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 205 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: 7/8/2025

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.

Jodi Petchenik

Jodi Petchenik, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$180/session
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hi. I'm glad you're here. I am an LCSW based in Illinois. I have 22 years experience and love helping people. My commitment to you is to provide a space where there is no judgment…a space where you will be heard and validated, and where you will feel emotionally safe as we work together to achieve your goals. The ability to change and grow is within us all. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey!

Candyce Bell

(she/her)

Candyce Bell, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am an Army Veteran and LCPC with a certification as a national certified counselor through the NBCC and have accumulated over 6 years of direct individual/group practice as a licensed counselor. Overall, my experience spans over 10 years working as a crisis, substance use, and mental health counselor in the field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance use. I also have assisted many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is very welcoming and inviting. I believe in honoring the values of respect, sensitivity, compassion, empathy and embracing a holistic point of view to promote mental wellness. It takes courage to make the steps towards a more fulfilling and happier life and embrace change. If you are ready to take that leap into a healthier mind, body, and spirit, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you in your new journey!

Latrice Willis

(she/her)

Latrice Willis, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
My Name is Latrice Willis, I have been in the Social Work field for 13 years. I have a history of working with children and adults. My background is in school settings, in-patient mental health settings, and private practice counseling. I feel that healing begins with a strong foundation, so I am very relationship-oriented. I like to meet clients where they are and work towards a common goal. My style is eclectic, and I strive to individualize treatment for each client. I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Practices. I am committed to creating a warm, nurturing, and safe environment for all. I look forward to working with you!

Wild Hope Counseling/ Kate Lambie

(she/her)

Wild Hope Counseling/ Kate Lambie, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I love working with my clients in a collaborative therapeutic relationship built upon trauma-informed care. I believe that safety, choice, collaboration, trustworthiness, and empowerment are the bedrock to build a strong therapeutic rapport. I do my best to show up for my clients in a non-judgmental and compassionate way to help them identify, explore, and take valued action toward their own healing and well-being. I love what I do!

Shannon Aldridge

Shannon Aldridge, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$120/session
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Shannon Aldridge, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families both online as well as in my private practice. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Augustana College in 1998. Shortly thereafter I worked for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services helping families to address and ameliorate issues impacting the safety and well being of children. I achieved my Master's Degree in Social Work from Aurora University in 2005 while continuing to work with DCFS. My work in child welfare provided vast opportunities to work with populations struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and Addictions. It was through this experience that I found passion in strengthening families and advocating for education, treatment and community supports. I ultimately shifted my career to private practice where I have enjoyed the ability to connect and effect change with individuals and families through a therapeutic alliance.

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.

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.

Marsha McIntosh

Marsha McIntosh, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$68/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
My background is in psychotherapy, health coaching, and wellness instruction! Helping others set health goals, inspire change, and conquer their emotional challenges is a vital part of my focus. I have a graduate degree in both counseling and health and have been providing therapy to both men and women of a variety of ages for many years. I have practiced within an agency and with online platforms. Observing clients build the courage to make changes, walk away from unhelpful patterns and take a new path has been a rewarding part of my career!

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.

Dr. Maria Escobar

Dr. Maria Escobar, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$175/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
In my clinical work, I gain perspective and understanding of real-life challenges of clients that have experienced personal struggles. My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life issues. The goal is to best support the client to recognize what they need out of therapy.

Mary Jo Thorson, MA

(she/her)

Mary Jo Thorson, MA, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LCPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and here to help you with what is going on in your life. Together, let’s figure out what is getting in the way of you living your best life. Is it relationships, low mood, anxiety, depression, anger or life transitions? Even if you don’t know, we will figure it out! I use a variety of techniques to address issues such as anxiety, depression, divorce recovery, stress, relationship difficulties, mood disorders, life transitions and much more. It’s important to me that my clients feel they are in a non-judgmental safe space to process what they are going through. My clinical approach is evidence-based treatment. I utilize a variety of interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered, Solution Focused and Walk and Talk Therapy. I work with ages 18+ with a range of concerns. I work hard to provide an environment that is warm, welcoming, positive, safe, and collaborative. I started in this industry leading divorce recovery groups. I went on to lead a variety of other groups including divorce recovery, single moms, and anxiety. Life can sometimes be a struggle and asking for help isn’t always easy, but I hope you will reach out so together we can create a therapeutic relationship that will promote hope, growth, and healing. I offer sessions both virtually and in-person.

Jordan Meehan

(she/her)

Jordan Meehan, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Life can get messy, overwhelming, and so hard sometimes—and that’s okay! The realities of life are rarely easy, but you can develop ways to go about your life without having to suffer. For the past 9 years, I’ve been helping adults who feel stuck in anxiety, trauma, and relationship struggles find their footing again. We’ll explore what’s going on in your life, figure out what matters most, and find practical, realistic ways to help you feel more grounded and overcome your challenges. I’m here to listen, offer options, and support you as you create a life that feels more manageable and meaningful—always with warmth, compassion, and a little humor when you need it.

Tamica Wells

(she/her)

Tamica Wells, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! My name is Tamica, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from University of Southern California. My concentration is Mental Health with a sub-concentration in Military Families. I am a psychotherapist with a breath of wealth and experience in mental health, military families, social services, the criminal justice system, and case management services. I also have extensive experience working with the elderly population, and in psychiatric units, public school systems, mental health clinics, and State, Local and Federal Governmental agencies. My purpose is to help individuals learn evidence-based strategies, techniques and skills to manage their stress, anxiety, depression and other behaviors to reclaim their lives.

