Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

As a first generation immigrant and a former international student from South Korea, I am very passionate about working with clients with multicultural backgrounds. Since 2004, I have worked with people in South Korea, college students and graduate students in IL and CA, and people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s who struggle with relationship issues, family, life adjustment, intersecting identities, communications with older or younger generations, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and so on. I offer bi-lingual therapy; I worked as a licensed counselor in S. Korea, so you can speak only Korean, only English, or both languages in session. Since 2010, I have been working with clients to address a variety of issues in the United States. The main issues I have dealt with include relationship problems (romantic, family, interpersonal), anxiety, depression, ADHD, adjustment, identity, and self-esteem. The experiences of individuals rooted in immigrant families in the United States are special and unique. I have extensive experience counseling first, second, and third-generation Korean and Asian clients over the past 15 years while working in university counseling centers in the U.S. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy, primarily using elements drawn from Psychodynamic, Interpersonal, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) or Solution-Focused therapy based on the nature of the issues or client’s needs. In therapy, I strive to create new understanding, provide corrective experiences, and promote changes. My clients have told me that they enjoyed their work with me because they loved the insight about them and their patterns that they got from our work, warm and consistent support from me, and changes that they were motivated to make throughout the course of the therapy.

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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.

Welcome! I offer a warm, strengths‑based space for college students navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, self‑esteem, academic stress, perfectionism, and life transitions. I specialize in supporting neurodiverse students and young women, and I bring personal understanding of neurodivergent experiences to my work. My approach is person‑centered, collaborative, and grounded in helping you feel seen, understood, and empowered.

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Looking for help with medicines and/or therapy? We've got you! Our group of psychiatrists is dedicated to helping you while you're away at school. We see folks in CA, IL, MA, NY, and TX. There are appointments available right away - no 6 month wait. Send us a message and we'll figure out how to help.

My role as a therapist is to provide guidance, insight, and encouragement while empowering clients to recognize their own resilience and capacity for transformation. Whether working through anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship difficulties, I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, validated, and supported in their journey toward well-being. My belief is that therapy is a collaborative journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. I integrate evidence-based practices with a person-centered philosophy, ensuring that therapy is tailored to the needs and goals of the unique client. Your feelings are valid, and your experiences matter. Taking the first step isn’t always easy, but it’s a sign of courage and self-care. When you’re ready, I’m here to listen.

My practice is one that helps people better understand and work through feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression–especially those arising from difficulties with their schoolwork, questions about their future, challenges in their relationships with family members, friends, and/or partners, and experiences they have been having with acute or chronic illnesses (including cancer). When working with clients, I use both psychodynamic and existential techniques to explore not only their current concerns and behaviors, but also the deeper emotional, intellectual, and relational patterns that influence them. Some goals are to help people discover the true source of their pain and make real, lasting changes in their lives. If you are ready to feel more grounded, connected, and in control of your life, I invite you to reach out to me for a free consultation. During our call, we can talk about the hopes you have for therapy and discuss how best to achieve them. A little more about me: Before beginning work at in this field, I undertook clinical training at a site that provides therapeutic services to individuals impacted by cancer. During my time there, I gained valuable experience providing both one-on-one and group therapy to adults who had been diagnosed with cancer and their spouses, partners, and caregivers. Prior to that, I practiced as an attorney at a large, international firm in downtown Chicago, focusing primarily on complex commercial, product liability, and patent cases.

I believe that each person has the wisdom and knowledge within them to be able to heal and grow themselves but that intuition can be difficult to access due to our upbringings, beliefs, structural expectations, etc. I am honored to join with clients on their growth journey and provide perspective and safety along the way. I welcome clients from all walks of life and work primarily with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self exploration, and navigating the many transitions of life. I take an eclectic approach that utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Psychedelic Integration and also value the wisdom and significance of spirituality, mindfulness, somatics, ancestral connection, connection with nature and other non western conceptualizations of growth and healing. I foster a inclusive, nonjudgmental and affirming approach that does not shy away from difficult emotions. This is a collaborative relationship where we work together and rely on your inner wisdom to pursue growth at a pace that is healthy for you. If this resonates with you, I look forward to connecting with you and exploring the work we can do together.

