Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

A safe space to be your best self. We are an inclusive group practice of Emotion Experts, Trauma-Informed Therapists, Gender Guides, and Sex-Positive Relationship Nerds, here to help. We're a therapy practice in Chicago, Il but we practice primarily through telehealth, so we can see anyone in the state of Illinois. We know the world can be stressful, and we have a team of excellent therapists trained in a range of evidence based therapies who can meet you where you are, and help you figure out where to go next. Our therapists also also reflect the communities we work in, and we have young therapists, queer therapists, bipoc therapies, bipoc and queer therapists, trans therapists, spanish speaking therapists, etc. If you want to find out more, please check out our website where you can directly see our availability and schedule a session, or email us at the email provided and we can answer any questions.

Jiapei helps students manage anxiety, depression, social anxiety, ADHD, and the stress of major life transitions, from adjusting to freshman year to navigating the uncertainty of graduating and life after college. She offers a safe, non-judgmental space to be heard and find calm amid the overwhelm of college life. Jiapei helps students balance school, family, friendships, and romantic relationships, while gaining clarity and direction. She builds insight into thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, alongside real coping skills for daily life. Using CBT, ACT, and DBT, she brings a culturally responsive lens as a bilingual (English/Mandarin) clinician supporting BIPOC and international students.

Everyone deserves to feel heard, empowered, and respected, especially during life’s most challenging moments. Therapy provides a safe space for healing, and I would be honored to support you in your journey toward self-empowerment. As a collaborative and non-judgmental therapist in Chicago, my goal is to work with you to find the best path to healing that aligns with your unique needs. With personal experience navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions, I understand the emotional and relational challenges that many face. I have had the privilege of working with clients from all walks of life, helping them process difficult emotions and navigate major transitions—whether in relationships, work, or health. I specialize in supporting folks as they manage the pressures of life, relationships, and mental health. Together, we will address anxiety, depression, and other emotional struggles, develop strategies for managing overwhelming feelings, and create practical plans to face challenges with confidence. I approach therapy with humor, thoughtfulness, and a focus on affirmations, believing that trust and respect are the foundation of any therapeutic relationship. During our sessions, I will bring my genuine and authentic self to create a warm and empowering environment. A phone consultation is available to explore your treatment intentions and schedule an initial session, where we will discuss your goals and begin to shape your healing journey. My modalities include: Trauma-Informed Therapy Play Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Strength-Based Therapy Mindfulness-Based Therapy My specialities: Anxiety Depression ADHD LGBTQ+ Issues Academic Stress Parenting Support Trauma

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If you're exhausted from feeling misunderstood or unable to be your full self, you deserve a therapist who supports, understands, and affirms you. I bring lived experience to create an accessible space where there is less pressure to conform. Together, we'll make sense of your experiences and build a life that feels more authentic, fulfilling, and sustainable. I work with adults and teens (13+) who are seeking support related to Autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, burnout, life transitions, relationship challenges, and more. As a Black, neurodivergent, queer person, I am especially passionate about working with clients who identify as BIPOC, neurodivergent, and/or LGBTQIA+. I approach therapy with presence, curiosity, humility, and deep respect for the privilege of being invited into my clients' lives. My goal is to help clients feel seen, understood, and empowered to navigate challenges with greater confidence and self-compassion. As a client, you can expect an active and collaborative therapist who partners with you to turn self-awareness and reflection into meaningful, lasting change. Using mind-body approaches, I invite clients to slow down and become curious about their emotional and physical experiences. I also recognize that shame, overwhelm, and frustration often show up when we begin expanding beyond what feels safe and familiar. Because of this, I value building trust as the foundation of my work, and believe healing begins with authentic connection and a safe space to explore what may be keeping you feeling "stuck."

