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 177 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: 8/7/2026

New to Grow

$115/session

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Men's Issues
+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
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$130/session

Authentic
Direct
Open-minded

Specialties

Family Conflict
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.
Available
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$150/session

Direct
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Racism
+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
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$150/session

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Anger Management
+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
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New to Grow

$125/session

Specialties

Family Conflict
Coping Skills
Grief
+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
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$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
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$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Family Conflict
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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$100/session

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Autism
+8
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 2 decades experience. I have experience working in schools, hospitals, and in private practice. I enjoy working with adults, young adult, and teens who are motivated to learn and grow and be their best version of themself. I am open minded and accepting of all people. My approach is both supportive and firm.
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$100/session

Humorous
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+10
Hello! My name is Nessa and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I also have a Master of Science in General Psychology. I offer therapy that fits you by understanding your challenges, creating a plan, and celebrating your progress. I offer a safe, inclusive space with in‑person or virtual sessions. We will work together on tough things like boundaries, grief, transitions, and patterns that keep you stuck. I am certified in therapeutic table-top gaming which allows for the therapy experience to happen through table-top role playing games. I also offer EMDR to help you with processing your deepest traumas and triggers. I can also work with you and your partner to build a relationship that is solid and fulfilling for everyone involved. I am a huge nerd and love to incorporate pop culture and gaming into my practice. If you have something that you connect with, let me know and we can absolutely relate that to your healing journey! We can bring in your favorite show, anime, video game, or TTRPG. I believe that therapy is a journey we take together down a river. You are driving the boat, and my job is to prepare you for rough waters and things that might trip you up. I view therapy as a collaboration between us, and a journey that moves at your pace. I look at therapy from a very trauma informed lens, and make sure to adjust my interventions to what you need most.
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New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+6
My name is Miranda and I work with adolescents, adults, and families navigating anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I use a strengths-based, person-centered approach to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. Together, we build on strengths, develop coping skills, and move toward meaningful, lasting change that aligns with each client’s goals, values, and well-being.
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Family Conflict
ADHD
Anxiety
+10
Hi, I’m Alyssa, a licensed clinical social worker who works with teens and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and life transitions. I have over three years of experience helping clients better understand themselves, manage overwhelming emotions, and build healthier relationships with themselves and others. I believe therapy should feel both supportive and practical, so I focus on helping clients gain insight while also learning tools they can use in their everyday lives. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each individual, because no two people or journeys are the same.
VirtualAvailable
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$200/session

Warm
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+10
I’m a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience helping teens, young adults, adults and families navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with anxiety, OCD/ERP, substance use, and relationship issues. My background includes extensive work within locked facility settings, which has positioned me to support first responders, residential/correctional staff, and other helping professionals exposed to chronic stress, vicarious trauma, and high-stakes decision-making. I understand the culture, demands, and emotional toll of these roles and provide therapy that is practical, respectful, and grounded in real-world experience. As a parent, I have a special interest in working with parents — including parents navigating substance use issues, co-parenting stress, difficult family dynamics, or communication challenges within the family system. Whether you are feeling burnt out, disconnected, or stuck in recurring conflict, therapy can help you develop healthier coping strategies, improve relationships, and feel more grounded. My approach is supportive, client-centered, and culturally sensitive, helping you develop practical skills to help you move forward with confidence. My goal is to help you feel understood, supported, and more empowered to make meaningful changes in your life.
VirtualAvailable
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$70/session

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Family Conflict
Substance Misuse
Trauma and PTSD
+9
I believe that meaningful change starts with clarity, insight, and a plan. I help people navigate trauma, substance use, life transitions, and identity shifts with a calm, focused approach. I bring a strategic mindset to therapy—always looking beneath the surface to understand patterns, build structure, and support long-term growth. Whether you're processing deep emotional wounds or trying to make sense of a major life change, I offer a space that’s thoughtful, nonjudgmental, and grounded in evidence-based care.
VirtualAvailable
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$150/session

Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Family Therapy
+7
Hello! I'm a licensed clinical social worker from Chicago, Illinois. I received my masters in social work from the University of Chicago in 2022 with a specialization in trauma-informed care. I work as a clinical supervisor at a community mental health agency on the souths side of Chicago. Apart from therapy, I am a musician, chicago resident, and a proud uncle.
VirtualAvailable
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New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

Family Conflict
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.
Available
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Often rebooked

$150/session

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Family Conflict
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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$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Depression
+5
In a world that too often feels overwhelming and disconnected, creativity and nature are a source of consistency and reassurance. I help clients discover and develop the healthy, hopeful and resilient parts of themselves that are often the answer to “how do I deal with my anxiety, my depression, a significant loss, an important life transition, or a past trauma?"
VirtualAvailable
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$120/session

