Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Patterns and Threads is an inclusive psychotherapy practice specializing in creativity, neurodivergence and embracing the unexpected. If you are creative, neurodivergent and/or anxious, your mind generates lots of ideas, which creates both strengths and challenges - whether that's in school, in relationships or in the world in general. The challenges come when who you are or how you work doesn't fit with the expectations of a traditional, neurotypical and linear structure. When this happens, we help you find ways to navigate these spaces in ways that are affirming and natural to you. We help clients reduce stress, manage anxiety and depression, and ease life transitions. Our expertise is in how these intersect when your mind (or life) diverges from what is traditionally expected. Our specialties in creativity: • Countering the impact of societal values and messages about art and creative professions • Understanding (and helping others understand) creativity as a need vs a nice to have • How trauma and shame impact the creative process • Finding your best creative environment and create flow • Perfectionism in the artistic process • Balancing product and process Our specialties in neurodivergence: • ADHD, Autism and AuDHD • Self-confidence and Self-acceptance • The impact of comparisons to neurotypical standards • Perfectionism and People-pleasing • Masking and burnout • How to get things done in a neurodivergent-friendly way • Standardized testing, evaluations and diagnoses • Advocacy and self-advocacy We'd love to hear from you. No matter what you're going through, we'll help you figure out who you are despite the expectations of others, and create your own roadmap to whatever life throws your way. Together, we'll find who you are - and who you can be - when you break out of what is expected.

The world’s a dumpster fire. I know it, you know it; I’m not about to sugarcoat that. But we only get one shot here, and therapy’s a legitimate excuse to take a deep breath, put your fucking phone away, disconnect from everything, and talk about YOU. What do you want? What are you passionate about? Who do you want to be at this moment in time, and what’s getting in the way? Maybe you don’t have the answers yet, or maybe you have an idea but the way forward is illusive. Regardless, you wouldn’t be here without recognizing change is necessary. That means you’re already invested in you, and the path you're on. I sincerely respect that. My own path began with a love of the arts and storytelling, and these things often find their way into the work I do. I believe that the art and media we consume often becomes the vocabulary of our imagination and our emotions. These can provide an entry way to talk about heavy things. Existential, narrative, and person-centered therapy are my jams. Additionally, I champion science, justice, diversity, kindness, and sex positivity. I strongly believe these values to be fundamental in cultivating the best version of ourselves and our communities. I welcome adolescents and adults of all ages, expressions, and orientations, as well as individuals within relationship dynamics of all kinds.

My clients are people who often feel stuck in their thoughts, whether those thoughts are anxious, self-critical, perfectionistic, or filled with doubt. They might be struggling with OCD, social anxiety, phobias, trauma, or just the overwhelming pressure to always get things “right.” My clients come from a variety of background and identities. They want relief, but not just a quick fix. They’re looking to better understand themselves, break free from rigid patterns, and move toward a life that feels more connected, meaningful, and aligned.

Therapeutically, we approach each client differently, and pick our tools according to your needs and preferences. We are looking to help you find acceptance, success, meaning, and/or anything else on your terms, as you define it. We share a commitment to practicing in anti-oppressive, harm reductive, and relational ways, but each clinician has their own eclectic approach. Our clinicians have deep experience working with LGBTQ+ and especially trans/non-binary/gender expansive clients — from childhood through adulthood. As an organization founded by queer folks, we’re here to provide a space where you can feel safe and brave all at once. Our clinicians also focus on chronic illness or disability, and neurodivergence.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hi! Whether you just need someone to talk to or are looking for some practical skill building and coping strategies, I am happy to help you! I work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, life transitions, and stress management, among other concerns. I work to provide a comfortable space that allows clients to feel validated and seen. My hope is that you walk away from our therapy sessions with more insight, self-awareness, and the self-confidence to show up in your life in a healthier, authentic, and empowered way. I support and affirm the LGBTQ+ community as an ally. I received my Bachelor's degree in Public Relations and Advertising and my Master's degree in Counseling, both from DePaul University. In my free time, I love spending time with my husband, kids, and dog. I enjoy playing sports and seeking out new experiences around the city.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Brave Talk Therapy is a group practice on the Northwest side of Chicago. We aim to work with those who are struggling with mental health. Brave Talk Therapy is a place that aims for our clients to feel authentic in sessions and ensure that they are meeting with clinicians who are authentically themselves. We specialize in working with those who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, peer issues, family dynamics and much more.

College can be a lot with classes, deadlines, jobs, family stuff, friendships, big decisions about your future. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious, unmotivated, or just not like yourself. You might be struggling quietly, or maybe everything feels loud and heavy. Either way, you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Ellie Mental Health – Lincolnwood, we get that life can be messy, especially during college. We offer therapy and psychiatry services for individuals, couples, families, and groups, and we meet you wherever you’re at—with no judgment, no pressure, and no confusing clinical talk. Just real support from people who care. Our therapists are down-to-earth, compassionate, and here to help you work through whatever you're carrying, whether it's stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, identity questions, or just needing a space to talk. We focus on what matters to you and give you tools that actually help, not just homework. Starting therapy can feel awkward or intimidating, but we’ll make it as easy and comfortable as possible. You’re not just another name on a schedule—you’re a real person, and your story matters. When you’re ready, we’re here. Let’s figure it out, together.

