Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

With the complexities in the world today, it can be tough to catch a breath, decompress, and process the events in our unique lives. As bandwidths are stretched thin, boundaries infiltrated, and burnout ever present, the pressures of our day-to-day lives can pile on top of each other, making it hard to find balance and reach our goals. These challenges do not need to be faced alone. If you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, grief, or addiction, together we will create a safe and collaborative space to face these challenges head-on, guiding you to feel more empowered, centered, and fulfilled. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. The most important aspect of my approach is that it matches a client’s support needs and goals. Using an integrative, trauma-informed and person-centered framework, I aim to follow the client's lead and modify our process based on their unique personality, lived experiences, and interests. I'm so glad you are here. Life is full of ups that deserve to be celebrated and downs that deserve to be acknowledged and processed. Let’s dive into this together and start making your goals a reality. I look forward to hearing from you and getting to know you!

Being a student or young professional can feel overwhelming. You may be balancing academic demands, career uncertainty, relationship challenges, ADHD, perfectionism, or questions about who you are and what you want for your future. Even when you're accomplishing a lot on the outside, it can feel exhausting to keep up with the pressure. I am a doctoral-level Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years of experience helping graduate students, healthcare workers, young professionals, and other high-achieving adults navigate anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, ADHD, relationship concerns, and life transitions. My clients often come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated by patterns they can't seem to change. I have particular expertise working with ADHD and concentration difficulties, as well as the challenges that come with high expectations and demanding environments. Whether you're struggling with procrastination, time management, decision fatigue, stress, or burnout, we'll work together to find strategies that fit how your brain works while building a deeper understanding of yourself. Relationships are another core area of my work. Whether you're navigating dating, communication challenges, family conflict, or friendship struggles, I can help you better understand the patterns shaping your relationships and develop healthier ways of connecting with others. My approach is collaborative, curious, and tailored to your goals. Drawing from CBT, ACT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Gottman Method principles, I combine practical tools with deeper self-exploration to help you create meaningful, lasting change. You don't have to figure everything out on your own. Therapy can help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected as you navigate this chapter of your life.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

My name is Mary Clare, and I am a dedicated mental health clinician with experience providing therapy to children, adults, and families. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual. I provide a supportive space to address issues like anxiety, stress, transitions, and personal growth. I use an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from evidence-based modalities to help clients build resilience, increase self-awareness, and achieve their goals. I am confident we can cultivate an environment for you to heal and reach your goals, and I would love the opportunity to see if we are a good fit. I am currently accepting new clients in-person and virtually.

SpringSource Psychological Center was founded by two Ph.D., licensed clinical psychologists as a collaborative practice to help individuals heal from eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, and life stressors and transitions. While we work with clients across the lifespan, we have a particular interest in early adulthood, due to the number of transitions and demands that occur during this phase of life. We have a diverse range of clinicians with many years of insight oriented and skills-based training, so we can accommodate both long and short term psychotherapy, dependent upon the client's needs. We have clinicians with expertise in Latinx issues and LGBTQ+ issues, and we have the ability to conduct sessions in Spanish and Russian. We strive to be a warm, welcoming practice where we work with individuals to improve their emotional, behavioral and mental health.

Meridian Psychiatric Partners provides best-in-class mental health services to children, adolescents, emerging-adults, and adults with an expert team of psychiatrists, psychologists and psychotherapists. Specialists cover many areas, including mood and anxiety disorders, women's mental health, child and adolescent mental health, addictions, eating disorders, ADHD and personality disorders. Let’s work together to achieve your goals of symptom remission, better functioning and improved well being.

***Book a Free Consultation Online at Our Website Below On the outside, people tend to see you as doing fine – or even put-together, independent and successful. Lately, life has you feeling anxious, overwhelmed and stuck grasping for any semblance of control. No one really prepares you for the stress and confusion of the transition to adulthood – it’s a lot of pressure. How do you convince your friends, family, teachers, or boss that you know what you're doing? More importantly, how do you convince yourself? The overwhelm of reality makes you want to nap, doom scroll or binge watch Netflix for a lifetime -- or anything else that will quiet your mind. We specialize in equipping you with the tools needed to feel confident, successful, and independent -- so you can live your life without unnecessary burdens and limitations. You DO belong here and it WILL get easier, but you’re meant to navigate these things with support. Let's collaborate to build you're confidence and emotional control. We’ll break it down so it feels more manageable and work to understand everything in the context of YOU. We'll identify the "whys", practical strategies to help you manage day-to-day, and move towards long-lasting peace, balance and meaning. We’ll clarify your values & identity, boost self-esteem, & achieve a healthy study, work, life, etc. balance. Through the process, you will develop a healthier relationship with yourself and others. The anxiety, overwhelm and defeat cycle is rough. Sometimes the internal dialogue makes it seem like things are beyond repair, but we're here to assure you there is absolutely hope and resolution available to you. We'll help you along that path.

