Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

I support students exploring gender identity, LGBTQIA+ concerns, anxiety, depression, intimacy, and stress related to academic or work/life balance. My approach is client-centered, drawing on CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic tools, with tools you can use here and now. I aim to create a space where who you are is honored, your experiences are heard, and your identity feels valid. My goal is to help you build confidence, strengthen your relationships, and feel more grounded in your life. My pronouns are he/him.

Kaitlyn Vranek is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2018. Kaitlyn is a therapist providing a variety of types of therapies to clients. She is able to help them in their lives with any issues they need met. Outside of work, Kaitlyn is very outdoorsy and likes to spend her extra time outside. She is a very active person. She enjoys her work as a social worker and meeting new clients.

If you are ready to discover a better version of yourself, let's talk. I believe therapy works best with collaboration, working together to find the most effective methods of meeting your self- established and recommended goals. My areas of expertise are within the LGBTQ community, including but not limited to gender identity, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD. I work with adults and adolescents confronting anxiety, depression, mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, grief/loss, self- harm, and chronic stress. My clinical style is warm and built on mutual trust, helping you locate and build upon the strengths you already have in order to create change. My educational background includes a Bachelors' degree in Psychology and leadership, and Masters' in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from DePaul University. I am an experienced licensed professional counselor and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy. I also have expertise using exposure and wilderness therapy. I worked as a youth program manager specializing in experiential therapy with under-served youth, combining adventure-based therapies to inspire confidence, independence, and teamwork.

As if life as an undergraduate or graduate student wasn't already stressful and complicated, a lot of mental disorders first start to really get in the way at that vulnerable and challenging stage, when you're navigating lots of new relationships and figuring out who you are. It helps to have someone to talk to, and some of the most exciting and powerful experiences I've had as a therapist have been working with students from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, as well as with adults in other creative fields: music, filmmaking, dance, fashion and poetry. For many, creativity often seems inseparable from mental health and illness, and I've explored how they may interact, both with my clients and through presentations for clinicians on the likes of Kurt Cobain, Mark Rothko and Jean-Michel Basquiat. I think I have some insight into these issues, as my first career was as a journalist, mostly writing on visual and performing arts for the Chicago Tribune and other outlets both online and print. I've been around the block a few times, in other words, and I can help you get back on track.

Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments. He is LGBTQIA+ affirming and has experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Adjustment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Substance Use, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia. Christopher utilizes a Person-Centered approach that blends modalities like internal family systems, cognitive behavioral, dialectal behavior, and acceptance and commitment techniques. In his free time, Christopher is an avid reader, father, dog dad, and enjoys movies as well as live theater and music.

Starting therapy while navigating everything that brought you here in the first place can feel daunting. Whether this is your first time or you’ve been in therapy before, it takes courage to sit with someone new, let down your walls, and share parts of yourself you’ve learned to protect. Wherever you are, I’ll meet you there with respect for the insight you already carry and a commitment to helping you explore new tools and perspectives for growth. I enjoy working with adults, young adults, and teenagers struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, mood swings, trauma, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and relationship challenges. I also enjoy working with individuals who identify as neurodivergent and/or LGBTQ+, and I am non-monogamy affirming. I love to support individuals who want to feel more authentic, release shame, and reconnect with their sense of self or inner child. In my work, I value the power of the therapeutic relationship and how sharing humor, creativity, and interests can support connection and self-expression. Together, we can focus on building self-compassion, stepping out of the noise in your head, or embracing the full human experience. I aim to co-create a space that is both serious and lighthearted, challenging when needed and always compassionate. I hold a BS in Psychology from Indiana University Bloomington with a minor in Counseling and a certificate in Clinical Psychology. I am currently pursuing a MA in Counseling at Northwestern University. My approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness and somatic practice, psychodynamic theory, and narrative therapy. Therapy can be a place to challenge old stories, reconnect with yourself, and build something new. If you're curious about what that could look like, I’d love to meet with you.

Ms. Shauntai P. Taylor is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with more than 14 years of experience in the field. She holds an MA in School Counseling Psychology and specializes in providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions to individuals with various mental health challenges. Ms. Taylor adopts a client-centered and collaborative approach to counseling, tailoring interventions to meet each individual's unique needs and goals. Her therapeutic style is characterized by empathy, active listening, and fostering a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore and address their concerns. Ms. Taylor is committed to staying current with the latest developments in the field of counseling through regular participation in workshops, seminars, and advanced training courses. Outside of work, Ms. Taylor enjoys traveling, music concerts, theater performances, church, and family time.

