Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

I am a thoughtful, warm, seasoned therapist who combines a relational approach to counseling with sound clinical judgement. I have had the privilege to work with clients who are courageous, hardworking, introspective, and some of the most wonderful people I have met. I am inspired by my clients daily. I greatly enjoy walking alongside individuals and partnering with them as they pursue wholeness. Most frequently, I see clients facing challenges with anxiety, trauma, and spiritual concerns. I provide a safe place to explore concerns about family, racial identity, gender and sexuality. I have interest in clients who have shifting belief systems or have wounds from faith communities. I also enjoy working with those in the Helping Professions including: therapists, teachers, social workers, first responders and medical professionals. No matter your background, I would be glad to talk with you to see if we would work well together or if I know of a therapist who would be right for you. Finding a therapist can feel daunting but doesn’t have to be. My first step is a 15 minute call to explore whether we would be a good fit. Feel free to email and I would be glad to arrange a conversation.

It's my belief to "Keep life simple." Life is stressful enough. Balancing work, family, social life, friends, and relationships can be overwhelming at times. I practice from a harm reduction holistic theoretical orientation. It combines person-centered (respect for autonomy) with CBT/systemic therapy (a critical look at culture and attachments). By identifying wants and needs, I can assist clients with locating triggers and establishing healthy coping skills to alleviate any mental, emotional, or physical stress. I work particularly with parents and clients dealing with ADHD, Life choices, anxiety, self-esteem and accountability. I assist clients in adjusting to unexpected life transitions by constructing healthier boundaries with themselves and others to balance their lifestyles. I value the importance of creating a supportive, transparent, and collaborative relationship throughout the therapy process. I do this by providing a safe space for clients to embrace their vulnerabilities. Difficult experiences often show up in the body. Accessing embodied experience helps clients evolve. These shifts in the body have a corresponding effect on our actions, routines, and relationships. Through mindful awareness, we discover how the body holds our experiences. We learn to recognize habitual patterns and create new ones. The healing starts now...

Hi, my name is River! I work with adults (18+) and my main areas of focus are anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I also have a particular passion for working with people from the queer and neurodivergent communities. I enjoy working with clients who are trying to live fuller, more authentic, values-driven lives, and I am passionate about helping each client carve out a path forward that honors their unique identities. My approach to therapy is all about creating a space where you can bring your full authentic self and drawing on your inherent strengths to overcome whatever challenges you’re facing. I believe the therapeutic process looks different for everyone. Whether you are looking for something more structured and direct or you just need a space to talk things out, I will always strive to meet you where you’re at. I also take a systemic lens to therapy, bringing issues of power and privilege into the conversation. Understanding how systems of power and oppression impact the problems you are facing deepens our understanding of the issue and informs how to best move forward. I understand that starting therapy is not easy, and opening up to a stranger doesn’t come naturally to everyone. It is important for me to meet you where you’re at, whether you have experience in therapy or this is your first time. If you think I might be a fit, I would love to talk about how I can help support you. I look forward to meeting you!

I approach therapy as a collaborative endeavor. I strive to create a warm and accepting space where clients can safely explore the roadblocks they are encountering. My belief is that we are all capable of being resilient; we all have strengths we can rely on to support us through confusing and challenging times. Through therapy, my clients feel empowered to discover new ways to understand themselves and relate to others. My expertise includes relationships, family issues, academic stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression. Born and raised in Taiwan, and having later moved to the U.S. as an international student, I am deeply attuned to the excitement, opportunities for growth, and challenges of studying abroad and navigating new cultures. In addition to offering bilingual (English/Mandarin) psychotherapy, I actively investigate how language and culture shape our identities and the way we interact with the world around us. Throughout my professional career, I have been an advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. At the University of Indianapolis, I was an ambassador for international students at the Center for Global Engagement. I led initiatives to foster cultural humility among staff at Purdue University, as well as workshops on culturally-informed approaches to self-care at the Asian and Asian American Resource and Cultural Center. I am committed to working with people struggling with discrimination, microaggressions, language barriers, and identity explorations. I completed my Doctoral Internship at Purdue University, Counseling and Psychological Services. As part of my clinical training, I worked at university counseling centers in the Midwest (DePauw University, Indiana State University) and hospitals in Taiwan. I obtained a doctoral degree in Psychology (Psy.D.) from the University of Indianapolis, a program accredited by the American Psychological Association.

