Golden Rule Therapists in Illinois

Finding a therapist who accepts Golden Rule insurance can make mental health care more affordable and accessible. With 233 verified therapists in Illinois who accept Golden Rule insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing to address concerns like anxiety, mood disorders, or personal growth. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring timely access to quality support that aligns with your Golden Rule insurance coverage.

Find therapists near you in

Chicago

Availability updated: 7/14/2025

Wayne Lyons

Wayne Lyons, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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!

Pam Gehant-Smith

Pam Gehant-Smith, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Meghan Skidmore

Meghan Skidmore, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, my names is Meghan Skidmore and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Northern Illinois. I have 16 years of experience as a clinical social worker. I have previously worked with children in mental health crisis as well as with children and families involved with the child welfare system. I also have worked the past 15 years as a school social worker, working with children and families to help them be successful in and out of the school setting.

Rick Melton

(he/him)

Rick Melton, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Right now you are probably scared. You know something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start. You don't know if this works and you're at the point where you are afraid that nothing will work. We have all been there, me included. I understand and I do not judge. I have been a clinical therapist for the past 20 years. In my time I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, geriatric patients, and LGBTIQQ individuals. What I have discovered in all my years of practice is that people all want the same things. We want to know that we are loved, valued and respected. I can promise you that when you speak to me you will be the only person that matters. You will not find judgement and you will not find blame. We will work together, at your own pace. I will help you find hope, unwavering support and the motivation to change the things in your life that you feel need to be changed. Together, we can improve your life. I'm here whenever you're ready.

Lisa Hines

(she/her)

Lisa Hines, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I have over 3 decades of experience working in the fields of mental health and social work. I work with youth, adults, families, and couples who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and school refusal. Prior to private practice, I worked in academia as an administrator of social work programs and as a medical social worker.

Candyce Bell

(she/her)

Candyce Bell, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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!

Shelly Mark Lewin

(he/him)

Shelly Mark Lewin, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Shelly Mark Lewin, and I am deeply honored to be joining the team of therapists at Grow Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families in a variety of settings including private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, hospitals, healthcare systems, hospice care, and private organizations. My work is informed by my own personal life experience with mental health challenges and my goal is always to provide you with support and guidance during difficult times and on your healing journey. My professional career includes clinical positions in renown healthcare organizations including Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Joint Commission in Chicago, Kaiser Permanente in California and Mount Sinai Health System In New York City. I have extensive experience working with multi-cultural and diverse populations providing individual and group therapy, case management and crisis intervention.

Edith M. Moran

(she/her)

Edith M. Moran, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I’m Edith, but please, call me Edie. As an out and proud transgender woman, I am excited to work with the LGBT community through sexuality- and gender-affirming treatment. Are you struggling with your gender and/or sexuality? I would love to walk with you as we collaboratively work to find answers, solutions, and resilience. I help queer, trans, and gender-nonconforming folks travel the path of living your truth! Through conversation guided by CBT, DBT, and emotion-focused therapy, we will peel back the layers of identity to find your wonder, beauty, and strength. I approach each client interaction with unconditional positive regard. I am warm and not judgmental. So bring your whole self. I cannot wait to meet you! I am available for virtual sessions at this time.

Joseph Sanders

(he/him)

Joseph Sanders, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
27 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome. I am an LCSW who has 28 years of experience providing therapy to a wide array of clients. I enjoy meeting clients where they are at and helping them to discuss their issues, look at obstacles to making changes, make expectations that are more realistic, and helping them to learn new skills to decrease the negative effects on their life.

Krista Jackson

Krista Jackson, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Dennis Keppeler

(he/him)

Dennis Keppeler, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Debra Prichard-Hurt

(she/her)

Debra Prichard-Hurt, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has over 30 years in the mental health field working in psychiatric hospitals and private practice. I work with clients individually (ages 13-17; 18- 65+); Couples and Families who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, marriage/divorce issues, grief issues, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, domestic violence (victims) and substance use. I am passionate about what I do and truly care about each of my clients.

