Therapists for college students near 60657

Are you struggling with the transition to college while navigating new responsibilities? You’re bright, creative, and motivated and yet finishing anything feels impossible. You call yourself “lazy” when tasks pile up and feel ashamed that simple things seem hard. You want clarity about your brain, tools that actually work, and a therapist who gets it. I am passionate about working with college students untangle executive-function struggles, perfectionism, trauma, and low self-esteem. I’m especially passionate about supporting BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ folks. Together we’ll kick shame out of the driver’s seat and build self‑compassion, understanding, and systems that fit you. Sessions are flexible and center your needs: if we need to laugh, move, play, or cry—we will. We explore the “what” with curiosity, not the “why can’t you just…”. I use strengths-based reframes, coping tools, and psychoeducation so you understand how your brain works and can actually use the skills between sessions. Fit matters. If you’re craving relief from shame, clearer systems that fit your life, and a space where all parts of you are welcome, let’s talk. I offer virtual and in-person sessions, a free 15‑minute consult, and accept insurance/sliding scale options when available.

You are so much bigger than the things that have bogged you down in your past, the things that trouble you in the present, and the things that scare you about the future. Therapy isn't about fixing something broken; it's about helping you recognize, hone, and use the strength you already possess to create lasting change. You don't have to be trapped by old stories or limiting beliefs, you can rewrite your own narrative. As a therapist, I believe my first and foremost responsibility is to create a safe space for you - space for you to heal, laugh, cry, celebrate, and even make mistakes. I want you to feel cozy bringing your entire self into the therapeutic space, and I promise I’ll do the same. I’m always on your side; while I may question or challenge you, at the end of the day I fundamentally believe we are all doing our best—you included. I specialize in working with queer adults, adolescents, and couples navigating life transitions, anxiety, family-of-origin issues, identity development, and body image concerns in an easy-going, shame-free space. I am a member of the queer community, and am committed to a practice that is accessible, antiracist, LGBTQIA+-affirming, poly-allied, body-neutral, and welcoming toward clients of all walks of life. I draw on diverse experiences in the arts, corporate settings, education, and in clinical mental health to bring an integrative and eclectic approach to therapy. As a continually developing and evolving clinician, I draw from narrative, existential, and person-centered approaches, and am supervised by Angela Scalisi, LCPC. If you are here and are already considering starting or continuing therapy, you’re already taking such a meaningful step in prioritizing yourself and your wellbeing. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just want someone to chat with, there’s a spot on my couch for you.

Hello! We are a Chicago-based group private practice, and we offer counseling services for individuals, couples, and adolescents. We are located in the Wicker Park neighborhood right off the Blue Line. We accept BCBS PPO/Blue Choice insurance, out of pocket, and sliding scale payment for services. Please reach out to us at 773-249-2921 or hello@acclchicago.com for more information!

Ali King, LCPC, earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. She went on to work as a behavioral therapist for children with Autism at the Minnesota Autism Center before moving to Chicago and earning her master’s degree in Community Counseling from DePaul University. After graduate school, Ali worked as a therapist at Insight Behavioral Health Center’s residential facility for people struggling with eating disorders, as well as mood disorders. She led groups and supported people with everyday living tasks, as well as general skills coaching and meal management. Ali recently stepped down as the Director of the Young Adult PHP and IOP programs at Compass Health Center where she worked for 8 years in many different roles helping to build the Young Adult program and support the growth of the organization. While at Compass, Ali provided supervision and mentorship to newer clinicians and helped establish the group curriculum they currently use, as well as instituting effective policies and protocols. While at Compass, she received the award for Continuous Improvement, which highlights her drive and dedication to learning and growth. For over a decade, she has been providing person-centered, solution-focused, skills-based care. Her direct though nurturing, fun, and empathetic approach, is well received and has shown tangible results for her clients. With consistent encouragement and support, clients feel safe to explore their values and to learn successful coping strategies to improve their lives. While Ali has a passion for working with young adults through the tough transitions they face, she also appreciates working with adolescents and adults. She is well-versed in helping people manage struggles with self-esteem, relationships, low motivation, and simply feeling “stuck”. Ali is adept at working with clients with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, psychosis and substance use struggles. She has extensive experience working with DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and often incorporates these modalities into her eclectic therapeutic approach. Ali is currently accepting new clients virtually and at the downtown Chicago location.

