Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Do you find yourself feeling anxious or overwhelmed, be it in social settings, at school, or navigating through the challenges of everyday life? Are you grappling with the burdens of past or recent relationship breakdowns, losses, or circumstances that seem beyond your control? Are you yearning for change and seeking a path towards peace and stability? Together, we can work towards forging that path. We can aim to transform your life into one marked by tranquility, enriched by meaningful relationships, and underpinned by self-confidence. With the help of therapeutic practices, we can strive to free you from the shackles of anxiety and instill a profound understanding of your inherent worth. By exploring your goals, values, and interests, we can create a vivid picture of the fulfilling life you aspire to lead. In my previous role at a "Big 4" consulting firm, I spent years immersed in the challenges and complexities of working in a male-dominated industry. Despite the relentless grind, I pushed forward until I began to comprehend the significant toll it was exerting on my mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. My journey through personal therapy opened a new realm of possibilities, allowing me to transform my professional life from being a source of constant stress and frustration into an engaging, serene, and rewarding experience. I have successfully transferred these skills to all areas of my life, and I enjoy helping my clients achieve the same balance. If this resonates with you, I offer a free, no-obligation 15-minute phone consultation. Reach out today to start turning the page towards a brighter, more balanced chapter in your life.

Hello! Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and young adults. My expertise lies in assisting individuals going through various life changes such as managing life stressors, anxiety, and depression. In addition, I have experience working with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, OCD, self-esteem issues, stress, trauma, difficulties related to school, familial challenges, and grief/loss. As a previous school social worker, I am well-versed in the IEP/504 process for parents needing support. I aim to provide a safe, warm, and trusting environment that best supports you. I have had the honor in providing services to children, teens, and adults. I have worked in different settings such as schools, 12-step IOP for addiction, and within the private practice setting. I apply an integrative approach to psychotherapy, drawing upon different modalities such as CBT, Person Centered Therapy, Social thinking, and Trauma Therapy. Creating a warm and inviting environment for all my clients is of utmost importance to me. Recognizing that each client is unique, I tailor my therapeutic approaches to meet their individual needs. Within my practice, I provide a non-judgmental and empathetic environment, encouraging clients to share their struggles, challenges, and goals openly.

I work with college and graduate students who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted—even when things look “fine” on the outside. Many of my clients are high-functioning, thoughtful, and self-aware, yet struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, relationship patterns, or a persistent sense that something isn’t quite right. My approach is psychodynamic, meaning we look beyond symptom management to understand the underlying emotional patterns, relationships, and life experiences shaping how you feel and function today. Therapy becomes a space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of internal conflicts that often get pushed aside in the pressure-filled environment of academic life. Students often come to me during periods of transition—starting or finishing school, navigating independence, questioning identity or values, or managing the emotional toll of performance expectations. Rather than offering quick fixes, I focus on helping clients develop insight, emotional resilience, and a stronger sense of self that extends well beyond college.

I work with young adults on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, educational/career stress among others. Additionally, my background and training is in primary care, which means I also help clients improve issues related to sleep, diet, exercise, and substance misuse. I love to help clients achieve their goals and am known to bring my sense of humor into sessions. Please see the listed availability section to find out more info about hours.

My aim is to provide a philosophically sophisticated therapeutic experience that is tailored uniquely to you. Together, we can work on various concerns such as addiction, overwhelming stress, culture shock, grief, difficulty in relationships, a sense of anxiety or the exhaustion of depression. My approach is a holistic one, based on a meditative, in the moment application of REBT, DBT, and Existential Counseling to help guide you through your struggles. My strength as a therapist is the total commitment to my client’s needs and yours is the resilience to unburden yourself from the obstacles that arise in your daily life.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck? When anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma take hold, life can feel heavy—like you're carrying a burden no one else sees. Maybe you’re doing your best just to get through the day, but inside, it feels like something’s missing or too much to manage. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and there is a way forward. In our work together, we’ll explore what’s weighing you down and uncover the strengths you already carry within you. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel seen, heard, and truly supported. Healing isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions. My approach is holistic and person-centered, integrating your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Together, we’ll develop practical tools to manage life’s challenges, build resilience, and help you reconnect with yourself and what matters most. If you're ready to take that first step toward a more grounded, fulfilling life, I’m here to walk alongside you. Reach out today to schedule a consultation—I’d be honored to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.

