Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Puentes de Resiliencia! Puentes de Resiliencia was created with the premise of creating therapy services with a cultural perspective in mind. We all navigate healing differently, but one thing that stays consistent is the notion that we do not have to endure it alone. Healing with community in mind is a strength based concept that further encourages the notion that as a community, we can transform and create bridges for success, bridges for healing, and bridges for resilience. I am bilingual/ Latina licensed clinical social worker. Born and raised in Chicago, mental health was a new concept for me prior to my own experiences with mental health. Now having been in practice for 8 plus years, I am eager to get to know others, explore challenges, and identify positive coping techniques for healing. Looking forward to meeting you soon!

As a queer therapist, I believe there is no one “right way” to live our lives. This is the same for therapy, there is no “right way.” I believe we all have the power to harness our strengths and find the path that gives us the most meaning and purpose. Clients are the experts in their own lives – each person has the tools and skills to solve their problems, though sometimes may need some outside help to find those tools and learn those skills. Together we can create a therapeutic alliance that is conducive towards self-discovery, growth, and fulfilling your potential while honoring your history, resiliency, values, and beliefs. I completed my Masters in Social Work at Loyola University Chicago. I am working towards being a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, gender diverse, the consensual non-monogamy (CNM) community, and I am kink/BDSM-affirming.

The students I work best with often feel a disconnect somewhere in their lives, even if they cannot quite name it. For some, that shows up as a body that will not settle, thoughts that will not quiet, or a mind that stays one step ahead of the moment they are actually in; for others, it looks like falling behind on the very things that used to feel manageable, and not understanding why motivation and follow-through feel so out of reach. Some are holding everything together so well that no one around them realizes how much effort it takes, while others are visibly struggling and carrying shame about it. What they tend to share is not a grade point average or a diagnosis; it is the sense that something feels harder than it should, paired with the belief that they should simply be able to push through it on their own. Many are navigating anxiety, OCD, or ADHD that has gone unrecognized for years, often because it does not look the way they expected it to. My work is to help them reconnect body, mind, and daily life, so college can feel less like something to survive and more like a place they can actually be present in.

At Carlson Counseling Connection, we work best with undergraduate and graduate students who are trying to navigate the intense pressure, independence, and constant transitions of university life. Many of the students who thrive in therapy with me look like they are managing everything just fine on the outside—staying on top of classes, keeping up social lives, or building impressive resumes—even when they are feeling burnt out, anxious, or uncertain on the inside. You might be a great fit for my practice if you are experiencing: Academic & Future Anxiety: You feel an overwhelming pressure to perform, maintain high grades, or figure out your career path, leading to frequent overthinking, perfectionism, or fear of failure. Major Life Transitions: You are adjusting to life on campus, moving away from home, managing increased independence, or preparing to transition out of university into the workforce. Burnout & Emotional Fatigue: You find it difficult to rest without feeling guilty, often feeling mentally drained, overextended by commitments, or running on empty. Boundary & Identity Stress: You are navigating shifting family dynamics, roommate conflicts, complex friendships, or learning how to stand up for your own needs without feeling like you're letting others down. Therapy can be a candid, low-pressure space where you don't have to keep up appearances or put on a brave face. Together, we'll cut through the noise, build practical ways to handle stress, and help you create a balanced university experience that actually feels sustainable.

For many first-generation and immigrant adults, life can feel like constant translation. Translating language, expectations, emotions, and identities between different worlds. Over time, that pressure can turn into anxiety, burnout, or the sense that you have to carry everything alone. I’m Anahí Aragon, a Mexican-American, Spanish-speaking therapist at NeuroBloom Mental Health Collective in Chicago. I work with adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and the complex experience of growing up between cultures. For many first-generation and immigrant adults, life can feel like constant translation. Translating language, expectations, emotions, and identities between different worlds. Over time, that pressure can turn into anxiety, burnout, or the sense that you have to carry everything alone. I’m Anahí Aragon, a Mexican-American, Spanish-speaking therapist at NeuroBloom Mental Health Collective in Chicago. I work with adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and the complex experience of growing up between cultures. My approach combines CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, and somatic work to help you understand your emotional patterns and build tools that actually work in real life. Therapy with me is supportive, collaborative, and human. We can talk about the serious things while also leaving room for laughter, culture, language, and humor along the way. I offer therapy in English and Spanish and welcome clients who want a space where their cultural background and lived experiences are truly understood. If you’re curious about starting therapy, you can reach out to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.

Stephanie is a licensed therapist with over a decade of mental health experience across multiple cities and care levels. Her foundation as a clinician is built on evidence-based training, cultural sensitivity, and a deep commitment to helping people feel seen, understood, and empowered.