Hi! My name is Solo (she/her/hers). I am an experienced social worker who has worked in universities, hospitals, and private practice. Specializing in anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, identity, and executive functioning. I meet people where they are at and make therapy a safe, comfortable place where people feel safe, seen, and heard. I work primarily with people 14 and up, but am open to working with anyone that would love to work with me!. I love coffee, nature, music festivals, spend too much time on tik tok, and enjoy getting to know my clients.

Hi! My name is Mary France Bazan, therapist and founder of MFB_THERAPY. Our office is located in Countryside, IL and offers a warm and nurturing space that empowers clients as they navigate life's challenges. We offer individual therapy that provides guided growth to young adults. We invite you to reach out to us to learn more!

Hi! I’m Becca. I work with children, teens, and young adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty transitioning to college, and/ or learning more about identity. I use the therapy space to get to know you on a human level, work through unhelpful patterns, and develop new skills and strategies more aligned with where you want to be. Therapy is a place for growth but also plenty of laughter as well. I identify as queer and am dedicated to providing a supportive space to explore your experiences and learn more about yourself. If this sounds like it could be a good fit, I offer 15 minute consultations. Filling out the contact form on my website is the best way to get in touch.

Are you an individual on the autism spectrum and looking to gain skills and independence? Have Dreams' therapists are here to help! We support children, adolescents, and young adults with autism in progressing toward their individual goals, be that working on building social and communication skills, addressing emotion regulation and stress management, preparing for employment, or developing executive functioning skills like staying organized and managing time effectively. We also offer parent education and support around new diagnosis.

At Holding Space our mission is to empathically walk alongside our patients providing a safe and stable “holding space” that promotes acceptance, confidence, healing, and growth. Beyond our training and education, respect and authentic care is at the heart of all our work. The therapeutic journey isn’t always easy, and sometimes it can get messy. Our commitment to our patients is that we are here to help you hold the weight of your pain, and inspire hope in moments that feel hopeless. We’re here to help make sense of the absurd and confusing moments and hopefully make you laugh from time to time. We trust that our patients feel our genuine care as we work together toward the shared goals of living healthier, fuller, more empowered lives.

We know that no two people are the same and, as such, we tailor therapy to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, or other issue, we help our clients to recognize underlying problems, fully realize their strengths, and adjust certain behaviors and thoughts to see things in a different, healthier way. Our practice specializes in treating adolescents, college students, and adults of all ages. We pride ourselves in providing evidence-based treatment approaches and borrow heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. We know that all clients have personal strengths. We consider it our job to help our clients get back in touch with them.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Challenging life transitions such as a new school, being away from home for the first time, the loss of a loved one, or relationship changes can leave us feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and disconnected from our true selves. It may feel like no one understands what you’re going through or like you don’t have the energy for things that used to really matter to you. Perhaps it feels like you lost your identity. You need some relief. You’re ready to feel calmer and more hopeful. You’re ready to feel like you have the tools to handle difficult days. Most of all, you’re ready to feel like yourself again. Clients come to me looking for a therapist who is approachable and compassionate, because therapy should be a place where you feel supported and encouraged to grow. Sessions with me incorporate talk therapy, mindfulness, and movement to best suit your unique needs and goals. Together we’ll find a new way forward, at your pace. As a therapist with both clinical and life experience, I am prepared to support you through this difficult transition. I help clients like you find meaning, joy and connection again by equipping them with tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and uncertainties. You don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.

College can be a lot. If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, or like you’re barely keeping up, you’re not alone. At Evanston Counseling, we help students who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or the impact of past experiences and trauma. You might be functioning on the outside, but inside, things feel messy or heavy—or not maybe you’re just tired of feeling this way. We’re here to help you slow down, understand what’s going on, and find ways to feel more like yourself again. Our therapists are warm, relatable, and easy to talk to. We take you seriously without making therapy feel serious all the time. You don’t have to wait for things to get worse. Support is here when you’re ready.

I am here to help—to help you move beyond the mental roadblocks and anxious feelings that seem overwhelming and are holding you back; to help you reset and reconnect with the feelings of comfort and calm that have gone missing; and, above all, to help you build your sense of empowerment to move through the world on your own terms with feelings of independence, confidence, and pride. I specialize in helping teens, families, and young professionals navigate life’s transitions. Maybe you’re struggling to find your feet at a new school or office. Maybe you’re ramping up to make a major decision. If you’re a parent, maybe you’re feeling like you don’t recognize your child anymore, or maybe your recent efforts to help are coming up short. Whatever the case, I am here to help. When you come to my office, you'll find a warm, laid-back setting-free from judgement. You can expect that I'll honor your own sense of process and tailor our sessions to reflect your unique situation, which will evolve as we begin to enact the plan we establish together. Congratulations on taking this courageous step.