Dee Ventucci

Dee Ventucci, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Ellen Rodman

Ellen Rodman, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Rehabilitation Counseling Psychology. I began my career working with severe trauma and persistent mental illness. This gave her a unique perspective on life and how quickly one can loose the life as we know it...and how wellness can suddenly elude us. To grieve loss and restore wellness, I believes a strong therapeutic relationship. I use a client centered approach in establishing rapport. Having worked in the most challenging neighborhoods of the inner city, I have seen the best and worst of human nature. What impressed me the most, is the inner strength I saw in people, under the most difficult of circumstances. It is this impression, this knowledge, that guides me to focus on an individuals’ capacity to overcome hardship, pain and despair. I use a holistic approach to therapy as I do not believe any one approach works for all, as each and every person is unique and different. I believe with compassion, care and empathy, one can be empowered to make the necessary changes to become more happy, fulfilled and to grow.

Wild Hope Counseling/ Kate Lambie

(she/her)

Wild Hope Counseling/ Kate Lambie, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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!

Vicki Kamhi

(she/her)

Vicki Kamhi, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hi – I’m Vicki – do you ever find yourself feeling lost as you wander on a path that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere? Or maybe you’re standing at a fork in the road and you aren’t sure which way to go. No matter what you're going through right now, you can get through it and I can help. I am committed to walking beside you and helping you find your unique path to create a life full of wellness, personal growth, joy and meaning. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol/Other Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 17 years of counseling experience. I specialize in working with individuals 18 years and older who live in Illinois. MY AREAS OF EXPERTISE INCLUDE: SUBSTANCE USE, GRIEF AND LOSS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION. If you are interested in working with a therapist who is committed to creating an authentic, positive collaborative relationship with you, feel free to schedule an appointment with me through GROW.

Amy Cabbage

(she/her)

Amy Cabbage, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Amy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages that have faced various life challenges in all stages of life. My passion is helping people in a way that provides them a sense of courage, empowerment, and motivation to make the changes that they want to live their best life!

Christina Pizarro

(she/her)

Christina Pizarro, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Dr. Baheia Ahmad-Derweesh

(she/her)

Dr. Baheia Ahmad-Derweesh, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois, with over 30 years of experience in the field. I obtained my Doctoral and Masters degrees in counseling education from Argosy University and Northeastern Illinois University, respectively. My practice focuses on supporting clients dealing with life stress, depression, and anxiety, while also assisting families in enhancing their communication skills. I'm passionate about helping individuals become the best versions of themselves and making a positive impact on their lives.

Davida Fuller

(she/her)

Davida Fuller, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there! Welcome! My professional path is driven by a profound dedication to inclusivity and social equity. I center my efforts on fostering mental well-being, providing essential coping skills, breaking down mental health stigma, and emphasizing the transformative and empowering nature of the healing process. In my practice, I adopt a compassionate and empathetic approach to create a secure and affirming space for clients. I guide them through their mental health challenges, helping them discover resilience on their unique journey towards healing. I firmly believe everyone should have a supportive environment to explore their challenges and embark on a personalized path to healing. I started my career as a clinician in community mental health, where I provided crucial support to individuals and families grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients, tailoring evidence-based modalities such as CBT, TF-CBT, and solution-focused therapy to meet their unique needs. In addition to individual therapy, I have facilitated groups for adolescents and adults centered on stress management, emotional regulation, and grief. I am committed to continuous learning and growth. I am excited to bring my passion and dedication to my practice, offering a compassionate and effective therapeutic experience to individuals seeking support and transformation.