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.

Introduction: Ryan is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) who received a Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in dance movement therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Therapeutic Approach: Ryan specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults in the pursuit of mental well-being. Having worked with individuals from various backgrounds, I recognize that each client’s story is unique. I utilize a trauma-informed and collaborative approach when working with client’s to understand the holistic impacts on an individual’s symptomatology. I assist individuals explore how their early relationships, inner conflicts, and past experiences shape their current lives. For children and adolescents, I provide a safe and supportive environment to navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioral difficulties, identity development, trauma, and family dynamics. I utilize play and other creative therapies to build trust and rapport and further the safety of the therapeutic relationship. For adults, my practice is centered around helping individuals better understand the root causes of emotional distress, relationship struggles, and life transitions. I believe that healing is possible when clients can access their inner strength, build resilience, and transform negative patterns into opportunities for growth. Specialization: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, emotional regulation and expression, grief, divorce / blended family dynamics, ADHD, and coping strategies Currently working with adults, adolescents, and children Theoretical Lens: Psychodynamic, Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR (SAFE), Play Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered, Motivational Interviewing

When emotions feel overwhelming, patterns feel stuck, or relationships become difficult to navigate, therapy can offer a supportive space to gain clarity and stability. Some people seek support for themselves, while others reach out around concerns related to their child or family. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, relational concerns, and life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed, eclectic, and collaborative, grounded in creating a safe, non-judgmental space for exploration and growth. I draw from insight-oriented Psychodynamic Therapy to better understand emotional and relational patterns, and integrate evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, and the Gottman Method. In my work, I focus on supporting emotional regulation, communication, and connection across individual, couple, and family systems. Reaching out for support can bring up a mix of thoughts and emotions, especially when you are facing personal challenges or concerns related to your child or family. My goal is to offer a compassionate, steady presence where you feel heard and supported as we work toward meaningful change. If you are looking for a therapist who values connection, curiosity, and collaboration, taking that first step can open space for growth.

Inshirah Hajjar, LSW, is a dedicated social worker with over eight years of experience supporting individuals across Illinois in navigating life?s challenges. She provides compassionate care to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, fostering a safe and collaborative environment for healing and growth. Inshirah specializes in helping clients manage anxiety, trauma (PTSD), and reproductive challenges, using personalized strategies to empower and build resilience. Inshirah is particularly passionate about addressing developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. Her integrative approach includes evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Parenting Skills. Whether working with children facing behavioral concerns or adults navigating complex life transitions, she tailors her methods to meet each client?s unique needs. Her expertise also extends to treating depression, grief, and ADHD. Inshirah excels at guiding clients through midlife and later-life transitions, helping them adapt to change with confidence and hope. Additionally, she offers case management and group therapy services to ensure comprehensive support for a variety of concerns.

Nicholas Krysztopik is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2018. He graduated from the Institute for Clinical Social Work with a Master's degree in Clinical Counseling and Psychotherapy. Nick believes in a Psychodynamic approach to therapy where he utilizes the relationships that are apart of the client's life, along with the relationship that develops between the client and the therapist to help the client gain an increase in self-awareness. Nick further believes that the exploration of the unconscious plays a significant role in self-discovery which can enrich one's life, and that a portion of one's struggles are rooted within the depths of the mind. Ultimately, needing to be brought forward to consciousness where they can be processed together with the help of a therapist in order to relieve unwanted tensions of the mind and burdens placed on self.

Shelly Gore, LCSW, is dedicated to guiding individuals through life's challenges with compassion and expertise. At LifeStance Health in Illinois, she offers specialized therapy to help clients achieve contentment and resilience. Shelly welcomes children, adolescents, and adults into her practice, ensuring a safe space for healing and growth. With over two decades of experience, Shelly specializes in PTSD/Trauma, ADHD, and Post-Partum Depression/Anxiety. She is passionate about supporting individuals through life transitions, trauma recovery, and managing anxiety and depression. Her therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Couples/Marital Counseling, and Family Therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Shelly embraces cultural humility, recognizing the importance of understanding diverse backgrounds and experiences. She believes in the power of self-compassion and empathy to foster personal growth and well-being. Whether navigating childhood behavior issues, relationship conflicts, or developmental disabilities, Shelly provides personalized care to support her clients' journey towards mental wellness.

