Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

Hello my name is Velma Bell, Founder and President of BIW Counseling since 2017. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the State of Missouri and Illinois. I am a social worker, a therapist and trauma survivor. I am Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 trained, Acceptance, Commitment Therapy (ACT) Intermediate trained and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I am an alumni of the Brown School of Social Work and currently an Adjunct Instructor in the mental health concentration at the Brown School. I specialize in complex traumas, grief and loss, anxiety and depression and a host of other mental health conditions. My practice offers both in person and virtual options for therapy and I am in network with several major insurance plans including UHCSR.

Looking for someone to help you carry your baggage? Someone to listen to it, to help unpack it, to help put the pieces back together & help you figure out what life looks like moving forward? I'm here to help. Therapy doesn't have to be scary. Thriving Daisies is located in downtown Frankfort and offers a cozy spot to dig into your scaries and most vulnerable parts. I have experience at multiple levels of care - but prefer individual outpatient work and have been practicing in this setting for 4 + years. I am the opposite of cold & clinical - you can expect a friendly, warm and chill experience working with me. I happily offer a free 15-minute consultation - let's chat and see if we are a good match :)

You’re tired of: - Overthinking - Feeling overwhelmed - A heightened sense of worry - Your mental energy being depleted - Thinking about the worst case scenario - Being critical of yourself - All-or-nothing thinking - Feeling like an imposter - Worrying about disappointing others - Avoiding things that make you anxious - Comparing yourself to others - Unsubstantiated fear - Procrastinating - Being unable to set boundaries - Having difficulty identifying or communicating what you need - Feeling like you “should” be doing certain things, even if you don’t want to - Neglecting self-care You have a simmering undercurrent of anxiety, and your entire life feels like a list of obligations. You feel weighed down, overwhelmed, and stressed. You’re pathologically helpful and a self-proclaimed people pleaser, so you find yourself gritting your teeth to make it through the day……but you paste a smile on your face and fake it. From the outside you’re successful, high-achieving, respected, and known for going above and beyond, but internally, you know your truth. You’re overly self-critical, procrastinate often, script conversations in your head, and worry about everyone else’s expectations of you. What if you could feel confident saying no to things that don’t serve you? What if you could learn how to put yourself first without feeling selfish? What if you could live a more balanced, intentional, and fulfilling life? Let me help you get clarity on what you’re feeling, why, and how to fix it. We all have “blind spots” that hold us back in some way, and it takes an outside perspective to help identify these. Even if you think… - you’ll let others down - you’re not as smart or capable as your colleagues - you need to have a clear plan - mediocrity is unacceptable - you have to maintain this facade in order to be successful I will show you how to shift your thoughts and behavior in ways that will pave a clear path to joy and confidence. There is no greater investment in life than discovering your full potential, and that comes through insight and self-awareness. Visit my website and schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation today!

About me I approach therapy from an existential worldview with a psychodynamic approach to help clients better understand their distress. I tailor therapeutic interventions to the specific needs of each client with the goal of empowering my clients to make meaningful decisions regarding their well-being and safety. Therapy is often difficult, and I work to create a safe space for each client to allow for authenticity and genuineness. Specialties Multicultural concerns, college/graduate student mental health, international student concerns, religion/spirituality, trauma, sexuality, LGBTQIA+, relationship issues, identity development, intersections of identities across race, culture, religion, and/or sexuality.

Neurodivergent affirming, trauma informed virtual therapy and coaching in the states of Illinois, Michigan, and Missouri. Individualized support incorporating special interest and digital tools to support individuals seeking a different approach to therapy to support neurodivergent minds. EMDR, IFS parts work, Narrative style approach with specific trauma work, but supportive talk and play therapy style for everyday support with executive functions and life skills.

In Situ Counseling & Coaching offers a grounded, personalized approach to mental health care for individuals navigating stress, transitions, and personal growth. My work is rooted in helping people better understand themselves, make meaningful changes, and feel more in control of their lives. I primarily work with college students, young adults, and professionals who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD-related challenges, relationship concerns, or uncertainty about their direction. Many of the individuals I support are high-achieving or highly self-aware, yet still feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. My approach is collaborative and practical. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, we look at patterns, choices, and the underlying factors shaping your experiences. Drawing from Reality Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy, I aim to create a space where you feel understood while also being gently challenged to move forward in ways that align with your goals. Whether you’re working through a specific challenge or simply trying to better understand yourself, therapy can be a place to slow down, gain clarity, and start making changes that actually stick.

