Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

I graduated from Purdue University with my Bachelors in Psychology and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. I had always known from a young age that I enjoyed working with children and adolescents, and I quickly figured out that Counseling was the right career path for me. I always valued helping others and providing a supportive surrounding for those who may feel lost, alone or helpless. I earned my Masters from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, with concentrations in Children and Adolescents, and Latino Mental Health. I believe that intervention, education and prevention are key to helping my clients live a healthy and happy life. I practice from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach and like to integrate various other interventions, such as mindfulness, music, art, play and reflective writings, in my client's treatment. Through my education and own personal experience, I recognize that one's culture largely impacts their development as a person. In my treatment, I am mindful of my client's culture and work to utilize that into their individual treatment. As a therapist, I strive to provide a safe, healthy, kind, supportive, and collaborative environment for my clients.

Jessie Knoble, LSW, is dedicated to helping individuals on their unique paths to peace and healing. Serving the diverse communities of Illinois, Jessie provides compassionate care tailored to each person's story, acknowledging the beauty and pain that shape our lives. With a core belief in the importance of being heard, respected, and validated, Jessie supports clients in rewriting their narratives to embrace strength and resilience. Specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and women's issues, Jessie is particularly passionate about empowering clients through life's midlife transitions. Using an integrative approach, she utilizes evidence-based therapies such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to address complex emotional and psychological challenges. Jessie's commitment to these modalities reflects her dedication to providing the highest standard of care. Jessie is especially passionate about serving the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals within this population. Her approach is inclusive and affirming, offering a safe space for clients to explore their identities and experiences.

Welcome! You are in the right place! Elisabeth Pasch is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience serving adolescents, adults, and incarcerated individuals through Community-based counseling, Inpatient Psychiatric Services, and Inpatient and Outpatient Substance Use and Mental Health Services. As a clinician who maintains her own wellness and growth through therapy, she understands the value of developing a trusting, non-judgmental, compassionate, encouraging, and safe therapeutic relationship. She believes this to be the foundation of change for any client she serves. Elisabeth's hope is to help each individual recognize and value their own inherent worth. She approaches therapy with the understanding that most people have lived through adverse life experiences and need support in understanding how those moments have impacted their personality, relationships, and ways of functioning in the world. Elisabeth has experience utilizing Person-Centered therapy, DBT, CBT, EFT and mindfulness-based approaches. She serves every individual from a trauma-informed, holistic perspective "? recognizing the unique spiritual, physical, emotional and psychological needs of each person. She hopes to be a witness and guide along your journey.

Adrienne Driscoll, APN, PMHNP, provides comprehensive mental health care to patients across Illinois. With extensive experience in various clinical settings, she excels at listening to her patients, formulating accurate diagnoses, and collaborating to create effective, personalized treatment plans. Her approach emphasizes teamwork, ensuring that each patient feels supported and involved in their journey towards better mental health. Adrienne specializes in treating a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, with expertise in managing ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, and Gender Identity issues. She also has a strong focus on addressing Post-Partum Depression and Anxiety, understanding the unique challenges new parents face. Through her compassionate and knowledgeable approach, Adrienne helps her patients navigate these complex conditions, offering them the tools and support they need to thrive. In addition to her specialized focus areas, Adrienne is highly skilled in managing Anxiety, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. She employs evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help patients develop coping strategies and improve their overall well-being.

Caitlin Kohls, LPC, provides compassionate and effective mental health services to individuals across Illinois, creating a safe and collaborative environment where clients can explore and address their challenges. With expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Caitlin helps clients build on their existing strengths and develop new, practical coping strategies. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, or gender identity concerns, Caitlin empowers clients to achieve a deeper understanding of themselves and make meaningful progress in their lives. Specializing in ADHD, PTSD/trauma, and gender identity, Caitlin is passionate about helping clients navigate complex issues with care and respect. She has extensive experience supporting children, teens, and adults, providing individualized care that acknowledges each person's unique journey.

Veris Hawkins-Smith is a Psychotherapist who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL with a MSEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Veris believes in a Behavioral Approach that includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Therapy. Veris believes life is a journey full of obstacles that impact one's well-being, however any challenge can be overcome with the correct tools. She treats each client relationship as unique and constantly evolving. Veris supports adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse and more. She is an expert at helping clients identify and understand unhealthy behaviors and create a plan for change. In her spare time, Veris enjoys cooking, baking, gardening, music, and journaling.

