Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

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.

My name is Sydney, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois. I’ve spent the last four years as a mental health therapist in both private practice and community mental health settings working with remarkable individuals who face mental health challenges, uncertainty, and loss. Throughout my experience as both an individual and as a therapist, I know how especially challenging and isolating it can feel to navigate college and early adulthood while also learning how to manage symptoms of mental health challenges. But you don’t have to do it alone. I created my small private practice, Ambedo Psychotherapy, to offer partnership and therapeutic insight to help you to understand your current situation, pull from your unique strengths, and to grow into the next best version of yourself. In my experience, no mental health struggle looks exactly alike, so I incorporate an eclectic combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions including CBT, IFS, DBT, and EMDR tailored to help you meet your mental health goals.

As a Black, pansexual woman supporting LGBTQIA+ students and communities, I bring lived experience and tools like mindfulness, yoga, and emotional regulation to our work together. I help students get to the root of their struggles, unlearn old patterns, and build new ways of coping and growing. Change takes time, and I offer patience and support along the way. I specialize in trauma, generational patterns, and family challenges, creating a safe, affirming space where your journey is honored. My pronouns are she/her.

I work with LGBTQIA+ students and others dealing with PTSD, C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, gender identity concerns, identity exploration, and life transitions. My approach blends trauma-focused, relational, strength-based, psychodynamic, and culturally sensitive care to support you as a whole person. I understand how internal stress and external pressures, especially around identity, race, and major life changes, can feel overwhelming. Together, we'll create a safe, nonjudgmental, and empowering space where you're heard, supported, and able to move toward healing and authenticity. My pronouns are she/her.

I support LGBTQIA+ students dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and the stress of chronic illness or life changes. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, so therapy feels like it's built for you. I create a safe and supportive space to help individuals process challenges and coping skills. Together, we'll work toward healing and a more fulfilling life. My pronouns are she/her.

I support LGBTQIA+ students navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relationships, substance use, and life transitions using IFS, psychodynamic, and strengths-based approaches. My style is collaborative and affirming, especially for queer, trans, and nontraditional students. Together, we'll explore your story, uncover patterns, and build tools that help you grow in ways that feel authentic. My pronouns are he/him.

At Skylight Ascend Wellness, we blend medical expertise with heart. Our practice provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for adolescents and adults through a holistic approach that integrates medication management, therapy, and wellness support. We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders while helping each person rediscover balance and confidence. Our care is collaborative, inclusive, and designed for real life—whether you’re a student navigating stress or an adult seeking clarity and calm. ✨ Let’s light the path to your emotional wellness—mind, body, and brain. 📍 Serving Illinois, Minnesota, Colorado, and Florida | Virtual options available

Navigating life’s challenges can be daunting, and we are not meant to do it alone. My practice is a judgment-free zone that meets you where you are and embraces your unique experiences. My work is grounded in a multicultural approach emphasizing the importance of understanding the intersectionality of who we are and how that shapes our experiences, beliefs, and values. I believe we all deserve a space to discover who we are in a safe and empathetic environment. Whether you’re striving to achieve a goal or seeking to understand yourself better, I am here to support and empower you every step of the way. Together we can freely explore deep wounds, challenge unhelpful patterns, and work towards a more fulfilling future.

Life is challenging—but finding a LGBTQIA+ affirming LGBTQIA+ Psychiatric Care in Chicago who truly listens shouldn’t be. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer integrative, trauma-informed care that prioritizes trust, transparency, and collaboration virtually in Illinois. I take time to understand your lived experience and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and values. Medication may be one helpful tool—but it’s never the only one. I’ll make sure you feel informed about your choices and empowered to take an active role in your care. I provide psychiatric support for adolescents and adults, with a focus on gender-affirming, poly-affirming, and kink-aware care. My practice is rooted in trauma-informed principles and inclusive of neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ experiences. Common concerns I support include: • Anxiety and panic • Depression and suicidality • Bipolar disorder and mood instability • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) • Sleep disruptions and insomnia • PTSD and complex trauma • ADHD and executive functioning challenges • Autism spectrum support You deserve mental health care that respects your identity, your autonomy, and your pace. I’m here to meet you exactly where you are. Who I Work Best With: • LGBTQIA+ clients seeking affirming, informed psychiatric care • Individuals exploring gender identity or navigating transition • Neurodivergent clients, including those with ADHD or autism • Adults and teens managing mood disorders or trauma • People looking for collaborative medication management in a compassionate, judgment-free space Education & Credentials: • Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) • Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) – Illinois Licensed • LGBTQIA+, gender, poly, and kink-affirming provider I provide secure psychiatric services LGBTQIA+ Psychiatric Care in Chicago and through telehealth appointments across Illinois. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis or reassessing your current medication, I’m here to support you with openness and care. Let’s work together to create a plan that supports your healing. You deserve to feel heard, respected and empowered every step of the way.

