Therapists for college students near 60657
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.
Do you often feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in cycles of overthinking and self-doubt? You may be navigating academic or career pressure, family expectations, or the emotional complexity of living between cultures. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, burnout, perfectionism, and feeling “never good enough,” even when they appear capable on the outside. Therapy can be a space where you slow down, feel understood, and move forward with greater clarity, emotional balance, and self-trust. As a bilingual therapist fluent in Mandarin and English, I bring both professional training and lived experience into my work. Having studied abroad since high school, I understand the challenges of living between cultures and am deeply attuned to the invisible pressures related to identity, family expectations and adapting to new environment. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, grounded in empathy, authenticity, and empowerment. I believe that healing begins with understanding—and that every small step toward self-acceptance is a powerful act of growth. I look forward to walking with you on this journey of healing and rediscovery.
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.
Psychotherapy Associates of Chicago serves a diverse clientele of individuals, couples and families in a quiet, comfortable therapy space. Since opening in 2001, our dedicated and highly experienced group of therapists has become some of the most frequently referred in Chicago. Let us help you navigate the inevitable ups and downs in life.
Anxiety fights dirty. When anxiety gets out of control, it can feel like a bully, always pushing you around. I get it, I’ve been there. When you’re really in it, you feel stuck and worse still, it can feel like there’s no way out. Constantly living in survival mode doesn’t feel much like living at all. The good news is that you don’t have to face anxiety alone. Together we can push back against anxiety and get your life back. We can use tried and true methods to reduce the symptoms of anxiety and get you out of survival mode. Imagine being more present and connected to life, feeling more like yourself again. More at ease, as you look to the future with a renewed sense of confidence and hope. A way forward is actually, finally here. If you’re ready to change your relationship with anxiety and want to stop living in survival mode. Let’s talk. Give me a call and let’s get to work.
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.
Vicky is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her Masters degree in social work at Loyola University Chicago. Vicky has experience working with young adults, children, adolescents and their parents on a variety of different issues including social skills, self-compassion, emotional regulation, anxiety, life transitions and grief. Vicky has worked in a variety of settings including schools, summer camps and private practice. In her work, Vicky understands the importance of experiences and how they can greatly influence one's perspective in how they relate to themselves and others. She believes it is important to process significant events, in order to gain a better understanding of one’s needs and potential. Vicky uses a relational and strengths-based approach to allow for her clients to feel supported along every step of the therapeutic process. She also uses elements of cognitive behavioral therapy and play therapy to support clients in their therapeutic journey. Vicky aims to provide a warm, welcoming and safe space for her clients and feels honored to walk alongside each individual’s unique path.
Hello. My name is Bridget Montgomery, I am a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist. I specialize in treating stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, Borderline and OCD tendencies. If you are looking to improve your mood, make change, accomplish new goals, process your past, or learn ways to improve your life or your relationships- please reach out. I am available virtually or at my Chicago office. I offer a free phone consultations. Thank you.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
As a therapist, I value assisting clients on their journey to cultivating deeper insight into their lives in order to foster empowerment, personal growth and internal healing. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults and couples working through generalized anxiety, OCD, trust issues, life adjustments, addiction, social anxiety, guilt, shame, breakups, self criticism, infidelity, lack of fulfillment, relationship issues, college issues, boundaries, women's sex issues, kinks, ethical, non-monogamy, low self esteem, family issues, attachment issues, codependency, and trauma.
Gabi is a board-certified, licensed clinical counselor and a Registered Art Therapist. She holds a masters degree in Counseling & Art Therapy from Adler University. Rooted in a passion for fostering community, connection, understanding, and belonging, Gabi is committed to guiding clients through their unique journeys, holding space for their truths and experiences. Through a blend of talk therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, body-centric work, and play, she fosters trust and belonging. Her art therapy encourages intuitive expression, allowing clients to authentically explore emotions, memories, and body-felt experiences, creating a safer inner space for self-discovery. Outside of private practice, Gabi worked as a therapist and clinical supervisor within community mental health, as well as an art therapist with marginalized Chicago youth. She has experience working with the spectrum of age, from as young as 5 into adulthood, as well as families. Gabi has experience working with a wide range of presenting concerns, but specifically has a passion for working with 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, those navigating past and present trauma, those experiencing significant life transitions (transitioning into adulthood, college, becoming a parent) as well as those wanting to further connect with the experiences of their body.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Hi! Like many therapists, I'm a 30-something cis, white woman who likes earth tones and metaphors. I especially enjoy working with individuals with mood disorders, complex trauma, chronic illness, and psychosis, as well as those who identify as artists/creatives and recovering perfectionists. I draw from various modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Health at Every Size (HAES), Narrative Therapy, and EMDR. However, my most impactful training has happened in conversation with clients themselves. I recognize how my identities contribute to a power differential with my clients, especially when working with marginalized populations. I work to interrupt this power differential whenever possible by being antiracist in my work and prioritizing humility and transparency. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is key to any kind of growth and change, and therefore first honor creating an authentic relationship with the clients I work with.