Reaching out for help is often the hardest part and each client is different in their own ways. My therapeutic approach is a collaborative process in which the client takes the driver's seat, as they know their life better than anyone else. Our own minds can sometimes be our worst enemies and add daily life stressors into the mix..life isn't always simple and easy. I want to help clients sort through the messiness of life and help them get back on track to their goals and dreams while encouraging positive self-growth, self-image, and self-esteem. I like to take a person-centered, humanistic approach to help clients reach their goals and fullest potential. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults as well. I work with many different presenting concerns, including anxiety, stress, depression, everyday stressors, trauma, and domestic/sexual violence. I earned my master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. I offer day and evening hours. I like to offer a welcoming, non-judgmental, and safe space that changes with each client to ensure the client's needs are being met.

“It is important for us to know ourselves and be able to address our own issues head on. It can be easy to shy away from looking at our problems in a realistic light and to take the steps needed to change for the better. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. My office is a safe and supportive environment in which to help you look at your whole self and get comfortable with making lasting changes. Some of the most common things I address in therapy are anxiety, feeling lost or stuck in your life, improving communication, couples in conflict, sexual relationship therapy, depression, preparing for a new baby, feeling unappreciated in your relationship, improving self-esteem, reconnecting with your partner, reducing stress and overwhelming emotions. Understanding emotions and sharing them effectively truly is a skill. Some are born with it, others learn it, but we can always improve. I work with you to help you deepen your understanding around your struggles. I am here as your guide. Let me help you on your journey!” Bridget is a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist specializing in individual, couple, and family therapy. As a graduate of The Family Institute at Northwestern University Bridget earned a Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy and received extensive clinical training at the Family Institute’s Bette D. Harris Family and Child Clinic. She is currently serving as a practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among her areas of interest are young adults, couples in conflict, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, couples preparing for marriage, first time parents, blended families, and sexual relationship and intimacy therapy. Bridget is an interactive, strength-based therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. She integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, Bridget works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.

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

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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.

Kris Kirilova provides psychotherapy and career counseling for students navigating academic and career concerns, as well as mental health issues such as anxiety or inner turmoil. I specialize in helping students adjust to college life, clarify work and life goals, manage relationship difficulties, overcome self-doubt, and find balance in your adult life as a student. My practice serves a diverse range of students, from those in college to those pursuing doctoral studies.

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Hold Your Own is an invitation. An offer of solidarity, connection, and hope to anyone who has experienced the profound impact of shame, loss, depression, anxiety, conflict- and the many other ways we as humans hurt or feel lost – and an opportunity to work through it together.

Hi there! My name is Reese Minshew, and I work almost entirely with transgender (broadly defined) adults who have had traumatic (broadly defined) experiences. I’m licensed in California, Illinois, and New York, and work via telehealth with people located in any of those states. Clinically, I believe that the reactions we have after experiencing trauma and stress are fundamentally adaptive to the trauma, but can disrupt everyday life. In other words, if you had a difficult experience (including chronic exposure to structural stressors such as anti-trans bias, white supremacy, ableism, etc), you might not be able to eat, sleep, focus, calm down, feel excited, or be in relationships in the way you want. Whatever reaction you’re having was very helpful to you at one time, but if it’s no longer serving you then we can work on that. Most of the time we would do this by talking about what’s going on in your life right now, and working to understand it in the context of your past experiences.

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.

Are you ready to talk about the stress that has been building up? Therapy is such a great virtual tool to access anywhere these days! If you’re trying to juggle college life while learning to adult, it can be overwhelming. We can work on stress reduction, time management and self care to improve functioning. We can identify parts that struggle to feel joy or peace. We can get you on track to finally starting to understand, love and accept yourself. Email me and let’s get started!