Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

I’m a first-generation South Asian American therapist who works with students navigating anxiety, academic pressure, identity exploration, perfectionism, and cultural or family expectations. College can feel overwhelming—especially when you're trying to meet high standards or carry the weight of multiple identities. I offer a compassionate, culturally aware space to slow down, be heard, and reconnect with your true self. My approach is holistic and mindfulness-based, blending evidence-based therapy with tools from yoga, meditation, and Eastern psychology. I offer virtual sessions in CA and IL, and in-person sessions in Ventura, CA.

At Sohail Counseling & Care, we specialize in supporting emerging adults as they navigate the transitions of college life, relationships, identity, and the pressures of “figuring it all out.” Our practice offers a warm, culturally-aware space where students and young adults can slow down, be real, and find their way forward. We understand that college can bring both excitement and overwhelm. Whether you’re adjusting to a new environment, managing academic stress, navigating family or cultural expectations, or working through anxiety, depression, or self-doubt; you don’t have to do it alone. What makes us different: Culturally-aware & trauma-informed care- we honor the unique stories, values, and identities you carry. Specialized clinicians- our team includes therapists who focus on first generation mental health, men’s mental health, Latino mental health, identity transitions, and relationship stress. Flexible & accessible; telehealth sessions available across Illinois and Michigan; evening and weekend options to fit your schedule. Relational approach- therapy with us feels like talking with a trusted guide who listens deeply and challenges you with care. Who we help: ◦ College students and emerging adults (17+) ◦ Young professionals navigating stress and transition ◦ Couples and partners building strong foundations If you’re looking for a space where you can feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow, we would be honored to walk alongside you.

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

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

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.

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or tired? Having problems in your relationships? Do you need help finding clarity? Are you scared of what the future holds and unsure of what path to take? Do you find yourself having to make adult decisions for the first time? While everyone else is making headway in life, does it seem like you’re still stuck on the sidelines? If you're looking for support, I'm here to help. I believe in being open, direct, and unafraid to challenge you when necessary. But I also value laughter and simplicity in our work together. My online Psychotherapy and Coaching services provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can freely express your feelings.

Prior to full-time clinical practice I was a tenured faculty member for many years. Most of my patients are trying to come to terms with their own histories, to feel more vital, and to chart an authentic path forward. I help people who find that they are stuck in their lives, and are perplexed by their reactions and those of others. I form a facilitating partnership that helps people reflect on their experiences and to make sense of them. This naturally opens new possibilities to live a more satisfying life. To my mind, finding one’s way requires a relationship with a thoughtful, genuinely caring, experienced person who is deeply engaged in helping. I strive to be that person.

Have you recently started to understand yourself in a new way—maybe through a neuropsychological evaluation, a late diagnosis, or content you’ve encountered online during college? Are you finding that the strategies that seem to work for others don’t quite fit your brain? I specialize in working with college students and young adults who discover later that they are neurodivergent. Together, we explore what this identity means for you in the context of academics, relationships, independence, and future goals. My approach supports you in building systems that actually work for your brain, while creating a life that feels authentic, sustainable, and aligned with your values.

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.****

FitLife Wellness, LLC is a private counseling practice dedicated to helping clients reach and achieve fulfilling and balanced living. The therapeutic focus is on the mind, body and spirit. My goal is to empower you to reach your full potential in all areas of your life and by helping you to discover the inner resources that exist inside of you. Appointment Link: https://headway.co/providers/moniek-garside?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=86670

Are you feeling stuck in patterns that seem impossible to break? Do relationship issues, leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of your worth? Are you constantly overthinking, struggling with anxiety, or battling feelings of depression that make it hard to move forward? Maybe you’ve been pushing yourself to the limit as an overachiever, yet deep down you feel unfulfilled or burned out. Are procrastination and anxiety holding you back in college, making you feel like you’re falling behind? Or perhaps your traumatic childhood still impact your life today. Do you want to rebuild your confidence? Are you hoping to let go of the past? I am multicultural competent and will always keep your values in mind. My goal is to make sure that you are safe and equipped to handle life's ever changing circumstances. I pride myself on being personable and do not consider myself to be your average therapist. I will laugh with you, be silent with you and whatever you need to feel comfortable. I do offer free consultations to make sure we are a good fit, let's connect. A sense of connection, safety, honesty & open-mindedness are the values that I strive for. Clients can expect a relaxed environment coupled with passion & non-judgement. I do accept multiple different insurances.

