United Healthcare Shared Services Therapists in Illinois

Finding a therapist who accepts United Healthcare Shared Services can make accessing mental health support more affordable and straightforward. With 25 verified therapists in Illinois who accept United Healthcare Shared Services, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused therapy to address concerns like anxiety, mood disorders, or stress management. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, providing timely access to quality care that aligns with your United Healthcare Shared Services coverage.

Find therapists near you in

Chicago

Availability updated: 7/17/2025

Jess Samperio

(she/they)

Jess Samperio, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! (Bienvenido/a!). My name is Jess and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe that every person has the right to be heard, to heal, and to grow. I approach therapy from a place of kindness and compassion, openness and curiosity. My work with clients begins from a strengths based place, to ensure that you are seen and understood, taking into account your inherent strengths as well as your areas for growth. I also believe that people are deeply impacted by the world around them and therefore, I focus my work with clients to identify and unpack oppressive forces in their lives. I am fluent in English and Spanish, and have extensive experience providing therapy to children and adults in both languages. My goal is to create a safe space for you to explore any topic without feeling judged or censored. I understand that not everybody heals in the same way, which is why I use a variety of theoretical approaches in my work. Our conversations will be tailored to what works best for your healing and growth. I look forward to working alongside you! Please visit my website for more information and to book appointments with me: I find it easier to schedule clients via my website. Thank you!/Gracias https://www.compassionatehealingtherapycenter.com

Felicia Muhammad

Felicia Muhammad, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed in Illinois with 11 years of professional therapy work experience. I also am a sociologist of 30 years, studying and teaching on behavior within society. I have experience helping clients with anxiety, stress, grief, trauma and abuse, relationship difficulties, and family conflicts. I treat everyone with compassion, sensitivity, and respect. I work with my clients to meet their specific needs. It takes courage to take that first step to a more fulfilling, productive, and happier life. I am here to provide a safe space and support you through that process.

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.

Joan VanderSchaaf

Joan VanderSchaaf, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
17 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My counseling practice is in Wheaton, Illinois and I am also licensed in Florida. I have a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and a doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision. In addition to private practice, I serve as professor in the counseling graduate program at National Louis University in the Chicago area where I teach all foundational theory and research-based courses.

Christina Sharp

(she/her)

Christina Sharp, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Christina Sharp. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Missouri and went on to get my clinical license (LCSW). I reside in Missouri and I am licensed in Missouri, Nevada, Illinois and Massachusetts. I have worked for clinics and have seen clients in-person, via telehealth, and in-home. I now have my own private practice and see client's via telehealth. I am a wife and a mother to an amazing young daughter, who I love to spend my off time with. I am also an animal lover with three of my own; my 8yr old dog Phoenix, and my litter-mate 11yr old cats Radar and Ziva. My self-care includes spending time out in nature with my family, including getting my hands dirty in my garden. I enjoy reading and spending quality time with my young child. Over the winter months, I also enjoy crocheting and learning new skills.

Abbey Lanton

Abbey Lanton, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
21 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! After much thought, you have made the very brave decision to seek therapy ... and what a difference it can make! It is important that you seek a therapist who respects your journey; Someone who demonstrates acceptance, compassion, empathy, and respect, while also therapeutically challenging you to become your best self - And I hope to serve as that person in your life. A little bit about me: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW,) Perinatal Mental Health Counselor (PMH-C,) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 20 years of clinical experience. In assisting my clients, I take an integrative approach in using various therapeutic principles to aid my work. Simply put, I will help you identify and utilize your strengths, so that we can work through your struggles.

Karen Dolbee

(she/her)

Karen Dolbee, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Karen and I am excited to meet you. I enjoy being a part of my clients' journeys as they explore challenges, concerns related to anxiety and depression, and the ups and downs of life. I will meet you where you are at with a non-judgemental and curious attitude. Together we will explore and examine what you are experiencing currently and what you would like your future to look like and then we will be on our way!

Renee Keller

Renee Keller, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
AWAKEN + EXPAND + TRANSFORM + GROW Greetings and welcome! I'm Renee Keller, a board-certified Psychotherapist with over 16 years of experience in professionally transforming lives. My expertise lies in personal development, fostering confidence and self-expression, navigating intimacy, cultivating healthy relationships while prioritizing self-care. From traditional approaches to innovative, science-backed methods, I tailor my techniques to suit your unique needs and lead you towards your desired outcome. If you're seeking to improve a situation or circumstance and desire to become better version of you, I am accepting new clients and welcome the opportunity to level-up your life!

