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 26 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

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.

John D Benton

(he/him)

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

Dr. Diana Thomas, PSY.D

Dr. Diana Thomas, PSY.D, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$126/session
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience helping multicultural clients explore strategies to manage mental health, relationship issues, and other struggles. You don’t have to face these feelings alone. We can explore your thoughts and emotions in a safe space, helping you take the first step towards a better future.

Anna Looker

(she/her)

Anna Looker, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
14 years of experience
Virtual
I believe in acknowledging and honoring the yet untold stories of our lives, especially the messy and imperfect parts. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience as a therapist. Over the years, I've worked with those struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, generalized and social anxiety, self-esteem issues, substance use concerns, suicidal thoughts, life transitions, family conflict, and more. Throughout my career, I've worked in diverse settings, and I truly love connecting with people from various backgrounds, stages of life, and unique life experiences. I also have several years experience in university counseling centers and am especially attuned to working with young adults who may be facing academic challenges, who need support around adjustment to college life, those studying the creative arts, and students struggling with decisions around next steps after graduation.

Adam Woehlke

(he/him)

Adam Woehlke, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$160/session
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
I have been working in the mental wellness field for over 15 years. What I find to be most helpful is to build a relationship with people first, I utilize person-centered therapy at the core although I will work to alter the therapeutic approach to meet individuals' needs through counseling. While I might be skilled in the process, you are the expert on yourself, and I look forward to walking through therapy with you to identify areas of growth you would like to explore.

Eliza Adams

(she/her)

Eliza Adams, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$145/session
LCPC
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) in Illinois. I received my Doctorate degree in Clinical Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I received my Master's of Science degree in Community Counseling from National Louis University. I have over 2o years of experience in the field and enjoy providing client centered care to individuals of all ages.

Carrie Parr

(she/her)

Carrie Parr, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$75/session
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
We live in a fast passed society, and it can be hard to keep up with all of our various life roles and responsibilities. Those who are making mental health a priority in their lives are notably the most satisfied and happy individuals in our American culture. I am a social worker by trade, and I have been a licensed clinician for over 20 years. I offer my clients a safe space to express their feelings, get to know themselves on a deeper level, and learn skills to take control of their thoughts and emotions. I guide my clients at their own pace to define and achieve their therapy goals. I believe that all people have it within themselves to optimize their own growth and success in all areas of life. Guiding you in your effort to achieve your definition of personal success and satisfaction is the ultimate objective.

Christina Pizarro

(she/her)

Christina Pizarro, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
As you embark on your journey, therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to explore, understand and challenge life experiences that shape our identities and perceptions of the world. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience working in the heart of Chicago, providing therapy and other clinical services to individuals struggling with severe mental illness and addiction, I approach therapy from a holistic and multicultural perspective. As a Mexican and Filipino American woman, I draw on my personal experiences to better understand how cultural factors influence our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us. My goal is to build a respectful and collaborative partnership with my clients to support them on their journey towards healing and self-discovery. I firmly believe in addressing presenting issues by understanding the whole person, rather than just focusing on the problem. Using a strengths-based approach, along with evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and psychodynamic approaches, I work with my clients to identify thought patterns, regulate emotions, and build self-awareness to foster healing and self-compassion. I earned my Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Mental Health from the Jane Addams College of Social Work, and have worked in a variety of settings, including residential care for addiction, outpatient addiction treatment facilities, and community mental health care. My diverse experiences and training have enabled me to build a creative work space that centers the person as a whole, providing a healing space where individuals can feel heard, honored, and understood.

Shannon Ellis

(she/her)

Shannon Ellis, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi I'm Shan :) ! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who's been working as a therapist since 2018. I'm big hearted, non judgmental and believe in the healing power of authenticity. I've worked with individuals of all ages on a wide scope of issues and strongly believe that I learn and grow alongside each and every person I work with.