At Fables Counseling, we believe that every individual has a unique story worth telling and improving. Our mission is to support and guide our clients through their personal journeys, helping them rewrite their narratives in a way that fosters growth, healing, and empowerment. We provide a warm, welcoming environment that feels far from uncomfortable—our focus is on creating a space where you can truly feel at ease to be uniquely you as you embark on your journey toward healing. At Fables, we are deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our team of dedicated therapists brings a diverse range of experiences and specialties to our practice. Each therapist is committed to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest in mental health research and techniques. We strive to create a safe space for all individuals, regardless of their background, identity, or experiences. Our practice is built on the principles of respect, empathy, and understanding. We look forward to engaging with you!

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

A lot of the students I work with look like they’re holding it together, but inside they feel overwhelmed. You might be lying in bed with your mind racing, replaying conversations, worrying about grades, or second guessing where you stand with friends, a roommate, or a partner. College transitions can make everything feel louder, with new expectations, new relationships, and sometimes pressure from back home. In therapy, we’ll slow things down, figure out what’s fueling the stress, and build tools you can use right away so you feel more grounded, more confident in your choices, and more like yourself.

You don’t have to carry this alone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, or stuck in patterns that feel impossible to break—please know that you’re not alone. It takes incredible courage to reach out for help, and that first step can be the beginning of real, lasting change. I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing. I work with individuals navigating a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, low self-esteem, and parent-child relationship difficulties. I understand how complex and deeply personal these struggles can be. That’s why I offer a flexible, compassionate approach tailored to your unique needs—not a one-size-fits-all solution. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported. We’ll focus on building practical coping strategies, strengthening your emotional resilience, and helping you reconnect with a sense of stability and purpose. Healing is possible—and it starts with a conversation. If you’re ready to take that next step, or even if you’re just thinking about it, I invite you to reach out. Schedule an appointment or send a message today. Let’s work together to help you move toward a healthier, more balanced, and empowered life.

I honor the strength and courage it takes to begin therapy. Engaging in therapy can support emotional expression, deepen self-reflection, and open the door to self-compassion and empowerment. My approach is collaborative—we’ll work together to explore your experiences, gain understanding, and create meaningful change. I strive to offer a supportive and affirming space where authenticity can be safely expressed and embraced. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns and tailor my approach to each individual. I recognize how self-expression and self-advocacy can sometimes be overshadowed by the ways people learn to protect themselves from pain. I also understand that the past can shape the present in subtle ways, and that societal expectations can lead us to disconnect from our true selves. My experiences working with college students started during my doctoral training and have continued throughout my ten+ years in private practice. I provided psychotherapy to students at the UIC counseling center, where I completed both my training as an extern and my training as a Postdoctoral Fellow; at DePaul University Counseling Services where I completed my training as an extern; and at NIU Counseling and Consultation Services where I completed my training as an intern.

Does anxiety or self-doubt keep you from fully showing up in your life? Is avoidance preventing you from doing what it is that you desperately want? If you’re in college or early adulthood, you might feel like everyone else has it figured out while you’re stuck questioning yourself, feeling “not good enough,” or constantly putting other people’s needs ahead of your own. Between classes, internships, expectations, and big decisions about the future, it can feel exhausting to carry on your own. I’m Chelsea, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, and difficulty prioritizing their own needs. I help clients build confidence, clarify their values, and develop tools to move forward with greater self-trust and intention. I draw from an eclectic approach, while staying rooted in a strengths-based perspective. Therapy with me is collaborative, supportive, and practical. We’ll focus not only on managing anxiety and difficult thoughts, but also on building skills, self-trust, and clarity around what truly matters to you. I have over three years of experience in school-based settings, where I learned how to build rapport quickly and meet clients where they are. I’m also mindful of how larger systems and social contexts can impact mental health, and I bring this awareness into my work with clients. You don’t have to have everything figured out to start therapy. If you’re interested in exploring therapy, reach out today. I’ll respond within 24 hours to schedule a consultation and see if working together feels like a good fit. I strive to create a space that is compassionate and nonjudgmental, so you can take meaningful steps toward what matters to you.

Catherine is a therapist with over a decade of experience, and has a trauma-informed, relational approach to recovery. She works with clients to address wounds, both conscious and unconscious, in ways that empower and prioritize client voices. Catherine actively fights against injustices and oppression, both individual and systemic.

