Therapists for college students near University of Chicago
Bianca Berryhill
About Bianca Berryhill, LPC, NCC College and graduate school can bring a lot of change, pressure, and uncertainty. You may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, struggle to stay focused, question your self-worth, or feel like you're constantly trying to meet everyone else's expectations while ignoring your own needs. Therapy can be a place to slow down, understand what's happening beneath the surface, and begin making meaningful changes. Bianca works with adolescents, college students, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, identity exploration, relationship concerns, and life transitions. She has a special interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and autism, as well as members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Bianca also works with clients healing from childhood trauma, foster care or adoption experiences, family conflict, and the lasting impact of difficult relationships. Her approach is warm, collaborative, and affirming. Bianca believes that therapy should feel like a safe space where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. She works alongside clients to better understand their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences while helping them develop practical skills to navigate life's challenges with greater confidence. Bianca integrates evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed interventions. She tailors therapy to each person's unique needs, helping clients strengthen emotional regulation, build self-compassion, develop healthier relationships, and reconnect with their values and sense of identity. Whether you're struggling with academic stress, burnout, relationship challenges, identity questions, or simply feeling stuck, Bianca is committed to helping you move toward a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and authentic. Bianca provides telehealth therapy throughout Illinois and welcomes students seeking a compassionate, trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
Ziyi Yang
Do you often feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in cycles of overthinking and self-doubt? You may be navigating academic or career pressure, family expectations, or the emotional complexity of living between cultures. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, burnout, perfectionism, and feeling “never good enough,” even when they appear capable on the outside. Therapy can be a space where you slow down, feel understood, and move forward with greater clarity, emotional balance, and self-trust. English | 中文 Do you often feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in cycles of overthinking and self-doubt? You may be navigating academic or career pressure, family expectations, or the emotional complexity of living between cultures. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, burnout, perfectionism, and feeling “never good enough,” even when they appear capable on the outside. Therapy can be a space where you slow down, feel understood, and move forward with greater clarity, emotional balance, and self-trust. As a bilingual therapist fluent in Mandarin and English, I bring both professional training and lived experience into my work. Having studied abroad since high school, I understand the challenges of living between cultures and am deeply attuned to the invisible pressures related to identity, family expectations and adapting to new environment. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, grounded in empathy, authenticity, and empowerment. I believe that healing begins with understanding—and that every small step toward self-acceptance is a powerful act of growth. I look forward to walking with you on this journey of healing and rediscovery.
Danielle Shapiro
I work with clients navigating eating disorders, anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, grief, perfectionism, relationship concerns, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and relational, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and themes of Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of healing. Together, we’ll explore the patterns that have shaped you while building practical skills for lasting change. I’ll support and gently challenge you, and when appropriate, bring humor into sessions so therapy feels genuine, human, and like a place where you can truly be yourself. My work is grounded in cultural humility which honors each person's unique story and identity.
Alexandra Joseph
Alexandra (she/hers) specializes in the treatment of adults, marital and pre-marital couples, college aged individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, experiences of trauma, problematic drug and alcohol use, and relational difficulties. Additional specialties include: complicated family systems, emerging adulthood, significant life transitions, disordered eating patterns, and building self confidence. Alex’s approach to therapy is collaborative and she incorporates ACT/ DBT, mindfulness, Imago relational work, motivational interviewing, solution-focused, and narrative therapies into her practice.
Alissa Rotblatt
Alissa (she/hers) specializes in the treatment of a mood, identity, and relationship struggles with adolescents and adults in their 20s and 30s. Alissa works with her clients to help them resolve difficulties with connection, build insight, and establish healthier relationship patterns. She helps her clients find meaning in their struggles, understand their symptoms, and find ways to get development back on track. She believes that the process of growth and healing is deeply connected to the relationship between the therapist and the individual seeking therapy. Alissa is trained in EMDR and has completed the Fundamentals of Psychoanalytic Thought program of study at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
Inclusive Insight Psychotherapy and Consulting
Inclusive Insight celebrates the intersectionality and variety of identity. We are a safe and welcoming space for all individuals, inclusive of those from diverse backgrounds, including gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, age, ability, and all other identities. Our therapists reflect the diverse backgrounds of the clients we serve and bring their own unique experiences and expertise to broaden the perspective of IIPC.
