Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Many of the students I work with feel like they’re carrying more than what shows on the outside. Between school, family expectations, friendships, and figuring out who they are, it can feel like there’s never enough space to just breathe. Some describe feeling anxious, weighed down, or stuck between different parts of their life; like they’re trying to hold it all together but don’t always know how. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work especially well with students who: ◦ Feel pressure to succeed academically while juggling family or cultural expectations ◦ Notice anxiety or low moods making it harder to focus or enjoy daily life ◦ Struggle with relationships, whether that’s family, friends, or dating ◦ Are first-generation, or navigating life between more than one culture ◦ Want a space that feels supportive, flexible, and understanding Therapy with me is about having someone on your side who understands those layers. We’ll take it step by step, focusing on what matters most to you so you can feel steadier, less weighed down, and more like yourself again.

Patterns and Threads is an inclusive psychotherapy practice specializing in creativity, neurodivergence and embracing the unexpected. If you are creative, neurodivergent and/or anxious, your mind generates lots of ideas, which creates both strengths and challenges - whether that's in school, in relationships or in the world in general. The challenges come when who you are or how you work doesn't fit with the expectations of a traditional, neurotypical and linear structure. When this happens, we help you find ways to navigate these spaces in ways that are affirming and natural to you. We help clients reduce stress, manage anxiety and depression, and ease life transitions. Our expertise is in how these intersect when your mind (or life) diverges from what is traditionally expected. Our specialties in creativity: • Countering the impact of societal values and messages about art and creative professions • Understanding (and helping others understand) creativity as a need vs a nice to have • How trauma and shame impact the creative process • Finding your best creative environment and create flow • Perfectionism in the artistic process • Balancing product and process Our specialties in neurodivergence: • ADHD, Autism and AuDHD • Self-confidence and Self-acceptance • The impact of comparisons to neurotypical standards • Perfectionism and People-pleasing • Masking and burnout • How to get things done in a neurodivergent-friendly way • Standardized testing, evaluations and diagnoses • Advocacy and self-advocacy We'd love to hear from you. No matter what you're going through, we'll help you figure out who you are despite the expectations of others, and create your own roadmap to whatever life throws your way. Together, we'll find who you are - and who you can be - when you break out of what is expected.

As a trauma-informed & versatile therapist, I use evidence-based interventions specialized for anxiety, depression, and relationship issues such as Mindfulness, Solution-focused, Relational, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We will identify stressors that may impact thoughts, feelings, & behaviors and apply skills to improve your quality of life. All of the systems around us (work, school, family, social, etc) often can contribute to chronic stress, pain, anxiety, and depression, thus directly impacting the way we connect with others, make daily decisions, or how we coexist. Whether you are new to therapy, going through major (or minor) life transitions, having existential fears, or stresses like a move, job change, breakup, or a loss, I am here to help you navigate through seasons of change.

Parkside Therapy offers in person and telehealth therapy to people struggling with a variety of issues. We work with those that are coping with academic stress, identity discernment, anxiety, depression, and substance misuse. College is stressful, and you deserve some help! Reach out to us and we'll help you schedule a free phone consultation or an initial appointment.

I work with driven achievers who find themselves feeling stuck with rumination, overthinking, unwanted and intrusive thoughts, or are overwhelmed with uncertainty. You may find yourself wanting to feel confident at work or school, in relationships, and in going about your daily tasks, but that doubt keeps you second guessing and avoiding. Together we will explore the challenges you are facing, utilize methods to recognize what keeps you stuck in the anxiety cycle, and learn how to respond to and face fears with self-compassion, and confidence. Building trust is central to the therapeutic relationship and I seek to meet individuals where they are in their process. I believe clients are the experts in their own lives and I use a style that is collaborative, goal-oriented, supportive, and nonjudgmental. I am trained in evidence-based practices for the treatment of OCD, anxiety, panic disorder and phobias, hair pulling and skin picking (BFRBs), and athlete mental health. I offer the space to cope with uncertainty, develop new skills, and make meaningful adjustments, and am licensed in IL, WI and FL.

Our experienced therapists have various specializations in addition to being trauma informed and fully competent in treating anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. We offer a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic space for you to share your unique story.

Shu Hudson is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She received her Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from North Park University. Shu thrives in providing a compassionate, client-centered space where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported in their healing journey. Her approach integrates evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a deep focus on uncovering and understanding core emotions—those powerful, often hidden feelings that drive our thoughts, behaviors, and relational patterns. Shu has specialized training in yoga and mindfulness, that enables her to bring a somatic awareness to therapy, helping clients reconnect with their bodies as a source of wisdom, grounding, and emotional regulation. Shu focuses on navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or life transitions, working collaboratively to explore underlying emotional truths, challenging unhelpful thought patterns, and fostering meaningful, sustainable change. Shu’s goal is to guide each client toward greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and a more empowered relationship with themselves and others.