You don’t need a polished goal to start therapy. I work with adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, stress, burnout, identity questions, or major life changes, as well as people who just want to understand themselves better. We can start wherever you are. Therapy can serve different purposes at different times. It might be a space to slow things down, to make sense of experiences, or to experiment with new ways of responding to challenges. We adjust the focus as your needs become clearer. I’ve spent the last decade working with a variety of Chicagoans across the city, from the North Side to the South Side. I love the work because I get to grow and learn from the people I support just as often as I offer them opportunities for their own growth. I believe the greatest strength of the human species is our ability to support each other. I will never be judgmental. I think everyone deserves second chances and I will fight to help you find yours. Therapy can be overwhelming, but a first session should simply introduce two people and lay out the groundwork for future sessions. Once we understand your goal, and align our expectations, we can start digging into the process behind it. Just ask!

I work with college and graduate students who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted—even when things look “fine” on the outside. Many of my clients are high-functioning, thoughtful, and self-aware, yet struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, relationship patterns, or a persistent sense that something isn’t quite right. My approach is psychodynamic, meaning we look beyond symptom management to understand the underlying emotional patterns, relationships, and life experiences shaping how you feel and function today. Therapy becomes a space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of internal conflicts that often get pushed aside in the pressure-filled environment of academic life. Students often come to me during periods of transition—starting or finishing school, navigating independence, questioning identity or values, or managing the emotional toll of performance expectations. Rather than offering quick fixes, I focus on helping clients develop insight, emotional resilience, and a stronger sense of self that extends well beyond college.

As a Latina and multilingual therapist, I provide psychotherapy to college students & adults of all ages struggling with relationship issues, family dynamics, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, life transitions, grief and loss, chronic illness/pain, racial injustice, cultural issues, and various disabilities. I have extensive experience using cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, motivational interviewing, & self-compassion. I believe therapy is an ongoing conversation where you are the expert of your lived experience. YOU are more than what has happened to you. My goal is to empower you to use your strengths while believing in yourself & what you can do on your own healing journey. I am here to shine a flashlight & guide you, but you are & will be the person to create the change & healing you need in your life. My goal is to empower you. To support that emotional wellness, I emphasize both physical & mental health & care. As a Latina and Mexican-American therapist, my cultural identity is integral to who I am and to my practice. I am passionate about providing linguistically & culturally competent care. I serve individuals from various races & ethnicities including immigrants. Using this culturally aware & strengths-based approach, I listen to your needs & guide you based on your beliefs whether that be to incorporate your culture, faith, identity, or simply your values as a person. Learn more about what therapy with me looks like: Learn more about what therapy with me looks like: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hfAyQS3pVI (I am available to schedule within one week!)

Feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns you can't seem to break? You're not alone — and you don't have to white-knuckle your way through it. I work with college students navigating stress, anxiety, identity exploration, relationship challenges, and the lasting effects of past experiences. I especially love working with students who: Have ADHD (diagnosed or suspected) and are tired of "just try harder" advice Feel things deeply and get overwhelmed with anxiety Pick up on other people's moods, tension, or unspoken feelings almost automatically Feel disconnected from their bodies, or like their mind and body are constantly at odds Feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them, even when they know better My approach blends somatic and relational therapy — in plain terms, that means we don't just talk about what's going on, we pay attention to how it shows up in your body, too (tension, exhaustion, that "on edge" feeling that won't quit). Sessions are collaborative and paced to your comfort — there's no pressure to share more than you're ready to. Whether you're dealing with trauma, burnout, academic pressure, or just trying to figure out who you are, my goal is simple: help you feel more grounded, resilient, and like yourself again. I welcome students of all backgrounds and identities, and I'm committed to providing thoughtful, culturally responsive care. Sessions available via telehealth. Insurance accepted.

