Therapists for college students near University of Chicago

Melanie Blanton, LCSW, provides a compassionate and empowering therapeutic space for individuals in Illinois who may feel overwhelmed by life?s challenges. She works with adolescents, teens, and adults navigating a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Melanie strives to help her clients reclaim their power and focus on what they can control, supporting them in living a life aligned with their values and goals. Melanie is particularly passionate about supporting girls and women to reach their fullest potential. She specializes in addressing self-esteem, body neutrality, and women?s issues, providing the tools and encouragement necessary for clients to build confidence and foster self-acceptance. Her approach combines empathy and clinical expertise to help clients overcome obstacles and develop a greater sense of empowerment in their personal and professional lives. Using evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Melanie tailors her sessions to meet the unique needs of each individual. Melanie also offers individual and group therapy, creating opportunities for deeper connection and healing.

Stephanie Alvarez, LCSW, knows going to therapy is a vulnerable experience, so she creates a safe and inviting environment to allow her clients to express themselves in an honest way. In sessions, she takes a holistic approach to tailor therapeutic tools that best support each client's needs. She also considers a client's social and cultural background to enhance her understanding of each client. Each person has a different path to healing, and she enjoys discovering that path together. Stephanie uses a combination of modalities such as CBT, mindfulness, trauma-informed interventions, and psychodynamic influences.

Ganime Nazif, LCSW, CADC, is dedicated to helping individuals and families in Illinois navigate life's challenges with compassionate, expert care. At LifeStance Health, she offers a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their concerns, develop coping strategies, and work toward their personal goals. Ganime specializes in treating conditions such as alcohol and drug use, PTSD/trauma, and depression, providing evidence-based interventions tailored to each client's unique needs. Ganime is particularly passionate about supporting those struggling with alcohol and drug use. As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), she combines her clinical expertise with deep empathy to help clients on their journey to recovery. She believes in a holistic approach that not only addresses the symptoms but also fosters long-term well-being and resilience. In her practice, Ganime works with a wide range of clients, including adolescents, adults, and seniors. Her therapeutic methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Group Therapy, and Individual Therapy, which she adapts to best suit the individual's situation. Ganime also has a strong commitment to serving diverse populations.

Anna Lucas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Anna is dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations while developing personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that align with client goals. She specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, neurodevelopmental disorders, and substance misuse. Outside of work, Anna enjoys gardening, hiking trails with her dog, crafting, and reading.

I personally know how much stress can come from seeking counseling, so I will ensure to create a safe and holding environment that will allow for you to feel as stress-free as possible. I utilize psychodynamic skills, narrative, CBT, solution-focused, multicultural, and client-centered techniques to help you overcome challenges you come to therapy with and to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible sharing these challenges. I have experience working with PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, OCD, and the LGBTQ+ Community. I am currently accepting requests for therapy in-person and via secure video sessions on VSee, doxy. me, and Google Meet during this difficult time of isolation caused by COVID-19. I was born and raised in the Chicago-land area and received my Bachelor's in Psychology at Loyola University Chicago, and my Master's in Counseling at Northwestern University.

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.

Tekeia Hinton is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is experienced in working with anxiety disorders, transitional stress, substance use, depression, loss, crisis, and trauma. She uses techniques from many therapies including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. She also incorporates skills of mindfulness and education. Tekeia received her Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Argosy University. Outside of the office, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends. She particularly enjoys the fall season and learning about new cultures.

Jill Jensen, LCSW, provides a compassionate and empathetic space for individuals and families across Illinois. With a focus on understanding and honoring each client?s unique experiences, Jill helps create an environment where clients feel safe, heard, and empowered to take steps toward their mental health goals. Serving children, teens, young adults, and adults, Jill supports clients facing various challenges, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and childhood behavior issues. Jill is especially passionate about helping clients navigate concerns related to body image and self-esteem, understanding the deep impact these issues can have on mental health and overall well-being. With specialized experience in addressing school avoidance and eating disorders, Jill employs evidence-based approaches to foster growth and resilience, particularly for adolescents and young adults who may be struggling to find balance and confidence in their lives.

Samuel Rentschler, LSW, creates a supportive and collaborative environment for clients. He believes every individual is the expert of their own experience, and he encourages clients to make use of their own expertise to accomplish change. Samuel earned an MSW from University of Michigan. He treats adults with a wide range of challenges, including depression or anxiety, individuals experiencing distress from change or circumstance, and people who are looking to learn new tools or skills to take their mental health into their own hands. In therapy, Samuel's style is strength-based and helps clients identify clear goals by identifying relevant problems and workable solutions. His approach incorporates client self-reflection as well as teaching skills to help achieve the goals they create.