Hi there, my name is Juan Contreras, and I'm a therapist at Mindful Therapy Services in Chicago. We have no waitlist at this time and currently accepting new clients. Clients often come see us because they're looking for a down-to-earth therapist. We offer therapy services for most issues including anxiety, depression, relationships issues, college navigation/transition, first generation college students, immigrant background, LGBTQ+, ADHD, suicide ideation, emotion regulation and expression, and more. We do accept insurance (most PPO plans like BCBS, Aetna, USHIP, UnitedHealthCare, and Cigna) and can verify your benefits before getting started. For convenience, we offer online therapy allowing for more flexible scheduling for during the day or later in the afternoon. Why wait? Get started with a free 15-minute introduction call by emailing us at info@mindfultherapyservices.net

Welcome! I'm a passionate healthcare professional dedicated to providing compassionate and effective telehealth therapy. With a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, I offer supportive counseling services for adults and older adolescents. My experience in counseling and case management has equipped me with the skills to provide impactful mental health therapy, ensuring my clients receive the care and support they deserve. I see clients almost exclusively during morning hours, up until noon (CST) and can easily accommodate people with non-traditional schedules, since I have appointments as early (or late!) as 1am CST. Just like a good workout, a therapy session first thing in the morning can help you start your day off right. In addition to counseling, I've been instrumental in developing innovative strategies for Medicaid Special Needs programs, emphasizing quality assurance and improvement in Illinois. My cross-functional leadership has enabled me to work collaboratively with community partners, optimizing program outcomes and enhancing quality of care. I hold certifications as a Case Manager (CCM) and Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), which reflect my commitment to providing holistic care. I'm dedicated to meeting my clients where they are at, and helping them to achieve their mental health goals, without judgement. My goal is to help you navigate your health journey with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support. Let's work together towards your well-being.

You don’t have to face this alone. Living with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming—like you're carrying a weight no one else can see. When it feels like nothing is working, it’s easy to lose hope. But healing is possible, and you're not alone. I’m here to help you find your way forward. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with mood disorders, and I understand how complex and deeply personal these challenges can be. My approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based care. Whether you’re navigating intense anxiety, persistent low moods, or the highs and lows of bipolar disorder, I’ll meet you where you are—with compassion, not judgment. Together, we’ll explore what works for you. Whether that means therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, my goal is to support you in regaining a sense of stability, clarity, and control over your life. You deserve to feel better. You deserve support that truly understands you. If you're ready to take the next step—or even if you're just curious about what support could look like—I invite you to schedule a time to talk. Let’s take that first step, together.

Hello. If you are motivated for help, I would like to work with you. I have lots of experience. I am eclectic, but often use Psychodynamic Therapy abd Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help the clients I see. I have a general practice, but I’m particularly interested in helping with anxiety, depression,,eating disorders, body image relationships and grief and loss. I am currently only doing Telehealth/ virtual So it is very convenient and I can see anyone who lives in Illinois at the time of our sessions. Free 15 minute phone consultation. I am listed on Psychology Today.

Finding a therapist who feels like a good fit can matter as much as the therapy itself. I work with students who are thoughtful, capable, and often carrying more than they let on — anxiety, stress, self-doubt, trauma, or the pressure to keep it together while figuring out who they are and where they’re headed. I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with a background in both clinical mental health and higher education. Before returning to full-time clinical work, I spent many years working on college campuses as well as teaching in undergraduate and graduate courses. I understand the unique stressors students face — academic pressure, financial stressors, identity development, relationships, family expectations, and the emotional toll of trying to succeed in an uncertain world. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed. I integrate evidence-based practices with a strong focus on nervous system regulation, emotional awareness, and practical skills you can use in everyday life. Therapy with me is a space to slow down, make sense of what you’re experiencing, and learn how to respond to stress and anxiety with more clarity and self-compassion. Many of the students I work with struggle with anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, burnout, or feeling disconnected from themselves. Together, we work on building a sense of safety, learning how to set boundaries, and developing coping strategies that support both mental health and personal growth. I believe therapy should feel human, respectful, and supportive — a place where you don’t have to perform or have everything figured out. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, more present, and more able to navigate life with confidence and care.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

With three years of experience in the mental health field, my passion is helping individuals overcome challenges, heal from trauma, and work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. I specialize in trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, crisis intervention, and using a multi-therapeutic approach to ensure that each client receives the personalized care they need. Whether it's dealing with stress, anxiety, family dynamics, or a traumatic event, I strive to provide compassionate, understanding support that respects each person’s unique journey. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from multiple therapeutic theories to best meet your needs. I believe that healing is a process that takes time, effort, and a safe space to grow. That’s why I work closely with my clients to build trust and a strong rapport, creating a collaborative partnership where your voice is always heard, your concerns are validated, and your growth is the focus. I am deeply motivated by the desire to help people understand that they are not alone in their struggles. I want every client I work with to know that change is possible and that with the right support, they can take the steps needed to build resilience, heal from past experiences, and lead a life of greater fulfillment. Working with me means engaging in a process that is open-minded, flexible, and rooted in respect for your individual experiences and goals. I take the time to understand your needs and adjust my approach to best support your healing and growth. Together, we will focus on developing coping strategies, building self-awareness, and setting achievable goals that empower you to make meaningful changes. If you are ready to begin your journey toward emotional well-being, I am here to support you with compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to your growth. You don’t have to go through this alone—I would be honored to be part of your path to healing.