You are holding a lot right now... Balancing coursework, expectations, relationships, and the quiet pressure to figure out who you are (and who you are becoming) can feel overwhelming. From the outside, it might look like you are managing, but internally, there may be anxiety, self-doubt, burnout, or a sense of disconnection that is harder to name. I work with college and graduate students who are navigating exactly these kinds of experiences. Many of the people I support are thoughtful, driven, and deeply self-aware, yet find themselves feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure of how to move forward in a way that actually feels aligned. Therapy becomes a space to slow down. A place where you do not have to perform, keep up, or have everything figured out. Together, we begin to make sense of what is underneath the stress, whether that is long-standing patterns, identity exploration, relationship dynamics, or the impact of academic and societal pressures. My approach is relational, collaborative, and grounded in a sociological lens, meaning we do not just look inward, but also consider the larger systems and expectations shaping your experience. I integrate attachment-based, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed care, while also offering practical tools when helpful. I am especially attuned to: • Academic pressure and burnout • Anxiety and emotional overwhelm • Identity exploration (including cultural, relational, and personal identity) • Life transitions and uncertainty about the future • The pressure to “hold it all together” while feeling unseen or unsupported Our work unfolds in a space that is steady, thoughtful, and deeply human. We move at a pace that honors your capacity, gently creating room for clarity, compassion, self-trust, and more sustainable ways of showing up in your life. You do not have to navigate this chapter alone. I offer tele-health sessions for students located in Illinois, Iowa, and Nevada, and would be honored to support you in this season of your life!

Hi! I'm Rachel. As a licensed therapist with 11 years of experience. I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, perfectionism and low self esteem, among others. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based techniques. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel safe to explore your thoughts and emotions. Whether you're facing a major life transition or simply want to better understand yourself, I’m here to support your growth and healing every step of the way. I been trained in EMDR, have extensive experience treating complex trauma and emerging adulthood issues. I am LGBTQI affirming. I have used expressive/art therapy techniques for clients who better express themselves creatively.

Dr. Michael Bricker founded Psychological Services PC in 2013 to reflect a practice of compassionate-minded psychotherapy as an art and science. At Psychological Services PC, we endeavor to provide a therapeutic environment that is sensitive and responsive to the role of culture, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical ability, spirituality, and other multicultural factors in mental health. We practice 21st Century counseling. Our clinicians’ commitment to ongoing professional development and training helps to ensure that the our services are based upon the latest theory and scientific information, giving our clients the best possible chance at achieving lasting changes and improvements in their relationships and quality of life. At Psychological Services, PC, we see our services as a significant personal investment; an investment that can lead to growth resulting in more fulfilling and harmonious relationships, career satisfaction and success, and long-term improvements in overall mood and well-being. We invite you to learn more about the services we offer through contacting us. Psychological Services, PC has offices in downtown Chicago and in the Lakeview neighborhood.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I support people experiencing life transitions, stress, and relationship issues. I personalize treatment to each client using our relationship, scientific approaches, and collaboration to meet your goals. I also provide trauma centered therapy and EMDR.

I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapist that feels like a good fit. I earned my doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Roosevelt University and spent 8 years working and training in college counseling centers (e.g., School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Purdue, DePaul). The last 5 years I've been continuing to build upon my experience working with unique people. I am a neurodivergent and creative person as well. My areas of expertise are in working with young adults experiencing difficulties related to mood, anxiety, and trauma (recent or past). I enjoy working with adults with ADHD and other neurodivergencies to deepen their understanding of how their brain works and to develop practical strategies to reduce the burden of living in a neurotypical world. My therapy style is warm, casual, and humorous. My approach is client-centered; I work to tailor therapy to the unique needs of each individual while building a trusting relationship over time. I incorporate CBT, ACT, DBT, humanistic, and existential theories and interventions in my work. I am LGBTQIA+ competent, trans/gender affirming, sex and body positive. I welcome individuals with non-traditional/non-monogamous relationship styles or family systems, artists, musicians, performers, individuals who do not conform to the typical 9-5 lifestyle, and folks navigating difficult family dynamics or complicated romantic relationships. Finding a therapist can be daunting. If talking briefly would help you feel comfortable moving forward, please reach out! I’m happy to make accommodations/be flexible in scheduling. It's intimidating to take steps towards meaningful change, but you deserve to be content in life. I'd be honored to be a part of that process. Resilience lies within all of us.

As a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), I am committed to helping adolescents and young adults navigate the challenges and transitions of life. My practice is built on a foundation of client-centered therapy, with a focus on empowering my clients to achieve their full potential and emotional well-being. I have spent 8 years in the mental health field, and during this time, I have had the privilege of working with numerous young individuals as they face the unique pressures and uncertainties of adolescence and early adulthood. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and understanding, creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions freely.

