Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

Hi! I'm Hannah. Have you ever heard the phrase, “The body keeps the score”? It’s true! Our bodies are incredibly smart and know how to keep us safe. They remember our past and are doing their best to keep us safe in our present and future. But sometimes this means that it’s working overtime to protect us from anything else that could hurt us, and this can end up causing problems in relationships, jobs, schooling, and in our mental and physical health. Traditional talk therapy is often ineffective at helping the body heal from these old wounds. Instead, I use a body-based approach that provides long-lasting healing from trauma and loss. I believe that the therapeutic relationship truly heals, and I aim to be one of your biggest supporters as you overcome challenges in your life. I’ll be right there with you through some of your hardest moments, and I’ll hold onto hope even when it seems hopeless. I believe in you and your ability to do hard things. I also believe you deserve all the healing that you can possibly have in this life, and it’s my honor to guide you on your healing journey. I’m sex-positive, kink-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and strongly believe in racial justice.

My mission is to provide quality individual and group therapy that is accessible and meaningful. Over the years, I have worked with a wide variety of folks and have found that meeting people “where they are at “ and actively listening to their goals is the basic foundation that can be overlooked at times. Clients in my practice are motivated for therapy and committed to the time we set aside for their growth. I am also committed to that time in order to assist clients with meeting their goals and experiencing further well-being. Depending on their own personal preference for more or less structure, I can generally adapt my practice skills to meet that personal preference.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I’m Mercedes Yates-Jones, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois and Virginia. I am also the founder of Safe to Say Therapy located in Winfield, IL. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and have spent over a decade helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. Before starting my private practice, I worked with the Department of Veteran Affairs and in several private practice settings, supporting clients with a wide range of needs. I also have experience in inpatient psychiatric care, which has shaped my calm and steady presence when clients are feeling overwhelmed or facing difficult moments. I work with children ages 10 and up, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, burnout, academic stress, relationship concerns, life transitions, or periods of feeling stuck. I also have a heart for supporting students, veterans, parents, caregivers, and individuals from underserved communities. I created Safe to Say Therapy because I believe everyone deserves a space where they feel safe, understood, and truly supported. My goal is to meet you with warmth and authenticity and walk alongside you as you move toward clarity, confidence, and meaningful change, at a pace that feels right for you.

I like to think of therapy as a journey of inner exploration and I am along as a guide. I believe that therapy is most effective when it is a combination of intellectual understanding and emotional experience. In that regard, it feels like your feelings are our road signs that we are in the right track to self-growth. I try to not have a specific agenda going into sessions, but rather to go where it is you feel like you need to go at that time. I believe that it is my role to create a safe space for you to express and explore whatever it is that is inside you. Compassion is key, and cultivating self-compassion is one of the most important elements of therapy. I look forward to helping you explore and become more self-aware and self-compassionate!

Through the Woods Therapy & Wellness offers a fresh approach to mental health treatment, combining clinical and spiritual work within the context of a supportive community to promote a space for deep healing. Our clinical approach to therapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, and attachment-based, borrowing approaches from various evidence-based theories to meet our clients’ specific needs. Sense of community, self-care, and spiritual connection are important to us. Beyond our clinical work, we offer additional wellness services and host regular community events.

Hi, I’m Kaitlyn. My commitment to overall well-being, particularly in counseling individuals with diverse identities, is more than just professional; it's a core part of who I am. These convictions shape my therapeutic approach to be inclusive, empathetic, and focused on individual empowerment. Helping clients realize their own agency in crafting their future is where the magic of therapy happens. For me, therapy sessions can feel relaxed and even funny while also being deep, authentic, powerful, and effective. Join me in a space where you can be unapologetically yourself. Support for: LGBTQIA+ Counseling, College Student Therapy Services, Stress and burnout (including among current and future healthcare professionals), Relationship and family issues, Stress Management, Counseling for Anxiety and Depression, Counseling Services to help with Life Changes, Attachment Therapy Services. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I earned my Bachelor's of Arts and Masters in Social Work degrees from St. Ambrose University. I offer both telehealth and in-person counseling services in Swansea, Illinois.

To the outside world, it may appear that you have it all together yet no matter how hard you try you suffer from anxiety, self doubt, people pleasing, burn out, and guilt when putting your own needs first and something needs to change. My role as a therapist is to bring light to those parts of yourself which have been blocking you from making changes and step into a life of wholeness and authenticity. As a trauma focused therapist, I integrate therapeutic techniques that encourage insight-building and guidance on taking actionable steps toward healing. Areas of specialization include trauma, anxiety, systemic abuse, life transitions, attachment wounds, imposter syndrome, identity exploration, women's issues, and college student mental health. My services are telehealth only to provide services in the comfort of your own home.