Jennifer Taylor

Jennifer Taylor, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
29 years of experience
Virtual
"Hello! I'm a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, an expert on trauma resolution, attachment, parts work, and nervous system regulation. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy so I integrate traditional talk therapy with experiential therapies that aid in better nervous system regulation, healing, and overall relief of symptoms. Experiential, brain-based healing & somatic therapies can help accelerate change and often reduce time in counseling. I specialize in biologically based healing, which assists in resolving trauma symptoms that are frozen or stuck in the body. I have training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization & reprocessing) and am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP). I interweave these therapies and attachment-based support and repair into all my work with clients, which allows for a rich, gentle, connection-based healing approach. I have been in private practice for over 20 years, and prior to that time I worked in a variety of mental health settings. I see clients via telehealth. Education & Certifications: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) Master of Psychology, The Adler School of Professional Psychology Bachelor of Psychology, Illinois State University Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) Transforming the Experience-Based Brain (TEB) Touch Practitioner SSP (Safe & Sound Protocol) provider

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.

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.

Wanda Bryant-Salaam

(she/her)

Wanda Bryant-Salaam, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
My goal is to empower my clients, supporting them to gain confidence, power, trust in themselves and make it through obstacles and struggles they may encounter. In addition, I will provide them with the tools needed to have the strength to move ahead, succeed and cope with the many challenges in their lives. I have 20 years of experience working with children and families in Early Intervention, and challenges using a Trauma-informed, Strength-based and Client-centered approach. Through this approach, I encourage my clients to become, empowered, and develop coping and problem-solving skills. This will give them the ability to build trust and advocate for themselves. Being an advocate I am very active in the community and very involved in community outreach. My passion is to give back to the community and make a difference. My specialties are Relationship Issues, Coping Skills, Depression, Life Transitions, Stress, Women's issues and Domestic Violence.

Joanie Paradis

(she/her)

Joanie Paradis, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Rachel Klekot

(she/her)

Rachel Klekot, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a sex-positive, LGBTQIA-affirmative, polyamory-friendly, and kink-aware therapist. I work with individuals across a broad spectrum, providing a safe and supportive space to explore life challenges and changes. I offer compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental therapy, where we will explore both your struggles and successes, learning together how you want to move through life with greater confidence, clarity, and self-acceptance. .

KC Caldwell

(she/her)

KC Caldwell, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$175/session
LCPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Counseling is a natural extension of my wellness work. In addition to Anxiety and Depression, I specialize in Career Counseling, Women's Issues, Shadow Work, and Spirituality. My role is to support your journey of improving your mental health and wellness experiences. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I utilize Solution Focused, Spirituality, and Lifestyle Design techniques in my practice. There is no set framework for each client, as I tailor my expertise based upon your concerns. Our wellness work starts with an intake, where we'll have a conversation about what's working, what isn't, and unpacking the grey area that most of us are uncomfortable with. During future sessions, I'll help you explore the relationship you have with yourself.

Merek Poto

(she/her)

Merek Poto, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$80/session
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I received my Masters from Aurora University and I have been practicing for 5 years. I am a warm, empathetic therapist who helps adults become the best versions of themselves. I work to help people understand who they are and manage their various stressors, anxieties, and emotions. Combining my lived and professional experience, I specialize in working with LGBTQ adults to address needs specific to our community, especially those of transgender experience. Further, I myself am an individual who has detransitioned and I extend services to those who have as well. I understand what it's like to go through transition and go back, and I want to ensure my clients get thorough care, transitioning or detransitioning. Of course, I work with people who are inside and outside the LGBTQ community, I'm an advocate for you. I also work with personality disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and so much more. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I have a wide range of resources available to all my clients for extra support. My biggest priority in therapy is honesty, as well as giving you a space you feel comfortable in so you can open up at your pace. I want to build a strong, lasting alliance between us so we can help you become the best version of yourself. I know that together, we are going to do great things. A little about me, I have a sphynx cat named Cupid and a black cat named Tofu. Behind me sits my spider, Marrow, who burrows and builds tunnels more than she spins webs. I also enjoy playing DND, I've been drawing since I was in kindergarten, and I play lots of video games, particularly fantasy RPGs.

Donna Mills

(she/her)

Donna Mills, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Donna. Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Are you feeling anxiety? Are you feeling doldrums or depression? I want to help you discover the reasons behind these feelings. I want to assist you on the journey of self discovery and enlightenment. Why? Because you are worth it! I have 7+ years in experience working as a therapist in a private practice setting. I have experience as an intern working as an outpatient addiction counselor, I participated in a year long training to be an affirmative practice counselor working with the LGBTQ community. I am trained as a reiki master and I have helped individuals with depression, anxiety, and many other life stressors. There are many reasons that can cause the feelings that we have. You are unique and you are special. Together we will find your balance, we will discover what will help you find a brighter and shinier future. Let's work together! *** Please schedule appointments on the hour (i.e. 3:00, 4:00 etc.) and not on the half hour (i.e. 3:30, 4:30 etc.) or at the 15 or 45 minute times (i.e. 3:15 or 3:45 etc.) Thank you for your understanding as we work to improve the scheduling platform.***

Danielle Oehme

Danielle Oehme, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am Danielle Oehme, founder and licensed clinical professional counselor for Hope and Healing Counseling. I have over 10 years experience working in the mental health field with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and supportive. I will work to help you create a life that you look forward to living. I strive to assist you in learning effective tools to achieve your goals, as well as find meaningful change, self-understanding, and acceptance. I will work with you to help promote self-awareness, identify patterns, and initiate the process of change.

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 Women's Issues?

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, Women's Issues, 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.