Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

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.

Coffee Chat Counseling is a Chicago, IL based counseling practice that strives to make therapy approachable by providing a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive environment for our clients. We specialize in services for individuals who are aged 13 and older. Coffee Chat Counseling was developed to provide approachable and sustainable mental health care to its clients, while also advocating for change in the mental health care system. We want to improve access to services, as well as seek to de-stigmatize mental health on a societal level. We recognize the connections between mental health and experiences of systemic oppression and are committed to social justice work, anti-racism, and the decolonization of mental health practices. Our therapists work to ensure that we maintain a safe and affirming space for clients who identify as BIPOC and those who are part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Coffee Chat Counseling believes that therapy should not have a one-size-fits-all approach. Our counselors have training in Art Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) modalities to ensure they are able to tailor sessions to their clients' unique needs. We know that taking the first step in your therapy journey can be daunting - our goal is to be here to support you through this process so that we can work together to access your strengths, establish safe boundaries, explore different directions, heal from trauma, and instill confidence in your decision-making.

I work with students and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, and dealing with the undergoing changes of going to college or starting full time work. I offer therapy without judgment, I am here to help you challenge the critic in your mind telling you that you're doing everything wrong and that everyone is judging you all the time. I use a mix of cognitive and behavioral approaches to help you learn ways to change how you think about yourself and the world around you. I help by providing a nonjudgmental space and time for you to process through the thoughts that are troubling you and the worries you have. I am available to see clients in Illinois and Indiana.

Hello! Are you struggling with generalized anxiety or social anxiety? Do you have excessive worries that control your daily functioning? Are you an athlete struggling with anxiety and perfectionism? Are you going through a major transition/adjustment in your life? Having family issues? What about acculturation? Dealing with 1st generation American issues with parents or 1st generation college student concerns? Struggling with career issues? I can help. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and EMDR (brain and body work) to address your concerns. I have expertise in Family therapy, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Issues, Trauma, Children impacted by Divorced parents, Anxiety, Career Counseling.

I work with those who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and not taking care of oneself first. Trauma comes in many forms and may not always look like what you'd expect. I also work well with caregivers and other helpers who experience compassion fatigue, along with those who find themselves giving more than they receive in their relationships. No matter the circumstances that bring you into therapy, we will spend time on how to set boundaries, tune in to your needs, and heal your trauma. Sessions are tailored to your needs and focused on attainable goals. I use a combination of methods from CBT, Family Systems, Attachment Theory, and EMDR to create a plan tailored to your specific needs. I practice non-judgmentally and offer a safe space for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community. I offer free phone consultations so we can decide together if I would be the right fit for you. Making that first contact is the hardest step, but please know that once you do, you are no longer alone. It is an honor to walk with you on your journey to wellness and I am grateful for your consideration in letting me join you. ** I do not accept insurance. My fee is $150 per session **

Peace in Counseling is a virtual therapy practice based in Naperville, Illinois, committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for children, teens, adults, and families throughout the state. We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, life transitions, and more. Our mission is to empower clients on their journey to inner peace by fostering a sense of stability and confidence in every aspect of their lives. Our mission at Peace in Counseling is to provide trauma-informed, culturally aware, and evidence-based therapy that helps individuals, couples, and families build lasting inner peace and resilience. We are committed to creating a collaborative space where you feel truly seen, respected, and supported in your growth. By integrating emotional, psychological, and spiritual care, we focus on the whole person and foster meaningful, lasting change.

My interests and expertise are in general adult psychiatric medicine, with a special focus on helping patients navigate depression, anxiety, OCD, and issues related to LGBTQ+ culture. I provide management of prescription medications along with supportive psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy in every session. I am an adult psychiatrist who focuses on helping patients feel comfortable and heard during their appointments. I earned my medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency as chief resident at the University of Toledo Medical Center. All treatment plans are collaboratively developed in a respectful and professional environment. I take a warm and personable approach, looking forward to helping individuals achieve their best selves.