InTouch and Motion is a creative arts therapies practice that provides psychotherapy and wellness services for children, adults, families, and couples in person in Chicago and throughout Illinois via telehealth. Are you struggling with the many changes that come as you move through school, a new social landscape, and a looming career on the horizon? Do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, or alone? Know that you are more than your thoughts, more than all these worries. Your emotions, physical body, spiritual connections, purpose, and relationships make you who you are and give you your identity. At InTouch & Motion, we strive to create an open, healing environment for you to explore, grow, and nurture different all parts of yourself to become an integrated whole. Our therapies include counseling and psychotherapy, art therapy, music therapy, drama therapy, expressive arts therapy, and dance/movement therapy. Reach out for a free consultation today!

I want to help people feel a sense of belonging even if they don't feel like they belong anywhere else. This includes people who are part of the LGBTQ+/queer community, people who are autistic, AuDHD, or have ADHD, and people who have experienced relational trauma and/or religious trauma. If any of this reflects your experience, you may carry deep shame and feel disconnected from those around you. You might be putting on a happy face on the outside while things feel like they are falling apart inside. I want to come alongside you and help you clean out some of the rubble inside. You might be surprised by the "you" that you uncover. My approach is relational, experiential, and collaborative. I make space for what clients bring into session while guiding them to a point of focus and greater clarity. I primarily use internal family systems (IFS) therapy and also incorporate sandtray therapy. When meeting with clients virtually, I use Minecraft or Simply Sand Play for sandtray therapy. Using these types of therapy, I will help you access emotions and experiences that you can't access with words alone. This will help you unload some of that weight you've been carrying and live a more free and authentic life. If you are interested in working with me, contact me to book a free 15-minute consultation. I look forward to getting to know you!

Welcome to looking for a bit more help. I have over 27 years of experience working with people of all ages. I offer weekly meetings and have found appointments can really help reduce feelings of being stressed, anxious, overwhelmed and alone. Please feel free to contact me via email or call and we can chat for a few minutes to see if you’d like to set up an initial appointment. I work a schedule that allows clients to find a time that work for them weekly. I'm grateful to be able to help when needed, and have worked with young adults and children and adults in and out of schools and clinics throughout my career. Telehealth and in person sessions are offered to make the most out of your time and tailor help to what you deserve. *Will help with insurance billing

Everyone deserves to feel heard, empowered, and respected, especially during life’s most challenging moments. Therapy provides a safe space for healing, and I would be honored to support you in your journey toward self-empowerment. As a collaborative and non-judgmental therapist in Chicago, my goal is to work with you to find the best path to healing that aligns with your unique needs. With personal experience navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions, I understand the emotional and relational challenges that many face. I have had the privilege of working with clients from all walks of life, helping them process difficult emotions and navigate major transitions—whether in relationships, work, or health. I specialize in supporting folks as they manage the pressures of life, relationships, and mental health. Together, we will address anxiety, depression, and other emotional struggles, develop strategies for managing overwhelming feelings, and create practical plans to face challenges with confidence. I approach therapy with humor, thoughtfulness, and a focus on affirmations, believing that trust and respect are the foundation of any therapeutic relationship. During our sessions, I will bring my genuine and authentic self to create a warm and empowering environment. A phone consultation is available to explore your treatment intentions and schedule an initial session, where we will discuss your goals and begin to shape your healing journey. My modalities include: Trauma-Informed Therapy Play Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Strength-Based Therapy Mindfulness-Based Therapy My specialities: Anxiety Depression ADHD LGBTQ+ Issues Academic Stress Parenting Support Trauma

We live in a hectic, high-pressured world. It can be hard to stay connected to one's true self when managing the stress and expectations of our nonstop culture - especially when life doesn't go according to plan. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment to help you gain perspective, process past experiences, clarify your values, and experience healing and deeper fulfillment. Together we will use sessions to set goals, identify barriers to growth, increase coping skills, and build on your existing strengths. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse ages, sexual orientations, genders, & backgrounds. I employ an individualized, person-centered approach and utilize aspects from several research-based approaches. I have over 10 years of experience providing therapy for a variety of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, and difficult life transitions. I'm grateful for your courage and interest in therapy. It can be a life-changing process and I would be honored to support you on your journey toward healing and wholeness. If this resonates with you, please reach out today to schedule an initial session with me.