Kara Simpson

(she/her)

Kara Simpson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Kara Simpson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois and have been in practice for about 8 years. I have experience working with individuals (of all ages), family's, and groups with several different types of mental health diagnosis and concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, grief, addiction, and domestic violence.

Amanda Berenguel Smolka

(she/her)

Amanda Berenguel Smolka, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been formally practicing therapy for 5+ years; though I've been an informal therapist for family and friends since my adolescent years. I work mostly with teens and families with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, by teaching DBT, CBT, ACT, and Executive Functioning skills. I have worked in an inpatient hospital and how work in a Partial Hospitalization Program while also doing private practice on the side. I am also a wife (since 2007) and mother (since 2011) so relationships, family dynamics, children with mental health concerns are also part of my daily life.

Monika Breidenbach

(she/her)

Monika Breidenbach, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
If your mind is racing, or you're feeling stuck in panic or overthinking — don’t stay in that alone. I help people slow down, calm their nervous system, and think clearly again, even when everything feels like too much. We don’t have to fix everything in one conversation. Calm support can help your body shift out of that fight-or-flight mode. You don’t have to figure it out by yourself. I’ll sit with you through it. Bbook a spot and let’s get you grounded today. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I help people navigate anxiety, OCD, and life transitions, as well as stress, burnout, low self-esteem, and tough emotions like anger. My approach is practical, brain-based, and grounded in compassion.

Tor Smith

Tor Smith, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
My vision is to let people know there is a place where they can be heard, while being empowered and uplifted. My work focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths and teaching them tools to help not only cope, but also heal. I use a therapeutic process that focuses on my clients' needs and goals; along with evidence-based practices to help my clients resolve their issues and renew their lives.

Nicole Hooten

(she/her)

Nicole Hooten, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
You deserve an opportunity to feel supported by having your thoughts and feelings be acknowledged. Throughout the course of life, we may experience mental health challenges that arise unexpectedly. Allow yourself to heal from those challenges and grow towards the future with the support that therapy provides. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am invested in my clients whole self by guiding them into controlling their narrative and becoming their own author. I obtained my MSW at Governors State University in 2019 with a specialization in children and families.

Dr. Shelly Scamardo

Dr. Shelly Scamardo, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Shelly. I grew up in Michigan and completed my doctorate at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 2004. I have over 20 years of experience working with people of all ages with all sorts of issues. I help adults with anxiety, OCD and life transitions feel better quickly. Some life transitions that I help with can include adjusting to college, graduating and starting a career, marriage, career change, and having children to name a few of the areas that I help with.

Elexes Hetzel

(she/her)

Elexes Hetzel, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Are you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed, as if you have lost control over your own life and are unsure how to get back on track? It happens to all of us sometimes. Our minds can be our biggest enemies, where our expectations get the best of us. Allow me to collaborate with you in order to unpack your thoughts and emotions to gradually make adjustments to help you become a stronger version of yourself. Whether you are struggling with a life transition, pregnancy and postpartum, caregiving for a loved one, grief and loss, anxiety or depression; I will work with you to process and navigate through these difficult times. I will empower you to find your strengths and use them to make a little progress every day.

Amanda Gaugler

Amanda Gaugler, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

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.

Precious Bradley

(she/her)

Precious Bradley, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I bring a unique approach to my clinical work, empathizing with vulnerability as a key aspect, complemented by a strong sense of empathy and curiosity. I have a deep passion for the therapeutic process and a firm believer in the transformative power of change. I have spent years working with folks who are struggling with many different mental health issues; however, my specialties are listed below.

Melissa Pazen

(she/her)

Melissa Pazen, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Laurie Longfield

Laurie Longfield, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
Virtual
I would love to work with teenager, young adults, adults and older generations to help them navigate through difficult life transitions, anxiety, depression and grief and loss. My ideal client understands that therapy is a journey and is willing to show up for themselves wanting something different and better for themselves. My ideal client is committed to the work and confident they can show up for themselves and be able to see things in a different perspective and try new things that are outside of their comfort zone.

Teanna Ramirez

(she/her)

Teanna Ramirez, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who attained a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2020. My passions include social justice, prison reform, substance use, and domestic violence. I have extensive knowledge working with individuals who struggle with addiction, anxiety, stress, depression, adjustment issues, relationship issues, and coping with chronic health conditions.

