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 215 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: 7/2/2025

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!

Joshua Connor

(he/him)

Joshua Connor, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$145/session
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Josh. Do you find yourself struggling with multiple stressors, consistently putting yourself down for not achieving the way you feel like you should be achieving? Has your anxiety gone from feeling somewhat manageable to being overwhelmed with what seems like small tasks? Are you struggling in your relationships, job, and health? I help individuals manage anxiety and depression, overcome burnout, and work through grief. I believe in a patient-centered, holistic approach to providing counseling. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and mindfulness techniques- all tailored to meet your unique and specific needs. Together, we will identify triggers, thoughts, behaviors, and core beliefs that are no longer serving you to help get you on the path you want to be on. It takes courage to start a journey of self-exploration with the aim of a better, healthier life. If you are ready to take your first steps, I am here to help support and empower you along your path.

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.

Gilmarie Garay-Adames

Gilmarie Garay-Adames, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$90/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Gilmarie, but you can feel free to call me Gigi. I am a licensed, clinical social worker providing individual therapy and couples counseling for clients in Illinois. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and am of Puerto Rican descent. As a social worker/therapist, I love working with people and I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. It is an honor to walk through life with my clients. Also, I enjoy providing faith-based counseling for those who desire to incorporate their faith in their therapeutic journey.

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.

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!

Dee Ventucci

Dee Ventucci, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in Illinois. With a Master's from The Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago, I bring 9 years of social work experience, including 7 years in private practice. My therapeutic approach focuses on addressing the root causes of symptoms, empowering clients to live fulfilling lives free from mental health concerns. I'm dedicated to achieving lasting healing for many common disorders.

Douglas DeRhodes

(he/him)

Douglas DeRhodes, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$75/session
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Melissa Pazen

(she/her)

Melissa Pazen, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I received my Master's Degree more than 20 years ago and have been helping people improve their mental health ever since. I love working with women who want to overcome anxiety, depression, grief or trauma. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the most widely accepted therapy available today, to help you reframe thoughts and align your emotions with your thoughts. I help clients become the best version of themselves.

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.

Dina Owen

Dina Owen, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$160/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 10 years of experience dedicated to helping clients improve and address their mental health. I offer a wide variety of services, including support for anxiety, depression, and communication issues. My approach is client-centered, providing warmth and compassion to meet you wherever you are on your journey. My practice is built on providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and feelings. I am committed to meeting you with empathy and understanding, offering a compassionate environment that encourages growth and healing.

Amanda Strobel

Amanda Strobel, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$125/session
LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello Potential Client! Welcome to my Practice. My name is Amanda Strobel and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC). I have had an opportunity to practice behavioral health therapy in many settings over the last 25+ years. My overall goal is to support my clients through their therapeutic journey including supporting them through life transitions, stressful or overwhelming situations, grief or loss issues or executive counseling for career advancement. You will find that I have worked in a variety of therapy settings including: private practice both in person and virtual, inpatient/outpatient, corporate settings, residential, therapeutic day schools, mentally ill substance abuse and oncology wellness centers. In those setting I provided therapy on a variety of mental health issues. I spent the first 15 years of my career working with children, adolescents and young adults working through: physical/sexual and neglect issues, anxiety/panic/OCD, depression, bi-polar disorder, suicidal ideation and actions, family conflicts, boundary setting and substance abuse issues. I have also worked with the overall family unit to address family conflict, parenting issues and relationship building. In more recent years my focus has been on grief/loss issues, coping skills, self care, executive consulting and counseling, life transitional issues and working through major life changes and choices. I would love to support you as you take your first steps towards achieving your goals-please reach out and schedule an appointment.

Lisa Sumrow

(she/her)

Lisa Sumrow, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$155/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years' experience. I received my master's degree from the University of St. Francis, in Illinois. I am passionate about helping those struggling through life's many transitions. As a clinician, I meet my client's where they are at, listen to what they want to work on, and collaborate with them on ways to achieve their goals. Together, we work as a team towards growth and change.

Matt Marder

(he/him)

Matt Marder, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Matt Marder. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and how I might support you on your personal journey. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I offer behavioral therapy to improve and maintain your emotional well-being. I focus on building a trusting relationship with my clients, allowing you to be heard and understood. Initially, we begin where you are and build a treatment plan specifically to meet your needs. My approaches allow you to recognize yourself, think about others, and identify strategies for navigating the daily roller-coaster of life. You may have gone through a loss or be experiencing trouble managing whatever life has thrown your way. I am available to listen and help you succeed in improving yourself, your relationships, or your family life. No matter who you are, or what circumstances you’ve endured, your emotional health and well-being are most important. Feel free to reach out to me for assistance.

Yanick Raymond

(she/her)

Yanick Raymond, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$110/session
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
“I’m a therapist specializing in evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to help individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. My focus is on creating a safe, supportive space where we can work together to build healthier relationships, manage emotions, and create meaningful change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or personal growth, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to move forward with confidence.”

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.

