Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Hi! I’m Matthew Boltz and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I provide therapy for children, adolescents/teenagers, and adults in Chicago. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, autism, behavioral disorders, depression, executive functioning difficulties, family stress, life change & transitions, school/work stress, stress, and self-esteem. I have over 10 years of experience working in the field of social work and providing behavioral/mental health services. I began my career working in inpatient and outpatient hospitalization programs and then spent five years working within the education system to provide mental health services as a social worker in elementary, middle, and high schools across the state of Illinois. I have extensive experience working with many subject matters in regard to the education system such as school functioning, special education law, IEPs and 504’s, coordination of care between support staff, and advocacy within the school setting. While working in the school, I also began working in private practice providing therapy to a variety of people with different presenting issues and concerns as mentioned above. I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness-based therapy to support treatment goals through skill-building, gaining insights, and clarifying values. I employ a person-centered and strengths-based approach when working with my clients to honor each of their own individual wants and needs during the therapeutic process. I am an affirming and accepting therapist that provides a collaborative, non-judgmental, and supportive therapeutic environment. My goal is to empower each client with the coping strategies and skills necessary to make the desired changes in their own life. If you have any other questions, would like to schedule a brief phone consultation, or want to schedule your first appointment, please feel free to call or email me. I look forward to talking with you.

Patterns and Threads is an inclusive psychotherapy practice specializing in creativity, neurodivergence and embracing the unexpected. If you are creative, neurodivergent and/or anxious, your mind generates lots of ideas, which creates both strengths and challenges - whether that's in school, in relationships or in the world in general. The challenges come when who you are or how you work doesn't fit with the expectations of a traditional, neurotypical and linear structure. When this happens, we help you find ways to navigate these spaces in ways that are affirming and natural to you. We help clients reduce stress, manage anxiety and depression, and ease life transitions. Our expertise is in how these intersect when your mind (or life) diverges from what is traditionally expected. Our specialties in creativity: • Countering the impact of societal values and messages about art and creative professions • Understanding (and helping others understand) creativity as a need vs a nice to have • How trauma and shame impact the creative process • Finding your best creative environment and create flow • Perfectionism in the artistic process • Balancing product and process Our specialties in neurodivergence: • ADHD, Autism and AuDHD • Self-confidence and Self-acceptance • The impact of comparisons to neurotypical standards • Perfectionism and People-pleasing • Masking and burnout • How to get things done in a neurodivergent-friendly way • Standardized testing, evaluations and diagnoses • Advocacy and self-advocacy We'd love to hear from you. No matter what you're going through, we'll help you figure out who you are despite the expectations of others, and create your own roadmap to whatever life throws your way. Together, we'll find who you are - and who you can be - when you break out of what is expected.

Hi, I’m Taryn! I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), and I provide individual therapy virtually to clients across Illinois. I have experience supporting clients navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, domestic violence/abuse, grief, and more. I believe that meaningful therapy starts with a strong, trusting relationship. I view the client-therapist connection as a key tool for healing and growth. In our work together, we’ll make space for your full emotional experience — without judgment, without rushing, and with deep respect for whatever you’re carrying. We’ll use curiosity, self-compassion, and even some humor as we celebrate wins, challenge patterns that no longer serve you, and move toward more presence and alignment in your life. My goal is to help you reconnect with your core values, deepen your self-understanding, and feel more grounded in who you are.

I use my full experience from living in China, France, Japan, and the U.S., and from working in management consulting, nonprofits, and the arts in my work as a therapist. I am adept at working with people from varied backgrounds. I am astute, compassionate, and deeply committed to my clients' well-being. I engage my clients not only on the inner- and inter-personal levels, but also in the contexts of their intersecting roles and identities. I am attuned to the mutual influence that individuals and groups have on one another and the interconnectedness in life's pain and healing. By working with a caring and attuned professional, my clients can feel safe and free to explore and work through their experiences of depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, loneliness, shame, and anger, all the while developing their courage, resilience, understanding, and self-acceptance. I am fluent in Chinese (Mandarin) and can supplement my work with advanced French and intermediate Spanish. I also provide consultation and training to early- and mid- career clinicians in the U.S. and China.