Sara Pelaez is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Professional practicing in Georgia, Illinois, and Florida. She works with individuals and couples with a focus on students. Many of her clients have found great success in their personal and college lives, but struggle to feel connected in their relationships or at peace in their daily lives. Sara is particularly sensitive to clients facing present-past trauma, moments of transition, relationship or emotional issues when the delicate balance can seem to tremble, and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt can emerge. Sara’s approach is rooted in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Emotional Focus Therapy. These are evidence-based approaches that focus on helping clients understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected so that they can begin to make a targeted change. It is a bottom-up/top-down approach that provides a 360 view of the client's inner world. She works to help clients understand their physical response to external stressors, and begin to problem-solve ways to introduce moments of calm, to choose to respond rather than react in the face of change. Sara is focused on ensuring that her clients see real progress: her style is interactive, non-judgmental, and positions clients as the experts on where they are now, and where they want to go. A trauma-informed therapist, Sara is sensitive to the influence of past experiences on present challenges and works closely with clients to reframe the narrative of their life in a way that increases self-confidence and compassion. Sara’s first priority in starting with a new client is ensuring that they feel safe, heard, and like an equal partner in the therapeutic process. As a seasoned telehealth provider, she offers the convenience of remote sessions to help make therapy a core component of your self-care calendar.

Hello, I know finding a therapist is overwhelming and difficult. My job is to help you make this journey as simple and painless as possible. We will discuss difficult things, but we will have fun doing it. If you are interested in a free consultation, please call or text me at 773-280-7321. I look forward to meeting you!

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Many of the students I work best with are used to being the one others rely on. You might be juggling school, friendships, family expectations, and future plans—while quietly feeling unsure of what you actually need or want. You may find yourself overthinking, second-guessing, or going along with things just to keep the peace. It can feel hard to set boundaries, speak up, or trust your own decisions. Even if things look “fine” on the outside, you might feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not fully like yourself. If any of this resonates, we can talk more and see if working together feels like a good fit.

I strive to create meaningful and lasting, positive changes unique to you. My approach to therapy is a mixture between humorous and energetic, and empathetic and warm. I will always aim to create a safe space where you will feel heard, you can be your authentic self, and you will never be judged. I am here to help you process the difficult thoughts and emotions you are experiencing while creating a space that empowers and uplifts you. We will work together to open your eyes to new ways of seeing the world and interpreting your thoughts. We will truly be a team working together to meet your goals in therapy. I am a Clinically Licensed Professional Counselor with specialized training in trauma. I will honor your unique background, personality, and life experiences taking them into consideration during our sessions to help you gain a deeper sense of self-understanding. I take pride in providing the most effective and evidence-based therapy that will meet your needs. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and will integrate some techniques from EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing-if you have a history of trauma, anxiety, or depression. After having a personally hard postpartum journey, an interest and passion in perinatal care developed as well! To all the struggling mamas, I am here, you are not alone! I’m in the process of getting certified with perinatal care for even more effective therapy targeting these very necessary and important needs. Personally, I am a wife, mama, and fitness lover. I love being around positive people/energy and always seeking ways to better myself. I am obsessed with coffee, nature, and reality tv. I look forward to working with you! Email me personally with any questions: brandykelleylcpc@gmail.com.

Naperville Ellie Mental Health prides itself on mental health services for all. Waitlists, insurance issues, finances, schedules, etc. should not prevent anyone from getting the health that they deserve.

Thrive for Life Counseling – Helping College Students Navigate Life’s Challenges College is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—times of your life. Between classes, jobs, relationships, and figuring out who you are and where you’re headed, it’s easy to feel stressed, anxious, or unsure. That’s where Thrive for Life Counseling comes in. Our team of compassionate, experienced therapists understands the unique challenges that come with being a college student. We know that success in college isn’t just about grades—it’s about managing stress, building confidence, coping with change, and finding balance in every area of life. At Thrive for Life, we meet you right where you are. Whether you’re feeling anxious about academics, struggling with motivation, facing relationship challenges, or just needing a safe space to talk, we’re here to help. We offer a supportive, judgment-free environment where you can sort through your thoughts, learn practical coping tools, and gain clarity about your next steps. What sets us apart? Specialized support for college students – We “get” the unique stressors of campus life. Therapists you can connect with – Our team is down-to-earth, approachable, and genuinely invested in your well-being. Convenient virtual sessions – You can meet with us from your dorm, apartment, or wherever you feel comfortable. Multi-state access – We can work with college students located in Indiana, Illinois, Florida, Missouri, and New Jersey. We help students: Manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelm Build self-confidence and motivation Navigate changes in friendships, dating, and family life Cope with homesickness or transitions Find balance between academics, work, and personal well-being You don’t need to wait until things feel “bad enough” to reach out. Whether you need short-term guidance or ongoing support, Thrive for Life Counseling is here to walk alongside you. Therapy is a powerful step toward building the life you want—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Your mental health matters. Your story matters. And we’re here to help you thrive—right now, in college, and in life beyond. If you’ve been thinking about talking to someone, this is your sign. Let’s get started.