The daily grind of work, family, friends, and life can be so demanding. Trying to juggle and balance it all at once. It can be too much pressure. You don't have to do it all, and certainly not alone. When feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, therapy can provide a space to have time to focus on you: to be heard, get feedback, and process through the hard stuff that's going on in your life. I enjoy practicing with individuals, couples, and familes. I am specialized in trauma, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and couples. I am trained and certified in EMDR and perinatal. I have extensive experience working with trauma recovery, survivors of abuse, and relationship and intimacy difficulties. As a working mom myself, with over 17 years of clinical experience, I take a direct and compassionate approach to therapy that allows for interactive dialogue and feedback to identify things that are working, and incorporate them into places that don’t seem to be working so well. We collaborate to create treatment goals, identify barriers, and create a plan.

Hello! My name is Megan Little, I am a passionate individual who enjoys building a connection with those I work with. I am a licensed social worker who has experience working with adolescents, young adults, and older adults who face a variety of struggles throughout their lifetime. My areas of specialization include anxiety reduction, grief counseling, relationship issues, occupational issues, Christian counseling, learning disabilities, parenting issues, and woman’s issues. I began my career working at a behavioral hospital and as a school social worker. Through many different focuses throughout my career, I truly fell in love with one-on-one based therapy. I truly believe that every person has a story and deserves to be heard. Life can be difficult, but with a helping hand, nothing is impossible to achieve. As a therapist, I feel very passionate empowering my clients to gain control of their lives back and the goals that they once wanted to pursue. Throughout therapy, I may utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) focuses along with holistic and existential therapy approaches to help my clients further explore their goals, beliefs, and their own personal values. I am a strong advocate that everyone brings their own unique life experiences and strengths to the table, and that there is no true exact replica approach to therapy. My goal and purpose is to individually invest in each person who I meet with and to utilize my strengths, expertise and approach to each individualistic client’s needs. Languages Spoken: English Professional Photo:

Envisage Counseling focuses on a plethora of life challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, transitions, and grieving. We have a diverse background that entails working in public health, residential treatment centers, health care settings, community-based centers, crisis agencies, and therapeutic settings. We strongly believe therapy is an important asset in life where one is able to talk about life challenges and work on solutions that allow individuals to be the best version of themselves. Our goal is to create a natural experience by nurturing a safe and welcoming environment, establishing trusting relationships, and promoting a judgement free zone where one can express themselves freely, overcome their challenges, and find balance in their lives. We believe in the philosophy “give yourself space to evolve” (Krista Aoki).

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.

heARTful wellness is the community care division of heARTful remedies, LLC. Renée (she/her), founder of heARTful remedies, LLC defines heARTful wellness as “being well at a heart level” and believes that these characteristics are all part of experiencing heARTful wellness. The goal of these community care options is to use creativity and mindfulness as a way to support access to mental health wellness skills outside the therapy room. Below is information about different community care offerings: 1. heARTful wellness workshops: Renee is providing art and mindfulness workshops (educational, not therapy) for anyone 18+ in person (STL) and virtually each month. In person: Offered every first Friday of the month @EMPOWERED Spaces in St. Louis, MO from 6-7:30pm CST; Virtual: Offered every second Wednesday of the month VIRTUALLY from 7-8:30pm CST (zoom link sent after sign up). *Full and Partial Equity scholarships for in-person sessions at EMPOWERED Spaces available. Contact Kelly at kkcaul@yahoo.com to inquire about the equity scholarships available! Vist: https://www.heartfulremedies.com/heartful-wellness-workshops Sign up here: https://bit.ly/heARTfulWellnesSTL heARTful remedies is passionate about empowering people to remember and reconnect with their creativity as part of collective liberation. These workshops are a space to reclaim your creativity as an act of Self–care while also building community with other like-hearted individuals. The inspiration for creating the heARTful wellness workshops are founded on these 6 principles: Open Access — making mental health support available outside the therapy room Self–Care — reclaiming prioritized time to nurture yourself Growing Awareness — practicing how to be grounded in the present moment (e.g., mindfulness) Creative Outlet — dedicated space to play and imagine creatively Building Community — connecting with like-hearted people Genuine Wellness — feeling like you have the tools to be your authentic Self 2. heARTful wellness workbook: Renee has published a mindfulness adult coloring workbook that can be used with anyone 13+ to be a supportive (outside of therapy) resource with journaling prompts and mindful coloring options. Visit for more info and purchase options: https://www.heartfulremedies.com/heartful-wellness-products Shop here: https://bit.ly/heARTfulproducts 3. heARTful wellness monthly newsletter: Renee and the heARTful wellness team are putting out a monthly newsletter with wellness tips and info about what heARTful wellness is doing out in the community each month that you can subscribe to on the website or send an email to wellness@heARTfulremedies.com saying you would like to be added. 4. Follow heARTful remedies on social media: Renee and the heARTful wellness team are working to put out creative wellness content regularly on social media as a way to support our collective wellness (can be used by all ages). Follow us @heartfulremedies (IG, FB, TikTok).