我提供中文普通话心理咨询 and I provide therapy in English. I graduated from NYU in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and I’m currently pursuing my master’s in Counseling at Northwestern, expected to graduate in 2026. My academic and personal journey across cultures has deepened my interest in mental health and human connection. I’m passionate about supporting others through meaningful, empathetic conversations and helping them navigate challenges with clarity and confidence. I believe in the power of active listening and collaborative growth. Counseling allows me to combine my curiosity about the human mind with a genuine desire to be of service. Additionally, I co-facilitate the grief support group on Mondays from 6-7:30pm.

We are a group practice with many practitioners who have extensive experience working with college students. Services are available in person and virtually. Services are available in English and Spanish.

We all experience moments where life feels overwhelming, sometimes accompanied by worry about what comes next or how to change patterns we find ourselves repeating again. While some relationships may be sources of stress and pain, relationships where you are able to be your true self can allow for healing and transformation. It is my belief that the more we experience our authentic self, the easier it becomes to remain in connection to others and the world around us. Therapy is a space where you can begin to explore yourself, while doing so within a relationship that is validating, supportive, and centers your goals and needs. I believe that healing in the context of an attuned relationship is important, and work to create a therapy space that is safe and welcomes authenticity. Psychotherapy works best when it’s collaborative and strength-based, incorporating your personal culture and working towards goals that move beyond symptom reduction, resulting in more lasting changes in all areas of life. My approach to therapy is relationally based, incorporating attachment theory, CBT, and systems perspectives. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have experience working with a range of presenting concerns, with a special focus working with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma-related disorders. I have experience providing individual, couple, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I also provide psychological assessment services and can provide support related to receiving academic accommodations. Please feel free to contact me for a brief consultation or to schedule your first appointment.

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.

Grey Area Therapy is a small, private practice conveniently located in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood with easy access to public transportation and an emphasis on building meaningful, authentic connections with clients. As a therapist with Grey Area Therapy, I work with clients on needs related to anxiety, major life transitions, chronic illness, and depression. With individualized approaches to empathetic therapy, we will work to help slow things down, become more intentional, and build awareness of our life experiences. I offer both in-person and virtual appointments. I accept Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, and Cigna insurance and offer free 15-minute phone consultations to help you find a therapist that works for you!

With the complexities in the world today, it can be tough to catch a breath, decompress, and process the events in our unique lives. As bandwidths are stretched thin, boundaries infiltrated, and burnout ever present, the pressures of our day-to-day lives can pile on top of each other, making it hard to find balance and reach our goals. These challenges do not need to be faced alone. If you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, grief, or addiction, together we will create a safe and collaborative space to face these challenges head-on, guiding you to feel more empowered, centered, and fulfilled. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. The most important aspect of my approach is that it matches a client’s support needs and goals. Using an integrative, trauma-informed and person-centered framework, I aim to follow the client's lead and modify our process based on their unique personality, lived experiences, and interests. I'm so glad you are here. Life is full of ups that deserve to be celebrated and downs that deserve to be acknowledged and processed. Let’s dive into this together and start making your goals a reality. I look forward to hearing from you and getting to know you!

Relationships can be messy, identity can feel complicated, and figuring out who you are while balancing school, family, friendships, and your future isn't always easy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, questioning your identity, navigating conflict with loved ones, or trying to feel more confident in yourself, therapy can help you better understand what you're experiencing and create healthier ways of moving forward. I work with college students, graduate students, and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship and family challenges, life transitions, body image concerns, self-esteem, and identity exploration. Together, we'll explore the patterns shaping your relationships, strengthen your communication and boundaries, and help you build greater confidence in yourself and your decisions. I strive to create an affirming, inclusive space where LGBTQIA+, queer, transgender, and gender-expansive students feel safe, respected, and fully seen. I also recognize that culture, privilege, family expectations, and social systems shape how we experience ourselves and our relationships, and I welcome those conversations throughout our work together. My approach is warm, collaborative, and relationship-focused. Drawing from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman-informed strategies, and Imago Relationship Therapy, I'll help you develop practical tools for navigating conflict, strengthening relationships, and creating deeper connections with yourself and others. I also specialize in supporting women through major life transitions, including perimenopause and menopause, while continuing to support students and young adults as they navigate the many changes that come with this stage of life. My hope is that you'll leave therapy feeling more grounded in who you are, more confident in your relationships, and empowered to create a life that feels authentic to you.