Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

No matter what is going on right now, you have taken a huge step in seeking out help for yourself and/or your family. It is often very difficult for people to admit that they need help, and now that you have taken the initial step I would be honored to come alongside you and your family and assist you with whatever you are experiencing. I believe in building on your strengths and increasing your resiliency. I specialize in trauma, and utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help you process your trauma. I also enjoy helping families with behavior difficulties, mood disorders, and anxiety. I am able to adapt to you and find a strategy that works best with you. I primarily work from an Internal Family Systems perspective, and incorporate in EMDR as needed.

Feeling like you've been stuck in a hole and can't tell up from down. Maybe you keep telling yourself you cant feel better. Therapy is not about "fixing you." You're not broken. Therapy is a way for one to become a better version of yourself while taking the steps to live a more fulfilling and authentic life. A collaborative approach will help you feel therapy isn’t a one sided relationship because we will walk side by side together. You will be able to make the necessary changes to have a life worth living, while learning to accept yourself the way you are. I believe that we make the best decisions we knew how to make with the information we have and its our job to learn from it. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship through a warm and inviting atmosphere. I hope we are a good fit and I look forward to meeting you!

Therapy with me is collaborative and client-centered. You lead the conversation, and we focus on what feels most important in your life. My approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, helping you understand how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected while building practical tools you can use in everyday situations, including class, work and your relationships.

College life can be exciting, but it can also bring stress, change, and uncertainty. My goal is to help you navigate these experiences with care and curiosity. I believe our identities and life experiences shape how we see the world, and therapy is a space to explore that. Since becoming licensed in 2018, I’ve supported college students, Black and Indigenous people, people of color, LGBTQIA+ communities, military/veteran populations, and first-generation students. My approach centers cultural awareness, social justice, and emotional healing. I’ll meet you where you are and help you uncover the tools within yourself to create balance, confidence, and clarity.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Navigating college life brings its own set of challenges, and it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed or stuck at times. As a therapist specializing in supporting college students, my mission is to help you recognize that even in the midst of academic pressures, relationship complexities, or personal uncertainties, there is always a way forward. I adhere to the belief that "There is Always a Way," and I'm here to guide you through your unique journey. Whether you're grappling with the demands of college, experiencing self-doubt, managing complex relationships, or trying to find a balance between academics and personal life, we can work together to uncover possibilities for growth and create lasting positive changes. My expertise lies in assisting college students dealing with issues like stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and the challenges of transitions. By exploring your thoughts and behaviors, we can gain valuable insights that will empower you to overcome obstacles and thrive during this transformative period. Embarking on a therapy journey during your college years may seem daunting, but I'm dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where you can openly share your thoughts and concerns. My goal is to make you feel seen, heard, and empowered throughout this process. When you're ready, I'm here to collaborate with you on your journey, helping you navigate through the uncertainties and discover the path forward to a more fulfilling college experience. Delve is a depth-oriented practice with multiple clinicians dedicated to thinking deeply and flexibly about the therapeutic process and your growth experience. Our clinicians work diligently to build a trusting therapeutic relationship that serves as the foundation for clinical work. Read more about our approach at https://delvepsych.com/Theory/

Therapy is not about “fixing” yourself. It is about making space to understand yourself, and developing compassion for the parts of you that feel confusing, painful, or hard to face. Healing begins when we stop running from ourselves and start acknowledging what has been asking for our attention. I offer a therapeutic space that is warm, curious, and non-judgmental. I work with adults navigating depression, anxiety, identity exploration, family and relationship dynamics, and more. I am passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community, those struggling with strained or painful relationships, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves. I invite those who feel their experiences are not always affirmed by the world around them to explore what it means to feel seen, find clarity, and build self-trust.

Whether you have specific goals in therapy, or are simply struggling to keep your head above water, therapy can be a space to slow down and allow yourself the opportunity to sit with your experiences and feelings. I love working with queer and trans folks, people exploring their gender and sexuality for the first time, as well as people with Autism and ADHD, and people who are exploring the possibility that they may be neurodivergent. I also enjoy working with people with complex trauma histories, religious trauma, complicated family dynamics, as well as people struggling with anxiety and mood disorders. I am dedicated to working with clients to identify and process what is keeping them “stuck,” so clients can create for themselves a healthier future. I believe that harnessing creativity within the process of therapy can be extremely beneficial, especially for clients who have a more difficult time verbally expressing their thoughts and feelings. As a nonbinary and neurodivergent person, I know how important it is to find a therapist who shares your identities. I generally tend to be laid-back and very relational as a therapist and enjoy using humor to build rapport. Ultimately, this is YOUR space, and I want clients to feel like therapy is a place where they get to exercise autonomy.