Laura Sauer-Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples. She treats anxiety, depression, trauma and stress, ADHD, personality disorders, negative body image and low self-esteem, anger management, boundary issues, relationship dysfunction, and more. Laura believes in walking alongside those seeking therapy, and she encourages a collaborative approach so her clients can be active participants and receive what they need out of their experience. She enjoys continuously building on her education to ensure she has the knowledge and expertise to help anyone who enters her therapeutic space.

Cheryl Gonska is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with four years of experience. She has a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Cheryl believes that anyone can benefit from therapy. She feels that although the specific goals may change, therapy is meant to improve one's quality of life. Her main areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety, and adjusting to life changes. In her spare time, Cheryl enjoys running, kayaking, and crocheting.

Johanna Janik is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) at LifeStance Health who is dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. Serving clients throughout Illinois, Johanna creates a compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic environment tailored to each individual?s unique needs. Her goal is to empower clients to navigate life?s complexities and find greater fulfillment through self-awareness, resilience, and actionable change. Johanna has extensive experience working with adults across various stages of life, from young adults to those navigating midlife transitions. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns. Her integrative approach incorporates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques. Johanna?s commitment to creating a safe, affirming space also extends to those exploring issues related to gender identity and self-expression. Johanna is particularly passionate about helping clients address grief, PTSD/trauma, and women's issues.

Mija Bradford, LPC, is a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through their spiritual and emotional journeys. Mija believes that many struggles stem from a misalignment with one's true self and works to help clients reconnect with their inner essence. They provide a safe, sacred space for clients to explore their spiritual identity, moving beyond surface-level symptoms to address the root causes of distress. Mija specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma, particularly in those who feel disconnected from their authentic selves due to societal expectations, past traumas, or self-limiting beliefs. Their approach is holistic, integrating traditional therapeutic techniques with spiritual practices like mindfulness, meditation, and energy work. Mija is especially passionate about working with women and LGBTQ+ individuals, supporting them in uncovering deeper truths and achieving profound personal transformation. They also focus on childhood behavior issues and couple's issues, offering a space for healing and growth for children, adolescents, and couples alike. They are committed to helping clients realign with their true selves, guiding them toward greater peace, clarity, and a more authentic life.

Melissa Castrovillo, M. A. , LPC, is dedicated to helping individuals and families in Illinois navigate life?s challenges through personalized, evidence-based therapy. With extensive experience working in diverse settings, including correctional facilities, schools, group practices, and nonprofit organizations, Melissa specializes in supporting adolescents, adults, and seniors. She offers a safe and collaborative environment to address a variety of mental health concerns and empower clients to reduce stress, enhance emotional well-being, and improve overall life functioning. Passionate about treating trauma, substance use, and emotional regulation difficulties, Melissa utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). These approaches are tailored to each client?s unique needs, helping them build on their strengths and manage symptoms effectively. She also has expertise in addressing oppositional behavioral disorders and chronic mental health conditions, equipping clients with practical tools for sustainable change. Melissa has a strong focus on addressing PTSD, anxiety, and ADHD, helping individuals regain balance and clarity in their lives. With years of service in the U.

Education and Training: Mrs. Simona Stanila received her Bachelor's Degree in Education, Literature and Languages from the University of Bucharest, Romania and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MACL) from Argosy University, Schaumburg, Illinois. She is currently working towards her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D. ) at Argosy University, Chicago, Illinois. During her Practicum for her Master's Degree, Mrs. Simona Stanila worked at the Streamwood Behavioral Health Center in Illinois as a part of the Advanced Crisis Therapy (ACT) unit. Other areas of training include school counseling, geriatric issues, family therapy and multicultural integration. Methods and Therapeutic Approaches: Solution-Focused Brief Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Social Learning, Humanistic-Phenomenological, Narrative Therapy, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, Evidenced Based Therapeutic Activities, Art and Play Therapy.

During our journey through life, it is easy at times to feel lost, stuck, caught in a crossroads, and overwhelmed. And unfortunately for us, life never came with a roadmap. My job as a counselor is to walk alongside you as we work through the obstacles of life together. I provide a safe, compassionate space for self-exploration, collaborative problem-solving, personal healing, and growth. My client-centered and accepting style puts the therapeutic alliance front and center as you set the agenda for our work. Too much guidance risks taking away your own autonomy, and too little keeps you confused, so striking the right balance is one of the keys to good therapy. Experienced in treating problems with addiction, codependency, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, relationship difficulties, and trauma, I am effective in helping adults and adolescents with a broad range of presenting concerns.