As therapists, we work to build a genuine relationship with each client, create a safe space for discovery, and aim to understand that individual. This allows clients to safely explore alongside the therapist, and begin to see themselves with greater clarity, depth, and honesty. Good, effective therapy will likely not happen overnight (though exciting and wonderful eureka moments certainly occur along the way), and trust, honesty, and humor are invaluable to a beneficial therapeutic relationship. We believe that laughter and tears are equally powerful but that therapeutic change is measured in neither. We believe the act and effort of genuinely and non-judgmentally understanding each client allows for lasting therapeutic change to take place. While each clinician at Dr. Blehart & Associates has a unique method and skillset, we believe it is the underlying interpersonal style and ability to connect and understand that rests at the heart of our work. Dr. Blehart & Associates offers the highest level of expertise, care, and access for adults and adolescents in Chicago. Services are available in English, Spanish, German, and Somali.

Centered Therapy Chicago (CTC) is a group psychotherapy practice in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago. We work with people from all over the city and suburbs and believe in the healing power of relationships and connectedness. CTC’s therapists are committed to creating meaningful change in peoples’ lives, our community, and our society. We utilize a collaborative and relational approach that also incorporates feminist, trauma-informed, and body-oriented methods with our clients. We are all committed to equality, social justice, anti-racism, and inclusivity.

Ignite Counseling is trauma-focused private practice located in the Lincoln Park and Lakeview neighborhoods of Chicago, with options for in-person or virtual appointments. We provide therapeutic services with a commitment to compassionate, relational, and authentic treatment in a culturally-sensitive and inclusive environment. Our therapists have a specialized focus in trauma along with the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, relationship distress, family issues, identity struggles, racial/cultural issues, and challenges with life transitions, and we approach all clients through a trauma-informed lens. We are a close knit and highly intentional team of clinicians, and value safety and authenticity in all that we do.

The process of starting therapy can be awkward and scary but life-changing. It is a relief to speak with someone who doesn’t know you to form judgments. This environment is understood as a safe space that you will be provided with. A place where you can feel heard, express your emotions, and receive psycho-education. We all have the ability to change with the right tools. My goal is to meet you where you’re at and grow from there. At Hope and Prosper, I tend to utilize an integrative approach with cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy for an effective, personalized treatment. Clients often describe me as insightful, humorous, enthusiastic, and caring. These natural characteristics that I exhibit embrace my personality as a clinician. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with experience therapizing children, adolescents, teens, and adults. I obtained my B.A. in Psychology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I graduated with my M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a concentration in trauma. Currently, I am pursuing my doctorate in clinical psychology (PsyD) to further my career.

Grey Area Therapy is a small, private practice conveniently located in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood with easy access to public transportation and an emphasis on building meaningful, authentic connections with clients. Our therapists offer a range of specialties and address needs related to: -Anxiety -Depression -Body Image -Race/Ethnicity/Culture -Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity -Individual/Generational Trauma -Identity -Family-of-Origin -Life Transitions -Careers/Professional Goals Our therapists offer both in-person and virtual appointments and have weekend and evening availability. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United/Optum insurance and offer free 15-minute phone consultations to help you find a therapist that works for you!

I am an individual and sex therapist specializing in working with clients exploring sexuality, gender, life transitions, and anxiety.

Like many therapist profiles, this page could list my degrees and credentials, provide a vague description of what clients I work with, and be distant but warm; however, that is not how I work with clients or how I am in the world. I want this page to help you decide if we’ll work well together, not just list the things I’ve done. What you probably want to know is 1) do I know what I’m doing and 2) are we a good fit in working together. I have been working in the mental health field, specifically with eating disorders, since 2014 in a variety of capacities including inpatient, residential, and crisis stabilization programs. I am passionate about eating disorder recovery and collaborating with patients to find balance in their lives. I am body-positive and Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned. I have experience in working with families, couples, and individuals in addition to facilitating group therapy. My primary focus lies in helping to support clients and their loved ones in understanding and moving forward in the path to recovery through individual and family therapy. I have earned the distinction of being a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) by the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, and have been an officeholder for the Heartland chapter of iaedp since 2019 and remained committed to pursuing ongoing education within the field. There are so many people who hesitate to come to therapy or to move forward in eating disorder recovery due to having been previously unsuccessful with a “one size fits all” approach. I work with you to figure it out. I’m not a smile-and-nod, sit in silence type of therapist. I'll call you out on your BS, but I can do that in a way where we can both laugh. I'm not afraid to talk about anything you need to talk about. Intrusive thoughts? Feeling like you’re the only person to feel this way? You’d be surprised to find that you’re not alone. Therapy will provide a safe space to be yourself and a supportive environment to help meet you where you’re at and work towards creating lasting change in your life.