Life can feel overwhelming at times. Between the pressures of social media, constant distractions, and the growing sense of disconnection in our relationships, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are and what brings you peace. If you’ve been feeling lost, uncertain, or simply not like yourself, you’re not alone. Therapy can be a space to slow down, breathe, and start finding your way back to balance. Together, we’ll work at your pace to navigate life's mental, emotional and physical obstacles to help you feel more grounded, more confident, and more connected to the person you want to be. My passion lies in supporting individuals navigating life's challenges. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, anger or relationship issues, I’m here to listen, support and walk alongside you. Together we'll work to better understand your experiences, develop healthy coping tools and create meaningful changes that allow you to feel more at ease. I believe therapy works best when built on trust, authenticity and genuine connection. Everyone’s story is unique, and I take the time to understand what matters most to you. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to move forward. I'f you're ready, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

I work with college and graduate students who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted—even when things look “fine” on the outside. Many of my clients are high-functioning, thoughtful, and self-aware, yet struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, relationship patterns, or a persistent sense that something isn’t quite right. My approach is psychodynamic, meaning we look beyond symptom management to understand the underlying emotional patterns, relationships, and life experiences shaping how you feel and function today. Therapy becomes a space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of internal conflicts that often get pushed aside in the pressure-filled environment of academic life. Students often come to me during periods of transition—starting or finishing school, navigating independence, questioning identity or values, or managing the emotional toll of performance expectations. Rather than offering quick fixes, I focus on helping clients develop insight, emotional resilience, and a stronger sense of self that extends well beyond college.

So often when we are going through a time of transition and change, we can feel consumed by thoughts of worry. We often feel pre-occupied with thoughts about the future, our relationships, our bodies, or how to get through so many changes at once. Not only are we struggling to cope with so many changes, we are losing sleep and feeling disconnected from the things that matter most to us. As a therapist, I strive to help clients get unstuck from all those thoughts and re connect with the parts of their lives that they value the most. I believe that my clients are the experts in their lives; they know what they feel like they are missing out on and what matters most to them. Together we get curious about their lives and what can help them begin to once again move close to what matters most. I am a people and relationship driven person who brings a mix of compassion, curiosity, and a sense of humor to my sessions. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation to determine if we feel like we would be a good fit to work together. I would love to hear from you and be a support for you!

I seek to build a strong therapeutic relationship through active listening and collaboration. My role as your therapist is to appreciate the complexity and nuances of your concerns. I believe you have the innate ability to heal from pain and dysfunction, and my role is to meet you where you are at and provide perceptive to your situation. At the early stages of our work together, I emphasize establishing trust through clear communication and active listening. As we get to know each other, my style adapts to your needs. Regarding my training and experience, I have worked as a master’s-level licensed counselor for eight years. I have extensive experience working with a variety of people and presenting problems. To illustrate, I have worked with creative students as well as adults entering the workforce, individuals struggling with mood disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), and life transitions issues. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and am particularly attuned to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community, creatives, and emerging adults. my therapeutic approach is rooted in fostering an environment of open dialogue and trust, where clients feel validated and supported. I tend to use the following therapeutic modalities in my practice: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Solutions focused.

Being in college right now is tough. Personal struggles, family issues, and the pressure to keep it all together, plus the chaos of everything going on in the world, it makes sense that you're feeling overwhelmed. If you’re dealing with difficult past experiences, family stress, or just the daily pressure of trying to stay afloat, you don’t have to go through it alone. I specialize in helping people process tough emotions, navigate life transitions, and manage stress in healthy ways. I’ve worked with folks navigating trauma, family dynamics, and anxiety—and I use tools like EMDR and IFS to help you work through what’s weighing you down. Therapy is about giving you the space to deal with what’s hard and find practical ways forward, so you can feel more in control and less stuck. I’m passionate about working with women, gender-expansive individuals, and LGBTQ+ folks. No judgment. Just real, down-to-earth support to help you move forward.

College life can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, stressful, or isolating at times. At The Noel Approach, we create a safe and supportive space where students can process challenges, explore their identity, and build healthy coping tools. Our approach combines traditional therapy with creative and expressive practices—like art, mindfulness, and intentional journaling—to make healing feel approachable and personal. Whether you’re navigating academic stress, relationship shifts, trauma, or simply trying to balance it all, we’re here to walk alongside you. Our goal is to help you find your voice, strengthen your resilience, and create habits that support both your mental health and your personal growth.

