Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

I specialize in working with millennial women who are struggling with various life transitions. Maybe you're having a difficult time adjusting to college and new routines. It might be that you are wanting help navigating new friendships and relationships. You might have noticed that you're feeling stressed or down more than you'd like and are hoping to better understand your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I'm here to help you gain stronger self-awareness, healthier relationships, and a more fulfilling life.

Hi there, I'm Sylvia! I focus on providing care to people of color, women, children of immigrants, and queer folks experiencing anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions, racial/cultural identity exploration, trauma, and self-esteem. The clients I work with are typically seeking out support for reparenting their inner child, restoring a sense of safety within themselves and in relationships that are important to them, and healing wounds from generational trauma. I understand what feels supportive for one person may not work for another, so I collaborate with folks creatively and invite decolonized approaches to care. My therapeutic approach centers you and your experiences. I incorporate body-based interventions to build skills to soothe oneself, regulate emotions, and live a more nourishing life. I also integrate experiential, sensory forms of processing like art therapy and mindfulness meditations to access and express emotions, trauma that may be trapped in the body. I understand it takes a lot of time and energy to find a therapist who fits your needs and understands you. I believe it’s important to create a safe space with you where all parts of yourself can feel seen and heard, which can take time. If what you read aligns with you, I would be honored to be a part of your healing journey and encourage you to reach out. If you resonate with what you read so far and would like to learn more about me and the values of the group practice I work at, I invite you to read more at https://mindfullifechicago.com. If you are interested in an initial free 15 minute phone consultation, feel free to email me at sylvia@mindfullifechicago.com or fill out the form at Mindful Life Counseling's contact us page :)

Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck? When anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma take hold, life can feel heavy—like you're carrying a burden no one else sees. Maybe you’re doing your best just to get through the day, but inside, it feels like something’s missing or too much to manage. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and there is a way forward. In our work together, we’ll explore what’s weighing you down and uncover the strengths you already carry within you. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel seen, heard, and truly supported. Healing isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions. My approach is holistic and person-centered, integrating your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Together, we’ll develop practical tools to manage life’s challenges, build resilience, and help you reconnect with yourself and what matters most. If you're ready to take that first step toward a more grounded, fulfilling life, I’m here to walk alongside you. Reach out today to schedule a consultation—I’d be honored to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and the CEO of The Heart Speaks! My private practice aims to aid clients in learning how to get out of their heads and into their heart space, thus encouraging the idea of "feeling your feels" rather than attempting to mask, avoid, or numb your emotions. I have worked with a variety of clients from various backgrounds to address concerns with self-esteem, relationships, family conflict, boundaries, communication, etc. My overall mission is to assist my clients in learning how to become empowered to speak and ultimately live in their truth! I am passionate about creating a safe space for my clients to communicate with me their heart's desires so that we can ensure that their needs get met. Therapy is not a linear process, there will be ebbs and flows but I am here to conquer these obstacles with you...you don't have to do it alone anymore!

I am a bilingual, trauma-informed therapist who works with clients across the lifespan. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I bring a culturally sensitive perspective to my work and believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and empowered in the therapy space. With over a decade of experience, I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore life’s challenges safely and honestly. I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Informed Care, Person-Centered Therapy, and Integrative techniques—so I can tailor my work to meet each person’s unique needs. I hold a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology and am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of clinical settings, supporting individuals and families as they navigate ADHD, parenting, trauma and grief, cultural identity, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I am passionate about helping people build emotional awareness, strengthen boundaries, and reconnect with themselves. I truly believe that with the right support, people of all ages can grow into the most authentic and empowered versions of themselves.

Room to Breathe is a group practice of therapists and yoga instructors who understand that your mental and physical health are interconnected. Our therapists offer talk therapy for those interested in exploring and accessing their wellbeing and their personhood, difficulties and strengths through counseling sessions. Our yoga instructors are psychologically-informed and offer trauma sensitive classes for people who are connecting with their bodies and wellbeing through the practices of yoga and meditation. We’re here to support and address your goals holistically; that may be with therapy, yoga, or both. It’s up to you. We’re glad you’re here.

Hi, I’m Daphne Black — Here to Support You Through Life’s Transitions As a licensed clinical social worker, life coach, and adjunct professor at a prestigious University, I bring over two decades of experience helping individuals—especially college students—navigate anxiety, identity, academic stress, relationship struggles, and major life changes. College is a time of growth, but it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you’re balancing coursework with personal responsibilities, managing grief, or facing uncertainty about your future, I provide a safe, supportive space to help you process, heal, and move forward with clarity and confidence. My clinical work is grounded in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a deep understanding of the challenges young adults face. With my background in both mental health and higher education, I meet you where you are—with compassion and insight.