Megan Rosecrans Psy.D. LCP received her doctoral degree from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a concentration in Health Psychology. Dr. Rosecrans consults with bariatric surgical teams to provide psychological support for patients both pre and post surgery. Dr. Rosecrans specializes in pre-surgical bariatric assessment and spinal stimulator evaluations. Additionally, Dr. Rosecrans offers biofeedback and hypnotherapy treatment options as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy. Dr. Rosecrans uses empirically-supported treatments and a collaborative, directive, goal-oriented, supportive, approach for individual therapy. A customized treatment strategy is designed for the specific needs of each patient. Dr. Rosecrans’ Approach to Therapy: Therapy can be scary as we are knowingly going to talk about topics that are uncomfortable. It takes strength to recognize and admit we need help, and then to open up about the discomfort we feel. Therapy is a safe space to explore these uncomfortable emotions, thoughts, behaviors, pasts, and relationships without judgement, and feeling like you are being heard. Therapy is designed to help you learn new ways to approach difficult experiences and learn tools to aid in coping with the discomfort you feel. It is important for me to make therapy a safe and collaborative process. You are your own expert in life, and I am here to help you in finding the right tools that will work for you. I use a supportive, directive, problem-solving style, applying empirically supported techniques. I approach treatment using the biopsychosocial model and Existential therapies, which allows us to explore the interaction between varying aspects of our lives and how they affect our mental health. A better understanding of ourselves helps promote the change we strive for.

I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who appear high functioning but feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally stuck. Many are navigating trauma, anxiety, or depression rooted in earlier life or relationship patterns, particularly those from BIPOC communities seeking culturally responsive care. I help clients slow down, understand these patterns, and build emotional regulation, clarity, and more stable ways of relating to themselves and others. I provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy. My approach is collaborative and practical, helping you develop insight, regulate emotions, and create lasting change. Spiritual integration, including Christian faith, is available if desired. If you have been holding it together on the outside but struggling internally, you are not alone. Therapy is a space to slow down, feel understood, and begin making meaningful changes. I provide accommodation letters for clients needing documentation for school or work. Healing should fit your life. When you are ready, reaching out is a powerful first step.

Welcome! I am excited to meet with you. My name is Jen Stephens and I have been a counselor for over 20 years and hold licenses in Alabama, Illinois, Nevada, Oregon, and Texas. My experience includes working with substance abuse issues and various aspects of mental health. Additionally, I have worked with the military population and have supported the LGBTQ+ community. I am here to help you navigate what is important to you, and I look forward to embarking on this journey together!

I graduated from Illinois State University in Normal, IL with my Bachelors of Social Work. I continued my education and graduated from the University of Illinois in Champaign, IL with my Masters of Social Work, specializing in mental health. While earning my graduate degree I worked on an inpatient psychiatric floor at Methodist Hospital. Mainly I worked with adults experiencing severe mental illness, however, I was also able to work with adolescents and the geriatric population from time to time. Simultaneously, I worked for a local high school as a long-term substitute teacher which provided me the opportunity of working closely with teens and their guardians. Additionally, I completed my internship in the Behavioral Health Emergency Department at Methodist Hospital where I completed assessments and linked people with resources in the community. Upon graduating, I moved to Virginia with my husband who was serving in the United States Navy, where I worked primarily with women on the postpartum units at Norfolk General Hospital. During my time at Norfolk General, I was able to assist women immediately following birth who were experiencing or at higher risk for postpartum depression and anxiety. I was also able to provide support to families who were experiencing an extended stay in the NICU. Since returning to Illinois, I have been back on one of the inpatient psychiatric units at Methodist Hospital working as a clinician. I have been primarily working with adults experiencing severe mental illness and their families by providing individual, family, and group therapy. In addition to therapy, I have been providing case management which has allowed me to familiarize myself with many of the local resources in the area. My husband and I are in the most amazing and exhausting time of our lives raising two toddler boys. We love spending time experiencing life through the eyes of our little boys. Family is everything to us. In my free time (what is that? ha-ha), I love watching Friends or One Tree Hill on repeat, going shopping with my mom, and playing video games. I believe in a holistic and person-centered approach. It's important to me for you to be the leader of your therapy. We will work as a team to set goals and work on what you feel is most important. I want to create a nonjudgmental and unbiased space for you to talk about the hard things. Your life is worth my time.

I have worked in crisis intervention with survivors of trauma, military families, children, teens, and adults for over 25 years. I am here to support individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and life transitions. I can help clients develop a solution-focused approach to solving problems. I am a compassionate and caring therapist who works with where you are at. I am a trauma-certified therapist who believes in working with a client-centered approach. If you need emotional support and someone open-minded, supportive, and understanding, then I welcome the opportunity to work with you.

