Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

I work with college students and young adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, overthinking, performance pressure, and emotional shutdown — even when they are capable and motivated. Many of the students I support struggle with test anxiety, presentations, interviews, perfectionism, panic symptoms, or the sense that their nervous system goes into “fight or flight” under pressure. Others experience anxiety and depression together, which can affect motivation, focus, and connection. My approach is neuroscience-informed and practical. I use evidence-based therapies including EMDR, ACT, CBT, Polyvagal-informed therapy, and mindfulness-based strategies to help clients regulate their nervous system, reduce reactivity, and build confidence in real-world situations. I provide a supportive, structured space where students can develop tools to manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and move forward with greater clarity and resilience

We all need trustworthy guidance to lead fulfilling lives. But where do you turn when you lack support to overcome your problems? You need growth-oriented counseling to lighten your load. My passion is to help individuals find ways to be successful in life, by utilizing your strengths. I do this by understanding your unique desires and providing individualized support to help you achieve them. I like to focus on the person, and their current goals to help support future success. I specialize in evidence-based counseling approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT). Utilizing my skills to make life-changing connections with clients every day.

When it comes to supporting you and providing you, your care must be adaptable, empathetic, individualized. Whether you are seeking dramatic change, collaboration on a major life decision, or just in need of someone to discuss the trials and tribulations of life, it is important that therapy reflects your uniqueness through its uniqueness. I have experience across a diverse array of clients with a strong belief that care should promote equity, unconditional positive regard, and identity affirming care. I have experience working with clients seeking help for depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, gender affirming care, pro LGBTQIA+ care, and general life stressors in young adults and adults ages 18-35. I am also a firm believer in the power of remote therapy, if you are going to be vulnerable you should at least be able to choose where you are vulnerable. What should a new client know about working with you? I believe that care should be individualized and adaptive. Open communication is crucial as it helps me adapt to what your needs are and makes for better collaboration on care. I am a firm believer that therapy must also address what is happening in society, and strongly believe in recognizing how systemic issues may influence life’s struggles. My therapy is inclusive and an LGTBTQIA+ safe space. What is your typical process for working with clients? Therapy is a dialogue, I will not just be a bystander who listens, I ask you to challenge your negative beliefs and reflect on statements that you may not even realize you are saying. We will work together to understand how your thoughts, feelings, and past affect each other and influence your behaviors and beliefs. Typically I achieve this through motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho education, and a systems focused outlook.

As a licensed psychologist, I specialize in delivering empathic, client-centered mental health care for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma. As a member of both the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, I bring a unique lived perspective to my work and am deeply committed to providing culturally sensitive, affirming, and evidence-based care that is tailored to your individual needs and goals. I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches in my work, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma. I also integrate cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavior strategies to help individuals build effective coping skills, manage distress, and navigate life’s challenges more confidently. Personally, I am a proud pet parent and enjoy spending time with my chosen family and friends. Interests and hobbies include going to concerts, dancing, creative activities, going on adventures, leisure hikes, jigsaw puzzles, and playing board games.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to turn, you’re not alone. I’m Ron, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing thoughtful, compassionate psychiatric care through telehealth. My goal is to offer a supportive, respectful space where you feel heard and understood. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, trauma-related symptoms, perinatal and postpartum concerns, stress, and major life transitions. My approach is collaborative and individualized, taking time to understand what you’re going through and creating a plan that fits your goals. Medication management with me is never rushed or one-size-fits-all. I prioritize education, shared decision-making, and minimizing side effects. I take a holistic view of care and strive to create a calm, nonjudgmental virtual space where you can speak openly and feel supported. Reaching out for help can feel like the hardest step. My goal is to make that step feel a little lighter by offering care that is accessible, respectful, and genuinely human. If you’re ready to begin, I’d be honored to work with you.

Hi there! I’m Dawn Meyer, and I’m here to help you navigate whatever life is throwing your way—whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, or just the everyday stress of college life. I know reaching out for therapy can feel like a big step, but my approach is straightforward and compassionate. We’ll work together to help you manage big stressors or work on issues related to your mental health. Feel free to call, text or email me for more information. I am a fully virtual therapist. Life’s tough sometimes, but you don’t have to face it alone.

Have you experienced trauma? Maybe you've figured out some ways to manage it in the past, but it's getting harder since starting/going back to school. Those old coping habits aren't cutting it anymore, and it's finally time to do the work, both for the sake of your academic future, and also so you can live an authentic, fulfilling life. Welcome! My name is Caroline Lavelock, and I have worked in university counseling with large, diverse, nontraditional student populations for nearly 15 years. I bring expertise in college mental health, especially for first-generation students and children of immigrants who are balancing competing expectations between work, school, and home life. Now that I am in private practice, I am pleased to offer the longer-term, trauma-focused therapy that many students need but struggle to find in short-term counseling university counseling models. I am also a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional and can provide information about how you can use nutrition to optimize your mental health. I offer instant online booking through my group practice, Tailwinds Psychology, where you can also access psychiatry and testing services. Let's get to work!

You might be someone who, from the outside, has built a life that looks steady—getting into college, building friendships, increasing responsibilities—but inside, you feel more anxious, alone, or unsure of yourself than expected. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, identity, and relationships—often shaped by life transitions, adjusting to a new environment, or disappointment and unmet expectations. These experiences make sense. Navigating them alone is hard. College is hard! My work is grounded in the therapeutic relationship. I believe growth happens in the context of feeling safe, understood, and emotionally supported. I strive to create a warm, attuned, and collaborative space where we gently explore patterns shaped by relationships, attachment, and life experiences. Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, especially if you’re used to carrying it all on your own. You don’t have to know where to start to begin. If you’re curious about working together, I invite you to reach out. I'm available in-person in the North Shore of Chicago or virtual across Illinois. I'd be so glad to partner with you!