I believe that healing begins with a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space—one where you can freely explore your experiences and take meaningful steps toward improved mental health. If you are ready to embark on a journey toward greater well-being, I am here to support you. Together, we can work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

If you find yourself not feeling good enough, struggling to cope with worries, traumas, and pain from the past, or wanting to learn more about yourself and why you think and behave in the ways that you do, my therapeutic approach may be right for you. Depending on your goals/needs, we will work together to increase your insight, explore alternative coping strategies, and help you feel empowered to make different decisions in life to get your closer to who and where you want to be. My intention in our work together is to see you, understand you, and challenge you to grow. When necessary/needed, we will use humor along the way! I specialize in working with adults struggling with feelings of Unworthiness/Low Self-Esteem, Trauma/PTSD, Family/Relationship Conflict, Anxiety, and Depression. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC, Mental Health Professionals, Artists, Immigrants, First-Generation Americans, Bi-cultural Individuals, and the Kink community. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. Through our work together, you can learn to practice more self-compassion, feel more grounded, and better manage all the thoughts and feelings you're experiencing. If you connected to what I've shared and feel like we would be a good fit, feel free to message me to arrange a free phone consult.

I absolutely love working with young folks who feel stuck, anxious, or alone in dealing with the stressors that life brings. I am a relational therapist that holds space for young adults to build connection, develop mindfulness, and explore what values will be motivating for their life choices. This work is rooted in prioritizing self-acceptance: one of the best gifts we can give ourselves in individual talk therapy. In a group therapy setting, I aim to create freedom for individuals to get better at feeling emotions and communicating them to others, as a way to navigate symptoms of anxiety, depression, or trauma. Let’s talk more about how I can help you explore self-doubt, dysregulated emotions, academic anxiety, peer conflict, grief, apathy, anger, addiction, shame, or sadness. The experience of emerging adults today is not hopeless; there is ample opportunity to build resources for connection. This connection creates confidence in your ability to cope, grow, and heal on the journey towards a meaningful life!

Hello! I'm Danielle and I work with many university students from the University of Chicago. I assist students to manage stress of the busy college/university lifestyle. Some clients have long standing struggles either diagnosed or not yet diagnosed and I help these clients to discover best ways to cope. Client Types: I work with clients who have or suspect ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, and adjustment concerns related to family, friends, and academic work. Demographics/Allied: Disability, Men, Women, LGBTQ+, culturally diverse Interest individuals: You may reach out and request a 15+ minute consultation to see if we'd be a good fit. How I work: First, I'm Person-Centered (considering the whole person) and considering your unique needs. Then, I use an action based approach to help client's achieve their goals. What would work best for you is discussed in the first session during assessment. Who works best with me: Those who like an interactive counselor who is empathetic and with validate your feelings while also challenging you to grow and increase positive changes. My goal is to assist you to gain a healthy tool box to manage life's stresses.

Hello! my name Renee Smith, I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in working with children/adolescents, and young adults. With a deep understanding of the challenges that young people face, I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping strategies. My approach is emphasizing empathy, patience, and trust as we work together to navigate life’s challenges. I have experience helping children, teens, and young adults, with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral difficulties, peer relationships, and family dynamics. I draw from evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I understand that this stage of life can be complex. My goal is to empower young people to thrive and build a strong foundation for the future. If you're looking for a caring and skilled therapist to support your endeavors, I’m here to help guide you through the journey to emotional well-being and success! Virtual Only....