Bridget McKnight

(she/her)

Bridget McKnight, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker serving individuals in Illinois, Texas, and South Carolina. My background includes working with families who have faced abuse, neglect, and legal challenges. I have also worked as a hospice social worker, where I provided support and education to families navigating the end-of-life process, helping them prepare to say goodbye to their loved ones. In public schools, I conducted assessments and evaluations for students struggling academically, developed Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and offered social-emotional education and individual support for students dealing with issues such as peer relationships, bullying, anger, anxiety, and other challenges that can affect their learning and growth. For several years, I have been in private practice, assisting both children and adults facing difficulties related to depression and anxiety, as well as supporting older adults dealing with lifestyle changes and health concerns. I also have experience helping individuals cope with grief. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a key element of my therapeutic approach. This evidence-based method equips clients with tailored tools and strategies. Together, we will identify triggers and explore ways to alleviate the physical and emotional symptoms you may be experiencing. Having been raised in a military family and lived in various states, I have gained unique insights into community, culture, and the importance of building new relationships. I am eager to learn and develop a trusting relationship with you as we work together to enhance your well-being and foster self-compassion on your journey.

Daniel Jennings

(he/him)

Daniel Jennings, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Daniel, and I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois. I’ve been providing mental health care for more than 25 years. No matter your background, income, or the unique combination of factors that shape your identity, one thing is certain: life doesn’t follow a script. It can turn on a dime, bringing moments that are joyful, devastating, or somewhere in between. In those moments, it's not uncommon to feel unprepared, alone, or overwhelmed, unsure of what to do next. My role is to help you navigate those turning points. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, sadness, depression, grief, or self-doubt, I help clients address the emotional impact of change and build healthier ways to cope. Sometimes those struggles show up as trouble with motivation, communication, relationships, or substance use. But they don’t happen in a vacuum. Everything we go through is shaped by our current context—age, gender, sexual identity, relationship status, job stress, physical health, or financial strain. For real change to take hold, we need to understand how these pieces connect. I work collaboratively with clients and take care to create a space where you can speak freely and feel safe doing so. It takes courage to reach for something better, and even more to act on it. I'm here to walk with you as you begin that process.

Jennifer Vandigo

(she/her)

Jennifer Vandigo, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
I welcome you to join me on your journey of self-discovery therefore helping you create a peaceful and fulfilling life. I am deeply committed to assisting you in embracing your true power and understanding your inherent worth. With my compassionate and loving nature, I derive great joy from helping individuals enhance their lives. As a clinician, I have come to recognize that the most crucial aspect of counseling is the establishment of a strong connection and a sense of comfort between the therapist and the individual seeking support. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those I assist. Most recently, I completed a 2-year program in advanced spiritual psychology, which has enriched the depth of my therapeutic abilities. Throughout my career, I have provided counseling for a wide range of issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma, abuse, addictions, relationship challenges and parenting issues. By combining my expertise, experience, and compassionate nature, I am dedicated to supporting you in your journey toward healing and personal growth. Together, we can work towards creating a more peaceful, joyful and fulfilling life for you.

Anne Grosklaus

(she/her)

Anne Grosklaus, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
With over twenty-five years of experience, I have a long history of providing successful therapy to clients suffering from mental health challenges - often driven by events in their past, such as childhood trauma, sexual abuse and domestic violence. As a licensed clinical social worker, I also specialize in connecting clients with additional outside resources to help achieve their goals. Each of my clients are deeply respected and loved, with an ultimate end to one day be free from the need for therapy.

Todd M. Nelson

(he/him)

Todd M. Nelson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
I look at my clients as already complete human beings. You are more than your problems, and not as simple as a textbook. I treat each of my clients as a whole and unique person, not as a set of symptoms. I help my clients build on their strengths, to create a better sense of wellbeing. Whatever challenges you are facing, whatever difficulties you are having, I assure you that you are worth being heard. You are worth being treated with compassion, in a nonjudgmental setting. I am here to help you find healing and wholeness.

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 Golden Rule?

Yes! If you use Golden Rule you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Golden Rule 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 Grief?

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, Grief, 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.