I am currently accepting new clients both virtually and in-person. Are you experiencing stress, relationship issues, anxiety, insecurity or a life transition? Together, we can work to develop an understanding of life’s circumstances, make positive changes, and find emotional relief. I believe (and have seen!) that healing and joy can come from working through the challenges you are facing. By integrating authenticity, encouragement, and honesty into each session, I provide space for you to process and tools to better manage your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I am especially passionate about incorporating a biblical perspective for those who request Christian counseling. Please let me know when you reach out if this is something you are looking for, as my clients have varying spiritual beliefs and I respect each individual’s values. I currently have weekday and evening availability. I am happy to provide a 20 minute free phone consultation to answer your questions as you consider if this may be a good fit for you!

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Alexandra obtained her Masters of Art Therapy and Counseling from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Throughout her career, Alexandra has worked with clients in all stages of life from childhood to older adulthood. She has worked in continuing care communities as well as residential and private practice settings. During her time working in residential level-of-care, she led groups based in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (CBT). She is particularly passionate about working with grief & loss, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Alexandra’s therapeutic style is integrative through the use of a person-centered lens that can incorporate DBT, CBT, and ACT modalities. She approaches sessions with clients through collaboration to develop interventions that meet the needs and interests of each individual while highlighting each client’s strengths. Alexandra uses ACT through an existential perspective, supporting client’s actions and decisions in connection with each individual’s values to create meaningful experiences throughout life. In the therapeutic relationship, she utilizes a relational approach while also finding moments to incorporate humor. One of her favorite parts of being a mental health professional is to witness growth in clients and celebrating their successes. Throughout her career Alexandra has specialized in working with clients experiencing anxiety and depression through the use of interventions such as Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Behavioral Activations (BA), developing coping skills, and managing critical thoughts. She assists clients navigate perfectionism and build self-esteem while addressing concerns in relationships to build communication and boundary-setting. Alexandra’s path to becoming a therapist began with explorations in the benefits of artmaking in mental health through art therapy. She has developed extensive knowledge of art materials and methods such as painting, fiber arts, and ceramics. Alexandra can use art therapy with clients as a form of communication, self-expression, or assist in emotional regulation. She previously developed an art therapy curriculum when working in a residential setting to assist clients in continuing to build skills as well as creating further opportunities for creative expression.

You are the expert of your own life, and sometimes we need some support along the way. My main areas of focus include work with neurodivergent disabled queer and gender expansive clients at various intersections of identity, complex trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (e.g. medical and religious trauma, trauma navigating systemic oppression). I also work with folks often othered in the mental health and medical fields, sociocultural identity development, and plurality across the lifespan. I seek to co-create a meaningful, collaborative culturally responsive relationship centering a trauma-focused and healing-centered lens. I incorporate an integrative, relational, strengths-based approach incorporating Dialectical Behavior Therapy, somatic therapies, humor (and puns), narrative therapies, and challenge by consent. I seek to provide an affirming and empowering space, especially for folks at various intersections of identity, who have experienced oppression, trauma, and severe mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. It is important to build a mutually collaborative relationship that provides space for self-reflection and growth. I look forward to connecting!

As a first generation American with a multifaceted cultural background and personal identity, I understand just how unique every individual is. For this reason, I find it important to meet clients where they are at and create a supportive and safe space where they can be their true authentic selves. I use an integrative approach to therapy based in multicultural, person-centered, and psychodynamic frameworks. I enjoy using a narrative approach to empower clients to re-author their life story, make more informed choices, and create positive change that will help them to live in a way that reflects their true goals and values. Together we can explore and process your life experiences, consider the various aspects of your identity (race, culture, gender identity, sexual orientation, etc.), and explore your many abilities, skills, values, and beliefs. I may incorporate Motivational Interviewing, CBT, REBT, Relational Therapy as needed to facilitate progress towards your goals. I am experienced in working with clients from diverse backgrounds and ages/ life stages, from adolescents to older adults. I have supported clients through both group and individual therapy to help them overcome a variety of challenges, such as substance use issues, anxiety, depression, relational issues, PTSD, ADHD, and more.

