Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Many of the students I work with feel like they’re carrying more than what shows on the outside. Between school, family expectations, friendships, and figuring out who they are, it can feel like there’s never enough space to just breathe. Some describe feeling anxious, weighed down, or stuck between different parts of their life; like they’re trying to hold it all together but don’t always know how. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work especially well with students who: ◦ Feel pressure to succeed academically while juggling family or cultural expectations ◦ Notice anxiety or low moods making it harder to focus or enjoy daily life ◦ Struggle with relationships, whether that’s family, friends, or dating ◦ Are first-generation, or navigating life between more than one culture ◦ Want a space that feels supportive, flexible, and understanding Therapy with me is about having someone on your side who understands those layers. We’ll take it step by step, focusing on what matters most to you so you can feel steadier, less weighed down, and more like yourself again.

I've been a psychotherapist for over ten years skilled in treating mental health disorders or distress. I use cognitive behavioral therapy to support students with academic challenges, peer and relationship struggles, life transitions, trauma, and more. I provide individual psychotherapy services (virtually or in person) at Pure Health Center in Lincoln Park walking distance from your campus. Currently, I offer flexible evening and weekend appointments to accommodate students' busy schedules. You can search my name "Megan O'Brien- Chicago IL" on Psychology Today to learn more about my practice or find me on Pure Health Center's website. You may also send an email to schedule a FREE 15-minute consult to get started. I look forward to working with you. Warmly, Megan O'Brien

Great to meet you! I prioritize authenticity in therapy; I will show up open, honest, human, and ready to laugh at your dark humor. I am a therapist who is fully accepting of diverse identities and cultures. I believe mental health and wellness is something that can always be improved and strengthened. I have my masters degree and clinical license in social work with a history working in health care and acute mental health settings. Please visit my website listed at the bottom of the page to see my availability.

Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of self-criticism, leading to persistent feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness? Do your emotions sometimes overwhelm you, resulting in reactions that feel disproportionate to the situation? Navigating relationships can become even more challenging when affected by family dynamics. Maybe you have been having concerns with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/ loss, life transitions, career/school stress, self-harm, and relationship challenges. Perhaps you’ve become discouraged by your attempts to help yourself. That’s what I’m here for. Imagine acquiring skills to navigate your inner critic and reduce feelings of hopelessness when triggered. Imagine understanding the reasons behind your actions which can provide motivation to overcome self-sabotaging behaviors. Let's build the courage to confront and overcome fears and self-perceptions that may be holding you back. I prioritize cultural sensitivity, emphasizing resilience, perseverance, and compassion. My trauma-informed approach fosters a nurturing space for exploring emotions, confronting challenges, and pursuing aspirations. Additionally, I speak conversational Cantonese, basic Korean, and basic Japanese. Schedule a free consultation today.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

First of all, I appreciate your time reviewing my profile. Here's what you can expect from our work together: I deliver evidence-based, trauma-informed, and culturally competent treatment for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and substance use disorders. In every session, I aim to empower clients with mental health education, acknowledge strengths, and bring compassion and honesty to vulnerable moments in therapy. It is my hope that we can spend time understanding how past experiences are influencing the present and work towards more authenticity and self-led actions in the future. Skilled in Acceptance and Commitment, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy techniques, I assist clients to develop deeper self-awareness and mindfulness, process underlying feelings and beliefs, improve psychological flexibility, and strengthen coping skills as clients work towards their specific goals. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling along with an additional certifications in trauma, sex-informed counseling, substance use counseling, and grief and loss. I use an integrated, person-centered approach to treat a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, panic, life/education/career transitions, trauma, struggles with interpersonal relationships and attachment, ADHD, self-esteem, chronic mental health issues, and less healthy coping mechanisms such as substance use, people-pleasing, self-criticism, and other self-punishing behaviors. Please reach out if you have any specific questions/concerns, I would be happy to address them with you. Certifications: LCPC, CADC, ADHD-CCPS, CCTP, CAGCS, CSTIP

We all experience moments where life feels overwhelming, sometimes accompanied by worry about what comes next or how to change patterns we find ourselves repeating again. While some relationships may be sources of stress and pain, relationships where you are able to be your true self can allow for healing and transformation. It is my belief that the more we experience our authentic self, the easier it becomes to remain in connection to others and the world around us. Therapy is a space where you can begin to explore yourself, while doing so within a relationship that is validating, supportive, and centers your goals and needs. I believe that healing in the context of an attuned relationship is important, and work to create a therapy space that is safe and welcomes authenticity. Psychotherapy works best when it’s collaborative and strength-based, incorporating your personal culture and working towards goals that move beyond symptom reduction, resulting in more lasting changes in all areas of life. My approach to therapy is relationally based, incorporating attachment theory, CBT, and systems perspectives. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have experience working with a range of presenting concerns, with a special focus working with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma-related disorders. I have experience providing individual, couple, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I also provide psychological assessment services and can provide support related to receiving academic accommodations. Please feel free to contact me for a brief consultation or to schedule your first appointment.

Are you feeling stuck? Does your anxiety, stress, or use of poor coping skills prevent you from reaching your goals? I work with adults looking to develop useful tools to decrease unwanted feelings and increase self-confidence. My overall approach remains solution-focused by encouraging growth and progress over the course of treatment. I can provide the space needed to help navigate life's challenges, while feeling secure about the choices you make! I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My specialities include supporting individuals with anxiety and substance abuse, which can commonly co-occur. Understanding addiction and having the tools to manage emotions can lead to a healthier lifestyle. Let's challenge some of your common unhealthy thoughts together! Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and being active with my dog Auggie. I believe my energy and personality remain calm and balanced, making it easier to open up. I am clear, communicative, and convenient when it comes to therapy, scheduling, and fees so you can focus on progress.