All therapy starts with collaboration at its core. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and I commend you for considering therapy as a tool for self-exploration and growth. Many find that building a supportive and interactive relationship with their therapist contributes to the overall effectiveness of therapy. I offer a safe and non-judgmental environment, with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your well-being. My services are offered to adults, specializing in difficulties related to: stress, coping with life’s changes, anxiety, trauma, identity, body image, self-esteem, and LGBTQ+.

At New Narratives, our goal is to make therapy a rewarding and transformative experience, helping individuals lead fulfilling, meaningful lives. Whether you’re facing uncertainty about your future, coping with loss, struggling to understand your identity, or navigating conflict in your relationships, we're here to support you. If you’re dealing with recurring challenges like anxiety or depression that feel overwhelming, therapy can help restore balance and bring back a sense of control and purpose. When we work together, you’ll find a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can explore your concerns.

As a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am committed to supporting students' mental health and emotional well-being. With years of experience working in diverse academic settings, I help students navigate the challenges of college life, including stress, anxiety, academic pressures, and relationship dynamics. I offer a supportive, confidential space where students can explore their thoughts, emotions, and struggles without judgment. Through evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and person-centered approaches, I empower students to build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to create an open, inclusive environment where students can feel heard and validated while gaining the tools necessary to succeed both academically and personally. I believe in the power of self-awareness, self-compassion, and community support to foster lasting change.

The demands and transitions in college can be hard and lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, loneliness, grief, anxiety, depression, helplessness, hopelessness, anger, etc. I offer an emotionally safe telehealth experience to listen, guide, and support you. If you are looking to learn skills to build confidence, resilience, tame performance anxiety, self-manage emotions, prepare yourself for life after college, and learn how to get through any challenge life throws at you, my specialization with sports and performance psychology is the answer. I have worked with all levels of athletes, musicians/performers, chess masters, health and law professionals, etc for over 15 years. I will meet you where you are at and support you with all the tools, research, leadership, and experience I have built. Feel free to text my work cell 630-219-0339 anytime to schedule.

We are a team of clinical social workers specializing in yoga/mindfulness, EMDR, and CBT. Our understanding is that in order to truly heal, we must honor our whole-body and mind working together. Many of our clients find that much of their suffering is stored throughout their bodies as anxiety, depression, and stress begin to take over. We support students as they navigate the unfamiliar and sometime daunting transition into adulthood and offer a warm, hopeful guide towards joy and purpose. Our virtual counseling services are available to individuals located in Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Vermont, Maine, Illinois, and California. We welcome you to get to know us, the services we offer, and reach out to schedule session.

The college and emerging adult years are incredibly dynamic and include a unique set of challenges. My approach is practical, collaborative, and growth-oriented. I combine CBT with other tailored interventions to create an engaging counseling experience based on your needs and values. Together, we work on understanding what is getting in the way, improving communication, building calmer and healthier patterns, and creating meaningful change that carries into your daily life, relationships, work, and sense of purpose.

Hi, I’m Clayton, a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist. I believe that healing begins when we feel seen, heard, and accepted for who we are. My goal is to create a space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment — whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, identity concerns, relationship challenges, or simply trying to understand yourself on a deeper level. I work with individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, students adjusting to new transitions, and anyone striving to improve their emotional well-being. My approach is collaborative and compassionate — blending evidence-based techniques with genuine curiosity about your story. Together, we’ll work toward developing insight, strengthening coping skills, and helping you feel more grounded and confident in who you are. Therapy is not about “fixing” you; it’s about understanding, growth, and learning to embrace your own perfect imperfections. If you’re ready to begin that process, I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Therapists Kellie Masters and Kelly Arensen have openings! Both are equipped to walk with you through the stresses and uncertainty of life. Their compassion creates a safe place for you to heal and grow. Contact either one of them for a brief, free consultation. https://relationshipworks.life/team-member/kellie-masters https://relationshipworks.life/team-members/kelly-arensen The cost depends on whether or not you have insurance. If you have BCBS PPO or Blue Choice and have met your deductible, you should only have a small copay. If you don't have BCBS insurance, we're happy to talk with you about what you can afford to pay for therapy.