After starting a career in higher education, I realized that I wanted more opportunities to spend time with students 1:1 and support them through all of the life changes that occur throughout college: deciding on a major, finding new friends, separating from family, changing majors, figuring out how to adult, starting a career, excelling in classes that only become more rigorous, and maybe changing majors again. All of this in addition to finding time for yourself becomes quite difficult! As a psychotherapist, I work with students experiencing depression and anxiety as they navigate the challenges and stressors that come with being in college. Many have also had difficult or traumatic experiences while growing up, and are ready to figure out how to talk about them. Through weekly appointments, we'll build a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust, and quickly develop an understanding of your goals for therapy. For some, this will mean our work together is brief. For others, we'll settle into a long-term working relationship that will see you through the ups and downs over the next few years. I primarily use a psychodynamic approach in therapy, which means we'll explore your inner thoughts and feelings to understand how they affect your behaviors and relationships. I find that this approach helps you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, including how you might get in your own way from time to time and what you might want to do differently. Always, the goal is to support you as you (re)discover your strengths and learn to accept yourself as human, making both life and college a little easier to navigate moving forward. Please note: I'm licensed to see individuals in Florida, Illinois, and Michigan.

I’m Christine Askeland, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I provide compassionate psychiatric care and have a special focus on women’s mental health, pregnancy and postpartum support, and addiction treatment. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, respected, and truly heard. I’m known for my warm, nonjudgmental approach and for meeting people where they are. I believe mental health care should feel collaborative and personalized, not rushed or one-size-fits-all. Together, we’ll focus on your goals, preferences, and what matters most to you, so your care feels meaningful and supportive. My approach combines psychotherapy with thoughtful, evidence-based medication management while also looking at the bigger picture of wellness. I value the role of sleep, nutrition, physical activity, and daily routines in emotional health, and I work with you to create a balanced, realistic treatment plan that supports long-term healing and stability.

Julia is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who received her MA from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Julia has spent her career serving youth and families in a variety of agency settings. She has experience working with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, ODD, school/behavioral issues, parenting and substance use. She works from a variety of therapeutic approaches, but comes at each case with a strength-based approach that is individually tailored to each client. Julia believes in meeting each client where they are at and helping them build from what they are already doing well.

In my 15 of years providing therapy, I have worked with various individuals experiencing different life challenges. The goal is to create a connection and from that connection build a bridge to healing and recovery. I believe that we are all seeking radical acceptance and radical belonging. Systemic oppression significantly impacts mental and physical wellness. I strongly believe it is not that a person needs to be "fixed". Marginalized and oppressed folx need support, space, agency, and tools to navigate an increasingly hostile and toxic environment. Social justice drives the work that I do personally and professionally. I specialize in the following: -Anxiety -Depression -Bipolar – Complex Trauma LGTBQIA+ -Women’s Issues -Oppression-Based Trauma -Racial Identity Challenges -Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy Letters -Gender Affirming Surgery Letters Therapy is not about weakness, it’s about strength. The courage to face the pain, accept it, and continue on despite it. We are on a journey together, one that includes tears and laughter. Authenticity in terms of my own experience and journey, along with the use of humor, allows me to create warm, safe space in order to develop a strong therapeutic bond.

I am Dr. Lara Jakobsons + I enjoy working with college and grad students! As a therapist, I strive to provide compassionate care to help achieve your goals and lead a healthy life while in college. My collaborative style infuses empathy, warmth, nonjudgment and humor while drawing on your strengths and values. I look forward to helping you achieve your goals!

Hello! We are a group private practice who aims to minimize mental health stigmas among all cultures and populations. We find that being REAL, genuine, and authentic quickly reduces great barriers to care. We look forward to partnering with you to navigate life's unique challenges.

I hope to offer my clients a safe and positive place to address concerns, gain awareness and strength for the current stressors that bring them to counseling. Clients have said they feel comfortable in therapy with me, and gain a sense of hope and knowledge they did not have before seeking therapy. My approach is person-centered using CBT, strength-based and mindfulness as some of the empirically proven strategies to guide my clients to success.

I am so happy you're here! Higher education is challenging and comes with a lot of changes. If you're feeling anxious, depressed, or not like yourself, therapy may be a good place to start feeling better! Clients can expect a non-judgemental, empathetic environment where it's safe to be authentically yourself. We are connected by our relationships and managing/maintaining relationships can be extraordinarily challenging in college. In therapy with me, we will look at your history, how that informs your present and collaborate on ways to healthily and positively impact your future. Please reach out if you have any questions or if you're interested in working with me!

Ever feel like life's throwing you some curveballs, and you're ready to break free to become the best version of yourself? As your compassionate therapist, I offer a safe, judgment-free space to explore your emotions and thoughts. In our sessions, we're not just talking; we're digging deep to reveal the amazing person you are. This journey of self-discovery isn't just about finding yourself; it's about unlocking those hidden potentials and creating a life that's genuinely fulfilling and authentic. Along the way, we're not just tackling life's twists and turns; we're building a toolkit of savvy coping strategies, so you can navigate it all with grace. Together, we'll boost your self-confidence, cultivating a strong belief in your worth and capabilities. Ready to kick off your personalized therapeutic journey? Let's tackle those goals, and set you on a path of growth. Choosing a therapist who gets you is key, so why not take that step today? Looking forward to this journey with you!