Golden Rule Therapists in Illinois

Finding a therapist who accepts Golden Rule insurance can make mental health care more affordable and accessible. With 195 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: 7/15/2025

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.

Rene Stockton

(he/him)

Rene Stockton, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Has intro video
LCSW
34 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. I serve my community as a counselor, therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American cities. I have encountered child, adolescent and adult challenges ranging from trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the soft and more concrete changes you are looking to achieve in your life. My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art, movement, and EMDR.

Kenita Perry-Bell, MSW

(she/her)

Kenita Perry-Bell, MSW, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. My experience includes but not limited to working with clients with a wide range of concerns: anger management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationships, and self-esteem. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with compassion and respect. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and holistic, using integrative approaches, such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic therapies. I am client-centered, and our sessions and treatment plan are tailored to address your specific needs.

Marsha McIntosh

Marsha McIntosh, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

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!

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!

Danielle Oehme

Danielle Oehme, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Lisa D. Vinson

Lisa D. Vinson, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Shannon Aldridge

Shannon Aldridge, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

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.

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.

Shelena Clay

(she/her)

Shelena Clay, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Shelena is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She has worked in the field of mental health for 10 years and in private practice for the past 4 years. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She received her BA in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She loves working with individuals to help them reframe negative thinking and behaviors. She utilizes treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Reality Therapy. She believes that given the right tools we all can become the best version of ourselves.

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.

Dr. Maria Escobar

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

Frequently rebooked

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.

Dr. Diana Thomas, PSY.D

Dr. Diana Thomas, PSY.D, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Latrice Willis

(she/her)

Latrice Willis, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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!

Casi Krall

(she/her)

Casi Krall, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm Casi Krall. I received my Master's degree in 2000 from National Louis University. I've worked in social services for 32 years altogether, working individually with therapy clients for 12 years. I believe that every dream — whether it comes to fruition or not — shapes who we are. In my work, I honor the beauty of our past aspirations, recognizing that even the dreams that didn't work out hold immense value. They teach us about our hopes, resilience and the unique paths we take toward growth. My approach to therapy is about exploring these dreams with curiosity and gratitude, helping you weave your past into a narrative that empowers your future. I view therapy as a collaborative journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Together we explore the tapestry of your experiences, both the fulfilled and the unfulfilled dreams, to uncover the wisdom they hold. I work with you to reframe setbacks as meaningful lessons and to transform old narratives into a source of empowerment for your future. By embracing your entire story with curiosity and compassion, we can build a foundation that honors your past while opening up new possibilities for growth and fulfillment

Vanessa Martinez

Vanessa Martinez, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Chelsie Scoggin-Chang

(she/her)

Chelsie Scoggin-Chang, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
19 years of experience
Virtual
Finding a therapist can be an overwhelming task. Life can be full of complexities that can be difficult to navigate. Considering that you may be feeling sad or overwhelmed, I commend you for taking the brave first steps toward taking care of yourself. I believe in the value and worth of the person and that we all possess strengths to help us in the journey of life. If you have been feeling stuck, we can work together to uncover what is holding you back and help you to develop the tools that will move you forward. A key component to beginning this process is to find someone who can put you at ease. I have been told I am easy to talk to and make providing a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment a top priority. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Reciprocal Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CRADC) in the state of Illinois. I have been in the field for close to 20 years and have been in private practice for 10. I specialize in helping people recover from anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. I utilize a collaborative, whole-person approach that values the relationship between therapist and client and sees the client as the expert. This is your story! I’m just walking through it with you, and I’m honored you chose me!

Eleni Kaitson

(she/her)

Eleni Kaitson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in Illinois. I received my Masters from the University of Illinois and have been practicing for 4 years. I have a deep passion for working with children, teens and adults. I have experience as a school social worker in the school setting and private practice setting. I am certified in CBITS (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Specialized in Trauma). I have treated a range of issues spanning the life-span including depression, anxiety, family-of-origin issues, and life transitions. I am also passionate about working with individuals who have struggled with relationships, low self-esteem/body image issues, and bullying.

Tamica Wells

(she/her)

Tamica Wells, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Merek Poto

(she/her)

Merek Poto, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Chris Rabe

(she/her)

Chris Rabe, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
You may find yourself experiencing toxic relationships/codependency, eating disorders, drugs & alcohol, anxiety, and perfectionism – the list of the ways we distract and soothe ourselves from discomfort goes on and on. You may find the need to learn more about yourself and your relationships, process life events, share things that are difficult to share with other people, or to explore how past experiences have shaped you. I am passionate about helping clients foster self-awareness by using motivational interviewing, to meet you right where you are. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. I am a National Board Certified Counselor. I have spent over 14 years in the mental health field, and 10 years as a mental health professional. You don’t need to be in a crisis to benefit from therapy. Ongoing wellness is crucial to a balanced life.

Jennifer Taylor

Jennifer Taylor, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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

Gina Grigas

(she/her)

Gina Grigas, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

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.

Dina Owen

Dina Owen, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Zoe Skowronski

(she/her)

Zoe Skowronski, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Zoe. I specialize in virtual therapy for teens and women navigating the lasting impact of complex PTSD, borderline personality disorder (BPD), eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. My work is rooted in the belief that healing begins with understanding—not just of symptoms, but of the emotional patterns, past experiences, and survival strategies that shaped them. I'm certified in DBT and trained in EMDR, integrating evidence-based approaches with a warm, direct style that helps clients build deeper insight, emotional regulation, and lasting change. Are you a teen or adult woman juggling the stress of work, school, or relationships while feeling stuck in a cycle of overthinking and self-doubt? Maybe past experiences still weigh on you, keeping you up at night, or you feel pressure to have it all together when, deep down, you’re struggling. You might be coping by being hard on yourself, over-controlling food or exercise, or repeating relationship patterns that don’t feel healthy. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I get how overwhelming it can be, and I’m here to help. If you’re exhausted from holding it all in, stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, toxic relationships, or self-doubt… I see you. If food, perfectionism, or emotional shutdown became your survival tools, you're not broken—you adapted. If you’ve been told you’re “too emotional” or “too sensitive,” but deep down you just feel too alone, this space is for you.

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 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.