Kathy O'Grady

(she/her)

Kathy O'Grady, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$80/session
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a first generation American who is from Chicago & who always had a passion for helping others. I have worked within social services and health care for thirty years. I began my career working with teens who were placed in the care of DCFS and who lived within the group home setting. I continued my career with working with teens who were identified as runaways and soon after, I began to work with individuals who were dealing with schizophrenia. I later in life worked as an ER technician at a Level One Trauma Center while attending graduate school. Thereafter, I continued to work within the health care system as an inpatient and outpatient care manager. Additionally, I managed the first ever memory assessment clinics that were established within this health care system.

Dalton Williams

Dalton Williams, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Chicago. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I've been practicing for 5 years helping people improve their lives through mindful change and a supportive voice. I'm here to be your loudest cheerleader as you make necessary changes and work toward your life goals.

Sara Herman

(she/her)

Sara Herman, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LCPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Are you finding your anxiety or anger more difficult to manage? Is life becoming increasingly overwhelming? Knowing where to begin can feel like a challenge—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I’m here to help. I’m a seasoned therapist with extensive experience supporting adults through anxiety, anger, trauma, and substance use challenges. My background includes working across a variety of settings, including higher levels of care, private practice, schools, and court-ordered treatment. This breadth of experience has deepened my ability to meet clients wherever they are in their journey. My clinical approach is strength-based and eclectic, drawing from Integrative Family Systems, DBT, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed care. I have a particular interest in working with individuals struggling with ADHD, substance use, self-perception, body image issues and desires to increase self-efficacy. My style is direct, humorous, and grounded in empathy. I aim to create a space where clients feel safe, seen, and empowered to reconnect with their own inner wisdom.

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.

Carolynn Brusseau

(she/her)

Carolynn Brusseau, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$85/session
LCPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) working remotely. I got my MA in Counseling with a focus on forensic psychology from Adler University in downtown Chicago. I have been practicing since graduation in 2020 and have served in various areas including community mental health and private practice. I am also a veteran and love to serve the military and their families. As an eclectic therapist, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. This flexibility allows me to draw from various modalities and techniques to best support my clients in their journey towards healthier lives.

Kyle Kovski

(he/him)

Kyle Kovski, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$180/session
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Kyle, the therapist behind Emerald Reflections Counseling. For over 14 years, I’ve helped teens and adults work through some of life’s toughest moments—whether it’s anxiety, grief, trauma, or major life changes. I know how heavy things can feel, and my goal is to walk alongside you with empathy and care. My approach is person-centered, which means I focus on you—your strengths, your story, and your goals. Together, we’ll build tools to help you manage stress, feel more grounded, and move forward with clarity. With experience in both nonprofit and medical settings, I bring a well-rounded perspective to our work. You don’t have to face this alone—healing starts here, and I’m here for you every step of the way.

Adriana Franco

(she/her)

Adriana Franco, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified addiction counselor with over 20 years of experience. This is my second career and my passion. I have the honor, and privilege, of providing mental health services to young adults, and adults and provide counseling for a wide range of concerns including, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, processing addictions, anger, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My counseling style focuses primarily on empowering clients to lead better lives, and in so doing, treat them with respect and dignity in a safe, supportive, encouraging, and warm space. My role as a therapist is to guide, advocate, advise, and educate those in need as they find their voices and healthier lifestyles, meeting them where they are at – believing that clients are the experts of their lives. I strive to establish rapport through understanding, honesty, and positive regard toward the individual while applying person-centered, person-in-environment theoretical orientations, and motivational interviewing. I use an integrated approach, based on the client’s needs through the course of therapy, established on client-therapist collaborative treatment plan development. This plan might integrate a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, meditation skills, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance commitment therapy, grounded on the client’s preferences and needs.

Nicolette Surico

(She/her)

Nicolette Surico, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$50/session
LCPC
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Nicolette Surico. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and am a Licensed Therapist. I have been working with adults, young adults, adolescents, families, and couples for over 20+ years and in the areas of Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health as well as Mentally Ill Substance Users. Most of what I hear from those seeking Therapy has to do with struggling with, as well as, navigating through life challenges, especially during these complicated times. What you may have seemed to manage before might be creating a sense of uncertainty. That is a perfect place to begin Therapy! I think it's important to consider the whole person in Therapy. Creative approaches/techniques that can assist you with recognizing things that can assist you moving forward. Looking forward to working with you!

Melissa Cauthen

(she/her)

Melissa Cauthen, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$75/session
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 20+ years of professional work experience. My extensive career background has allowed me to work with people from all different situations, where I've advocated for them to have the best quality of life, always. I have lots of experience working with diverse populations and have the ability to meet people where they're at. I thrive on positivity and mental wellness, with a clear understanding and vision of one's light. I'm a natural promoter of empowerment and hold a great deal of empathy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, unique issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, relationship issues, family conflicts and much more. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I'm here to support and empower you in that journey.

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 Life Transitions?

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, Life Transitions, 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.