Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

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.

Hi, I’m Armica—a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting individuals navigating life’s challenges and moving toward meaningful change. I work with individuals facing a range of concerns including depression, stress, PTSD, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, identity exploration, and alcohol or substance use. My goal is to create a supportive, affirming space where you can feel seen, heard, and empowered to take the next step in your journey. Therapy works best when it's collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in your strengths. I take an individualized approach, drawing from evidence-based practices and strengths-based work. Whether you’re looking to build coping skills, make sense of your experiences, or rewrite the stories that no longer serve you, I’ll meet you where you are-without judgment. My style is warm, emotionally attuned, and down-to-earth. I’m here to help you build self-awareness, process what’s been weighing you down, and create real, lasting change aligned with your goals. Therapy is about supporting you in becoming more of who you truly are. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.

You are holding a lot right now... Balancing coursework, expectations, relationships, and the quiet pressure to figure out who you are (and who you are becoming) can feel overwhelming. From the outside, it might look like you are managing, but internally, there may be anxiety, self-doubt, burnout, or a sense of disconnection that is harder to name. I work with college and graduate students who are navigating exactly these kinds of experiences. Many of the people I support are thoughtful, driven, and deeply self-aware, yet find themselves feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure of how to move forward in a way that actually feels aligned. Therapy becomes a space to slow down. A place where you do not have to perform, keep up, or have everything figured out. Together, we begin to make sense of what is underneath the stress, whether that is long-standing patterns, identity exploration, relationship dynamics, or the impact of academic and societal pressures. My approach is relational, collaborative, and grounded in a sociological lens, meaning we do not just look inward, but also consider the larger systems and expectations shaping your experience. I integrate attachment-based, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed care, while also offering practical tools when helpful. I am especially attuned to: • Academic pressure and burnout • Anxiety and emotional overwhelm • Identity exploration (including cultural, relational, and personal identity) • Life transitions and uncertainty about the future • The pressure to “hold it all together” while feeling unseen or unsupported Our work unfolds in a space that is steady, thoughtful, and deeply human. We move at a pace that honors your capacity, gently creating room for clarity, compassion, self-trust, and more sustainable ways of showing up in your life. You do not have to navigate this chapter alone. I offer tele-health sessions for students located in Illinois, Iowa, and Nevada, and would be honored to support you in this season of your life!

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, I use a culturally-responsive approach to therapy. We will work together to understand personal and societal factors that contribute to your everyday well-being. Through self-exploration of personal narratives (Constructivism), analysis of interpersonal experiences (Dialectical), and understanding of the intersections between our past and present (Psychodynamic), we become more in charge of our future and aware of how we occupy and share spaces with others. My goal is to guide you towards healthier mental habits that can alleviate your suffering and enable a life-long journey of fulfillment. I obtained my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the APA-Accredited program at the University of Puerto Rico and completed my masters degree in Psychological Research at the University of Guadalajara. I specialized in psychodynamic psychotherapy, studying Lacanian Psychoanalysis in Quebec at the GIFRIC Institute. I believe that therapy is a co-creation of a shared vulnerable space, therefore my role as a therapist requires intellectual humility, transparency, and empathy. I have helped clients understand how to communicate and regulate their emotions through interpersonal skills, acknowledgement of unhealthy attachment patterns, and self-regulating practices. I have worked with a wide range of clients including adolescents, young adults, women, couples, families, and people who are incarcerated. As a former Montessori educator, I am aware of the importance of recognizing the needs of each developmental stage, and I strive to meet everyone where they are. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you! Types of Therapy Attachment-based Culturally Sensitive Gottman Method Multicultural Psychoanalytic Psychodynamic Relational

I believe in acknowledging and honoring the yet untold stories of our lives, especially the messy and imperfect parts. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with 14 years of experience as a therapist. Over the years, I've worked with those struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, generalized and social anxiety, self-esteem issues, substance use concerns, suicidal thoughts, life transitions, family conflict, academic stress, and more. I’ve worked in many diverse settings, however, when I began working in university counseling centers several years ago, I discovered a true passion for working with students. My style is warm, validating, and direct. I bring my genuine, authentic self to the therapy space, and will work with you to understand past experiences, identify recurring themes, and uncover patterns, aiming to bring clarity and foster change. For those who prefer a more structured, goal-oriented approach, another important part of my work with you is to help you discover and develop your own abilities, skills, and strengths- turning them into practical coping skills that can be used in your everyday life outside of sessions. My hope is to build a compassionate and collaborative relationship with you, and to support you through the range of experiences that come with academic life- from its challenges and triumphs to everything in between.

