Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master's Degree in Social Work, dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to help clients build on their strengths, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change that supports their overall well-being. I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and grief. Alongside this, I have experience working LGBTQ+ concerns, men's issues, behavior modification, coping concerns, ADHD, Autism, chronic illness, dual diagnosis, and emotional regulation. You have already completed the first step in getting support which is just research a therapist! Even this takes such courage. I invite you to schedule a free 15 minute introduction call to see how best we can work together to address any concerns you are having. I look forward to hopefully working with you soon.

Professional Statement As a clinician, my philosophy is to meet clients where they are and help them establish their own goals. I believe in empowering individuals to take ownership of their healing process, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges. My areas of specialization include trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, mood dysregulation, and domestic violence. I work with a diverse range of clients from various backgrounds and belief systems, and I am fluent in Polish, which allows me to connect with a broader population. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is hearing clients express that they feel better after our sessions, knowing that I have helped them take another step toward healing and growth. I am deeply committed to understanding others' perspectives and feelings, and I genuinely care about helping clients achieve the goals they set for themselves. Listening actively and without judgment is a core part of my approach, and I find great fulfillment in supporting clients as they work toward positive change in their lives. What should a new client know about working with you? I believe in creating a supportive and respectful space where clients can move at their own pace. I will never push them beyond their comfort zone unless they specifically request it. With nearly 20 years of experience in providing mental health services, I understand the importance of fostering trust and allowing clients to guide their own healing process. My approach is grounded in patience and understanding, empowering individuals to take the steps they’re ready for while offering the encouragement and support they need to move forward when they feel ready. What is your typical process for working with clients? I begin by providing a brief overview of the services offered, as well as a clear explanation of HIPAA policies to ensure clients understand their rights and confidentiality. During the initial session, I conduct a thorough mental health assessment, working collaboratively with the client to develop a personalized treatment plan. This process includes helping the client identify their own goals for therapy, empowering them to take an active role in their healing journey. I also prioritize scheduling a follow-up appointment, ensuring continuity of care and the opportunity to revisit and adjust goals as needed. This approach creates a foundation of trust and allows for ongoing progress in therapy.

I help people process trauma, manage their emotions and anxiety, and maximize their performance with the combination of talk therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Brainspotting, and/or Internal Family Systems (IFS). A Free 15-minute consultation is offered to ensure a good fit.

Hi! I'm Aaliyah McNair, LCSW, and I'm passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate life's challenges with compassion, honesty, and practical support. I have experience working across hospital, emergency, and outpatient mental health settings, supporting individuals through anxiety, trauma, major life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. I also enjoy working with professionals and caregivers experiencing compassion fatigue and burnout. I believe therapy should be a space where you don't have to pretend you're okay. Whether you're feeling anxious, navigating a difficult transition, processing past experiences, or simply feeling stuck, my goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard and understood.

I am a therapist, social worker, active listener, and committed community member. In therapy, I take a person-centered, holistic approach and am looking forward to supporting you in your goals - even if they're a bit uncertain at the beginning. I enjoy helping clients make change and solution plans in a non-judgmental space. Oftentimes, talk therapy is one piece of a bigger puzzle and helping clients identify and then connect with their unique healing team is something I love about this work. My approach to working with you is to be a supportive guide on your unique healing journey. I love working with clients who have very specific behaviors and problems they would like to address, as well as clients who are curious about themselves or their mental health, looking for support in exploring identities and relationships, or just want a space to process life's stressors. If you have a lot going on, are uncertain about what areas of your life are impacting your mental health, or are looking to change behavior patterns, utilize skills, or gain insight, I can be an empathetic and reflective part of that journey with you.

Our mission is to inspire and empower holistic care by providing our community with a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space for mental healing and personal growth. We are committed to making mental health care accessible, service-oriented, and rooted in compassion. We support individuals in managing a wide range of mental health concerns—from everyday work or school-related stress to processing trauma and navigating life crises. At Balance and Entity Wellness Care, we practice a therapeutic approach that emphasizes holistic, culturally inclusive, and transparent care. We strive to create an environment where clients feel welcome, supported, and understood—starting from the very first session.