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.

Navigating OCD, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions can be emotionally and physically draining. There is little more frustrating than thinking and behaving in the same ways despite knowing they contribute to these issues and other debilitating symptoms. Therapy is a place to safely explore the thoughts, behaviors, and relationships that are interfering with living a more fulfilling and rewarding life. I am a trained OCD specialist and an active member of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF). I have extensive experience working with college undergrad and graduate students from my time as a counselor at the University of Colorado, Boulder and at Bryant University. Working directly on a college campus has provided me with a unique understanding of the intersection between academics and mental health, as well as how to navigate many campus systems best. Currently, in my private practice, I work with college students from the many different colleges in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Colorado. The majority of clients that I work with are navigating Anxiety or OCD and Related Disorders. My clinical approach to therapy is grounded in ERP, ACT, and CBT. I believe therapy is built around compassion, respect, and trust. I look forward to connecting with you and exploring how we can collaboratively achieve your treatment goals. Send me an email, give me a call, or visit my website (www.smithlicsw.com) to set up an appointment. If you are struggling and are tired of trying to handle things alone, please do not hesitate to get in touch. * I provide telehealth services to clients in Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Illinois, Vermont, and Colorado.*

Hello! As a mental health therapist, I'm here to offer a supportive and confidential space for you to navigate the unique challenges of college life. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed by academic pressure, social changes, and the process of figuring out your future. My goal is to work with you to develop effective coping strategies and build confidence so you can thrive during this important chapter. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk to, please know that reaching out is a sign of strength. I look forward to connecting with you.

Knowing what needs to get done doesn’t make it easier to start, follow through, or stay organized. ADHD, complex trauma, and addictive behaviors can show up as overwhelm, avoidance, impulsivity, low motivation, or coping patterns that have become difficult to change. I work with teens and adults, offering a space to feel understood, build self-trust, and create a life that feels more meaningful and manageable. My approach is warm, compassionate, and direct. Together, we will look beyond the surface to understand the patterns behind current challenges, while building practical, personalized tools for change. The goal is not to fit expectations, but to develop strategies that feel realistic, sustainable, and aligned with what matters. Therapy can be a place to slow down without needing all the answers first. I aim to create a warm, down-to-earth atmosphere where honesty is welcomed, challenges can be explored without judgment, and clients feel genuinely understood. Each step bringing greater clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of purpose and direction.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Could you use a safe space to process a major life transition? Are you looking for guidance on improving your relationships? I see therapy as a valuable tool to reflect on life, unpack how you're feeling, and discover what changes you can make to be more satisfied. My therapeutic style tends to be a good fit for clients who identify as perfectionists, struggle with anxiety and uncertainty, or who are experiencing stress from significant phase of life changes like starting school, getting married, or having kids. As a violinist myself, I love working with creatives, musicians, and performing artists. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and currently working towards my Perinatal Mental Health Certification. I strive to cultivate a supportive and compassionate relationship with my clients while also encouraging growth and accountability. I utilize evidence-based techniques, including ACT and CBT, to help clients improve their mental health. I also draw from my experience as a couples counselor to assist clients in developing more satisfying relationships. I received my EdS degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Loyola University Chicago and hold a degree in Violin Performance from Northwestern University. I started my private practice, Vivant Counseling & Psychotherapy, in 2022. Outside of the therapy room, I love taking walks with my pitbull Rosie, cooking pasta, and British crime dramas.

If you’re here, it’s probably because you’re ready to make some changes in your life. Maybe you’re struggling to form deep and meaningful relationships. Maybe you’re tired of constantly making to-do lists but never finishing them. Or maybe you’re tired of being plagued by indecision and self-doubt. As a licensed professional counselor, I’ll help you let go of perfectionism, people pleasing and other related anxieties. I’m a perfectionist therapist who loves working with high achievers, anxious college students and overwhelmed adults. I'm a licensed professional counselor in Missouri, Illinois and Colorado. I also offer Brainspotting.