You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, navigating the effects of past experiences, or seeking support around identity-related stress. Therapy can be a space to slow down, reflect, and better understand yourself. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and LGBTQ+-related concerns. To support our work together, I draw from a blend of evidence-based, trauma-focused approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and expressive therapies such as art, narrative, and movement-based work. My training is rooted in a relational approach that integrates the neurobiology of trauma, allowing us to explore how early experiences and ongoing stress impact the nervous system and mind–body connection. I also incorporate IFS and ACT to help clients shift unhelpful patterns, build self-worth, and move toward meaningful goals. I am mindful of how identity, culture, and lived experiences shape mental health and the therapeutic process. My goal is to offer care that feels affirming, thoughtful, and responsive to each person’s story. If you’re looking for a therapist who values collaboration, reflection, and authenticity, I welcome you to reach out.

When life feels heavy, confusing, or difficult to navigate on your own, therapy can be a space to feel supported, validated, and empowered. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing stressors related to anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, identity concerns, and life transitions, including healing from generational and cultural pressures. My therapeutic approach is integrative and trauma-informed, shaped by my lived experience as a Latina, a child of immigrants, and a veteran. I focus on the whole person, not just symptoms, by building a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in trust, patience, collaboration, and empowerment. I draw from Psychodynamic Therapy, CBT, DBT, mindfulness practices, and the Gottman Method to tailor care to each client’s needs. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and am especially mindful of supporting clients navigating cultural and generational experiences. I understand that seeking support can feel unfamiliar or even intimidating, particularly in communities where therapy may be misunderstood or stigmatized. Healing does not mean erasing our past—it means creating space for growth, self-compassion, and healthier boundaries. My goal is to help you navigate cultural expectations, relationships, and unresolved experiences with greater confidence and self-awareness. If you are looking for a therapist who values empowerment, cultural understanding, and meaningful connection, I look forward to hearing from you.

Feeling stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by stress, or unsure how to navigate changes in your relationships or life can be deeply challenging. If you are seeking support to better understand your emotions, strengthen coping strategies, and build more satisfying connections with yourself and others, therapy may be a helpful step. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relational concerns. I approach therapy with warmth, respect, and a focus on the whole person. My work is trauma-informed and grounded in evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, and EMDR, tailored to each person’s needs and pace. I offer therapy in both English and Mandarin, and I am mindful of how language, cultural context, and communication style shape the experience. I understand that there are moments when making sense of what you’re experiencing feels difficult to do alone. My goal is to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can deepen self-understanding and grow in the direction that matters most to you. If you are looking for a therapist who values empathy, collaboration, and steady progress, I would be glad to connect.

Navigating life’s complexities, identity development, trauma, relationship challenges, or cross-cultural experiences, can feel overwhelming or fragmented at times. Therapy can offer a space to piece together your story with curiosity, compassion, and grounded support. I work with individuals and couples seeking understanding and healing around trauma, PTSD, intergenerational stress, inner child healing, identity exploration, life transitions, shame, anxiety, depression, and the pressures of growing up in diaspora and queer/trans experiences. I approach therapy through trauma-responsive, anti-oppressive, and relational lenses, centering you as the expert on your own life. My work is interactive, balancing curiosity and compassion with opportunities for direct feedback. I use an integrative approach that includes psychodynamic methods, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, and DBT to explore patterns that may be hindering your progress and deepen your sense of self while enhancing connection to your body and nervous system. I offer therapy in English and Macedonian, and draw on my bicultural and bilingual experience to support clients navigating cross-cultural and authenticity challenges. I understand how difficult it can be to show up as your authentic self, especially when cultural expectations, identity concerns, or past experiences hold weight. As a queer and trans therapist, I bring lived understanding to this work and aim to foster a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where you can expand self-awareness, strengthen resilience, and create meaningful change. If you’re looking for a therapist who values curiosity, depth, and collaborative growth, we may be a good fit.

Therapy can be a space to slow down, untangle complex feelings, and better understand patterns that influence how you relate to yourself and others. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families seeking support with emotional challenges, life transitions, relationship concerns, stress management, and identity-related questions. I approach therapy with curiosity, compassion, and collaboration. My work centers on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore emotions, experiences, and long-standing patterns at a pace that feels right for them. I draw from evidence-based approaches and tailor therapy to each client’s unique needs. I offer therapy in both English and Polish and am mindful of supporting clients navigating cross-cultural experiences. I understand that reaching out for support can feel both hopeful and uncertain. My goal is to offer a respectful, warm, and supportive therapeutic relationship as you work through challenges and move toward meaningful change. If you are seeking a steady and compassionate therapeutic partnership, I invite you to reach out.