Are you feeling overwhelmed by constant striving, anxiety, or the pressures of perfectionism? Do you feel like you’re stuck in the backseat of your own life? I’m here to help you break free from these patterns and reclaim the driver’s seat of your life. In therapy, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space, blending empathy with constructive challenges to help you address what's keeping you stuck and empower you to move toward your goals. My goal is to empower you to achieve your personal goals and develop greater self-compassion, which I believe serves as a foundation for growth and resilience. I use an integrative therapeutic approach tailored to your unique needs, helping you gain a deeper understanding of your experiences. By examining how past experiences and relationships shape your current challenges and perspectives, we’ll work towards meaningful, value-driven change. I am passionate about supporting young adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, perfectionism, depression, relational issues, life transitions, eating disorders, and body image concerns. I believe in your capacity for change and would be honored to join you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.

Dr. Hannah Waldman is a psychotherapist who works with emerging adults, young adults, and older adults facing a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship challenges, and difficulties related to stress and life transitions. She takes an integrative and collaborative approach to therapy, blending symptom-focused techniques—such as CBT, DBT, and ACT—within a relational framework. Hannah is committed to staying current with the latest research, particularly in areas relevant to her clients’ needs. She has experience supporting individuals dealing with aging, grief, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, eating disorders, chronic pain, and navigating gender-affirming care. Throughout her career, Hannah has worked with clients from diverse backgrounds across the lifespan, including varied identities in terms of gender, sexual orientation, religion, race, culture, nationality, and socioeconomic status. Her additional clinical interests include mood disorders, personality disorders, and religious trauma. In her work, she strives to empower clients while fostering deeper insight into the self, personal history, and relationships.

Hi! I’m Matthew Boltz and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I provide therapy for children, adolescents/teenagers, and adults in Chicago. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, autism, behavioral disorders, depression, executive functioning difficulties, family stress, life change & transitions, school/work stress, stress, and self-esteem. I have over 10 years of experience working in the field of social work and providing behavioral/mental health services. I began my career working in inpatient and outpatient hospitalization programs and then spent five years working within the education system to provide mental health services as a social worker in elementary, middle, and high schools across the state of Illinois. I have extensive experience working with many subject matters in regard to the education system such as school functioning, special education law, IEPs and 504’s, coordination of care between support staff, and advocacy within the school setting. While working in the school, I also began working in private practice providing therapy to a variety of people with different presenting issues and concerns as mentioned above. I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness-based therapy to support treatment goals through skill-building, gaining insights, and clarifying values. I employ a person-centered and strengths-based approach when working with my clients to honor each of their own individual wants and needs during the therapeutic process. I am an affirming and accepting therapist that provides a collaborative, non-judgmental, and supportive therapeutic environment. My goal is to empower each client with the coping strategies and skills necessary to make the desired changes in their own life. If you have any other questions, would like to schedule a brief phone consultation, or want to schedule your first appointment, please feel free to call or email me. I look forward to talking with you.

Pronouns: he/him I’m a queer therapist who is passionate about supporting individuals through difficult life transitions. My clients often feel overwhelmed dealing with the challenges that accompany change, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family dynamics, grief, and exploration of identity, sexuality, and gender. I am here to openly explore your experiences, while honoring your unique story and the complexities of your intersecting identities. I use a person-centered, individualized approach, focusing on understanding you and identifying the interventions that will work best for your specific needs. Together, we’ll set meaningful goals, address challenges along the way, and move through this time of transformation with respect and curiosity, helping you gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Starting (or restarting) therapy can feel daunting, and finding the right therapist is key. Let’s schedule a simple consultation call to see if I’m a good fit to support you on your journey.