Hannah Conner is currently offering virtual/telehealth sessions to assist clients during this time of uncertainty and help them cultivate a safe space to flourish. Hannah received her Masters of Arts in Counseling with a Sport and Health Psychology specialty from Adler University here in Chicago, Illinois. She has worked with groups and individuals from diverse populations with various backgrounds. Her approach is a blend of person-centered theory that includes evidenced-based practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness. Hannah has worked with clients who have experienced a wide range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. She also has worked with athletes on mental performance specific concerns such as performance anxiety and mental skills training. Hannah believes that the most important part of a therapeutic relationship is creating a safe space for you to grow and cultivate the changes you would like to make in your life through a collaborative process. ​ Hannah is currently offering solely virtual appointments and is in-network with Cigna, United, BCBS PPO and Aetna insurance companies.

My approach is gentle, grounded, and trauma-informed. I meet you where you are with compassion, curiosity, and no pressure to rush the process. I believe real healing happens when you feel safe, understood, and supported in exploring what's beneath the surface. Together, we will explore the patterns, beliefs, and experiences that are keeping you stuck. We'll work to build insight, process unresolved trauma, and strengthen your connection to yourself. Using EMDR, parts work, and other interventions, we'll move at a pace that feels safe, towards clarity, healing, and lasting change. I specialize in working with people who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, low self-worth, or trauma, especially those navigating dissociation, generational trauma, or postpartum challenges. Many of my clients are insightful and motivated for change, but need support reconnecting with themselves and healing what's underneath. I became a therapist because I believe in the power of healing through connection. My own inner work, including doing EMDR as a client, showed me how transformative therapy can be. I wanted to offer others the same kind of support: a safe, attuned space to be seen, understood, and truly heal. *Current availability is Mondays at 12pm, Tuesday at 5pm, Wednesdays at 11am, 12pm, and 3pm, and Fridays at 11am.

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.

Welcome! I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes and parenting issues. In my practice, I have worked with families, individuals, and children/teens. As a woman of color, I am especially passionate about working with female BIPOC children, adolescents, and adults. I find it deeply rewarding to work with clients to reach their goals and achieve overall better well-being. I create a strong relationship with my clients by giving them an environment where all of their feelings are welcome.

Are you tired of facing your problems alone, yet feeling unsure about discussing them with a stranger? Are you feeling trapped in your anxious and depressive thoughts, but feeling too embarrassed to talk, or express yourself in fear that you may be judged? You are not alone in this. I want to applaud your courage and bravery in taking that first step. I have helped those seeking help with a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, defiant behaviors, anger management, and coping with stress. My work has also included providing parental support in working with their children / adolescents with regard to communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs. I recognize that no two people are alike. We are all unique in some ways. With this, I meet each client with an individualized (client-centered) approach. I emphasize mindfulness, strengths, coping skills and positivity. I utilize aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, CBT, psychoanalysis, and some other methods. I believe that success in therapy relies on the foundation of mutual trust and therapeutic alliance. With this, clients can work to improve and achieve goals they set. I place the utmost value on respecting my clients, providing a safe and supportive space for growth, and emphasize the importance of placing the client's needs, values, and goals as the driving force for change. 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!

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.

I’m a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience in both inpatient and outpatient care, supporting patients with acute psychiatric needs, substance use disorders, and complex comorbidities. I thrive in team-based environments and focus on whole-person, evidence-based care that empowers patients and improves outcomes. I’m seeking inpatient or outpatient opportunities in the Chicago area where I can bring my skills, clinical insight, and passion for mental health to a dedicated care team.

Feeling like you've been stuck in a hole and can't tell up from down. Maybe you keep telling yourself you cant feel better. Therapy is not about "fixing you." You're not broken. Therapy is a way for one to become a better version of yourself while taking the steps to live a more fulfilling and authentic life. A collaborative approach will help you feel therapy isn’t a one sided relationship because we will walk side by side together. You will be able to make the necessary changes to have a life worth living, while learning to accept yourself the way you are. I believe that we make the best decisions we knew how to make with the information we have and its our job to learn from it. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship through a warm and inviting atmosphere. I hope we are a good fit and I look forward to meeting you!

