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

Find therapists near you in

Chicago

Availability updated: 8/17/2026

$100/session

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
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.
Available

New to Grow

$120/session

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Couples Counseling
Grief
+10
Entering the world of personal psychotherapy can be an exciting, yet a foreboding area, if you've not had that opportunity previously, I believe that my first goal is to be welcoming to each and every person. Over some weeks, we will explore your inner pursuits which will help you feel more comfortable in who you are and who you desire to be. For me personally, being alongside you, is a privilege that few people get to have, so I treat it as a sacred opportunity. Helping individuals reach their potential or heal a broken heart is an enormous responsibility, but also one a therapist will approach with care and encouragement.
Available

$75/session

Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
Men's Issues
+10
I provide individually tailored treatment in a safe and supportive environment that draws and builds upon each person's strengths, resources, wisdom and goals. My style is collaborative, warm and interactive. I enjoy working with a range of clients from children to adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, healing from trauma, major life transitions, grief & loss, identity development, self-esteem difficulties, coping with medical health issues and illnesses, dual diagnosis (substance abuse and co-occurring psychiatric disorders), mindful living, and cultivating self-compassion. Using a strength-based approach, I help clients realize their inner strength to make desired life changes. I believe strongly that people can make those changes and create the life they want. I believe it's important in the therapeutic process to establish a relationship of trust, acceptance and empathy. In keeping with the belief that mental and emotional health is as vital as physical health to overall well-being, I am committed to making services available conveniently and comfortably. Appointments can be scheduled seven days a week with early morning and late evening availability.
VirtualAvailable

$200/session

Warm
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
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

$130/session

Authentic
Direct
Open-minded

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
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

New to Grow

$100/session

Authentic
Humorous
Warm

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
Grief
+9
I am a compassionate, thoughtful, and grounded provider who values creating a safe, supportive space where clients can feel seen, heard, and empowered. My approach is rooted in meeting people where they are while helping them move toward meaningful growth and healing at a pace that feels right for them. I believe every person has a unique path, and my role is to help illuminate possibilities, build on strengths, and support lasting change. In addition to my work as a therapist, I also bring experience as a veterinary social worker, which has deepened my understanding of the emotional challenges that can come with caregiving, grief, loss, and life transitions. This background allows me to offer added compassion and support, especially for clients navigating the unique bond between humans and animals or the stress that can come with caring for a beloved pet. With a warm and collaborative style, I strive to make therapy feel approachable, respectful, and genuinely connected to each client’s needs. I bring curiosity, care, and intention to my work, and I value helping clients navigate challenges while also reconnecting with their sense of self, purpose, and direction. My practice, Infinite Pathways, reflects my belief that there is more than one way forward, and that healing often begins when people feel supported in discovering what works best for them.
Available

$100/session

Open-minded
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
LGBTQ
+10
I began training to be a psychotherapist 15 years ago after having worked in publishing for many years. Becoming a Social Worker and helping others has always been a kind of calling for me, but it took a little while for me to arrive at my goal. I hope that that part of my story helps to prove that it is never too late to change or to pursue goals. I continue to integrate the things that I have learned through formal education and through my own experiences of life so that I am best able to help others who are experiencing distress and difficulties with navigating life. We all need additional support from time-to-time, especially given the complicated, fast-changing world we live in. My goal as a psychotherapist is to be a source of support and assistance as you develop insight into the difficulties you face and as you begin to develop strategies for change. Through interactive-therapy sessions, I help you to understand and clarify life’s challenges and I support you as you begin to make the changes that are needed to make progress towards your goals. I help my clients to discover and explore a positive path in therapy that they can then continue to follow as they pursue their goals and their lives independently.
VirtualAvailable

$140/session

Intelligent
Authentic
Challenging

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anger Management
Anxiety
+10
For the past 20 years, I have worked with families, couples, adults, and adolescents. Using cognitive-behavioral theory with narrative techniques, I help empower clients to explore areas within their lives that present challenges and inhibit change, and assist them with finding solutions that will work for them. However, I also believe that the therapeutic relationship is a vital component within any program, which means that I believe that any work needs to be collaborative between myself and my clients. I am certified to deliver trauma-focused treatments as well as providing services to help manage stress and anxiety.
Available