Do you ever feel like you’re on top of the world one day, and then completely lost and unsure of yourself the next? Are you unsure of what direction to take in life and with your healing? All of these things can feel overwhelming- which is where I come in as a therapist to provide grounding and organization to your thoughts so we can move forward together towards your goals. I specialize in working with couples and individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and perinatal or postpartum issues. I take a narrative and strengths-based approach, helping individuals and couples reclaim their stories and feel empowered to live authentically. With a background in HR, I specialize in helping you with strategies to advocate for yourself in the workplace and manage stress that are based on research and teachable skills. Together, we will build trust and empathy in our therapeutic relationship and hopefully even share some laughs!

We are a group practice of 11 therapists located in Lincoln Square in Chicago. We conduct in person as well as online therapy. We specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and grief and loss.

If you feel depressed, anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, stuck or simply need somebody to talk to, I can help. If you are considering making life changes or have a sense that something needs to change, let's work on it together. It has been my life's work to try to understand people and, beyond understanding, help people grow & change. If any of this sounds like you, I hope we can meet to talk it over together. For over 16 years, I taught psychology to therapists & counselors in training. I am certified in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy & informed by Attachment, Mentalization & Evolutionary Psychology based therapies. I am also formally educated & trained in spirituality & religion. Through engaging conversation we will find ways to understanding, growth & change. Working with people during their college years has been a central part of my life. I understand the challenges of coming into the adult life and coming up against personal challenges. I want to help.

Through creativity and warmth, we work with clients to facilitate personal growth to help navigate an often confusing world. Together we will increase your self awareness, support you in finding the best answers to life- changing questions, and guide you to a more enjoyable life. ‍ We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Relationships & Couples Counseling, Quarter Life Crisis, Life Transitions, Trauma, & PTSD and more.

I understand how overwhelming change can feel. As a relationship therapist, I believe you are not broken or damaged. I am here to help you make sense of who you are based off your life experiences and relationships. When you come to session, we’ll work together to help you see and celebrate your value as an individual, partner, and friend creating lasting, positive change for yourself and relationships. With years of experience in therapeutic classrooms, daycare centers, housing shelters for at-risk youth and families, and as a prevention specialist in middle and high school settings, I bring a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to my practice. I specialize in working with young adults and women, focusing on self-esteem, identity, societal expectations, and gender roles in relationships. I also address family of origin issues, including attachment wounds and intergenerational trauma, while integrating anxiety management, mindfulness, and emotion-focused therapy. I earned my B.A. in Family and Human Services, along with Spanish, from the University of Oregon and my M.A. in Couple and Family Therapy at Adler University. I also hold a certification in Trauma-Informed Care from St. Vincent DePaul and am a proud member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). My supervisor is Brittney Brooks, AMFT.

Pursuing therapy is a courageous step in your healing journey, and you deserve to be heard and empowered throughout the process. I am here to provide you a safe space in which you can be your true self without the fear of being judged. My style of therapy includes being warm, authentic, and nonjudgmental with my clients, allowing them the time and space to express, reflect, and problem-solve. Because therapy can seem daunting, I pride myself in having a laid-back and gentle demeanor, letting the client know that they are cared for and appreciated. I value having a multicultural and anti-oppressive lens, allowing clients from a variety of social and cultural backgrounds to feel that their voices and experiences are worthy of being heard. As a child of immigrant parents, I know how hard it can be to open up about one’s feelings, I will be patient and supportive throughout the whole therapeutic process, as well as maintain respect and sensitivity toward one’s cultural background. When the time is right, I am always open for laughter and light-heartedness in a session, as well as focusing on positivity and self-empowerment. My work with clients is person-centered and trauma-informed. I have experience working with people of color, LGBTQIA+ folks, and high school students. Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy sports, cats, and tea! I’m here to help you every step of the way, so please never hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns! All inquiries are welcome. Please reach out to me at danial@rogersparkcounseling.com or 708-580-6245

Kudos to you for starting this journey toward whole health! At CG Therapies, we are a group of experienced and compassionate psychotherapists focused on tailoring treatment to the most effective techniques for your specific needs. Some of the issues we treat are depression, anxiety, perfectionism, stress management, PTSD and effects of trauma, bipolar disorder, biculturality and LGBTQ+ identity issues, relationship issues, personal growth, among others. Our clinicians have specialized training in a variety of techniques proven effective. We provide in-person and teletherapy as well as flexibility and understanding to meet the changing schedules of students. t takes courage to take the first step in addressing a challenge, but you do not have to face it alone. Therapy is a way to gain support, insight, and effective tools to navigate life’s obstacles. Whether you’ve been contemplating therapy for a while or this is the first time you’ve encountered a certain stress or crisis, you don’t have to figure things out alone. Schedule a 15 minute consultation call or complete a short form on our web site to get started.