Many of the clients I work best with are navigating periods of change, uncertainty, or emotional overwhelm. Whether you're managing depression, anxiety, or mood swings, exploring your identity, or feeling stuck despite trying therapy or other strategies, you're not alone — and you're not expected to have all the answers. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on what works best for you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I primarily support clients through medication management, but I also offer brief supportive therapy and education about mental health. I believe that medication is just one tool — and not always the first or only one — and I work closely with you to make thoughtful, informed decisions together. I often support clients in the LGBTQ+ community, those exploring non-traditional relationships, and individuals who appreciate a nonjudgmental, sex-positive space. If you're someone who values open communication, shared decision-making, and a personalized approach to care, we may be a good fit. Whether you're starting treatment for the first time or returning after a break, I'm here to listen, guide, and help you feel more in control of your mental health journey.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hello, I have many years working with children, adolescents and adults in community mental health, inpatient, and private practice. Psychotherapy requires a desire to understand one's self and the issues that trouble you. In treatment, we will work together to understand how your history impacts these current concerns and find new ways to work through them so that you will feel greater internal strength and freedom.

I specialize in working with adults aged 18 or older who are grappling with anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and body image issues. They often feel overwhelmed and isolated, seeking a safe space to explore their feelings and challenges. Motivated and ready to make meaningful changes, their primary goal is recovery and healing—learning effective coping strategies, discovering self compassion, fostering a healthier relationship with themselves and their bodies, and creating space for what they truly desire in life. I support clients with empathy, humor, and authenticity, using a trauma-focused approach. A large part of my practice is teaching coping skills, addressing negative self-talk and sources of shame, while emphasizing self compassion. Specializing in anxiety, trauma, disordered eating/body image issues, I offer psychotherapy, Art Therapy, and EMDR, over telehealth only.

Feeling anxious, burnt out, stuck, or just not quite like yourself? College is a lot — the pressure to have everything figured out, relationships shifting, identity questions, and regular life stress all happening at once. I'm a Chicago therapist who works with young adults navigating exactly that. I'm relaxed, open-minded, and genuinely nonjudgmental — you don't have to come in with the "right" words or a clear problem. We'll figure it out together. There's no single right way to do therapy, so I adapt to what you need: sometimes that's working through a specific issue with structure and tools, sometimes it's just having space to think out loud. I draw from CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and talk therapy depending on what clicks for you. I accept insurance through Headway, which typically brings session costs down significantly. Reach out, and I can help you check your coverage before we meet.

If you’ve been feeling anxious, down, overwhelmed by stress, or stuck in a hard transition, you’re not alone. I work with people 16 and up who want support around anxiety, depression, life stressors, and eating disorders. My goal is to help you feel understood while we work toward steady, meaningful change together. I believe therapy works best as a real collaboration. I tailor our work to your strengths and needs, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and strengths-based therapy to support growth in a way that feels personal and practical.

Let’s be real: adulting is hard. Figuring out how to build a life—navigating new jobs, getting enough sleep and exercise, living alone for the first time, dating (ugh), or trying to make real friendships—it can all feel like a lot. You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I’m here to support you in making sense of it, finding your voice, and creating a life that actually feels like yours. I’m passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. As a relational therapist, I believe changes happen in connection. I pull from a range of approaches depending on what you need—whether that’s insight, tools, or simply someone who gets it. I’m warm, collaborative, and affirming—but also very direct. If something needs to be named, I’ll say it—with compassion and honesty of course. Growth requires truth. Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but reaching out shows real courage and a deep commitment to yourself. Whether you’re working through identity questions, navigating complicated relationships, or just trying to feel more like yourself again, I’m here to walk with you through it. Message me and we can have a chat about it!

You don’t have to face this alone. Living with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming—like you're carrying a weight no one else can see. When it feels like nothing is working, it’s easy to lose hope. But healing is possible, and you're not alone. I’m here to help you find your way forward. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with mood disorders, and I understand how complex and deeply personal these challenges can be. My approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based care. Whether you’re navigating intense anxiety, persistent low moods, or the highs and lows of bipolar disorder, I’ll meet you where you are—with compassion, not judgment. Together, we’ll explore what works for you. Whether that means therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, my goal is to support you in regaining a sense of stability, clarity, and control over your life. You deserve to feel better. You deserve support that truly understands you. If you're ready to take the next step—or even if you're just curious about what support could look like—I invite you to schedule a time to talk. Let’s take that first step, together.