Danielle Levinson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. Danielle is a dedicated therapist with over 5 years of experience, passionate about guiding individuals and couples through their unique journeys towards resilience and well-being. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse, she combines her extensive experience with compassion and respect to foster empathetic therapeutic relationships. In crisis management, Danielle provides a steadfast presence, offering practical tools and compassionate support during challenging times. She works collaboratively with clients to navigate the complexities of their journeys, fostering resilience, growth, and empowerment. Danielle's approach is rooted in a client-centered mindset, where the unique experiences and needs of her clients take center stage. By blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and other evidence-based interventions, she empowers clients to navigate challenges, fostering a sense of control and mastery over their lives. Outside of work, Danielle finds joy in life's simple pleasures and meaningful connections.

Tiffany believes everybody can benefit from working with a therapist. Every client is unique and deserves an individualized approach to help live their authentic life. Her approach is authentic, warm, energetic, and positive. Her mental health work experience includes working in Community Mental Health for individual and group counseling, running groups for self-esteem, and substance addictions, as well as private group practice. Clients have noticed an increase in self-awareness, self-reflection, and how to use the awareness to their advantage. Through psychoeducation, expanding/building skill sets, and learning and implementing coping strategies, it is her goal to help support clients to thrive. She uses a variety of treatment modalities to encourage personal growth and healing. Depending on your needs and desires, traditional methods such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), interpersonal, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapies are used.

Alexis Blair Rosen is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. Using an evidence-based, eclectic approach Alexis will assist the client/s in developing goals based on their reasons for seeking therapy. Examples of specific therapeutic modalities Alexis uses include play therapy, bibliotherapy, mindfulness/yoga, CBT, DBT, EFT, and solution-focused interventions to meet the unique needs of each person. Outside of work Alexis enjoys cooking, hiking, biking, time with family, yoga, and creating picture books.

Annmarie Schening is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. She earned her Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certificate as well as her Bachelor?s and Master?s degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. Annmarie takes a personalized, trauma informed approach to your care, pulling from CBT, DBT, ACT, and IFS models. When not at work, Annmarie enjoys anything outside! She loves to garden, ride her bike, and hike. She also enjoys baking and cooking, as well as finding new restaurants. She likes to read, particularly thriller novels.

Anisa Pasho, M. A. , LPC, is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges with a calm, accepting, and growth-oriented approach. Serving clients in Illinois, Anisa provides a supportive environment where clients can explore their concerns and find practical solutions to address the here-and-now. Whether working through anxiety, trauma, or life transitions, Anisa's humanistic approach emphasizes each individual's inherent capacity for growth and self-actualization. Through a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Family Therapy, she helps clients achieve meaningful progress in their mental health journey. Anisa is particularly passionate about addressing trauma, anxiety, and spiritual concerns. She has extensive experience supporting clients with past life memories, out-of-body experiences, and other profound phenomena that can feel overwhelming or unexplainable. Her holistic approach to therapy ensures that clients feel heard and validated, while also exploring deeper issues that may contribute to their mental health struggles.

Marina Cotsilis is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. She has a Master of Social Work from University of Denver, a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art Photography from Columbia College Chicago, and a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology w/minor in Fine Arts from Loyola University of Chicago. Marina provides her clients with emotional support, guidance, and encouragement. She helps them build coping skills/strategies and the courage and resilience to overcome mental health challenges and life struggles. Marina offers education on mental health symptoms, causes, and treatment options. She strives to create a safe, welcoming, judgment free, calm environment for her clients. Outside of work, Marina is also an endurance cyclist and 2-time Iron Man Competitor, a triathlete, a professional photographer, a traveler for bike races, an MMA fighter and kickboxer, and an active hiker with her dog, Ella. She loves to volunteer and work with the Special Olympics, enjoys reading anything and everything she can get her hands on, and listening to and playing music.

Melissa Downey is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. She has an M.S. Ed in Counseling. Melissa believes in taking a holistic, person-centered approach, focused on each person's strengths as a way to personalize their experience. She strives to work together with clients on achieving those goals through realistic goalsetting, drawing from strengths each person already has within them, combined with new skills learned in session together. Melissa truly believes that everyone has within them the ability, potential, and drive to achieve their goals. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys softball, volunteering with Veteran's organizations, and reading.