Danika Dale

(she/her)

Danika Dale, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm so glad you are here to learn a bit more about me. Picking the right therapist is such an important decision and I want you to feel confident you've found a great match. One of my biggest priorities is to make therapy feel good for people. I know that for many, therapy can seem awkward or uncomfortable. I'm trying my best to change that narrative by allowing our time together to be relaxed and a space where you feel like an equal. I want you to feel seen and understood anytime we work together. My specialty is helping those who have experienced truly difficult seasons in life find three main things: self-awareness, balance and peace. This often includes working with those who have had tough childhood experiences, first responders, relationship issues (divorce, abuse, infidelity, etc.), sexual assault victims, and parents with postpartum anxiety and/or depression. In our sessions together we will focus on getting to know your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. We will identify where the problem spots are, and collaborate in creating strategies you can use to feel more balanced in your day-to-day life. We can also explore memories and past experiences, understanding how these affect your present. Ultimately, our work can help you to find peace with the past, contentment with your present and enthusiasm for the future.

Jane Perkins

Jane Perkins, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
27 years of experience
Virtual
A Christian Counselor who counsels with an open Bible during the session. I serve individuals grappling with intrusive negative thoughts, shame, and guilt from past decisions and the lack of clarity about their God-given purpose. Do you experience emotional breakdowns, increased stress, and sleepless nights? Do you often fight to quiet or chase away the persistent inner thoughts/voices? It can be down-right SCARY as uncontrollable anxiety and spiritual uncertainty set in, leaving you to wonder, “Where is God?” “Why is this happening to me?” and crying out, “I just want it to stop!” When positive self-talk, distraction, and deep breathing are not working, you need to find a different kind of therapy. Christian counseling, which utilizes Biblical instructions from God, focuses on dealing with all aspects of mental health. The Bible is true, and scientific discoveries continue to support what God has been telling us. Let's remove the distracting emotional states of worry, fear, and pain so you can focus on life. You can engage in enjoyable activities again with doubt or apprehension. If you are done with all the annoying, catastrophizing negative thoughts that keep you from enjoying life or rob you of sleep at night, I want to encourage you - you don’t have to live this way. Reach out to me TODAY. I offer a FREE 20-minute CONSULTATION if you still have questions. Start experiencing peace and joy today!

Chelsea Davis

(she/her)

Chelsea Davis, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Chelsea, and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I graduated in 2019 from Clarke University with my Master's of Social Work. I spent my undergraduate years shadowing and volunteering at a sexual assault and domestic violence advocacy center. I completed research in the areas of trauma, decision making, and intimate relationships. I completed a job shadow with a Victim Witness Coordinator, where I also conducted a year long research project on domestic violence in rural communities. During that time I completed an internship at a combined homeless shelter and food pantry. I then completed a secondary internship at a local community mental health center. I spent four years working at that same local community mental health center where I provided crisis services, individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. I was able to earn my license during that time. I transitioned into school based social work and provided case management and therapy services in the local school setting. I now have opened a private practice called Resiliency Counseling, which is an individualized practice focused on providing individual, couples, and family therapy services to help people who are wanting to improve their mental health in a safe, accepting, and trusting environment. I always strive to meet my patients where they are at in their mental health journey and tailor my approach to what they need. I approach therapy as a mix of processing, guidance, and challenging, in order to help a client identify, process, and reach their mental health goals.

Dr. Olushola Bakare

(she/her)

Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Dr. Olushola Bakare, and I'm a board-certified Psychotherapist. I attended St Joseph College. I'm happy to help you today with any of your concerns. I enjoy empowering people and digging out their strengths. I don't ask fish to fly, neither do I ask birds to swim. I respect everyone's strengths and help my client recognize them. I love to highlight my client's strengths. I offer a safe, warm, therapeutic, judgment-free space for Adults (18+) and Older Adults (65+). I am sorry, but I do not accept clients who pay in cash. Also, every late cancellation or no-show accrues a late charge fee. It is my ethical duty to officially terminate our therapeutic relationship when it is reasonably clear that the client is no longer beneficent, services are no longer required, counseling no longer serves the client's needs and interests, or Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT limits do not allow the provision of further counseling services. It is the policy of Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, that our professional relationship will be terminated after a one-month consistent lapse of meeting with a client. Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, will attempt to notify you of this change in status as soon as possible after one month. My ethical duty is identifying, being available, and caring for current clients. It could feel awkward for our relationship to end, yet it is not meant to be discourteous in any way. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc). NO COUPLE THERAPY OR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, PLEASE!

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.

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 UnitedHealthcare Shared Services?

Yes! If you use UnitedHealthcare Shared Services you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have UnitedHealthcare Shared Services 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 Post Partum?

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, Post Partum, 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.