Jennifer Harris PsyD & Associates is a group of warm, down-to-earth therapists offering both in-person and telehealth psychotherapy. We’re based in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, just a few blocks south of DePaul University, and provide telehealth services throughout Illinois and other PSYPACT states. Our therapists work well with students navigating big transitions, questions about identity, or simply looking for someone real to talk to. We aim to create a space where you can feel comfortable being yourself. We’re not afraid to use humor or have honest conversations about what’s really going on. We offer a diverse team of therapists, including those who speak Mandarin and Arabic, and we welcome clients from all backgrounds. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, burned out, lonely, or just stuck, we’re here to help you sort through it. Our therapists have specialized training in treating the following areas: Anxiety, Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Family & Relationship Issues Identity Development and Life Transitions International Students Acculturation Depression, Self-Esteem Concerns Trauma & PTSD Get to know us and our different specialties at www.jhpsyd.com

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

You may feeling like you are not supported, seen or heard by others. You could be feeling alone, frustrated or hurt. Perhaps you’ve been putting others’ needs first and allowing no space for yourself. This could lead to burnout, frustration or even depression. You deserve to have someone listen to you, and someone to talk to who is not judging you, your feelings or your situation. You can have space and time for yourself. I have always been drawn to helping people since I was a very young age. I know what it is like to feel frustrated with your everyday reality and fumbling to figure out what is the next best step forward. Through my own experience and work environment, I can firsthand confirm how helpful it is to lean on someone. I provide a warm, understanding, and grounded presence. I strongly encourage people to have self-love and acceptance as we begin to talk through problems and concerns. I'm dedicated to helping people shift towards the changes they want to see. I understand how difficult it is not to feel like yourself or be understood by others. You are not alone and deserve to be heard. I am dedicated to creating a healing space where we can explore your unique experiences, perspectives, and obstacles. I am here to support you no matter what you are coping with. Let’s work through things together.

If life feels like a dumpster fire there's a spot on my couch for you. I'm a social worker who specializes in providing therapy to college students dealing with anxiety, depression and ADHD. I also often work with clients struggling in their relationship with their parents, partner or friends. In your individual therapy sessions we will work to align your life with your values rather than your fears. I I provide a warm nonjudgmental approach to help you clarify what matters to you in life while also finding relief from distressing thoughts and emotions. Throughout our development we ask the question, "who am I" over and over. I create an accepting environment for you to freely explore this question. All identities are welcomed and I have experience working clients who are part of the LGBTQIA community, I look forward to connecting with you!

Hello! I'm Danielle and I work with many university students from the University of Chicago. I assist students to manage stress of the busy college/university lifestyle. Some clients have long standing struggles either diagnosed or not yet diagnosed and I help these clients to discover best ways to cope. Client Types: I work with clients who have or suspect ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, and adjustment concerns related to family, friends, and academic work. Demographics/Allied: Disability, Men, Women, LGBTQ+, culturally diverse Interest individuals: You may reach out and request a 15+ minute consultation to see if we'd be a good fit. How I work: First, I'm Person-Centered (considering the whole person) and considering your unique needs. Then, I use an action based approach to help client's achieve their goals. What would work best for you is discussed in the first session during assessment. Who works best with me: Those who like an interactive counselor who is empathetic and with validate your feelings while also challenging you to grow and increase positive changes. My goal is to assist you to gain a healthy tool box to manage life's stresses.

I am passionate about providing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy for older adolescents, young adults and adults with OCD, depression, anxiety and related disorders. Over the past 5+ years, I have deepened my commitment to providing effective therapy through a personalized and strengths-based approach. I work collaboratively and flexibly with my clients to help develop goals in line with living a more meaningful and values-driven life. I strive to form a supportive therapeutic bond through compassion, warmth, empathy and humor. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, one of the top training institutions in the field of social work. Prior to that, I graduated cum laude from Northwestern University, with a double major in Psychology and Science in Human Culture. I have provided individualized treatment across outpatient and school settings, serving patients of all ages. Additionally, I gained extensive training and experience providing evidence-based treatment across outpatient clinics specializing in OCD, anxiety and related disorders. I enjoy traveling and trying new restaurants as well as spending quality time with my family, friends, and Sylvester (my toothless, senior rescue dog).

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.

I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems in adolescents and adults (ages 12 and up). In my work, therapy often focuses on dealing with stress related to academic demands, difficulties in peer and romantic relationships, family conflict, low self-esteem, as well as struggles with self-identity. I also work with young adults who feel overwhelmed during the transition to college or entering the work force for the first time. I draw on elements from empirically supported treatments such as CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I strive to offer an emphatic, non-judgmental approach to treatment. As a Latina, it is particularly important to me to serve my community and I welcome Spanish speaking clients.

At Piece by Piece we offer comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for children, adults, and older adults facing a range of cognitive, behavioral and emotional concerns. We have locations in Oak Brook and Lake Forest and now in Chicago in the Lincoln Park area. We are now offering services including therapy, executive functioning coaching as well as telehealth evaluations so we can offer services to a wider population who may not have access otherwise. We also offer neuropsychological evaluations in Spanish. Common reasons for referrals include ADHD, ASD, learning disorders, dementia, brain injury and various neurological conditions. Our evaluations are fast, with a typical two-week turnaround time and we work closely with referring providers to ensure all referral questions are addressed. We accept most insurance as well as offer self-pay and pro-bono options.