Life can be challenging. I believe psychotherapy with a therapist who is a good match can help one more successfully navigate those challenges. I work collaboratively with my clients. I aim to create a nonjudgmental and supportive environment to explore difficult issues together -- to better understand what one is currently facing, to help manage those difficulties, and to ultimately make life more rewarding and meaningful. I have over 30 years of clinical experience and have worked in a variety of settings including university counseling centers (Univ. of Illinois, Univ. of Michigan, Northwestern Univ., The School of the Art Institute of Chicago), and LGBTQ and feminist services (Howard Brown Health Center, Planned Parenthood, Chicago Women's Health Center). I maintain a general practice where I see a wide diversity of men and women for issues including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and identity.

Many of the students I work with are thoughtful, self-aware, and often hard on themselves. On the outside, they might look like they have things together—but internally, they’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of who they are and where they’re going. You might be navigating big transitions—starting college, figuring out relationships, questioning your identity, or feeling pressure to meet expectations (your own or others’). You may notice patterns in relationships that leave you feeling stuck, disconnected, or not fully understood. In our work together, I focus on creating a space where you can slow down, feel genuinely understood, and make sense of what’s coming up for you. I take a relational approach, which means I pay attention to how you experience connection—with others and with me—so we can better understand patterns and create more fulfilling ways of relating. If you’re looking for a therapist who is warm, engaged, and collaborative—and who will help you explore both your emotions and your relationships—you might find this to be a good fit.

I believe the human experience is beautifully complex, with our emotions serving as both a compass and catalyst for growth and healing. When those feelings become overwhelming, it’s easy to feel isolated or stuck in cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, or hopelessness—but you don’t have to navigate this alone. My passion is creating a space of warmth, understanding, and compassionate curiosity where we can explore what’s happening beneath the surface, make room for your full emotional experience, and discover new ways of thinking, relating, and healing. Gender Identity & Sexuality: Exploring your gender identity or sexuality can be deeply personal and, at times, isolating. Whether you're early in your journey or further along, I provide affirming, compassionate support in a space where you can be fully and authentically yourself—without judgment. You deserve to be seen, understood, and empowered as you embrace who you are. Relationship Challenges: Relationships can be both life-giving and deeply challenging. If you’re feeling stuck in painful cycles, navigating conflict, or longing for deeper connection, I’ll work with you to untangle patterns and build stronger, healthier relationships—rooted in mutual respect, communication, and emotional safety. Family Dynamics: Family systems often shape how we see ourselves and relate to others. I help clients unpack generational patterns, unspoken expectations, and relational roles that may no longer serve them. Together, we’ll work to foster clarity, establish healthy boundaries, and nurture meaningful, sustainable relationships. Anxiety: Anxiety can feel all-consuming, quietly infiltrating every area of life. I offer both practical strategies and gentle exploration to help you better understand your anxiety, manage its impact, and regain a sense of calm, confidence, and agency—especially when life feels out of control. Do I work with struggles not on this list? Maybe what you’re going through doesn’t fall neatly into one of these categories, or perhaps you’re looking to approach it from a different angle. If my approach resonates with you, I’d love to talk more. Together, we can create a path forward that honors your story and supports your unique process of healing and growth.!

As a previous university counseling center therapist, I work well with students who feel stuck and unhappy, and who are looking to make some sort of change in their lives, whether it is related to mood, purpose, addictions/habits, and/or relationships. I also work well with student who are experiencing nervousness about their academic and/or personal lives, and who are feeling overwhelmed with stress. I help students figure out how to be successful as they transition into young adulthood.

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.

I believe that trust and rapport are crucial in therapy, as they create a foundation for healing and growth. I have extensive experience in providing evidence-based therapies to help clients effectively manage PTSD symptoms, depression, and anxiety. I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges that individuals with complex trauma face, such as dissociation and relationship difficulties. By fostering a trusting and supportive environment, I strive to empower clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences at their own pace. Together, we work towards building resilience, ultimately promoting improved well-being. My approach is rooted in a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and person-centered techniques, allowing us to examine the connections between past experiences and present challenges. Through our collaborative efforts, we will create a safe space where you can gain insight, heal from past wounds, and ultimately achieve personal growth and fulfillment. I strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. By embracing diversity, I aim to provide personalized services that cater to the unique needs and backgrounds of each individual client. During our free consultation, we can discuss your specific needs and goals. Remember, you don't have to face this alone.