Struggling to escape the same old patterns? Looking to empower yourself and create change in your life? I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has spent my career assisting men in achieving their goals, making lasting and fulfilling relationships, and facing life's challenges head-on. I have worked with adults across the lifespan to address concerns about relationships, behaviors, substance use, and more. You will receive evidence-based, values-driven interventions to address your unique goals and needs. Through collaborative exploration you are empowered to write your own story and captain your own ship. You can expect to spend your first session with me identifying goals and highlighting strengths, values, and barriers. Clients will explore their beliefs and values to develop a personal roadmap to success. If you're looking to create change in your life and focus on what's important to you, please reach out to my listed contact and schedule an appointment. I look forward to seeing you!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience providing individual therapy to a diverse population of adults ages 18 years and older. I have speciality in Anxiety, Depression, and provided support for those who have experienced trauma. I started EmpathicPath to help those through difficult times. I combine cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance, and solution focused therapy based an each individual client’s needs through talk therapy. I provide a nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and respected. My goal is to help you gain deeper insight into your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and to identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck or causing distress.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Center for Hope and Family Solutions' Eating Disorder team consists of Licensed Therapists and Registered Dietitians that are all specialized in treatment of the full spectrum of Eating Disorders. Our team takes a Health At Every Size approach to the treatment of Eating Disorders, and assists individuals in working towards gaining a healthy relationship with food, activity, and their bodies using anti-diet perspectives, body neutrality, and nutrition counseling. In addition to providing mental health counseling and nutrition counseling, we also provide support with addressing underlying issues and assist individuals in connecting with medical providers as needed.

I offer individual, couples, and family therapy, with a deep focus on the LGBTQ+ community and those navigating the complexities of identity and life transitions. Whether you are adjusting to independence, managing the academic and social pressures of campus life, or beginning to explore family planning and your future, I am here to help. I also specialize in neurodiversity, helping students—including those who are late-diagnosed—understand their unique brain wiring and develop strategies that actually work for them. My goal is to help you build a life that feels authentic to who you are, while giving you the tools to navigate the challenges that come with this pivotal stage of life.

I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as of 2023. I started out as an RN nine years ago and have experience in mental health. I received my Master's Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from Northern Kentucky University. I take great pride in being able to help patients when they need it most, fully aware of how difficult it can be to battle with mental health issues. I’m committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. I believe in taking a holistic approach to mental health, understanding that each mental health problem and situation is unique for each individual—no single scenario is ever the same. I look forward to embarking on your mental health journey with you and will always be nonjudgmental, supportive, and empathetic to your needs. Schedule your session easily through our online booking link. Click "Website" to find a time that works for you.

I provide counseling to teens and adults, who struggle with anxiety, depression, stressful relationships and identity, sexuality, and gender questioning. I’m passionate about helping people learn more about themselves. I help people identify who they are and what’s important to them. All while helping them learn how to fully accept themselves and increase their self compassion.

I work best with students who often feel like they're carrying more than they let on. Maybe you're the one everyone depends on, you're constantly overthinking, or you're trying to balance school, work, relationships, and everything else while feeling overwhelmed inside. You might be navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, or the impact of past experiences. Whatever brings you here, you don't have to have it all figured out before starting therapy. I strive to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are, make sense of what's been weighing on you, and begin moving toward a life that feels more grounded, fulfilling, and authentically yours.

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou These words are at the heart of my work as a therapist. I believe healing begins in spaces where you feel truly seen, heard, and valued. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you can bring your whole self, without fear and without shame. Whether you’re navigating pain, uncertainty, or change, you don’t have to go through it alone. To learn more, visit my profile on Psychology Today!

I have extensive experience in the field working with college students. I specialize in working with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD. I have helped many college students navigate transitions into young adulthood, career exploration, and academic stressors.

You've worked hard to get to where you are today, but your trauma is still holding you back. Anxiety keeps you up at night. You can't quiet the voice in your head that's telling you you're not good enough. You feel disconnected from other people and wonder how others seem to maintain their relationships. And interactions with your family members leave you thoroughly exhausted. You're suffering from the legacy of childhood emotional neglect and trauma. You had to take care of yourself from a very early age because there wasn't anyone else to do it. Now, you're struggling to stay afloat and maintain the life you've always wanted. It’s time find peace with your past and create a life you love. If you're ready to break free from repetitive thoughts and behaviors that hold you back, heal from past hurt and trauma, develop a greater sense of inner peace and self-confidence, improve your relationships with others and yourself, and reconnect with your body and emotions, then keep reading. My specialty is working with adults who have experienced childhood emotional neglect and trauma. I'm a Level 2 trained IFS clinician, and I bring years of experience to helping my clients heal and live the lives they want to live. It's possible for you, too. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation and start on the path to healing.

Here at Harper Grace Counseling, we see a wide variety of clients and offer vast specialties. We work to diligently to ensure you are placed with the clinician who is most skilled and able to help you with your current struggles. We provide both in person and telehealth services to ensure that we are able to service anyone who resides in the state of Illinois. We are able to support clients navigating gender transition, survivors of trauma, LGBTQiA++, couples, polyamorous relationship systems, caregivers, individuals with chronic medical conditions, financial/ career concerns, racial identity, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, addiction, and neurodivergence.