Many people seek therapy when relationships begin to feel strained, communication breaks down, or recurring conflict creates emotional distance. Others reach out when anxiety, stress, grief, or life transitions start to feel overwhelming. I work with individuals and couples navigating relationship challenges, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, communication concerns, and major life transitions, including those looking to strengthen connection and rebuild trust. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and goal-oriented, with a focus on helping clients move out of stuck patterns and develop practical tools for change. I draw from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy to support clients experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, and relationship challenges. In couples work, my approach is grounded in the Gottman Method, with an emphasis on communication, emotional connection, and building skills that support healthier, more secure relationships. Anxiety or relationship dynamics can feel confusing or painful, however, you don’t have to carry them on your own. My goal is to offer a steady, supportive space where insight and practical tools come together. If you’re looking for a therapist who values collaboration, clarity, and relational growth, I’d be glad to connect.

Feeling understood and supported can make a meaningful difference when emotional patterns, relationship concerns, or questions around identity begin to feel heavy. Many people seek therapy when they want a space where their experiences, background, and story are taken seriously. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples seeking support with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, self-esteem concerns, and life transitions. My approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and curiosity, shaped by my multicultural and bilingual experience. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore emotions, patterns, and relationships at a pace that feels right for them. I draw from evidence-based modalities including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-informed strategies tailored to each person’s needs and goals. I recognize each person carries a unique context that influences how they experience themselves and their surroundings. Taking time to reflect on that can open space for change. My goal is to meet you with warmth, respect, and presence as we work together toward clarity, balance, and meaningful growth. If you are looking for a therapist who values curiosity, connection, and empowerment, I would be glad to connect.

Therapy can be a space to explore feelings that have been hard to express, step out of patterns that no longer serve you, and build stronger connections with yourself and others. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, and stress related to identity, self-worth, or major life changes. I approach therapy with warmth, curiosity, and evidence-based care, focusing on your lived experience and growth. My work is trauma-responsive and rooted in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we collaborate to understand patterns, build insight, and develop skills that support meaningful change. I draw from modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and relational methods, tailoring strategies to each person’s needs and goals. I understand that feeling supported in therapy begins with patience, respect, and genuine presence. The therapeutic relationship matters, and my goal is to walk alongside you as you work toward clarity, balance, and forward movement. If you are seeking a therapist who values collaboration, curiosity, and human connection, I welcome you to reach out.

Life’s obstacles can feel overwhelming, chaotic, or unmanageable, especially when emotional, relational, or professional stressors pile up. Therapy can be a place to find safety, clarity, and support as you make sense of what you’re facing and begin to build coping skills that fit your life. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, eating disorders, domestic violence recovery, relationship concerns, and life transitions. I bring curiosity, compassion, humility, and a measured, evidence-based approach to the therapeutic process. My work is grounded in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore emotions, relational patterns, and thoughts at your own pace. I draw from CBT, DBT, and Acceptance and ACT, and I work with clients to develop coping strategies and meaningful insights, including personalized assignments that support their growth. As a therapists, I see how therapy can bring up both openness and hesitation. My goal is to walk alongside you with respect, patience, and authenticity as you navigate life’s challenges and work toward goals that matter to you. I value genuine therapeutic relationships and honor the courage it takes to begin this work. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, compassionate partner in your growth, I’d be glad to connect.

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.

I believe in every person’s worth and capacity for change and connection. This belief guides my work, and I lead each session with unconditional positive regard, leaving judgment at the door. This foundation shapes the work I do and the people I support in therapy. I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, couples, and children navigating hurt and harm across different areas of their lives, including interpersonal relationships and larger social systems. My work includes support for relationship conflict, communication challenges, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, trauma, and identity-related concerns. My approach to therapy is integrative and relational, meaning I draw from a variety of evidence-based practices while tailoring our work to fit your unique needs, goals, and lived experiences. I draw primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I am also particularly interested in the power of narrative, how we make meaning of our experiences, and how reauthoring those stories can be a source of growth and empowerment. In the therapeutic space we will build together, we work to reflect with intention and honesty. My goal is to help you reconnect with your authentic self in therapy and apply that work in ways that feel real, practical, and lasting outside the therapy room. Along the way, I will challenge and support you in becoming the version of yourself that best aligns with your values, needs, and goals. My work is always grounded in the belief that you are the expert of your own experience. That doesn’t mean you have to navigate your healing journey alone.