Throughout our lives, we go through events that change us, often permanently. I consider therapy to be a sacred and compassionate space of exploration. It can be exhausting having to explain your story over and over again. Oftentimes we might feel unheard in our daily lives or get fixated on who we “should be” instead of exploring who we already are. Your story has meaning and it deserves to be heard. You are the expert on your own life experiences and identities. You deserve to feel empowered, validated, and safe. When meeting with a potential client I consider you in the context of your relationships, experiences, and culture. When working together we can move through difficult therapeutic concepts in an accessible and warm way. With your permission, I hope to guide you through challenging life transitions and support you in creating a life that you feel is worth living. I work from a collaborative, person-centered, relational, and strengths-based approach. This means I will use non-judgment to consider all aspects of your life and identity— while remaining open to things that cannot be changed. I utilize an intersectional feminist lens and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, boundaries, relationships, abuse, sexuality, gender exploration, life transitions, disability, memory loss, identity exploration, and resiliency work. MORE INFO ABOUT THE PRACTICE: We accept BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, and United PPO Plans, as well as, Sliding Scale rates. Currently, I have a variety of morning, early afternoon, and evening spots open! Please feel free to reach out.

Hi there, welcome! My name is Stefani. I specialize in maternal mental health/women's wellness. I have a strong passion for working with new moms/moms as they navigate through the many transitional periods of motherhood. I have spent a majority of my professional career working with women as they navigate through the perinatal and postnatal periods of motherhood. While working with moms is my specialty, I too enjoy working with women to help them cope with various life stressors and symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mood disturbances. I enjoy teaching and helping clients incorporate concepts of self-love, self-empowerment, self-advocacy, healthy boundaries, self-care, and self-celebration into their lives. Additionally, I enjoy discussing concepts related to one’s purpose, life passions, and personal goals contributing to heightened peace and wellness. My therapeutic style is what I would consider to be team based. I work alongside my clients to help them establish treatment goals, offer guidance, support, and accountability in accomplishing identified goals. I work to create a safe space welcoming enough for my clients to feel comfortable to explore vulnerable emotions. I provide education, tools, and language to enhance concepts of self-love and self-empowerment. I encourage celebrations for personal and therapeutic victories and accomplishments.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hello! My name is Elizabeth and I am a bilingual/bicultural therapist. I provide sessions both in English and Spanish based on the needs of my clients. I provide a safe space for clients to share their unique stories and perspectives, allowing us the opportunity to learn more about their experiences and their behaviors. I am passionate about empowering my clients by helping them discover the tools they need to cope with difficult times and challenging feelings.

Are you carrying pain that feels too heavy to name, let alone heal? Do the things you’ve lived through feel like a weight you can’t put down, or old wounds that echo into the present? Do you struggle to trust your emotions, or feel like they run the show? Or maybe you feel disconnected from others? Yet, even in the midst of all that, there’s a part of you longing for something different? Hello and welcome! I work with folks navigating complex trauma, deep emotional pain, and unjust systems. Through the use of collaborative, non-judgmental, and anti-oppressive frameworks, we center your resistance, healing, and self-determination. I integrate a variety of therapeutic interventions including Internal Family Systems (IFS)/ parts work, DBT, grounding techniques, and mindfulness to help you accomplish your goals and move through shame, guilt, depression, loneliness, anxiety, overwhelm, anger, trauma/c-PTSD, suicidal ideation, self-hatred, interpersonal distress, and emotion regulation. Here, healing is not a linear path or a checklist to complete. It is a remembering, a reclamation, radical act, it is relational. As an autistic, queer, trans non-binary therapist, I believe that you are inherently worthy as you are, and still, you deserve to carry heavy burdens more lightly. If you're ready to begin, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Finding a therapist who feels like a good fit can matter as much as the therapy itself. I work with students who are thoughtful, capable, and often carrying more than they let on — anxiety, stress, self-doubt, trauma, or the pressure to keep it together while figuring out who they are and where they’re headed. I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with a background in both clinical mental health and higher education. Before returning to full-time clinical work, I spent many years working on college campuses as well as teaching in undergraduate and graduate courses. I understand the unique stressors students face — academic pressure, financial stressors, identity development, relationships, family expectations, and the emotional toll of trying to succeed in an uncertain world. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed. I integrate evidence-based practices with a strong focus on nervous system regulation, emotional awareness, and practical skills you can use in everyday life. Therapy with me is a space to slow down, make sense of what you’re experiencing, and learn how to respond to stress and anxiety with more clarity and self-compassion. Many of the students I work with struggle with anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, burnout, or feeling disconnected from themselves. Together, we work on building a sense of safety, learning how to set boundaries, and developing coping strategies that support both mental health and personal growth. I believe therapy should feel human, respectful, and supportive — a place where you don’t have to perform or have everything figured out. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, more present, and more able to navigate life with confidence and care.