Are you a person of faith who also identifies as gay (LGBTQ+) or same-sex attracted? Are you looking for a trauma therapist who's passionate about working with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma? My life's work is focused on teens and young adults who are exploring their faith and sexual identity and who are recovering from past trauma. Common symptoms are anxiety, depression, and PTSD. My goal is always to walk with my clients to find freedom, fulfillment, and an integrated identity. I love getting to know my clients - being entrusted with your story is an honor to me. Treatment Areas and Competencies: Teen therapy, Trauma Processing, Faith and Spirituality, Sexuality and Gender, Relationship Challenges, Emotion Regulation, Sexual Trauma, and Exposure to Violence. Reaching out to a therapist is a big step and I am on your team.

Maybe you’ve been telling yourself you should be able to handle this by now. But lately, everything feels heavier. Your energy is low, motivation is hard to find, and even small tasks can feel overwhelming. You may notice yourself pulling away from people, losing interest in things you used to enjoy, or feeling stuck in patterns that are hard to break. At times, you might find yourself reaching for something—whether it’s substances, distractions, or numbing behaviors—to get through the moment, even when it doesn’t bring lasting relief. For some, this shows up as persistent sadness, emptiness, or feeling disconnected from yourself and others. For others, it may look like anxiety, burnout, or being caught in cycles of overthinking and self-criticism. These experiences can also show up in relationships pulling away, avoiding hard conversations, or finding yourself in the same painful dynamics again and again. You may notice that your inner voice is harsh or unforgiving, making it even harder to find a way forward. Together, we will gently identify and address these patterns while building more compassion, stability, and connection—both within yourself and in your relationships I work with teens and adults navigating depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, identity questions, traumatic experiences, and life transitions. I provide LGBTQAI+-affirming therapy grounded in cultural humility, creating a safe and validating space to explore identity, relationships, and lived experiences. I also support individuals who are exploring their relationship with substances, whether that means reducing use, understanding patterns, or working toward recovery. I have completed training toward my Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential and am CADC-eligible, which allows me to integrate evidence-based approaches for substance use into our work. My practice is trauma-informed and guided by phase-oriented treatment approaches. In our early work, we focus on safety, stabilization, and building self-regulation skills to help you feel more grounded—even when things feel heavy or overwhelming. As you begin to feel more supported and resourced, we may shift toward processing more difficult experiences and understanding the roots of depressive patterns or substance use. Therapy is always paced according to your readiness. I prioritize transparency throughout therapy, ensuring you understand each step of the process and why certain approaches are used. My goal is to create a space that feels collaborative, supportive, and grounded—so you can move from feeling stuck and depleted toward feeling more engaged, connected, and able to experience meaning in your life again.

If you are someone who is wrestling with perfectionism, adjusting to college life, struggling with classes and peer relationships, I can walk alongside you as you organize and process those feelings. Many college students do not discuss the grief and loss that may come up when they move away from loved ones. This can also be a complex time as you begin a new chapter of your life while also trying to appreciate a newfound independence as you enter adulthood. I want to provide my clients with the necessary coping skills and tools to better equip themselves for the obstacles ahead, while also taking the time to understand behaviors and habits in their daily lives that they want to enhance or limit!

Thousand Branches Wellness – Chicago Loop offers compassionate, structured mental health care for teens and adults in the heart of downtown Chicago. We provide inclusive, evidence‑informed treatment for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress, and major life transitions. Our mission is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can heal, grow, and build lasting resilience. Our highly trained clinicians deliver care through adult and adolescent Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and weekly specialty groups. Using evidence‑based approaches such as CBT, ACT, mindfulness, somatic therapy, and schema‑informed process work, we support both high‑functioning individuals who feel “stuck” and those needing more structure than traditional outpatient therapy. Thousand Branches Wellness is known for a responsive intake process, collaborative communication with referring providers, and culturally aware care. We focus on building stability, insight, and sustainable coping skills—helping clients move forward with confidence and connection.