$80/session

Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Chronic Illness
Domestic Violence
+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.
Available

$100/session

Humorous
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
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.
Available

Often rebooked

$200/session

Direct
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+10
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My approach is compassionate, down-to-earth, and deeply relational—I believe therapy works best when clients feel truly seen, supported, and understood. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people through life transitions, relationship challenges, trauma recovery, grief, and personal growth. I draw from a range of evidence-based models, always meeting clients where they are and walking alongside them as they build insight, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful change. In addition to my clinical work, I’m passionate about teaching and mentoring future therapists, supporting veterans and their families, and helping people reconnect with purpose, faith, and resilience in everyday life. Clients often tell me they appreciate my balanced style—professional yet approachable, structured yet genuine, and always focused on what matters most to them.
VirtualAvailable

$90/session

Authentic
Warm
Direct

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
ADHD
LGBTQ
+10
Hi! I'm Dena (she/her). I have 15 years experience and truly love my vocation! I enjoy empowering individuals to achieve their goals and live their best lives. I believe everyone has the ability to heal, sometimes we all need a little help. I am passionate about the power of therapy to aid people in living their best, most authentic lives. I live on the tristate border and provide remote therapy for persons in Illinois and Iowa. An Iowa native, I spent about a decade living and working in SoCal and Phoenix before returning to the Midwest to be with my (now) husband and step kids. Yes, I left sunny San Diego, in December, for the snowy Midwest! The things we’ll do for love! I have personally benefitted greatly from therapy. I am Bi/queer, have ADHD, and several physical disabilities, all of which were diagnosed after college. Therapy helped me develop much needed coping skills so I could be successful in grad school and beyond. Therapy also helped me with the intense stressors related to being a young professional during the Great Recession. I continue to utilize therapy as part of my self care routine. If you are coping with symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self worth, or concerns related to ADHD or chronic health conditions, I would love the opportunity to work with you. I would love to help you to achieve a present no longer overshadowed by past traumas, negative self talk, or uncontrolled anxiety.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+4
Robert Goodwin, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with clarity, compassion, and practical support. With experience in counseling, leadership, and crisis care, Robert provides a calm and supportive environment where clients can work through anxiety, stress, grief, relationship challenges, burnout, emotional exhaustion, and major life transitions. Robert’s counseling approach is grounded in evidence-based practices while remaining approachable, relational, and client-centered. He works collaboratively with clients to develop practical coping strategies, improve emotional wellbeing, strengthen relationships, and build resilience for everyday life. Known for his steady and compassionate presence, Robert helps clients feel heard, understood, and supported as they pursue healing, personal growth, and healthier patterns of living. His goal is to create a safe and professional space where clients can gain insight, develop practical tools, and move toward lasting emotional health and wellness.
Available

$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
Self Esteem
+9
Welcome! Therapy is an invitation for healing and change, so congratulate yourself for taking this step toward transformation in your life. My name is Bridget, founder of Mind Move Therapy, where I provide psychotherapy, somatic movement therapy, and physical health coaching. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective—integrating emotional, physical, and cognitive aspects of well-being. I specialize in somatics, emphasizing that the body holds emotions, trauma responses, and stress, so healing involves working with the body as well as the mind. Clients often report meaningful progress in therapy with me. You can overcome symptoms of trauma and stress, heal from the past, and move toward a happier, more meaningful life. I specialize in treating various traumas, including childhood trauma, abuse, loss, and PTSD. I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. I work with clients with Borderline Personality tendencies or those impacted by BPD. I work with clients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder and other somatic issues. I support clients with addiction issues. Every client walks a unique path and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I create a safe, therapeutic environment where clients have the opportunity to explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors in which to gain insight, experience shifts in emotional states and find a renewed sense of mental and physical well-being.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Empowering
Humorous

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Addiction
Grief
+8
With over 25 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, using a variety of therapeutic interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Therapy, Mindfulness, and Humor. I hold a degree in Social Work with a minor in Psychology from the University of Dayton and a master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago. My commitment to ongoing education keeps me fascinated by the brain’s intricacies and continuously enhances my practice.
VirtualAvailable

$120/session

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
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

$120/session

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
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