If you find yourself not feeling good enough, struggling to cope with worries, traumas, and pain from the past, or wanting to learn more about yourself and why you think and behave in the ways that you do, my therapeutic approach may be right for you. Depending on your goals/needs, we will work together to increase your insight, explore alternative coping strategies, and help you feel empowered to make different decisions in life to get your closer to who and where you want to be. My intention in our work together is to see you, understand you, and challenge you to grow. When necessary/needed, we will use humor along the way! I specialize in working with adults struggling with feelings of Unworthiness/Low Self-Esteem, Trauma/PTSD, Family/Relationship Conflict, Anxiety, and Depression. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC, Mental Health Professionals, Artists, Immigrants, First-Generation Americans, Bi-cultural Individuals, and the Kink community. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. Through our work together, you can learn to practice more self-compassion, feel more grounded, and better manage all the thoughts and feelings you're experiencing. If you connected to what I've shared and feel like we would be a good fit, feel free to message me to arrange a free phone consult.

College life can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, stressful, or isolating at times. At The Noel Approach, we create a safe and supportive space where students can process challenges, explore their identity, and build healthy coping tools. Our approach combines traditional therapy with creative and expressive practices—like art, mindfulness, and intentional journaling—to make healing feel approachable and personal. Whether you’re navigating academic stress, relationship shifts, trauma, or simply trying to balance it all, we’re here to walk alongside you. Our goal is to help you find your voice, strengthen your resilience, and create habits that support both your mental health and your personal growth.

Throughout our lives, we go through events that change us, often permanently. I consider therapy to be a sacred and compassionate space of exploration. It can be exhausting having to explain your story over and over again. Oftentimes we might feel unheard in our daily lives or get fixated on who we “should be” instead of exploring who we already are. Your story has meaning and it deserves to be heard. You are the expert on your own life experiences and identities. You deserve to feel empowered, validated, and safe. When meeting with a potential client I consider you in the context of your relationships, experiences, and culture. When working together we can move through difficult therapeutic concepts in an accessible and warm way. With your permission, I hope to guide you through challenging life transitions and support you in creating a life that you feel is worth living. I work from a collaborative, person-centered, relational, and strengths-based approach. This means I will use non-judgment to consider all aspects of your life and identity— while remaining open to things that cannot be changed. I utilize an intersectional feminist lens and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, boundaries, relationships, abuse, sexuality, gender exploration, life transitions, disability, memory loss, identity exploration, and resiliency work. MORE INFO ABOUT THE PRACTICE: We accept BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, and United PPO Plans, as well as, Sliding Scale rates. Currently, I have a variety of morning, early afternoon, and evening spots open! Please feel free to reach out.

The past few years have been incredibly difficult for everyone, regardless of background or finances. In my practice I strive to create a warm and welcoming space where we can curiously and compassionately explore your concerns. I genuinely believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my goal is to assist you with discovering and deciding how to live your best life. Throughout the pandemic I was specializing in working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, isolation, interpersonal conflict, and grief. I have extensive history working with the college-aged population from my doctoral internship at Illinois State University and Spalding University’s counseling centers. I also have experience working in higher levels of care with non-college aged adults at outpatient, residential, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and inpatient levels of care. While working together we’ll collaboratively explore areas where you may feel stuck and discuss the use of new, more adaptive coping skills to help you move in the direction of your goals. I have many years of experience teaching classes focusing on evidence-based treatments, such as: DBT, ACT, and CBT. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Navigating life’s pressures often means juggling responsibilities, deadlines, and personal aspirations. My therapy is tailored to understand and work with your unique pressures, providing a place for clarity and focused action. Whether it’s the weight of exams or the pace of the corporate ladder, I'm here to help you find your footing. My virtual sessions are designed to fit within your busy schedule and give you access to the support you need to maintain balance and foster resilience.

Hello! My name is Dr. Ashly Lawrence. I have been working with college students and young adults for almost twenty years. College is a time of self-exploration, transition, and identity development. It can also bring great stress, existential questions, and family of origin issues. I am here to support it all. I practice from a relational feminist lens and am best suited to support clients struggling with stress, anxiety, identity development, trauma, family of origin issues, relationship stressors, and life transitions. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and often work with folx with one or more marginalized identities.

