Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

Hi, I’m Clayton, a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist. I believe that healing begins when we feel seen, heard, and accepted for who we are. My goal is to create a space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment — whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, identity concerns, relationship challenges, or simply trying to understand yourself on a deeper level. I work with individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, students adjusting to new transitions, and anyone striving to improve their emotional well-being. My approach is collaborative and compassionate — blending evidence-based techniques with genuine curiosity about your story. Together, we’ll work toward developing insight, strengthening coping skills, and helping you feel more grounded and confident in who you are. Therapy is not about “fixing” you; it’s about understanding, growth, and learning to embrace your own perfect imperfections. If you’re ready to begin that process, I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

At Nafs Harmony, our goal is to prioritize your mental health. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, I believe prioritizing your self is the key to happiness and stability. Taking the step to seek help is the most important step. I have been practicing for the past 8 years, but in the last half, I have shifted my main focus to female clients aged 14-55 who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and prenatal/postpartum life. We will begin our journey together with an introductory session, where you will have the opportunity to share your story and goals for therapy. Together, we will explore these objectives with the goal of empowering you to achieve them. I am to create a warm and welcoming environment that encourages you to feel comfortable sharing and being vulnerable while also providing a sense of security. As a South-Asian therapist, I understand the cultural nuances and stigma that can surround mental health in diverse communities. I am committed to providing a safe, inclusive environment where you can embrace your diversity and work toward finding joy, peace, and fulfillment. Once we choose to work together, we'll function as partners in your therapeutic journey. It is essential to me that we maintain open communication and that you feel respected in our relationship. I will be there to listen to you, challenge you, and support you throughout the process.

Welcome Illinois, Indiana, and New Mexico college students! I offer virtual only sessions. I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) for 20+ years and have had a variety of different roles in the behavioral health field. I believe my personal and employment experiences over the years help to inform the way I am with clients today. Of note, I'm only working with adult individuals at this time. I help clients in a number of areas including those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, adjusting to college life, self-esteem, self-harming behaviors, LGBTQIA+ issues, relationship issues, and identifying healthy coping skills.

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.

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.

Anjuli Maharaj Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a holistic provider, she integrates non-pharmacologic approaches in addition to medication in her psychiatric treatment. She has a particular interest in nutritional psychiatry. In addition, Dr. Shah has had focused training in various therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. She utilizes such therapeutic approaches in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Dr. Shah celebrates diversity; many of her patients are adults with non-traditional backgrounds. Her approach is culturally sensitive, taking full account of the impact of environmental and social factors on mental heath. She is committed to destigmatizing mental health and enjoys educating the public about psychiatric treatment.

Megan Wills is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults and adolescents. She practices from a relational, trauma-informed, person-centered, and intersectional feminist lens. Megan believes that the foundation of good therapy is a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. She works to create a space where clients can experience safety, support, and unconditional positive regard, build insight into their values, and live a better life. Megan approaches her work with empathy, thoughtfulness, and dedication. She has extensive experience working with people who have experienced trauma, neglect, and abuse, including domestic violence and sexual assault. Megan has experience and training in supporting clients dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction and substance use, ADHD, identity exploration, college stress, burnout, and life transitions. Megan approaches therapy through a psychodynamic and relational lens and incorporates narrative therapy, ACT, and EMDR in her work.

As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of extensive experience in healthcare, I have honed my skills across a spectrum of clinical settings, encompassing acute and maternal inpatient care, as well as outpatient care. My commitment lies in delivering comprehensive and compassionate mental health services to patients spanning all age groups, addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. My approach centers on a patient-centric model, where I prioritize thorough assessment, patient education, and the development of tailored treatment plans. By fostering a collaborative relationship with each individual, I strive to empower patients to actively participate in their mental health journey, ultimately aiming for enhanced wellbeing and quality of life. Driven by a passion for mental health advocacy and a dedication to evidence-based practice, I continuously seek opportunities for professional growth and remain steadfast in staying abreast of emerging trends and innovations in the field. My ultimate goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve, fostering resilience, healing, and hope.

Life can be a tricky thing to manage. It takes many twists and turns. The weight of this world is likely resting on your shoulders. It makes sense that you are at a breaking point. I see you and empathize with you. In order to thrive when you are barely surviving, growth and healing have to happen from whatever burden it is that is weighing you down. I want you to know you aren’t alone. You matter and it means so much that you are here today. As a licensed clinical social worker, it is my duty to make sure you feel supported and validated in every aspect of life. Life is not meant to be lived on your own. I want to help you figure out how to take it one day at a time, starting with baby steps, beginning to move your life forward. Genesis 50:20, Romans 8:28, Galatians 5:22-23. I strive in creating a kind, loving, non judgmental yet accountable safe place within my practice setting. I take the time to listen, and work hard to build a strong relationship so that you have someone to go to when life is too rough to handle on your own. When clients leave sessions, they tend to feel refreshed, restored and ready to thrive in life again.