$150/session

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi, I’m Dr. DeAnna (Dee) Brookhart. If you’re here, chances are life feels heavier than it should. Maybe stress won’t let up, anxiety keeps you on edge, or sadness has dulled your energy. Perhaps your relationship feels strained, or addiction has taken more space than you want it to. Whatever brings you here, you don’t have to carry it by yourself. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, Wisconsin and Utah, and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor with nearly 30 years of experience. Over the years, I’ve supported individuals, couples, and families through struggles like anxiety, depression, addiction, marital or couples issues, workplace trauma, and the challenges of blended family life. I also work with clients navigating personality struggles or the lasting effects of stress and trauma. My approach is warm and collaborative. We’ll clarify what matters most to you, set realistic goals, and work at a pace that feels safe. I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused strategies — always adapted to your needs. Sessions with me often include open conversation, practical coping tools, encouragement, and sometimes even humor when it helps ease the weight. I see healing as holistic. That means looking at not only your thoughts and emotions, but also how stress shows up in your body, how you connect with others, and how your daily habits shape your well-being. I work best with adults and couples ready to make changes, even if they’re not sure where to start. Outside the office, I love cooking, reading, traveling to the beach, and spending time with my family. I have ADORABLE grandkids! And of course Charlie, my Golden Retriever. If you’re ready to feel lighter, find clarity, and rebuild what matters most, I’d be honored to walk that path with you.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

$150/session

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
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

Often rebooked

$130/session

Warm
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
Autism
+10
My style as a therapist is relational and supportive, and I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, comfortable, and genuinely understood. Our work together isn’t about fixing you or pushing you to change before you’re ready. It’s about building a trusting relationship where you can show up as yourself — without masking, over-explaining, or having all the answers.
VirtualAvailable

$105/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Couples Counseling
Life Transitions
+10
I utilize a holistic approach and adapt each counseling relationship to the individual’s personal needs, goals, and aspirations. This is done through a strengths-based, client-focused therapeutic approach to partner with you as you seek wholeness. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families as they seek to make necessary changes for cultivating a fulfilling and authentic life. It is my goal to identify your strengths, increase your self-awareness, and assist you in your journey. I specialize in anxiety, depression, faith based (Christian) counseling, pre-martial and martial counseling, life transitions, and identity issues.
VirtualAvailable

$100/session

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
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

New to Grow

$120/session

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
Crisis Intervention
+10
I help high-achieving women step onto the other side of trauma, boundary issues and relationship strain. Relationship strain, toxic habits, and mother wounds often go unprocessed causing a significant amount of stress, overwhelm, and feelings of depression that travels and seeps into other areas of their lives. Are you a woman who has found themselves in the midst of having to navigate unprocessed trauma or grief from having to survive toxic romantic partners or relationships? Have you done an audit on your life and discovered that there are themes driving you to repeat the same habits and cycles? It may be time to explore those pain points and heal those areas to reduce the amount of times you cycle through the same seasons. I help women by creating a space for them to process their prolonged sadness, feelings of disappointment, grief, loss, depression, overwhelm, shame, and guilt related to unprocessed trauma, boundary issues, and toxic relationships. I invite you to begin the work of exploring what support looks like for you. My approach to therapy is rooted in evidenced-based skills and practices and empowerment theory to guide people toward feeling gratified, powerful and in control again.
Available

$125/session

Direct
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Serious Mental Illness
Sex Therapy
+10
If your search for peace has brought you this far, give yourself kudos for taking the first and most important step in your healing journey. My name is Alana, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have been in the field for over 13 years. I received my Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Lewis University, and my Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, with a focus on Addiction Disorders Treatment. I have worked in community mental health centers, partial hospitalization programs, nursing homes and private practice settings, with a large part of my career focused on crisis work and helping people in times of high need. I have experience working with all ages, types of problems and diagnoses, both in individual and group environments, with past focuses on DCFS-involvement, court systems, PTSD/trauma, suicidal ideation, Social Security/Medicaid systems, family conflict, substance abuse, Alzheimer's, severe mental illness and bariatric surgery and treatment. Whether you're struggling with life stress, relationship problems, work-life balance, or past trauma, I am here to walk alongside you on your path to healing.
VirtualAvailable

$100/session

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Chronic Illness
Foster Care/Adoption
+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
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, First Responders/Healthcare Workers, 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.