Jennifer Kronk Terry

(she/her)

Jennifer Kronk Terry, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$120/session
LCPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! It is very nice to meet you. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Chicago, IL (cis/het married woman.) I have worked in various areas of community mental health (13+ years) and as a private therapist (3 years) totaling 16 years in the field. I have experience with significant mental illness, trauma, recovery, and life transitions. I work with individuals (teens and adults) and couples. I am an accredited trauma therapist (APT) and I am trained in Narrative Therapy. Additionally, I am a "nerd" therapist. I want to hear about what you read, watch, play, etc. We can talk about cosplay and conventions and the like. I like to draw parallels between real life challenges and the stories that we read in books and see on TV and movies (you can expect me to mention the following: INSIDE OUT, ENCANTO, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, X-FILES, STAR WARS, STAR TREK, DOCTOR WHO, the MCU, etc, as well as the whole hero’s journey that we all take.) And I want to hear what stories keep you inspired and motivated. I want to know what you enjoy and feel passionate about. Our primary focus will be on what has brought you to therapy and what you want to work on but I know that there are many paths to these goals. As Tolkien said, “Not all who wander are lost.” So, we might wander a bit but we will wander together. At some point, during our virtual session, you will probably see one or both of my cats and your pets are welcome as well. Trans/queer friendly and welcoming. Now Reading: NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION: A LANGUAGE OF LIFE by Marshall Rosenberg Now Watching: TED LASSO, ANDOR.

Amanda Saldaña

(she/her)

Amanda Saldaña, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois and Maine. I have experience working with clients in crisis with severe mental illness to adults experiencing depression and anxiety with chronic complex medical conditions. Coping with life challenges is not something you have to go through alone. Many people seek therapy for support, information, and new ideas on how to better handle the curve balls that life can throw sometimes. I believe that human beings are incredibly resilient and sometimes need assistance in recognizing their own inner strength to create positive changes in their lives. The therapeutic relationship should be collaborative, built upon both mutual respect and independence, and I hope to empower my clients to find opportunities for personal growth so that they can move forward with their goals. I have been a great support to those experiencing significant changes in their lives such as new medical diagnosis or crisis events. Be proud of making this step forward toward your best self. I look forward to working together!

Amy Laverty

(she/her)

Amy Laverty, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Masters degree in 2000 and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I am committed to helping adults, young adults, adolescents and older adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, and stress management issues. I am looking forward to working with individuals who need support, an open and safe space to explore issues, and compassionate care! I hope you take this brave step for yourself because you deserve it!

Vanessa Martinez

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

Greg Donathan

(he/him)

Greg Donathan, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 20 years and have a wide variety of experiences working with clients. I am certified in DBT and have training in ACT, motivational interviewing and trauma treatment. I find great fulfillment in partnering with clients in order to help them find the life they wish to live. I focus on what the client seeks and work to develop practical skills to help improve emotional balance, better relationships and more awareness of the present moment.

Ja’Nera Johnson

(she/her)

Ja’Nera Johnson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$118/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm an LCSW-BACS and Louisiana native who practices in both, Texas & Louisiana. I’ve worked with a variety of clinical presentations, in various clinical settings. I have experience working with children, youth, adults, veterans and families. The settings in which I’ve practiced include intense inpatient, clinic, substance use disorder treatment, mental health rehabilitation, correctional rehabilitation facility and school settings. I'm EMDR trained and a recently Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I collaboratively assist clients with improving their self-esteem and self-worth, processing trauma, managing depression and anxiety, challenging negative thought processes, emotion dysregulation, and processing symptoms of grief and mood disorders. This is a collaborative therapeutic process that allows fostering healthy intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships, resolving symptoms of grief and trauma, modifying negative internal narratives, managing anxiety and depression, decreasing emotion dysregulation and dissociating, and fostering one's sense of self. I've worked with adults, families and adolescents who experienced anxiety, depression, family transitions, trauma wounds, anxiety, low self-esteem, PTSD, LGTBQIA transitions, substance use, bipolar mood disorders, personality disorders and several other life challenges etc. I have been so honored to be present throughout my client's journeys of growth, if only to help unburden them from internal suffering. I strive to be both non-judgmental, and collaborative, while challenging those that fear based responses to the environment.