We work with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, identity, and relationship struggles. Every day in our work we witness the power of therapy. Our mission is to use the therapeutic relationship to help individuals reduce suffering, and lead more fulfilling and creative lives. The quality of the "fit" between therapist and client is a critical aspect of the treatment process. Our clinicians have different therapeutic styles and are trained in a variety of treatment approaches including relational psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma informed care, EMDR, art therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.

Main character energy is something that you deserve to give off. Why? Because this is your life and everyone deserves to live the life that they want to live (yes, including you), and I deeply believe this. Since this is something I am passionate about, I will work with you to help make sure that you are able to live life fully and happily. I do this through active listening, patience, open mindedness, kindness, and support. I ensure that you will have a space that is welcoming to be who you are, as you are, safe and judgment free. I know that college is a whole new world, with new fun experiences and stress. I will partner with you to navigate the unique challenges of adjusting to school, friends, independence, and this stage of life. Whether you are experiencing; stress, anxiety, depression, or any unpleasant emotion. You are not alone, and together we will make sure that you are living a life aligned with your goals! Together, we will identify strategies to help you achieve those goals. As the expert of your own experiences, feel free to provide feedback and actively participate in the therapeutic process. It's a team effort, and my goal is to ensure that you get the most out of our sessions, so you can live a life aligned with your goals. Remember, you are not alone, and together we will navigate and overcome any challenges you may face. As an African American woman living in Chicago, I understand the pressure to ‘have it together’ or the need to be emotionally and mentally strong at all times. Life is extreme and when you add in the pressures to conform to the way of the world, life can be unbearable. Growing up on the west side of Chicago, I was able to see the inequities faced by brown and black people. I was able to see the negative impact of the injustices placed on the brown and black people. I was able to see the clear segregation of people, resources, and support and I am able to understand the pain the world has caused. My goal is to remind people of color that they are powerful, that their voices should be loud and clear, and that their presence is necessary. My passion is to be and create a safe space for those who struggle with just being. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community, the houseless community, and with Black Lives Matter to create a movement for equity, not just equality.

Skylight Counseling Center provides professional counseling services to individuals, families, couples and groups. Founded in 2011, we are dedicated to the growth and development of our clients and ourselves. We aim to help people gain insight into themselves, and to live their lives with deeper passion, conviction and harmony. Our therapists utilize various modalities of psychotherapy and healing to provide the best possible opportunity for change. Our goal is to create healthier societal systems so that our world is more just, equitable and inclusive. We look forward to working with you!

Hi! I am a clinical social worker with about 15 years of experience working across the lifespan and really enjoy working with young adults. I am in Lakeview/Lincoln Park above the Core Yoga building, and in network with BCBS PPO plans.

I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago with a specialization in clinical mental health, and hold certifications in alcohol and drug counseling (CADC) and in the assessment and treatment of trauma (NMT Phase I). In my training, I have worked with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings, including community youth programming, community mental health centers, and private practice. I work from a client-centered, strengths-based, and integrative approach in which I am able to tailor therapy to the individual client’s needs. I believe in the power of utilizing attachment and psychodynamic theories to better understand the origins of symptoms along with implementing cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness techniques to relieve symptoms. Because I believe that connection is fundamental to the healing process, I aim to create a warm and accepting therapeutic relationship that allows me to understand the challenges you face, help you determine the goals you hope to work toward, and empower you to create significant and lasting change. My areas of specialization include anxiety, trauma, substance use, relational conflict, self-esteem, and life transitions. When I’m not working, you can find me going to yoga classes, working through a long bucket list of Chicago restaurants, and planning my next travel adventure.

Meredith Starr is a Registered Dietitian and Director of Nutrition Services at Allow Wellness in Chicago. She is an alumna of the University of Illinois at Chicago Coordinated Nutrition Program and began her nutrition career at UI Health general inpatient services while working part-time at a residential treatment facility for eating disorders. Meredith is deeply passionate about the treatment of eating disorders and has been practicing in this field for the past nine years. Meredith's personal nutrition philosophy centers on building a healthy relationship with food and is inclusive of mental, emotional, physical and social health. Meredith aligns herself with size-inclusive and non-diet nutrition approaches. She is passionate about empowering others in their relationship with food and their bodies. Allow Wellness is currently offering outpatient group nutrition sessions and profession presentations. Meredith welcomes all stages of readiness with regard to your relationship with food and your body shape and weight. If ready to schedule, please contact her today.

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.