Sunflower Clinical Group
Sunflower Clinical Group is an in-office and telehealth (online) therapy practice located in downtown Evanston, Illinois. Sunflower serves Illinois residents state-wide with a particular focus on emerging adults as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community, including those who identify as Trans or Nonbinary. We take most commercial insurance plans including plans. Sunflower has multiple providers with experience in working with undergraduates and grad students to help them navigate stress, anxiety, family conflict, and life changes related to college life and adulthood. All of our providers are trained in helping adults who are managing ADHD symptoms. Bios for each of our providers can be found on our website.
Main Street Counseling Solutions
At our practice we have clinicians that specialize in working with 18-25 year olds. We understand the constant stress and pressure of college life. You don't have to shoulder the burden alone. We provide a safe space to process emotions, develop new skills, build resilience, & create lasting change. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
Augustyn Family Services
Augustyn Family Services is a group psychotherapy practice located in the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago. Our therapists utilize a warm, supportive, and collaborative approach in order to partner with our clients to create a path towards positive change. All of us at Augustyn Family Services understand that the trust our clients put in us is a great privilege and we work to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel very seen, heard, understood, and supported. Using a client-centered and relational approach, we integrate different strategies to work towards increased insight and self-awareness, identifying challenges in accepting and coping with difficult or painful experiences, and working towards positive change.
Mara Hundrieser-Acosta (Concentric Counseling & Consulting)
Healing is never a straight line, there will be ups and downs, and sometimes moments where one can feel stuck. Counseling is an important component of our healing journey and I hope to be of service to my clients to walk along their healing path. Looking deep inside can make one nervous and scared, but to look deeply inside is a very courageous step. Creating a safe space where my clients can feel seen and heard is very important to me. I obtained my B.A. in Psychology in 2011 and my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2023. I provide services in both English and Spanish. I actively engage in ongoing research on ADHD and neurodivergence and draw on both professional knowledge and personal insights and lived experience, as I have ADHD, along with my husband and one of my children, to support clients working through ADHD related concerns.
Kaitlyn Folkes (Concentric Counseling & Consulting)
My practice is guided by curiosity and nonjudgment. Therapy is a place to let go of shame, where all topics can be brought to the table. My goal is to provide a safe space where we can question, cry, laugh, and feel it all together. My style is deeply empathetic and introspective with a sense of playfulness and lightheartedness. I practice from an emotions-focused, attachment, and psychodynamic lens. My approach also includes existential, narrative, trauma-informed, and harm-reduction frameworks. As a Certified Yoga Instructor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who has trained in Somatic Experiencing (SE), I enjoy incorporating somatic work to deepen the therapeutic process via movement, breath work, and somatic mindfulness. I work with folks with ADHD/neurodivergence.
Peter Lachman
Welcome! Taking the step towards therapy can feel daunting, but I'm here to make it as comfortable and welcoming as possible. Whether we're meeting online or face-to-face, my aim is to create an environment where you can truly be yourself. Therapy shouldn't feel like a formal interrogation. I strive to bring warmth and ease into our sessions, fostering a conversational atmosphere where you don't have to watch your words. Being authentic is key to our work together, and I encourage clients to express themselves freely, expletives and all. My approach is grounded in non-judgment and empathy. There's no need to worry about censoring yourself with me – I'm here to listen, support, and guide you through whatever challenges you're facing. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, and I'm passionate about building therapeutic relationships that empower my clients to explore, grow, and heal. If you're ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery and transformation, I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Tori Cherry, LCSW, CEDS-C
I offer treatment for formally diagnosed eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, and binge eating disorder, as well as support for anyone with a challenging relationship to food or body image concerns. Additionally, I love supporting individuals with anxiety, helping them to live more and worry less. My approach is deeply relational, fostering a space where clients can feel seen, valued, and understood.