Sondering Counseling and Wellness is a modern mental health counseling practice centered around providing accessible, high-quality, and compassionate care for all. Every clinician possesses competence, confidence, and an affirming attitude towards individuals of diverse gender identities, sexual orientations, and relationship orientations.

Hello, My name is Ben De La Torre, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in my hometown of Chicago. I’ve been practicing therapy for over 20 years, working with individuals, families, children, teens, and adults across a range of clinical settings—including inpatient hospitals, outpatient behavioral health clinics, and public schools. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Chicago’s School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice in 2005 and currently offer virtual therapy services throughout the state of Illinois. My approach to therapy is humanistic and solution-focused, rooted in mindfulness and personal exploration. I believe in helping clients reshape the narratives of their lives—on their terms and by their design. Therapy with me is a collaborative process where we’ll explore your unique experiences, thoughts, and emotions to identify practical paths toward the changes you seek. I draw from a variety of psychological theories and developmental perspectives to tailor treatment to your needs. In our first session, we’ll discuss what brings you to therapy and begin identifying meaningful, effective strategies for progress. Over time, we’ll explore different perspectives and opportunities to help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence. If you're feeling stuck or simply ready to explore your next chapter, I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. I’m happy to answer your questions and help you determine if this is the right fit for you. Feel free to call, text, or email to book a consultation. You can also visit my website for more information about my services, registration, insurance plans, and payment options. I accept most major insurance plans, and private-pay sessions can be made by credit card. I look forward to the opportunity to connect with you. Warm regards, Benjamin “Ben” De La Torre, LCSW

I work with individuals and couples who are struggling with anxiety and depression, major life transitions, relationships, and self-discovery. I strive to create a welcoming environment, taking the time to get to know you and work together towards your goals. I am currently studying clinical mental health counseling, and my training includes theater, improv, and yoga. Want to know next steps? I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation and answer any questions via email. Please reach out if you'd like to schedule a call or intake session. At Main Street Counseling, we accept BCBS PPO and offer a sliding scale to those who qualify.

Woven Wellness is a virtual mental health practice providing care in both Illinois and Vermont. The practice specializes in perinatal mental health and addictions. Shaina is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois and Vermont. Her therapeutic lens is rooted in attachment theory and is neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming, trauma-informed, harm-reductionist, sex-positive, HAES-aligned, and anti-oppressive. She utilizes an interactive and collaborative approach that draws from multiple therapy modalities, with a focus on the relationships that we have with others and with ourselves. She is also a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC) in Illinois and has advanced training with the treatment of chemical and process addictions. Additionally, Shaina has completed Postpartum Support Internationals’ training for perinatal mental health. Shaina has worked in various settings in the mental health field for ten years in both inpatient and outpatient settings and currently also works as a consultant and School Social Worker. “I believe in a collaborative, supportive, and interactive approach that focuses on your strengths and the relationships you have with others and with yourself. Together, in a judgement free and safe space, we can explore the places where you’re feeling stuck and work together to discover new perspectives, make meaningful changes, and find new ways to move forward. It is possible to build an authentic and affirming life rather than feeling forced to fit into societal standards and expectations. This is a comprehensive approach to treatment, which goes beyond merely treating symptoms. I approach my work with genuine humility and sincerity to create a space that is inclusive and affirming to all. I believe in the importance of holding space for all of the parts of you, acknowledging the ways that they impact and guide our lived experiences.“

Things may feel heavy right now, and as a younger person trying to make sense of it all, it is no surprise you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Between social expectations and constant news cycles, you may be unsure of your next step. We specialize in supporting teens and twenty-somethings who are navigating anxiety, depression, school stress, relationship challenges, and the “What am I doing?” moments that show up during significant transitions. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also work closely with clients exploring their identities, including the overarching systems and pressures we navigate. Our experience as high school social workers informs my work with neurodivergent clients, making the complex feel practical by incorporating evidence and body-based practices. With humor, honesty, and a touch of sarcasm, we will identify patterns, strengths, and values to create tools that complement your life. Your story is worth telling, and so is the chance to reconnect with yourself through thoughtful reflection and action. Whether you are seeking support for the first time or have experience doing this work, you will be met with a down-to-earth and warm space where you can show up exactly as, and who, you are.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.