Welcome! My name is Caitlin and I'm a clinical psychologist that specializes in cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), especially in the treatment of anxiety and related struggles. I mostly work with young adults and college students. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify active goals for treatment, with a focus on living a life that is flexible, fulfilling, and guided by one's values. I strive to create a supportive and strong therapeutic bond with my clients by using warmth, unconditional positive regard, compassion, and some lightheartedness and humor, when appropriate. I have extensive experience in providing CBT therapies, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), mindfulness, self compassion, behavioral activation, and motivational interviewing. I know it can be intimidating to start therapy and find a therapist who is a good fit. I would love to schedule a complimentary initial phone call to learn more about you, tell you about my approach, and answer questions you may have, and we can together determine if it feels like a good fit. I currently have availability afternoons and evenings, Mon-Thurs.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Daniel Lovan, LPC (He/Him) is an LGBTQIA+ therapist specializing in trauma-informed therapy for adolescents and adults. Daniel earned his MA in Community Counseling from Loyola University Chicago and has extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) that informs his use of other evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, and Exposure Therapy. Daniel is also trained in and utilizes Written Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and DBT Prolonged Exposures as discreet trauma protocols for clients suffering from acute trauma symptoms. Due to his history and love of teaching in group therapy settings, Daniel emphasizes psychoeducation and a mindful, non-judgmental approach to help his clients see themselves in a more understanding and self-compassionate way that allows them to strip away the shame, guilt, and fear preventing them from curating their desired life worth living. Daniel prioritizes teaching DBT Skills, Polyvagal Theory, and Somatic experiences in his work with individuals, couples, and family systems. “If you’ve ever felt like you needed someone who just gets it, or if you’ve ever wanted a therapist who feels like a “real person” then you’ve come to the right place. How can I ask you to be your true, vulnerable self without also being vulnerable myself? I want to be on your journey of highs and lows with you and to teach you concrete skills along the way that will help you break free from patterns that you feel powerless to change. I’m looking forward to working with you and teaching you to see yourself, the world, and others, in totally new ways!”

Relationships are at the heart of our lives, whether they’re with family, partners, friends, or even ourselves. Navigating these connections can sometimes feel challenging, especially during big transitions or when conflicts arise. As a therapist specializing in relationship dynamics and systems theory, I work with individuals, couples, and families to create stronger, healthier connections. My approach focuses on understanding the patterns and interactions that shape your experiences. Together, we’ll uncover insights about how these systems influence your life and work toward meaningful change. Whether you’re dealing with communication struggles, family conflict, or simply looking to grow as a person, I’m here to support you. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Using evidence-based techniques, we’ll tackle challenges like conflict resolution, self-awareness, and improving relationship satisfaction. No matter where you’re starting, I’m here to help you create deeper connections and find clarity in your relationships. Let’s work together to help you build the fulfilling, balanced life you deserve.

Life can be challenging. I believe psychotherapy with a therapist who is a good match can help one more successfully navigate those challenges. I work collaboratively with my clients. I aim to create a nonjudgmental and supportive environment to explore difficult issues together -- to better understand what one is currently facing, to help manage those difficulties, and to ultimately make life more rewarding and meaningful. I have over 30 years of clinical experience and have worked in a variety of settings including university counseling centers (Univ. of Illinois, Univ. of Michigan, Northwestern Univ., The School of the Art Institute of Chicago), and LGBTQ and feminist services (Howard Brown Health Center, Planned Parenthood, Chicago Women's Health Center). I maintain a general practice where I see a wide diversity of men and women for issues including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and identity.

At Restorative Collective, we are a dedicated team of compassionate professionals committed to supporting your mental health journey. Our diverse expertise allows us to provide personalized care, ensuring that every client feels heard, valued, and empowered. We believe in a holistic, client-centered approach that fosters healing, growth, and resilience.