What’s keeping you stuck? Are you struggling to understand why relationships keep failing or why your job or school is depleting you? Are you overwhelmed, trapped in a pattern of people pleasing, or struggling with anxious thoughts you can’t seem to stop? Are you high-achieving or perfectionistic and struggling to find peace in your life? Maybe you’re just grappling with the existential questions and wondering what the meaning of all of this is. I specialize in helping people get unstuck, gain confidence, and create the lives they want. I teach you how to cultivate calm in your body and understand how thoughts and internal narratives influence feelings and behaviors. You will learn how to position yourself as the observer of your emotions (like anxiety, irritability), so you can respond intentionally—rather than on autopilot. I provide insightful online therapy that allows you to feel seen, heard, and understood - all in the comfort of your home. I love doing the deep work that helps you better understand yourself and empowers you to build the life you want.

I am passionate about working with students experiencing grief, trauma, OCD, life transitions, depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, identity exploration, relationship difficulties, suicidality, and more. I work specifically with young adults, college and graduate students, and athletes. I provide a safe, judgment-free space to share, explore, and find solutions to your struggles. I believe in exploring, not explaining, and provide clients with the agency to determine how they want sessions to look and feel. I bring authenticity, humor, transparency, and cultural humility to my work. I appreciate the courage required to book a session and look forward to meeting you.

Evolve Wellness is a private group practice in the Lakeview/Lincoln Park area of Chicago but with the expansion of telehealth services (HIPAA-compliant video calls) Evolve has been able to expand services to the whole state of Illinois. Therapists at Evolve Wellness work with individuals, those in relationships (couples), and families. Accepted insurance varies by provider, and includes BCBS PPO, BCBS HMO (Amita), BCBS Blue Choice PPO. Please feel free to contact us if you would like help verifying insurance benefit coverage, more information about clinician availability or to set up a free phone consultation prior to scheduling an initial session with one of our clinicians.

New Light is a Lincoln Park based therapy practice, providing in-person and telehealth sessions for children, families, and adults. Founded to extend our expertise beyond the school setting, our clinicians have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families with a range of presenting challenges. With a wide variety of clinical approaches including psychodynamic talk therapy, play therapy, EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy, our foremost goal is to provide each client with individualized, compassionate, and culturally sensitive therapy. At New Light, we support and include people of any ability level, gender, age, race, religion, or sexual orientation

Life can be incredibly complex and overwhelming, full of twists and turns we often do not expect. As both a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a human being, I have witnessed how receiving professional therapeutic support can guide individuals towards finding a sense of safety and comfort within themselves in a world of ever-shifting dynamics that can distract from or exacerbate the challenges we experience. My clients may be struggling with eating disorders, depression/anxiety, body image concerns, and substance misuse, in addition to difficulty managing stress, life transitions, or intimate/peer/familial relationship conflicts/wounding. I am LGBTQ+ allied, anti-racist, and anti-diet/Health at Every Size aligned and informed. Utilizing attachment theory, values exploration, and mind-body awareness, I work with my clients to re-instill and preserve individual autonomy while healing the relationship between oneself and others. I support my clients in learning new ways to tolerate uncomfortable emotions instead of avoiding or numbing them, and create space to process the inevitable grief that comes with making any changes in life. As a therapist, I embody humor, authenticity, empathy, and patience to create a safe space for my clients to begin exploring both internal/external experiences that contribute to feelings of distress, loneliness, and uncertainty. Values I hold above all else in the therapy space include humanism, autonomy, relational accountability between client and therapist, and the power of ‘any positive change’.

The decision to seek therapy is a very important decision, but choosing the right therapist is even more important since one of the best predictors of a positive therapy outcome is the fit between client and therapist. I strive to provide the people with whom I work an environment that is comfortable, nonjudgmental, and genuinely validating. My job is to provide a space for you to access your strengths and attributes, and with this I can provide psychological approaches to help you address the concerns that brought you in for therapy. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, (GAD, phobias, panic). I also have extensive experience in treating mood disorders, such as depression. I also have extensive experience in treating trauma. Additionally, I treat academic challenges, such as procrastination and perfectionism. Finally, I also treat psychosis, anger management issues, relationship problems, and tough life decisions, and a host of other issues. Initially, my job is to listen and help us understand the problem. Also during this time, I'll share diagnostic and other relevant information, and then give options on how we might address the problem. We will also periodically evaluate our progress in therapy to ensure that your goals are being met.