Dorian Turner

(she/her)

Dorian Turner, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am Dorian Turner- Licensed clinical social worker and founder of iThriveTherapy PLLC. Providing mental health services since 2013. I work well with millennials and young adults experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and adults with serious mental Illnesses. I help my clients gain a greater awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and develop healthy coping techniques for maladaptive thoughts, feelings and behaviors all while navigating difficulties in life.

Dr. Calista Heath-Martinez

(she/her)

Dr. Calista Heath-Martinez, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$140/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
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 in navigating life’s complexities. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, integrative, and holistic, combining evidence-based techniques with practices like meditation and Yoga Nidra 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.

Alana Bak

Alana Bak, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$125/session
LCPC
13 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Tyler Leake

(he/him)

Tyler Leake, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I view us as the ultimate team! You are the expert of your own life story. I am here to help you rewrite the parts that don't quite fit with the version of yourself you want to be. Using empathy and humor, we will work together to redefine the narrative you have of yourself into one you are proud to take ownership of.

Amanda Gaugler

Amanda Gaugler, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
The present world can be a beautiful and intriguing place-but when dealing with day to day stressors or mental health we tend to lose sight of this. With our never ending priority lists, it's easy to feel like we are a burden when we experience challenges, but I'm honored to hold space for you! I take your trust in me very seriously.

Corrie Brickey

(she/her)

Corrie Brickey, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi. I'm Corrie Brickey and I’m here to help you navigate difficult emotions and challenging life experiences. Whether you’re facing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or at-risk behaviors, I believe healing is possible — and you don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are dealing with emotional pain and engaging in behaviors that feel hard to control. Together, we’ll build tools to help you create a more balanced, peaceful life — one rooted in healthy relationships, emotional strength, and self-love. Having faced my own challenges, I deeply understand the strength it takes to begin healing. I bring compassion, honesty, and care to every session, and I’m here to walk beside you every step of the way.

Wendy Gilchrist

Wendy Gilchrist, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am Wendy Gilchrist, clinical professional counselor. I have 25 + years of experience working with people with severe symptoms or mental illness. If you're experiencing anxiety, stress, changing careers, navigating a difficult relationship, feeling down or lack or motivation, dealing with grief and loss. It is time to dive in and process all those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Together, we will be able to process them, put them in a safe place and find some ways to cope with them by learning to accept that you are the only one that can make the first step to change your difficult and unpleasant situation. Even at some point you feel hopeless, you have the potential to make a difference in your life.

Jenni Brooks

Jenni Brooks, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$75/session
LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
I'm Jenni Brooks, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 7 yrs of clinical counseling experience with all ages and over 20+ years in the mental health field, with many specialties including but not limited to mood disorders, significant mental illness, psychosis, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, grief and loss, aging, trauma (PTSD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities, OCD, Eating Disorders, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth struggles, Interpersonal and Family Problems.

Jessica Rodriguex

(she/her)

Jessica Rodriguex, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I bring extensive experience from various settings, including treatment centers, community programs, group therapy, and correctional facilities, where I've had the privilege of working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. My approach is rooted in evidence-based therapies, tailored to support meaningful behavioral changes. I deeply understand the mental health challenges that can emerge from incarceration and the unique stressors that accompany the journey of rebuilding life afterward. I’m also dedicated to supporting the family members and loved ones of those struggling with addiction or incarceration, helping them navigate their own emotional journeys with compassion and care. Additionally, I work closely with parents and families of children with complex behavioral issues, providing guidance and support to help them create a nurturing environment for their child’s growth and well-being. In addition to this, I have experience helping clients through significant life transitions, such as starting a family, navigating college, or going through a divorce. I understand how overwhelming these changes can be and am here to provide empathetic support and practical tools to help my clients find stability and confidence during these times. I’m committed to walking alongside my clients and their families as they navigate these difficult transitions, offering understanding and support every step of the way.

Justin Freeman

(he/him)

Justin Freeman, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my MA in Clinical Psychology from Eastern Illinois University and have practiced for over 25 years. I enjoy helping people find hope again when struggling with depression, trauma, and self-injury. Life is hard, and sometimes we need to know that someone out there believes in us and knows that we can heal.

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 Serious Mental Illness?

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, Serious Mental Illness, 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.