You can be externally successful in life but internally worried you are going to have a total meltdown. I want to help you get better at taking care of yourself so you can achieve whatever awesome things you are here to contribute to the world. My career spans decades but for some reason the majority of women working with me are in their 20s and 30s. I help clients get some new perspective and stop beating themselves up. You may need to make some very real changes. It can be hard work but you don’t need to do it alone. Maybe you need to get better at speaking up for yourself, making decisions, managing your time. Maybe your relationship with substances needs to change. I help clients process their stress and add coping skills to build a personal routine that improves daily life. Many women I work with have gone through traumatic experiences in the past. It is important to me that the woman I am working with directs when and if we discuss the actual traumatic events. What I have learned is that adding better coping is possible with or without dredging details. Healing is possible but it takes work and support. I am also dedicated to helping clients expand their supports even if it's just a little bit at a time. I know it's tough to ask for help. I'd rather DIY everything but I know how useful it is to have therapy while you're in school. It saved my sanity when I went to therapy the first time when I was in college. For those wanting online therapy I use Google Meet for telehealth. It is completely HIPAA compliant. I also meet with clients for Walk and Talk therapy sessions when it seems useful and appropriate. North side of Chicago along the lake.

Our patterns, desires, and growth are often tested in relationships. It can feel like we're going in circles when we find ourselves challenged by a transition or milestone or questioning our role in the lives of those closest to us. Beneath expectations we find understanding and beneath therapy jargon lies a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and sincere relationship. Here, our explorations can lead to deeper, novel understandings of your mind and body, and foster insights and empathy for yourself and your loved ones. In our work we will begin to name the unnamed meanings, perspectives, and desires that you hold and find their place in the future you want to build. Even in the fog of day-to-day life, you are instinctively taking steps towards your goals. My role is to offer support, curiosity, and skills that appreciate and bolster your intuition and strengths.

Maybe you’ve been telling yourself you should be able to handle this by now. But lately, everything feels heavier. Your energy is low, motivation is hard to find, and even small tasks can feel overwhelming. You may notice yourself pulling away from people, losing interest in things you used to enjoy, or feeling stuck in patterns that are hard to break. At times, you might find yourself reaching for something—whether it’s substances, distractions, or numbing behaviors—to get through the moment, even when it doesn’t bring lasting relief. For some, this shows up as persistent sadness, emptiness, or feeling disconnected from yourself and others. For others, it may look like anxiety, burnout, or being caught in cycles of overthinking and self-criticism. These experiences can also show up in relationships pulling away, avoiding hard conversations, or finding yourself in the same painful dynamics again and again. You may notice that your inner voice is harsh or unforgiving, making it even harder to find a way forward. Together, we will gently identify and address these patterns while building more compassion, stability, and connection—both within yourself and in your relationships I work with teens and adults navigating depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, identity questions, traumatic experiences, and life transitions. I provide LGBTQAI+-affirming therapy grounded in cultural humility, creating a safe and validating space to explore identity, relationships, and lived experiences. I also support individuals who are exploring their relationship with substances, whether that means reducing use, understanding patterns, or working toward recovery. I have completed training toward my Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential and am CADC-eligible, which allows me to integrate evidence-based approaches for substance use into our work. My practice is trauma-informed and guided by phase-oriented treatment approaches. In our early work, we focus on safety, stabilization, and building self-regulation skills to help you feel more grounded—even when things feel heavy or overwhelming. As you begin to feel more supported and resourced, we may shift toward processing more difficult experiences and understanding the roots of depressive patterns or substance use. Therapy is always paced according to your readiness. I prioritize transparency throughout therapy, ensuring you understand each step of the process and why certain approaches are used. My goal is to create a space that feels collaborative, supportive, and grounded—so you can move from feeling stuck and depleted toward feeling more engaged, connected, and able to experience meaning in your life again.

The Belmont DAC is a clinic that specializes in Anxiety Disorders and Depression, including OCD, PTSD, Panic Disorder, GAD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, and Grief. We also specialize in working with LGBTQIA individuals and have clinicians on staff within this population. We are committed to social justice and anti-oppression/anti-racism and work diligently to be a positive organization in our community. We approach therapy from a CBT/ACT/DBT and mindfulness orientation and focus a lot on skills, behavior change, and shifting how we think about things. We are excited to be a part of this change in your life.