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.
Relationships play a significant role in our emotional well-being, yet they can also be one of life's greatest sources of stress. At Semillas Counseling, we help individuals and couples navigate the challenges that arise in friendships, dating relationships, family dynamics, roommates, and romantic partnerships. Whether you're struggling with communication, conflict, trust, boundaries, loneliness, life transitions, or simply wanting healthier and more fulfilling connections, our therapists provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore what's happening and develop meaningful, lasting change. We believe stronger relationships begin with greater self-awareness, intentional communication, and the confidence to show up authentically with the people who matter most.
Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.
Perhaps you’re tired of not feeling good. Your relationships or career may be draining you and there could be a felt sense that there is more to life or something better for you out there. You might even be carrying a deep, nagging pain that needs release and yet, when the tears come, you hold them back in. Your struggles could leave you feeling unable to think clearly, experiencing tightness in your chest or your body, or even feeling like you weigh a million pounds. Over time, you could find yourself completely numb and not wanting to get out of bed in the morning. Whether these feelings are coming from the distant past or from something happening currently, this does not need to be your “normal”. With support, you can find relief and have greater peace in your life. I know what it’s like to feel empty or to question “how did my life get here?”. My experience with various mind body therapies, blended with traditional counseling, taught me that with compassion and determination, we can find our way out. I believe when we can openly share about ourselves without pressure and with knowing that everything is welcome, we are able to take small steps towards lasting change. From a young age, I had been fascinated with human behavior, introspection, and understanding our inner world. I became a therapist to help people explore all of the crevices where we hold our pain, not only to help connect the dots, but to expand awareness in both the mind and body. I believe this helps us to allow our tears to flow and hold our messiness with tenderness and grace. Working at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, showed me firsthand that change begins when we let go of labeling our thoughts, feelings, or sensations as “good/bad”, “right/wrong”, or “should/shouldn’t”. I am dedicated to helping people step away from these rigid beliefs and approach themselves with a gentle curiosity. I believe when we let go of the labels, we can learn to accept and integrate all parts of ourselves and our experiences with greater compassion. I also learned how important it is to blend a sense of lightheartedness and tough love during my role at Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center. I know change is not easy, and although we may never feel ready, it’s in doing it anyway and taking the first small steps that we begin to uncover our true nature. I understand how difficult it is to hold the uncertainty or pain in your life. You have the innate ability to regain a sense of balance and create internal space for any emotional experience. You deserve more and there is more for you out there. I am here to help you uncover and discover how big and free your life can be. Let’s connect now.
Our focus is on helping our clients create a life of presence, passion and purpose. We are a practice of 42 diverse, authentic and skilled therapists. Having a large team of therapists allows us to cover many specialties and treat most mental health disorders. We serve over 1000 clients each week, many of whom are students struggling with adjusting to college life, "adulting", anxiety, stress, OCD, trauma, depression, eating disorders, body image and identity development. Our therapists are LGBTQ+ affirming and consistently work on anti-racism. As therapists we are both creative and collaborative in helping you become the best and most authentic version of yourself.
Are you looking to make changes in your life? Are you looking for a partner to help navigate relationship drama, manage symptoms, or just to listen to the challenges you’re going through? It would be an honor to partner with you on this journey, whatever the reason that brings you in. I can support you in managing stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, dual diagnoses, and many other concerns. Each person is worthy of a space to feel seen and engage in a meaningful therapy experience. I strive to create a therapeutic space that is centered on the goals and needs of each person while building a collaborative relationship all in the understanding that you drive the direction and focus of our work together. I’m here as a guide to offer strategies, expertise and hope as we navigate through your unique experience in partnership. My therapeutic approach is grounded in strengths-based, trauma-informed and harm-reduction philosophies. Other evidenced-based practices utilized in my work include cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and others that are best suited for the person and their particular needs.