Sometimes the hardest part of healing is simply starting. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts, stuck in past experiences, or unsure of how to move forward, you’re not alone. Therapy can be a space to breathe, reflect, and begin again on your own terms. I specialize in teen and adult trauma-focused care, with an emphasis on working with survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, complex PTSD, and anxiety. Together, we can work on unlearning harmful thought patterns, building self-esteem, and identifying what safety, strength, and autonomy look like for you in an inclusive, warm, and affirming environment. Through my training and clinical work in trauma focused care and sexual violence, I understand the complexity of trauma and how it can affect every part of our lives, mind, and body. Certified in Trauma-Focused CBT, I use an integrated approach that includes psychodynamic, person-centered, and strengths-based therapies that are tailored to each client. Therapy isn’t about fixing you. You aren’t broken. It’s about reconnecting with your resilience, honoring your lived experiences, and giving yourself the care and space you deserve to heal. If you’re ready to begin this process, I would be honored to be a part of your journey. Please call or submit your request on psychology today to get started.

Young adulthood can be both exciting and overwhelming—full of choices, change, and uncertainty. Whether you're graduating from school or navigating college, starting your career, facing relationship challenges, or feeling stuck, anxious, or down, therapy can be a grounding space to sort through it all. I understand the complex stressors that come with early adult life, and I am deeply passionate about supporting adults navigating a range of emotional and psychological challenges, such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic concerns, relationship troubles, and grief. My therapeutic style is compassionate and empathetic—I work to create a safe, supportive environment where you feel seen and heard. I also believe in the importance of being direct and gently challenging when needed, to help you grow and move toward meaningful change. I tailor my work to meet your unique goals and with respect to your lived experience.

Brightland Health is a leading Lincoln Park/Lakeview boutique mental health practice. Our team of Chicago Psychiatrists and Therapists go above and beyond by providing each individual with personalized care.

Hi, my name is River! I work with adults (18+) and my main areas of focus are anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I also have a particular passion for working with people from the queer and neurodivergent communities. I enjoy working with clients who are trying to live fuller, more authentic, values-driven lives, and I am passionate about helping each client carve out a path forward that honors their unique identities. My approach to therapy is all about creating a space where you can bring your full authentic self and drawing on your inherent strengths to overcome whatever challenges you’re facing. I believe the therapeutic process looks different for everyone. Whether you are looking for something more structured and direct or you just need a space to talk things out, I will always strive to meet you where you’re at. I also take a systemic lens to therapy, bringing issues of power and privilege into the conversation. Understanding how systems of power and oppression impact the problems you are facing deepens our understanding of the issue and informs how to best move forward. I understand that starting therapy is not easy, and opening up to a stranger doesn’t come naturally to everyone. It is important for me to meet you where you’re at, whether you have experience in therapy or this is your first time. If you think I might be a fit, I would love to talk about how I can help support you. I look forward to meeting you!

The world’s a dumpster fire. I know it, you know it; I’m not about to sugarcoat that. But we only get one shot here, and therapy’s a legitimate excuse to take a deep breath, put your fucking phone away, disconnect from everything, and talk about YOU. What do you want? What are you passionate about? Who do you want to be at this moment in time, and what’s getting in the way? Maybe you don’t have the answers yet, or maybe you have an idea but the way forward is illusive. Regardless, you wouldn’t be here without recognizing change is necessary. That means you’re already invested in you, and the path you're on. I sincerely respect that. My own path began with a love of the arts and storytelling, and these things often find their way into the work I do. I believe that the art and media we consume often becomes the vocabulary of our imagination and our emotions. These can provide an entry way to talk about heavy things. Existential, narrative, and person-centered therapy are my jams. Additionally, I champion science, justice, diversity, kindness, and sex positivity. I strongly believe these values to be fundamental in cultivating the best version of ourselves and our communities. I welcome adolescents and adults of all ages, expressions, and orientations, as well as individuals within relationship dynamics of all kinds.

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.

Our general approach to therapy is to view each individual with no judgments or preconceptions; whatever you want to focus on will be our focus as well. At the end of the day, we want you to leave our sessions having either added more tools to your tool belt or having strengthened the tools that you are already using. We primarily approach therapy with a “Person-Centered” orientation; we understand that you are the expert on yourself, and we are only there to provide context, to facilitate your growth, and to help you overcome or manage any obstacles you may be facing. Our specific interventions depend on what we may be working on at the time, and may draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness based therapies, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Reality Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Some of our specialty areas with our clients are cultivating healthy and strong relationships (romantic, family, friends), couples, grief, trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, career counseling, and others.