Therapy is a unique opportunity to find peace within ourselves. While it may be difficult to find the right therapist to work with, I find my warm, empathetic, friendly, straight-forward approach helps my clients work through issues to find transformation and purpose in their life, as we collaboratively work to find the right approach that fits for you. I work with different types of clients. Some may struggle with challenges of anxiety, depression or mood disorders and the impact it has on their lives, or perhaps not feeling good enough. Others may be working through different life transitions, career struggles or relationship issues. We will work together to help you find self-acceptance of who you are. I also enjoy working with clients trying to navigtate different challenges unique to the LGBTQ+ population. Additionally, I have a special interest and experience working with athletes during different phase-of-life transitions with the uncertainty that comes when having to carve out a new path while struggling the loss of identity of being an athlete.

Life’s journey may bring times of challenge, uncertainty, and pain. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, stuck, or powerless at times. Facing these moments alone can make them even harder. In therapy, I hope to collaborate with you to build a compassionate and empathetic relationship where it is safe to be curious, observe, reflect and grow. Together we’ll understand the sources of distress in the context of your identities and experiences, try out different coping skills and identify what works best for you. We will also explore ways to navigate difficult situations in your life to support you in being your most authentic self. As a therapist holding marginalized identities, I’m passionate about working with folks in the immigrant, BIPOC, neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. My training focused on anxiety, depression, trauma, relational concerns, navigating oppression and discrimination, self-esteem, and grief. I enjoy helping clients find ways to live the life they envision. I provide therapy in both English and Mandarin.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Mariya is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and co-founder of Willow Recovery Group. She is passionate about creating safe, affirming spaces for people to process trauma, explore their relationship with food and body, and navigate life’s challenges with compassion. Mariya specializes in trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, multicultural experiences, and life transitions, blending evidence-based approaches with a deeply relational style. Her clients describe her as warm, grounding, and supportive — someone who walks alongside them through both the hard and hopeful parts of recovery. Outside of her clinical work, Mariya enjoys spending time in nature, reading, and being with loved ones (including her pets, who often serve as her best “co-therapists”).

Welcome! Taking the first step to start therapy can sometimes feel scary, and beginning your journey to healing is something to be proud of. I am honored to walk alongside you and help you navigate throughout this experience. My role as a therapist is to create a safe environment that helps you feel heard, understood, and valued. I bring empathy, authenticity, and genuineness to the therapeutic relationship and I value the inner strength and empowerment of every individual. I embrace the importance of working collaboratively with you to identify and achieve your therapeutic goals. I strive to facilitate a welcoming and non-judgmental space so you can be the truest form of yourself. I am particularly passionate about working with students. This phase of life comes with a unique set of challenges such as adjusting to life transitions, working through school and career stressors, managing relationship and family challenges, and exploring one’s developing identity. I aim to help you navigate stress management, prevent burnout, and set a healthy work/life balance. I also specialize in working with clients with body image issues and eating concerns, and have extensively researched ADHD and concentration difficulties in young adults. As a clinician, I integrate numerous techniques and work from a culturally-sensitive framework utilizing cognitive-behavioral, family systems, and strengths-based approaches. I also have specific training in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and the Gottman method. Experience My prior clinical experiences include providing individual, group, couples, and family therapy at a private practice and in numerous college counseling centers. I most recently completed my doctoral internship at The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Counseling Center. I have supported clients from a wide array of racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds with many unique presenting concerns. I have been fortunate to work with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults throughout my training. I am passionate about empowering my clients to achieve their therapeutic goals.

With the complexities in the world today, it can be tough to catch a breath, decompress, and process the events in our unique lives. As bandwidths are stretched thin, boundaries infiltrated, and burnout ever present, the pressures of our day-to-day lives can pile on top of each other, making it hard to find balance and reach our goals. These challenges do not need to be faced alone. If you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, grief, or addiction, together we will create a safe and collaborative space to face these challenges head-on, guiding you to feel more empowered, centered, and fulfilled. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. The most important aspect of my approach is that it matches a client’s support needs and goals. Using an integrative, trauma-informed and person-centered framework, I aim to follow the client's lead and modify our process based on their unique personality, lived experiences, and interests. I'm so glad you are here. Life is full of ups that deserve to be celebrated and downs that deserve to be acknowledged and processed. Let’s dive into this together and start making your goals a reality. I look forward to hearing from you and getting to know you!