Naomi Gargiulo
Intersectionality and social justice are central in my practice and philosophy; in other words, I view you within the context of your identities and environment and consider what in those spheres may be helping or hurting you. My clinical specialties and interests include trauma, gender & sexuality exploration, depression & anxiety, and life transitions. I also have experience working with community college students, immigrants & refugees, and survivors of intimate partner violence. As a queer person, I understand the challenges of navigating systems that often cause harm. I aim to provide you with a safe, empathetic, and inclusive environment that embraces vulnerability, fosters empowerment, and welcomes the parts of you that you have been told to hide
Zana Van Der Smissen, LCPC, PMHC
It's exhausting when your inner critic never seems to quiet down. Maybe you're constantly second-guessing yourself, struggling with body image, feeling anxious about the future, or wondering why it's so hard to show yourself the same compassion you give everyone else. Therapy can help you step out of those patterns and build a healthier relationship with yourself. I work with college students, graduate students, and young adults navigating eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Together, we'll explore what's contributing to your distress while building practical tools to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected to yourself. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and rooted in the connection between mind and body. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and somatic approaches to help you better understand your emotions, strengthen self-compassion, and create lasting change. Rather than striving for perfection, we'll work toward building a life that feels balanced, authentic, and aligned with your values. I have a special passion for supporting clients healing their relationship with food and their bodies. Together, we'll work toward reducing shame, building body neutrality, developing healthier coping strategies, and strengthening trust in yourself. I also support individuals navigating the perinatal journey, including pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, and infertility. My hope is that therapy helps you reconnect with your strengths, treat yourself with greater compassion, and move through life with more confidence and self-acceptance.
Ivy Wenrich, LCSW
College and young adulthood can bring excitement, uncertainty, and a lot of pressure. You may be navigating a major life transition, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, processing trauma, exploring your identity, or learning how to set healthier boundaries. Wherever you are, you do not have to move through it alone. Therapy can be a place to slow down, feel heard, and better understand what you are carrying. My goal is to create a space where you feel welcomed, respected, and accepted just as you are. Together, we will explore what is contributing to your current challenges, build on your strengths, and develop tools to help you manage stress, emotions, relationships, and change with more confidence and self-compassion. My approach is relational, client-centered, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I tailor our work to your needs and goals, drawing from CBT, mindfulness, mind-body practices, motivational interviewing, art therapy, and psychodynamic and intersectional feminist perspectives. I strive to offer therapy that is LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally responsive, anti-racist, and anti-oppressive. I welcome conversations about identity, belonging, discrimination, marginalization, and the systems that may impact your mental health and well-being. My hope is that our work together helps you better understand yourself, honor your emotions, build healthy boundaries, and cultivate a deeper sense of resilience, safety, and peace within yourself.
Nora Khani
Nora Khani, LCPC utilizes a trauma-focused lens, as well as the bio-psychosocial model which allows her to get a deeper understanding of clients' presenting issues and how they are interrelated with many different aspects of the clients' life. She is focused on understanding and exploring the root cause of presenting issues to assist the client in optimal growth, confidence, and happiness in their life as well as parents. Nora uses client-centered counseling, unconditional positive regard, validation, utilizing the biopsychosocial model to assess client issues, psychodynamic approach, talking therapy, play therapy, CBT to help client's accomplish their goals.
Elizabeth "Liz" Casaclang-Melo
Liz Casaclang Melo is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She graduated from Argosy University with an MA in Clinical Psychology. Liz is a very open and empathetic person who values having a therapeutic relationship with her patients. Liz has had the opportunity to work with patients from different backgrounds, ethnicity, and BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Outside of work, Liz enjoys the outdoors, especially biking and swimming. She loves hanging out with her family and their 3 dogs, and barbeques. She admits she is a foodie.
Steve Schreiner
Steve Schreiner is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2008. He has a BS in Education from De Paul University and an MA in Counselor Education from Northeastern Illinois University. Steve helps his clients by assisting them in identifying goals, as well as potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil. Steve seeks to improve communication and teaches practical coping mechanisms which can help the client immediately to deal with their specific symptoms. Steve promotes behavioral change and optimal mental health. Outside of work, Steve enjoys running, writing, reading, theater, movies, playing and watching sports, fitness and nutrition, and outdoor activities.
Cara McGhee
Cara McGhee, LPC takes a holistic eclectic approach to therapy. With the holistic aspect, Cara addresses symptoms as one way an individual's cognizance can convey consideration to an individual's advance perception. In the eclectic aspect, Cara uses various theoretical approaches to meet client's needs. Cara also addresses the therapeutic relationship with the belief that a stable relationship incorporates trust, authenticity, autonomy and optimistic outcomes. Cara has experience with survivors and offenders of domestic violence, substance use, parenting, and ran a court ordered anger management program. Mood disorders, anxiety, and depression are some of the main areas Cara treats. Cara earner her M. A. in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.