Convenient Online Counseling
In a fast-paced city like Chicago, finding the time and space to prioritize your mental health can be difficult. Between work, commuting, relationships, and life’s daily demands, getting to a therapy office isn’t always realistic. That’s where virtual telehealth therapy can help.
At 2nd Story Counseling, we offer secure, confidential, and effective online therapy services for individuals and couples across Chicago and the state of Illinois.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress, or you’re seeking support through life transitions or relationship challenges, our licensed Chicago therapists are here to support you—from the comfort and privacy of your home.
What Is Virtual Therapy?
Virtual therapy (also called teletherapy or online counseling) is therapy conducted through a secure video platform. It offers the same professionalism, confidentiality, and therapeutic benefit as in-person sessions, without the travel or wait time.
All you need is a private space and a reliable internet connection. Sessions are held using a HIPAA-compliant video platform that protects your privacy.
What Issues Can Be Addressed with Online Therapy?
At 2nd Story Counseling, we help people work through a wide range of concerns using virtual therapy. Common issues we treat include:
- Generalized anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression and persistent sadness
- Life transitions, such as career changes
- Relationship and marital stress
- LGBTQ+ identity and affirmation
- Grief and loss
- Chronic stress and burnout
- Trauma and PTSD
Online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for many of these challenges. Whether you’re managing overwhelming thoughts, navigating personal growth, or healing from past pain, we’re here to help.
Our Therapeutic Approaches
Our licensed Chicago therapists use a variety of evidence-based methods tailored to your unique goals and needs. These include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Focuses on challenging and changing unhelpful thinking and behavioral patterns
- Mindfulness-Based Therapy – Teaches awareness of present-moment experiences to reduce stress and increase emotional regulation
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Helps clients accept what they cannot change and commit to actions aligned with their values
- Solution-Focused Therapy – Identifies your strengths and helps you move toward desired outcomes
- Trauma-Informed Therapy – Creates a safe space for those who have experienced trauma to feel empowered and supported
Whether you’re looking to manage anxiety, improve self-esteem, or strengthen your relationships, your therapist will work with you to find the right approach.
Why More People Are Choosing Virtual Therapy
Virtual therapy isn’t just a temporary substitute—it’s a flexible, accessible, and highly effective form of mental health care.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Convenience – Attend sessions from home, your office, or anywhere private
- Time-saving – No commute, parking, or waiting room necessary
- Increased accessibility – Great for parents, busy professionals, and those with mobility or transportation challenges
- Greater comfort – Some people feel more open talking from the comfort of their own space
- Consistent care – Stay connected even when traveling or during schedule changes
Our clients report that online therapy feels just as personal and impactful as in-person sessions—and often, more convenient and consistent.
Using Your Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO Insurance
We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO insurance for virtual therapy services. As an in-network provider, we can help you:
- Verify your mental health coverage
- Submit claims on your behalf
- Minimize out-of-pocket costs
We also welcome private-pay clients and those with out-of-network benefits.
Testimonials from Our Virtual Therapy Clients
“At first I wasn’t sure virtual therapy could feel personal, but I was amazed by how connected I felt. My therapist helped me manage my panic attacks, and I now feel more in control than ever.”
— Rachel L., Lincoln Park
“I started therapy after losing my job. Doing it online made it so much easier to fit into my life, and my therapist helped me rebuild my confidence and sense of purpose.”
— Michael J., West Loop
“My partner and I tried couples therapy virtually. It felt surprisingly natural, and it helped us learn to communicate better and feel closer again.”
— Ana & Jordan, Edgewater
How to Start Virtual Therapy at 2nd Story Counseling
Getting started is simple, and we’ll support you every step of the way.
1. Schedule a free phone consultation
2. We’ll match you with the right therapist
3. Begin your virtual therapy sessions—on your schedule, from wherever you are
Serving All of Chicago and Illinois
Our therapists are licensed in Illinois and provide virtual therapy services to clients across the entire state. Whether you’re in:
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Logan Square
- Hyde Park
- South Loop
- Wicker Park
- Edgewater
- Or the surrounding suburbs
We’re here to support your mental health.
Why Choose Virtual Therapy?
- Trusted Chicago-based therapists with expertise in anxiety, depression, relationships, and more
- Evidence-based care including CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed approaches
- Secure, confidential, and flexible telehealth sessions
- In-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO insurance
- LGBTQ+ affirming and inclusive
- Compassionate care for adults and couples across Illinois
Begin Your Next Chapter Today
At 2nd Story Counseling, we believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal, and move forward. Whether you’re struggling with something difficult or just feeling stuck, our team is here to walk alongside you.
📞 Call us at (773) 528-1777
📧 Or contact us here to schedule your virtual therapy appointment.