I work best with students and young adults who are thoughtful, overwhelmed, and trying to make sense of who they are while carrying a lot more than they should have to. Many of my clients are navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, burnout, family stress, or major life transitions like college, grad school, or early career shifts. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you don’t have to perform or have it all figured out. Therapy with me is grounded, reflective, and practical. We focus on understanding your nervous system, building emotional regulation skills, and unpacking patterns that keep you stuck while honoring your cultural background, values, and lived experience. I am especially affirming of LGBTQ+ clients, BIPOC students, neurodivergent folks, and those who have felt misunderstood in previous therapy spaces. My approach blends evidence-based therapy with curiosity, compassion, and real conversations. We move at your pace, with the goal of helping you feel more steady, more connected to yourself, and more able to navigate life with clarity and confidence.

Feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Depressed? College can be tough, but The Ward Practice can help! Dr. Cheriece McNeely is a double board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist proficient in providing psychiatric care throughout the lifespan. She specializes in treating college students as they are navigating transitioning to college, being away from family, taking on more responsibilities and contemplating career choices. She utilizes a holistic, individualized approach in partnership with students to develop a treatment plan which aligns with their goals. She understands that various factors affect you and the way you show up in the world. She will support you as you navigate the stress and anxiety of life transitions, she will help you to overcome the effects of traumatic life experiences, and she will embolden you to make your peace a priority in order to enjoy a vibrant, thriving life. ​ After an initial psychiatric evaluation, Dr. McNeely may develop a treatment plan which may include psychoeducation and medication management. Most importantly, Dr. McNeely understands the stigma associated with seeking and receiving psychiatric treatment, and is dedicated to demystifying mental health concerns to make psychiatric care less intimidating and more accessible. Thus, she offers HIPAA compliant virtual appointments so that you have the opportunity to receive care in a place which is comfortable for you, as long as you are located in Illinois.

Great to meet you! Hi, I’m Melissa. I work with curious, thoughtful people who are ready to show up for themselves — even when growth feels uncomfortable. Many of the clients I connect with are navigating big life transitions, like adjusting to college or next steps after college, navigating adulthood, or realizing the old path no longer fits. If you’re someone who’s willing to stay with the process and understands that meaningful change takes work, we’ll likely be a good fit. A bit about my approach to therapy I believe the relationship we build together matters more than any single approach or technique. Feeling safe, understood, and respected is where real change begins. Clients describe me as steady, thoughtful, and encouraging — someone who can sit with you when things feel messy and help you think outside the box when the usual answers don’t work. I focus on everyday, “garden-variety” struggles that still have a big impact on quality of life, especially during periods of transition. What you can expect from our first session Our first session is a chance to slow down, get to know each other, and talk about what brought you in and where you hope to go. We’ll explore what’s working, what feels stuck, and what kind of support actually feels helpful to you. Over time, many clients walk away with more clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense that they can create a path forward — even if it looks different than they originally imagined. Growth isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone.

I joined Relational Insight in 2023 to provide affordable therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I apply collaboration within therapy to help clients tell their story to practice new perspectives or behaviors. I aim to help clients find validation, healing, and growth within life struggles and transitions. I have a passion for reaching underserved clients, especially men of color and other members of marginalized groups. Also, I connect easily with adolescents struggling with emotional or behavioral concerns. I strive to provide a warm welcome with tangible support for individuals and families who may be new to focusing on their mental health. Looking to assist those struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, interpersonal conflict, and professional challenges. After transitioning from the professional world as a sales director and consultant, having a Masters in Industrial/Organizational Psychology allows me provided insight for clients facing professional challenges and questions.

At The Juniper Center, we understand that it takes courage to ask for help. But we also understand asking for help can be hard. It can feel daunting to share your life with someone you don’t know. If you’re considering therapy – whether to improve your mental health, restore a relationship, adjust to a life transition, or to recover from a trauma – finding the right therapist is the first step on your path to achieving your goals. We’re here to help make this process as safe and comfortable as possible for you.

At our therapy practice, we specialize in supporting those who are navigating challenging life transitions, struggling with anxiety, or facing difficulties in dating and relationships. Many of the individuals we work with share a common experience: they are going through periods of change or uncertainty, whether it’s adjusting to a new environment, managing the pressures of school or work, or trying to understand their emotions in relationships. They often feel stuck, unsure of their next steps, and are seeking a supportive space to sort through their thoughts and feelings. We understand how overwhelming it can be to face these challenges alone, and our goal is to help clients find clarity, build confidence, and take meaningful steps forward. If feeling lost, anxious, or frustrated is part of your current experience, know that you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. Together, we can create a path that feels right for you.

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.