College life can be a time of major transitions, and balancing academics, relationships, and self-care isn’t always easy—especially if you're a first-generation and/or low-income (FGLI) student, far from home, or struggling with self-esteem and perfectionism. I’m here to support you as you navigate these challenges and grow more confident in managing them. I specialize in helping students who may feel the pressure to succeed in a new environment, who worry about "getting it right," or who are simply adjusting to life away from family and familiar support networks. Together, we’ll explore strategies that feel true to you, build on your strengths, and work toward a healthier balance. If you’re new to therapy, I provide a welcoming space where you can be yourself and learn how to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Let’s take this journey at your pace, and find ways to make college life a little less overwhelming and a lot more fulfilling.

Welcome to The Healing Palace ✨ College life can feel like a whirlwind — balancing classes, relationships, work, and figuring out your future. At The Healing Palace, we understand that behind the hustle, students often carry stress, anxiety, trauma, and unspoken challenges. We’re here to be your safe space. A place where you can breathe, unpack the weight you’ve been carrying, and discover healthy ways to thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially. Our team of therapists specializes in supporting young adults as they navigate identity, relationships, and the pressures of everyday life. Whether you’re seeking one-on-one therapy, group support, or just a space where you can feel heard without judgment, The Healing Palace is here to walk with you. Because your mental health matters. Your voice matters. You matter.

You may be reading this because you’ve experienced a very difficult loss or transition in your life. Maybe you have lost a loved one or a pregnancy. Perhaps you are struggling as you or a relative begin hospice care or approach the end stage of a disease. You might be grieving a beloved pet or the end of a meaningful relationship. Loss, although universal, can feel isolating and unbearable to endure. I can help you cope - you don't need to go through this alone. Through my work helping others navigate hard times, I’ve been described as a “bright light in a time of darkness.” I’m a warm and welcoming therapist with a deep understanding and capability for helping people who are struggling. Therapy with me is informed by five years spent as a hospice social worker and extensive grief and loss training. I am licensed in Illinois, New Jersey, California and Florida for online therapy. I provide therapy through a secure and convenient telehealth platform (online video conferencing). I hope you will contact me for a free 15-minute consultation on how we may work together to support you. Please note, the hours listed on this profile are in Central Time Zone.

At NeuroBloom Mental Health Collective, we specialize in helping clients reclaim safety, identity, and joy through trauma-informed and culturally attuned care. Our clinicians understand the unique stressors faced by students navigating family expectations, cultural identity, and systemic pressure. We work with immigrant, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent students and integrate somatic healing, mindfulness, and evidence-based modalities like CBT, DBT, ACT, and IFS. Our team includes Spanish- and Arabic-speaking providers and offers therapy that feels warm, collaborative, and affirming — because healing should feel human, not clinical.

Many of us have been wounded at some point in our lives. Psychological wounds have the capacity to change the way we view ourselves and the way we view and interact with others. Sometimes people experience difficulties articulating the way they feel or find themselves stuck in the same maladaptive patterns in relationships. Therapy can be a useful way to make sense of how your past may be affecting your emotional well being in the here-and-now by putting unformulated experiences into words to help you heal. Using a relational approach to therapy, I aspire to offer my clients the kind of empathic environment that empowers them to heal from the past, work through present-day difficulties, change long-standing patterns in relationships, and move forward in ways that are meaningful for them. If you are looking for a safe and nonjudgmental space to make meaning of your experience feel free to contact me. I value collaborating on ways to help you achieve your personal goals.

I’ve always been captivated by love, connection, and the strength people show through life’s toughest moments. Being transracially adopted is a meaningful part of my identity—it’s given me a deep appreciation for the complex, beautiful ways people form relationships and a strong commitment to honoring diversity, neurodiversity, and inclusion. As your therapist, I offer a calming, collaborative, and nonjudgmental presence. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, identity exploration, or life transitions, I want therapy to be a space where you feel seen, safe, and supported to explore your story. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, valued, and connected—and that real growth happens when we slow down, reflect together, and make space for what truly matters to you. I work with individuals and couples of all backgrounds, and I’m especially passionate about helping people feel empowered in their relationships—with themselves and others. I’m currently earning my Master’s in Couple and Family Therapy at Adler University. As I grow in the field, I find myself drawn to Narrative, Emotionally Focused, and Collaborative therapies—approaches that center your lived experience and emphasize meaningful connection, healing, and change. I attend supervision with Mia Dal Santo, LMFT. You don’t have to have it all figured out before reaching out. Therapy is a place to begin, and I’m here to walk with you as you move toward clarity, connection, and a life that feels more authentically yours!