At some point in life, we all experience a moment when we question whether we're on the best path forward. Perhaps a relationship feels unfulfilling, we're not advancing in our career the way we'd hoped, or we're feeling unsure about a decision. Framework Associates strives to provide affordable, accessible psychological services from exceptionally qualified therapists. Through years of specialized training, our therapists have discovered how to help you create the life you want. Together, we'll unlock ways for you to feel happier, more balanced, and better connected to your authentic self and others. ****Please request all appointments through FrameworkPsych.com. We offer online quoting, online scheduling, and online therapy.****

Hi there! My name is Cory Bedtke, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received a Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago in 2015, and started my career as a school social worker prior to switching over to clinical work with adults. While this may seem like a big transition, it's funny how similar our problems are at the different stages of life. Currently, I enjoy working with clients in young and middle adulthood who would like to feel less stressed and anxious, improve their mood, work on communication, and feel more secure in their relationships. I also work with folks who want to process and find ways to cope with traumatic experiences. College can be an amazingly wonderful but also daunting time, so I am here to help you navigate the challenges that you face.

Online therapy for women in Chicago and across IL Specializing in: Vaginismus and Pelvic Pain Pregnancy and Postpartum Relationship Issues

Hi, thank you for taking the time to visit this page! It is understandable and valid to feel overwhelmed, unfulfilled, and upset as we navigate our lives. We do not have unlimited amounts of time, resources, or energy, and it is natural that life will bring challenges and experiences that cannot be addressed alone. I believe it is a sign of strength and self-love to know when to seek support, and I am committed to giving space and support to concerns throughout all ages and areas of life. I also strive to continually learn and grow in order to best support and accommodate your preferences, goals, and needs. When working with me, you can expect an empathetic, attentive, authentic, advocating, and safe space. I am passionate about helping people foster and find their happiness and peace. I also believe your personal experiences are important, and I am dedicated to understanding and respecting your background and perspectives. To best assist you, I use an integrative style that applies various approaches, as no two situations, people, or solutions are the exact same. I also utilize a holistic view of health that supports mindfulness, self-fulfillment, and the well-being of the whole person. Regardless of the issue or concern, I believe in your strengths and inherent abilities, and that therapy is a collaborative journey. Everyone struggles with their feelings and I believe it is a sign of strength to know when to seek support! I am grateful and excited about the opportunity to work with you! Adolescents and Young Adults Growing up can be exciting and fun at times, but it also brings new responsibilities, expectations, and unknowns. I understand how challenging it can be to navigate your individuality and growth while also balancing all the other areas of your life, and there were plenty of times when I felt overwhelmed and unsure. As someone who experienced racism and bullying for being and looking different, I can also relate to how the messages and comments you receive growing up, both positive and unsupportive, can be impactful. I will work hard to foster a safe and understanding space that empowers your voice, strengths, identity, perspectives, and self-love! Adults Contrary to what we might have expected or been told growing up, life usually does not get “figured out” in adulthood, and new challenges, stressors, dynamics, and unknowns continue to arise. I am dedicated to supporting people of all ages, and I have worked with adults across the lifespan. I also have a deep understanding and experience regarding family planning, grief, housing dynamics, terminal illness, neurocognitive disorders (Alzheimer’s and Dementia), cancer, and hospice care. However, with any person, there will be areas or concerns that I lack direct experience with, and I will strive to respect, offer space, empathize, and continually educate myself regarding these areas! LGBTQIA+, Identity, and Culture My therapeutic approach and values are also deeply rooted in affirming and supporting individuals from all diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. As an adopted Korean American who is a part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I empathize with and understand that identity and social messaging can impact one’s life and concerns. Respecting and holding space for people’s unique narratives and perspectives is very important to me, and I strive to be creative and open-minded. I was given the Distingushed Graduate Award at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology due to my commitment to diversity, multicultural competence, and social advocacy. Education and Career After graduating from Loyola University of Chicago, I attended the University of Chicago in a doctoral program where I studied and researched cancer immunology. However, I decided to leave the program after my first year due to feeling unfulfilled and unaligned. While this choice allowed for personal growth and helped me find my dream career, I deeply understand how daunting, challenging, and stressful the process can be. I also have experience regarding study habits, focus, performance anxiety (educational or athletic), mindfulness strategies, and holistic support. Regardless of where you are in your educational and/or occupational journey, I am here to work with you and offer support! Couples and Families While couple and family dynamics can be navigated and supported in individual therapy, it is natural that there are also times when concerns are better addressed and navigated with multiple people coming and collaborating in session. During my time in grad school, internship, and as a therapist, I have gained experience and education with couples and families support, and I have empathy and direct knowledge regarding the importance of these areas. I work hard to foster a welcoming, understanding, respectful, advocating, and open-minded space for everyone coming to the session! About Me While I was born in South Korea, I was adopted and raised in Fargo, ND for most of my childhood. When I was 18, I moved to Chicago to attend Loyola University of Chicago, where I earned my Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology. After graduating and entering the biomedical research field, I went through a career change and decided to attend The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where I received my Master’s in Counseling Psychology. In my free time, I love trying new things and have a bunch of different hobbies! I enjoy basketball, football, baseball, rollerblading, skiing, playing or listening to music and drawing. I also love exploring the city and hanging out with friends! When it’s time to relax, I’ll be at home playing with my cat Momo and watching Abbott Elementary