I believe change occurs in the context of our relationships, with our own self and with others. Oftentimes, when people seek out therapy, they are feeling lost, discarded, and may be filled with self-doubt and negative thoughts and feelings about themselves in the world. I work with clients to forge new ways of relating to ourselves and others to engage more fully in the world. We do this by learning a range of new skills and processing past experiences, but at its core, it is about connection with another human being and being seen, heard, understood, respected, and known. Therapeutically, I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR. With these two treatments you learn effective skills to manage painful thoughts, feelings, and sensations, develop direction and purpose, as well as process painful past experiences towards resolution and prepare for how to handle the future. My style as a therapist is energetic, accepting, compassionate, and challenging. I truly love my work and experience a deep sense of gratitude for being able to participate in it. People are endlessly complex and I am constantly in awe of our resilience and depth as human beings. If what I’ve written here speaks to you, I encourage you to reach out.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience helping people cope with family and social issues. I have worked with clients with depression, suicidal ideations, anxiety, OCD, TBI, intellectual disabilities, conduct disorders, anger management issues, intermittent explosive disorder, domestic violence, identity, family, grief, social and academic issues. I especially working with college and graduate students, and have also provided guidance and support to families in navigating IEP, 504, and LRE concerns in school environments. I believe everyone can overcome challenges; I help provide a supportive and nurturing environment to help clients navigate tough challenges and situations. Counseling is powerful, and I am diligent about supporting my clients and helping them to reach their full potential. I am part of the Path referral network, which means that when you reach out, my team will get back to you quickly to schedule our first session. I am committed to making therapy affordable. Through Path, I am in-network for most commercial insurances, so you're only responsible for your co-pay!

Coffee Chat Counseling is a Chicago, IL based counseling practice that strives to make therapy approachable by providing a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive environment for our clients. We specialize in services for individuals who are aged 13 and older. Coffee Chat Counseling was developed to provide approachable and sustainable mental health care to its clients, while also advocating for change in the mental health care system. We want to improve access to services, as well as seek to de-stigmatize mental health on a societal level. We recognize the connections between mental health and experiences of systemic oppression and are committed to social justice work, anti-racism, and the decolonization of mental health practices. Our therapists work to ensure that we maintain a safe and affirming space for clients who identify as BIPOC and those who are part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Coffee Chat Counseling believes that therapy should not have a one-size-fits-all approach. Our counselors have training in Art Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) modalities to ensure they are able to tailor sessions to their clients' unique needs. We know that taking the first step in your therapy journey can be daunting - our goal is to be here to support you through this process so that we can work together to access your strengths, establish safe boundaries, explore different directions, heal from trauma, and instill confidence in your decision-making.

Pari Health & Wellness approaches therapy through a collaborative & client-centered lens. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. Drawing from evidence-based practices such as mindfulness and CBT, I’m committed to transparency—not just in thought, but in dismantling the cognitive barriers between who you’re taught to be and who you truly are. I work with you to identify goals and build coping strategies while fostering this meaningful change. I integrate solution-focused, holistic techniques to help you develop self-awareness, resilience, and tools for navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re addressing anxiety, depression, grief, child sexual abuse, or personal growth, my focus is on empowering your transformation at your pace.

College Life—Balancing classes, relationships, family expectations, and your mental health can feel like too much. Have you ever felt like everyone else has it figured out while you’re just trying to keep it together? You’re not alone. College is an exciting chapter, but it can also bring stress, anxiety, loneliness, and pressure to succeed. Sometimes you need a space that’s just for you—where you can process everything without judgment. ✅ How I Help I help college students: ✔ Manage anxiety and overwhelming stress ✔ Cope with relationship issues or breakups ✔ Navigate homesickness and adjusting to campus life ✔ Set boundaries and prioritize self-care ✔ Build confidence and self-identity My approach is supportive, down-to-earth, and solution-focused. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or you’re coming back, I’ll meet you where you are and help you create practical strategies for relief and growth.

Hi, I'm Mary. I reallly like my job. I specialize in working with individuals who tend to overthink, have been labeled as "too self-aware", intellectualizers, or find themselves knowing their problem, but struggling to feel relief from it. I also work with childhood trauma, and individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. I'm a pretty laid-back person in general, so I try to be that way in session. We're strangers at the beginning, so I do my best to build up our relationship and increase your level of comfortability.

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.