I’m a licensed therapist (LMHC, LCPC) providing telehealth therapy for college students and young adults navigating life transitions, grief, stress, and identity development. I work with students who feel overwhelmed by academic and life pressures and offer a warm, collaborative, and goal-oriented approach that supports practical growth. My work is well-suited for short- to medium-term therapy, and I accept several major insurance plans to keep care accessible for students.

Maya Angelou said, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." Your life's story matters. Perhaps in this chapter you're encountering low self-esteem, anxiety & depression or relationship concerns. You may be looking to heal from past trauma, or needing a place to ventilate overwhelm. I can help with that. I'll meet you where you're at and help you build a sense of agency for the change you'd like to author in your life. I'm not an 'Oz behind a curtain' type therapist but more of a fellow traveler, drawing from both lived experience and professional training to guide and empower. I utilize a behavioral approach (DBT) to help build concrete skills and I offer EMDR to address trauma. Depending on your preference, I can provide homework, reading recommendations, and guided meditation practice. Above all, I hold a warm, safe space where you can unpack with a trusted and experienced professional. In our sessions you can expect an authentic, down-to-earth connection. Together we will build a relationship that fosters the safety needed for healing. You can count on me to share wisdom and helpful resources, provide validation and support, offer constructive challenges where needed, and remain actively engaged and attentive throughout our time together.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Maybe rest never actually feels restful. The moment you slow down, guilt, anxiety, or the feeling that you should be doing something productive starts to creep in. You may be keeping up with classes, work, relationships, and family expectations while privately feeling exhausted, scattered, or like you’re always falling behind. I work with college students, graduate students, and young adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, burnout, perfectionism, body image and disordered eating, relationships, and major life transitions. I also work with students whose childhood experiences, trauma, family dynamics, or experiences of discrimination are still affecting how they see themselves, relate to others, or respond when life feels overwhelming. Many of my clients are BIPOC or multicultural and want to talk openly about racial identity, belonging, family and cultural expectations, and the pressure to succeed without having to explain why those things matter. My approach is trauma-informed, relational, direct, and collaborative. We might notice that you keep saying yes when you want to say no, work until you’re completely depleted, shut down during conflict, or criticize yourself before anyone else gets the chance. Instead of judging those patterns, we’ll get curious about where they came from, what they’ve been doing for you, and whether they still fit the life you’re living now. You also don’t have to be the “good therapy client.” You can come in unsure of what you want to talk about, change your mind, laugh, be frustrated, or feel completely differently about something than you did last week. I’ll be consistent while giving you room to figure things out without turning therapy into another place where you have to perform.

Hi, I'm Kelly, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 23 years in the mental health field. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, and I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and family systems therapy. I use these approaches to help people manage co-occurring disorders, anxiety, adjustment struggles, and depression. I would describe myself as inclusive and empathetic, and I am not afraid to use a little humor to break the ice. My philosophy is simple: I meet you where you are. I take time to understand your whole life and what you need, and then we work together to put the pieces together and find healing. Whether you are facing a mental health challenge or just a new and confusing season of life, I am here to help you find your way forward and discover who you are meant to be. I see clients through WellQor, where I provide therapy entirely online, so we can meet from wherever feels comfortable for you. If you would like to begin working together, visit the WellQor website and fill out the Get Started form. A patient liaison will then text you with the next steps and help get you on my schedule. I am excited to learn more about you.

The 2:00 a.m. Overthinker: Stuck doom scrolling while your brain refuses to shut off. Overwhelmed by Small Tasks: Finals and anxiety make sending a basic email feel impossible. The "Strong Friend": Carrying the pressure to excel at everything, where just "pushing through it" isn't enough. How I Help We’ll turn overwhelming stress into manageable steps using simple creative methods—no art skills needed—and practical mindfulness tools so you can stop surviving college and start thriving.

I collaboratively work with adolescents and adults who are navigating anxiety, self-esteem struggles, social anxiety, self-criticism, shame, guilt, peer relationship issues, academic related stress, emotion dysregulation, depression, relationship issues, stress, and life transitions, alongside a wide range of other mental health concerns. I recognize that everyone’s needs are unique. So, I utilize and tailor evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & Mindfulness in therapy. If you are feeling overwhelmed, getting stuck in your head, struggling in relationships, or in daily life, let's work together. If you're open to understanding your patterns and building a practical toolkit, I'm your therapist. My goal is to support greater stability, resilience, & emotional balance so you can feel more grounded and feel more in control of your life.