Hi! I'm Sumin (she/her). Who said therapy cannot be fun? With me, you’ll find yourself laughing, creating, realizing, and sometimes sharing good tears. Maybe you’re starting school, adjusting to a new country or community, exploring your identity, or trying to balance creativity, responsibility, and perfectionism. Together, we’ll explore who you are, practice self-love, and work through challenges with compassion. I specialize in supporting college students, especially underrepresented students, including international, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and First-Generation students. I am also passionate about helping adults working through childhood trauma, teens who have experienced bullying, artists, single parents, and individuals who are navigating academic or career stress, transitions, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. As a bilingual immigrant therapist and formerly international student, I understand how hard it is to adjust to new systems while trying to stay true to yourself. My approach is grounded, approachable, and evidence-informed: as a certified art therapist, I blend art therapy, talk therapy, and somatic tools (like breathwork and grounding practices) tailored to your needs. You won't need to bring the “right” words—I’ll help you access insight through images, movement, and your own embodied experience. Together, we’ll explore what feels stuck and what feels possible for you. I’ll help you reconnect with your creativity, soothe anxiety, build self-compassion, and feel more firmly rooted in your values and identity. If you’re still reading this, I want you to know how proud I am of you. Reaching this point is no small thing. By exploring support, you’ve already begun your healing journey, and I’m proud of you for honoring yourself in this way. I’ll be with you to create a safe space as you explore your identity, memories, and the emotions they carry. I would love to be part of your journey, toward celebrating your identity, honoring your story, and discovering that what makes you different is, in fact, your greatest strength. If something in this profile resonates with you, I’d love to connect. I accept BCBS, Aetna, University of Chicago Student Insurance, and Out-of-Network plans. Please reach out for a free 15-minute consultation call to see if we're a good fit! 미국 보험에 대해 잘 모르시거나, 심리 상담이 정확히 무엇인지 낯설게 느껴지시나요? 제가 차근차근 안내해드리고, 보험 적용 여부 확인과 처리도 함께 도와드리니 부담 없이 연락 주세요.

Are you feeling stuck, disconnected from yourself, or unsure about your next steps? Maybe you’re questioning who you are, what you want, or where you truly belong. The weight of the world, especially the current political and social climate, can make it even harder to find your footing. You're not alone in this. You're likely here because you’re ready to feel more like you again. I work with creatives, deep thinkers, and sensitive folks who are ready to reconnect with their authentic self and make meaningful changes. You don’t need to be “ready” or “perfect”; just willing to show up and do the work together. In our work together, I combine art therapy, body-based (somatic) practices, neuroscience, and spirituality, all grounded in a decolonial, feminist, and strengths-based lens. I specialize in supporting people navigating complex trauma, ADHD, autism, and anxiety. My approach is holistic and honors your unique story, identity, and cultural background. I’m a first-gen, queer, bilingual (English/Spanish), trauma-informed therapist offering talk therapy & art therapy to support healing on your terms. Therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating. It’s a space to be human, to be seen, and to grow. Curious about working together? Let’s start with a free 15-minute consultation: onelovestudio.clientsecure.me/request/clinician

Don't just survive. Thrive. Ellie Mental Health in Aurora, Illinois isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We provide support for a wide range of mental disorders and common mental health issues at our Ellie Mental Health Clinic in Aurora. No matter your concerns, your compassionate Ellie therapist will provide you with the non-judgmental care you deserve.