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New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+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.
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$160/session

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Life Transitions
+4
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.
VirtualAvailable
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$110/session

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Career Counseling
+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
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$175/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Depression
+6
Do you ever wonder is there more to life, more happiness, fulfillment? I have worked with a variety of populations including children and adults that are in crisis, involved with the foster care system of Illinois (DCFS), struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. I’m known for cultivating self development, self care and determination; specializing in helping you connect with your fullest potential. As a team we will begin shifting your paradigm, developing a new attitude with new results, you desire. “A moment of gratitude makes a difference in your attitude” is one of my favorite quotes. Your reality is what you nurture and focus on. Let’s get to work on what’s most important, you!
VirtualAvailable
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$80/session

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Hi! I am Danielle Kimble, LCPC. I earned my B.A in Psychology from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and her M.A in Community Counseling from Argosy University. I employ different integrative approaches when working with clients including cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, and emotion-focused therapy. I believe in building a trusting relationship between the client and counselor to build the foundation of a successful counseling relationship.
VirtualAvailable
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$150/session

Empowering
Warm
Open-Minded

Specialties

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

$120/session

Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Coping Skills
Addiction
Anxiety
+10
Working as a counselor within a myriad of settings and diverse populations for the last 16 years has allowed me to become the therapist that has established a safe, empathetic, and knowledgeable space for you to grow. My clinical expertise includes having worked within juvenile residential and outpatient, adult outpatient, hospital, private practice, and adult correctional settings. This experience has allowed me to work with individuals presenting with life stressors, changes, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, issues related to legal issues/incarceration, trauma, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

$150/session

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Coping Skills
ADHD
Anxiety
+10
Hi, I'm Heather! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and I have been working in the field of mental health since graduating with my Master's in 2009. I have worked as a crisis intervention counselor with teens, and, more recently, I have been working in private practice with teens and adults from various backgrounds since 2017. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri - Columbia. After graduating, I then earned my Master's degree in Community Counseling from Concordia University - Chicago. From there, I started working with people to help them make the changes needed to improve their lives - and I have never looked back! I truly enjoy what I get to do for a living and would feel privileged and honored to have the opportunity to work with you to improve your mental and emotional wellness! Whether seeking therapy for the first time or continuing your journey towards improved mental health, I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to support you as you work on your personal goals. MY goal is to cater your therapy experience to what you need, focusing on where you are at in your life and where you ultimately want to be. Using an eclectic blend of treatment methods (including CBT and person-centered among others), I focus on compassionate and empathic care designed with your needs in mind. Whether wanting to develop coping strategies for mental health concerns like depression and anxiety, to learn how to manage stress well, or to forge a deeper understanding of how and why life's experiences impact day-to-day functioning, my hope is to collaborate with you every step of the way to reach whatever goal(s) you may have.
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Depression
+8
Hi there! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Illinois with over 8 years experience providing therapeutic services to diverse populations of individuals, groups, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide variety of presenting concerns including depression, stress and anxiety, ADHD, family conflicts, relationship issues, anger management, and self-esteem. I have also helped many clients work through trauma, abuse, grief and loss. If you are ready to make some positive changes in your life, I am here to support you along the way.
VirtualAvailable
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New to Grow

$150/session

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
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.
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$135/session

Solution oriented
Holistic
Authentic

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+10
Welcome! I’m a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addiction Counselor with more than 20 years of experience—and this work is truly my passion. As someone who came to this as a second career, I consider it an honor and privilege to walk alongside young adults and adults as they navigate life’s challenges. I provide counseling for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, substance misuse, process addictions, anger, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, empowering, and collaborative. I believe that every person has the strength and wisdom to create meaningful change, and I strive to offer a safe, respectful, and supportive space where you can explore, heal, and grow. My role as a therapist is to guide, advocate, and support you as you find your voice and build a more balanced and fulfilling life. I meet clients where they are, honoring the belief that you are the expert of your own experience. To ensure each person receives the focused care and attention they deserve, I intentionally keep a small caseload. This allows me to be fully present and responsive to each client’s unique needs. I take an integrated, person-centered approach that draws from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and meditation practices, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Every treatment plan is developed collaboratively, tailored to your goals, preferences, and pace—because therapy should fit you, not the other way around. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more grounded life, I would be honored to support you on that journey.
VirtualAvailable
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$140/session