Stephanie Kilper is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT). With several years of experience in a variety of mental health settings and a large spectrum of care, Stephanie has worked with children, teens and adults on issues related to disordered eating, body image, emotional regulation, and mood disorders. Stephanie’s approach to treatment includes supporting individuals with increasing their mind-body connection and reconnecting to their bodies in a safe, gentle manner through integrated movement and mindfulness experiences. Stephanie utilizes present-moment connection and curiosity to inform her work with individuals, navigating the inner self with a practice of kindness and openness. As a member of the LGBTQ community, Stephanie also supports individuals in identity exploration and self-discovery as clients deepen their understanding of all aspects of who they are.

I have worked in crisis intervention with survivors of trauma, military families, children, teens, and adults for over 25 years. I am here to support individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and life transitions. I can help clients develop a solution-focused approach to solving problems. I am a compassionate and caring therapist who works with where you are at. I am a trauma-certified therapist who believes in working with a client-centered approach. If you need emotional support and someone open-minded, supportive, and understanding, then I welcome the opportunity to work with you.

LGBTQIA-Affirming Trauma-Informed Art Therapy & Counseling in Chicago. I'm M (they/she), a Chicago-based art therapist, counselor, and trauma survivor. With two decades self-publishing comics and zines, I know firsthand how image-making and storytelling reach what words can't. I specialize in complex, religious, and sexual trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, burnout, grief, and chronic pain, and I work with folks exploring gender identity and family estrangement. My approach draws on expressive, narrative, and somatic therapies, including Instinctual Trauma Response (ITR). I've also completed 40 hours of sexual trauma crisis training and can help survivors navigate Chicago's support systems. Your voice leads the way. Let's figure this out together.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

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.

I have experience working in treatment, community, group, and correctional settings with adolescents, young adults, and adults. Primary clinical approaches include evidence-based therapies focused on generating behavioral results. I have an in-depth understanding of the mental health issues that arise from incarceration and the stressors associated with navigating the post-incarceration process. I specialize in working with complex behavioral issues such as: conduct disorders, addition, sexual behavioral problems, and personality disorders. Other issues I specialize in include Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and adolescent, young adult, and transitional issues. The decision to come to therapy can be overwhelming, especially when current approaches are not successful. If you are results-oriented and are willing and open to challenge yourself I encourage you to contact me. I am currently accepting new clients.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Illinois, and I’m passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. I strive to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you can feel comfortable sharing your concerns openly. People often describe my style as calm and respectful. I believe clear communication and patient education are essential, so I make sure you feel informed, confident, and supported throughout your care. My approach is patient-centered and collaborative. I recognize that everyone’s experiences, needs, and goals are unique, and I enjoy working closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that supports both your mental health and overall well-being. I provide care for anxiety, depression, and ADHD, including comprehensive evaluations and medication management. My focus is on accessibility, meaningful symptom improvement, and helping you build lasting emotional stability.

Hi, I’m Ben Fendrich, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor in Wisconsin. I specialize in supporting adults navigating mood challenges, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. My approach is warm, engaging, and collaborative—I provide a supportive space to process life’s stressors, whether they stem from work, relationships, or personal struggles. Together, we’ll explore new perspectives, develop coping strategies, and help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

I'm passionate about helping individuals find peace and healing from the depths of anxiety, OCD, depression, and trauma. Together we will create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey, offering guidance, support, and compassion as you navigate the complexities of your mind. Whether you're seeking help for yourself or supporting a loved one, I'm here to empower you to find hope, healing, and a sense of calm. With creating a strong connection with each client, understanding that every individual's story is unique and deserves to be heard. Together we will identify your strengths, challenges, and goals, and develop a personalized plan that honors your values and priorities. Together we will find your path to recovery, growth, and renewed purpose. Discover your inner strength and restore your inner essence.

Caitlin is dedicated Licensed Social Worker with extensive experience working with children and adolescents, including in school settings, where she has provided support to children and teenagers with Anxiety, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and ADHD. She is passionate about providing empathetic support to youth as they navigate life’s challenges. In her role, she creates a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their emotions, build coping skills, and develop resilience. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health issues in young people, she is committed to tailoring her interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual she serves. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helping clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns while developing healthier coping mechanisms. She also has experience teaching executive functioning skills, emotional regulation skills, and social skills, equipping her clients with valuable tools for success. Whether through individual counseling, or collaboration with families, she remains devoted in her mission to empower her clients to thrive. Please contact me by phone number or email to set up an appointment! Email: canderlik21@gmail.com Phone number: 2243307175

Hi there! My name is Rachel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work primarily with teens and young adults experiencing ADHD, anxiety, perfectionism, self esteem issues, life transitions and family conflict. I see clients both virtually and in person in Naperville.