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Grief
+10
My counseling style is relaxed and conversational and one of meeting someone where they are on their path. I recognize it takes courage to seek therapy and implement changes and would love to assist you on your journey of discovery. I understand that it may be difficult to open up and talk to someone and I pride myself on being an active and nonjudgemental listener. I am genuinely interested in helping everyone I come in contact with thrive in all aspects of their personal and/or professional lives. I will constantly work to promote an empathetic experience where an individual’s needs, concerns, and personal values are met with compassion and respect. I am devoted to creating a safe place that both fosters and aids emotional growth and healing.
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+5
Hello. I am a follower of Jesus Christ, and I'm also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I have worked in the field of Social Work for 25 years at the Bachelor's level, including case management for at-risk youth, CPS investigations and medical social work. I received my Master's of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville and have been practicing five years. At this time, I provide individual therapy to adults dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma among other issues. We work to recognize triggers/barriers to successful living and then learn to effectively reframe these in order to be a better version of yourself.
VirtualAvailable
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$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anger Management
Anxiety
+10
My name is Anna and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I partner with my clients to help them discover and transcend challenges that may be holding them back in their lives. I believe that we all deserve to live free from shame, guilt, and emotional pain. Let's build a partnership to help you create the life you desire. I believe in approaching mental health from a whole person perspective including functional and integrative health and wellness. My style is founded on authenticity which values honesty and directness. I grew up in Poland, came to the United States with my family, graduated from Lewis University, and went on to complete my Master of Arts in Social Work at the University of Chicago, School of Social Work Administration. From there, I moved to the suburbs where I reside with my two sons, and in my free times I enjoy working in my garden, reading, and taking long walks.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

$150/session

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Depression
+9
Hello! My name is Zetah Young and I am the Owner of Serenity Therapy, PLLC. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and warm space to help guide you to empower yourself to be more at peace. I’m passionate about working with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, anger management, life transitions, substance use disorders, and relationship issues. I know how difficult it can be reaching out for help and I acknowledge the courage it takes to engage in the therapeutic process. As your therapist, I can help you navigate through life’s challenges, overcome stressful experiences, and identifying patterns in your life or relationships that are interfering with your overall wellbeing. We will work together to promote positive self-transformation and to help you understand yourself in a deeper and more meaningful way. I believe in providing a high-quality holistic patient-centered approach to address the behavioral, emotional, and psychosocial health of my clients. I look forward to speaking with you! You can visit my Private Practice website at www.SerenityTherapyPllc.com
VirtualAvailable
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$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Depression
+8
Greetings, It has always been my desire to serve and bring out the best in people. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts, my commitment to this work is both personal and professional. Growing up with two parents who struggled with addiction, I experienced anxiety and depression at an early age and made a conscious choice not to become a product of my environment. Instead, I chose a different path , one rooted in healing, understanding and helping others find their way through difficult chapters of their own lives. My lifelong interest in human behavior and emotional functioning led me into this field, where I strive to help clients gain clarity, develop meaningful coping skills, and move toward their desired goals. I work best with individuals who are ready to roll up their sleeves and actively participate in their healing process. You’ve already taken a courageous first step by reaching out; now let’s explore whether we are a good fit, as it would be an honor to collaborate with you. I value transparency, authenticity, and a strong therapeutic connection. You are the expert in your lived experience; my role is to support, guide, and walk alongside you as you move toward growth, balance, and emotional well-being.
VirtualAvailable
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$120/session

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Family Conflict
Addiction
Anxiety
+8
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.
VirtualAvailable
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$125/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Family Conflict
ADHD
Anxiety
+9
Navigating through the paths of life can be challenging. You don't have to journey them alone. My name is Leslie Scott aka the Esteem Counselor. I am here to support you along your journey with a clinical road map and conversation to make your journey easier to endure. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 plus years of experience specializing in Culturally Based Therapy, Christian Counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Loss, Life Transitions, Relationships, Family, Couples, Trauma, Veterans, Diversity, Inclusion, and Narcissistic Abuse. I work with a diversity of clients and would welcome the opportunity to support you as you navigate through this phase of your life's journey.
VirtualAvailable
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$100/session

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Family Conflict
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+7
Hello, I'm Leteria and I am here for you. Looking for someone who will listen and try to understand? Need help in figuring out what you want or need? Do you want to better understand yourself and some of the decisions you've made or continue to make? Do you want help in communicating better with others? I want to help you understand yourself, your partner and the issues facing you. Let's figure it out together, where it's okay to be vulnerable, to not have to be strong all the time. Let's work on what you need and how you can get as close as possible. I have experience working with teens, adults and couples. I have worked with survivors of abuse and trauma for over 20 years through child welfare; as a result, I extensive knowledge and understanding of the challenges parenting brings and what trauma can do to the individual and the family unit. My 20 specific years of counseling experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with individuals struggling with anxiety, panic episodes, self-esteem, PTSD, pre-marital counseling, infidelity issues and couples seeking to improve their communication..
VirtualAvailable
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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, Family Conflict, 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.