Ryan is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Art Therapist. She earned her BFA with a concentration in painting, second major in psychology, and minor in children’s studies from Washington University in St. Louis, and she earned her Masters degree in Counseling: Art Therapy from Adler University. Ryan has 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults in various settings including schools, summer camps, hospitals, community mental health, and private practice. In her therapeutic practice, she specializes in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and/or are navigating challenges with daily functioning as a neurodiverse individual. Ryan also works with youth who are not ready to verbalize their needs, but are looking for a creative outlet and safe space to express themself through art with no pressure of needing to talk. As an art therapist, Ryan utilizes art and art making to facilitate communication and help her clients gain insight into themselves. She is experienced in using various art mediums to help clients navigate complex situations and explore their identity without the added pressure of needing to verbalize their thoughts. No prior art experience or high level of art prowess is needed for art therapy. Art therapy is about the creation of art, not the appearance of the final product! Ryan takes a client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to therapy, utilizing principles from narrative therapy and choice theory, as well as Trauma-Focused CBT to inform her work. Ryan believes that each person is the expert on themself, and aims to empower the client and help them feel a renewed sense of confidence and agency over their life.

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!

I am a clinical psychologist specializing in working with young adults and students. I spent 10 years on staff at various university counseling centers around the country and now work in private practice doing individual psychotherapy in Illinois and New York. My approach combines my education, training, and own life experience to work with individuals collaboratively, with a focus on how to meaningfully and healthfully navigate life events. While trained as a generalist to provide treatment for a variety of mental health concerns my clinical specialties include working with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/family distress, life transitions, grief/loss, and stress management.

At Fables Counseling, we believe that every individual has a unique story worth telling and improving. Our mission is to support and guide our clients through their personal journeys, helping them rewrite their narratives in a way that fosters growth, healing, and empowerment. We provide a warm, welcoming environment that feels far from uncomfortable—our focus is on creating a space where you can truly feel at ease to be uniquely you as you embark on your journey toward healing. At Fables, we are deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our team of dedicated therapists brings a diverse range of experiences and specialties to our practice. Each therapist is committed to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest in mental health research and techniques. We strive to create a safe space for all individuals, regardless of their background, identity, or experiences. Our practice is built on the principles of respect, empathy, and understanding. We look forward to engaging with you!

At Ida Lillie, we believe that everyone deserves compassionate, culturally sensitive, and affirming mental health care. As a Black, woman-owned practice, we are dedicated to creating a healing space that centers the voices and needs of marginalized communities while welcoming individuals from all walks of life. Our goal is to offer support that empowers you to explore your unique experiences, challenges, and personal strengths with confidence and clarity.

College life can be exciting, but it can also bring stress, change, and uncertainty. My goal is to help you navigate these experiences with care and curiosity. I believe our identities and life experiences shape how we see the world, and therapy is a space to explore that. Since becoming licensed in 2018, I’ve supported college students, Black and Indigenous people, people of color, LGBTQIA+ communities, military/veteran populations, and first-generation students. My approach centers cultural awareness, social justice, and emotional healing. I’ll meet you where you are and help you uncover the tools within yourself to create balance, confidence, and clarity.

Hi! I am a clinical social worker with experience with adolescents and young adult populations, and with topics such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, academic challenges, life transitions, and school avoidance. I have worked in partial hospitalization & intensive outpatient programs, foster care, and outpatient hospital treatment settings. I gravitate toward cognitive behavioral therapy techniques in order to challenge and interrupt difficult or disruptive thought patterns that can keep clients stuck in overwhelming moments. I also have some experience with motivational interviewing, behavioral activation, and dialectical behavioral therapy of which I bring into sessions. I always use a client-centered treatment approach to establish safety and trust within the therapeutic relationship, as well as strengths-based treatment to highlight the tools clients already have available to them. I provide a supportive environment for my clients to share struggles, challenges and goals which I believe is essential to growth and the work we will do in sessions.

At Snow Lake Counseling PLLC, our mission is to help you live a more fulfilling and satisfying life. We empower individuals to make healthy, informed decisions through direct, solution-focused care. With flexible scheduling and virtual accessibility, we ensure that prioritizing your well-being fits seamlessly into your life. Rooted in allyship, our practice is a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all abilities, backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship structures. At Snow Lake, you are supported to heal, explore, and grow—free from judgment. Mental health support available for: Anxiety | ADHD | Addiction | ASD | Bipolar Disorder | Coping Skills | Communication Skills | Depression | Desire Discrepancy | Divorce | Ethical Non-monogamy | Grief | Intellectual Disabilities | Intimacy Issues | Kink | Life Transitions | LGBTQIA+ | Men’s Issues | OCD | Relationship Issues | Religious Trauma | Stress | Sexual Dysfunction | Substance abuse | Women's Issues We offer convenient online booking though our secure booking portal: https://snowlake.clientsecure.me/

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.

Students who come to work with me often share some things in common: -They're high-achievers. Driven, capable, and holding it together on the outside, but quietly exhausted, burned out, or feeling like something's missing on the inside. -They might be navigating anxiety or OCD, going through a major life transition, or questioning their purpose and what comes next. They may be working through shifts in their relationships, with a partner, with their parents, or with themselves. -Many have never asked for help before. They're used to being the one who has it together, and reaching out takes real courage for them. If any of that sounds familiar, reach out for a free 20-minute consultation and let's get started together :)

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.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.