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
LGBTQ
Military/Veterans
+10
I am a dedicated mental health professional with a Doctorate in Behavioral Health, a Master of Social Work, and over seven years of experience supporting individuals on their journey to healing and resilience. As a combat Air Force Veteran, I understand firsthand the challenges many face, and I am honored to support both veterans and civilians as they navigate life’s complexities. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, integrative, and holistic, combining evidence-based techniques with practices like meditation and Yoga Nidra (deep sleep meditation) to promote emotional well-being. I believe in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to explore their unique experiences and strengths. Whether you're seeking support for stress, trauma, or personal growth, I am here to help you build resilience and find balance. Together, we can work toward healing and inner peace.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

$200/session

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Throughout my career, I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community mental health centers, private practice, and nonprofit organizations. My personal and family history also affords me valuable lived experiences that inform my approach with clients and advances my ability to extend empathy to my clients. This diverse experience has allowed me to work with people from many different walks of life, each with their own unique challenges, hopes, and dreams.
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$165/session

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Depression
+3
You’re used to being the one others rely on—but lately you may feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from yourself. Many women come to therapy feeling anxious, burned out, or stretched thin from juggling work, caregiving, relationships, and the expectations they place on themselves. If you work in a helping profession—like healthcare, education, or therapy—you may be used to supporting everyone else while quietly carrying your own stress, exhaustion, or compassion fatigue. Therapy offers a space to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin finding balance again. I work with women navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional exhaustion. My approach is holistic and compassionate, integrating CBT, ACT, mindfulness, breath meditation, and psychoeducation. Together we’ll identify what matters most to you and build practical tools to support your mental and emotional well-being. I also have additional training in women’s health and compassion fatigue, and I enjoy supporting women who spend their days supporting others. If meaningful to you, we can explore spirituality as part of the healing process. Therapy with me is collaborative, supportive—and sometimes includes humor. If this resonates, I invite you to reach out.
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
Anxiety
Depression
+9
BQualls Behavioral Health Services, LLC's managing owner and Chief Clinical Officer is Brandi Qualls, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) and psychotherapist in private practice in Illinois, and has years of experience working with at-risk youth and families. She is also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Indiana, including collaboration with a team of medical doctors, psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, and community health workers in an integrated primary health care and behavioral health care center in a community setting.
VirtualAvailable
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$225/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Coping Skills
LGBTQ
Mood Disorders
+4
Hello, my name is Lee Sutherland, LCPC, ATR. I am an Artist, Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. With a passion for creativity and mental health wellness, I created Loamy Creative Wellness, LLC to be a virtual therapeutic art studio that serves as a creative digital portal to make space for freedom, love, connection, curiosity & authenticity. I’ve had the privilege of working with people of all ages, using art-making to promote emotional healing and transformation. I’ve seen firsthand how art can support individuals in processing trauma, anxiety, and depression, and I’m committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for people to explore their creativity, internal world, and experiences. I assist folks through individual therapy, group art therapy, creative workshops, mindfulness, and artists/creatives support spaces. I function from a relational, ecowomanism, afrofuturism and Black Queer feminist framework where I use creative processes, curiosity, and compassion as a guide to assist folks in making the shifts, naming experience, and moving towards value aligned living. The modalities that I weave into my practice are DBT, ACT, and CPT. I also use mindfulness and body practices with the purpose of integrating the body, mind, and spirit. If you’re seeking a supportive and experienced guide on your healing journey, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
VirtualAvailable
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New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Coping Skills
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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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, Coping Skills, 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.