Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

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.

With the many transitions that life brings can come many challenges. It can be difficult to navigate these challenges alone and reaching out for support is a significant step in working towards healing. My goal is to help you navigate your healing journey using compassion, empathy, creativity, and humor. I have worked in a variety of settings including the department of corrections, psychiatric inpatient hospitals, and in an after school setting. Throughout experience I have worked with many different clients including individuals experiencing challenges related to depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, grief, work stress, career transitions, spirituality, and family life. ​ I approach my work with the mindset that the client is the expert in their treatment. In my work I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness Based Interventions. I aim to provide a welcoming, supportive, inclusive, and judgement free space for you to process any struggles and work towards your goals. I recognize that each person’s path to healing is unique and during our time together we will discover which approach is ideal for you. Life can bring on so much heartache and struggles that can make us feel lost. Through self-exploration we can work towards transforming into a more healed self. Clients interested in working together can reach out to me at rickele@humboldtparkcounseling.com or at 312-880-7671 for more information. All inquires are welcome.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward? With a warm, compassionate approach, I specialize in working with individuals who are seeking clarity, healing, and personal growth. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions, my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.

Thanks for visiting Helpful! With a combination of education, specialized training, and genuine compassion the entire Helpful team is proud to provide therapeutic services to the Chicagoland area. Simply put, the vision of Helpful is to help as many people as possible find their way to being the best versions of themselves. We are all in this life together and our hope is the work done at CIC creates meaningful change in people's lives that then creates meaningful change in our world. Feel free to browse our website to learn more or reach out to us. We hope to be a resource for you!

You’ve been carrying a lot for a long time—maybe the impact of childhood trauma, complicated relationships, or anxiety and shame that seem to live in your body as much as your thoughts. On the outside you may appear high-functioning and capable, but inside things can feel overwhelming. Many of my clients grew up navigating emotionally unpredictable families, painful relationships, or environments where they learned to minimize their own needs to keep the peace. They want more than coping—they want to feel safer in their body, understand their patterns, and finally experience relief from the past. I integrate EMDR, art therapy, somatic approaches, and insight-oriented talk therapy to support healing in both mind and nervous system. Drawing from parts work and trauma-informed care, we move at a pace that respects your story while helping you reconnect with emotions, build inner safety, and process experiences that feel stuck. Reaching out for therapy takes courage—especially if you’re used to handling everything on your own. Whether you're processing trauma, navigating anxiety or depression, or trying to feel safer in your own body, you deserve a space where all parts of you are welcome. When you're ready, I’m here.

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.

College is a lot. Therapy can help. Whether you’re navigating classes, relationships, identity, anxiety, or just trying to figure things out—you don’t have to do it alone. I’m Mary Patton, LCSW, a therapist who gets how overwhelming this phase of life can be. I work with college students who want a space to talk it out, find clarity, and feel more grounded. No pressure. No judgment. Just real support as you move through this messy, transformative chapter.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Andrew Clavijo, PMHNP, is a skilled and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of bipolar disorder. He brings extensive expertise in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and psychoeducation to develop personalized, evidence-based care plans that align with each patient’s unique needs and goals. Through telehealth, Andrew offers accessible and flexible mental health support, ensuring patients can receive expert care from the comfort of their homes. He also partners with major insurance providers to make treatment both affordable and convenient, helping patients focus on their progress without financial concerns. Whether newly diagnosed or managing ongoing challenges, Andrew Clavijo provides empathetic, tailored care designed to improve emotional stability, foster well-being, and support a balanced, fulfilling life.

Navigating life’s pressures often means juggling responsibilities, deadlines, and personal aspirations. My therapy is tailored to understand and work with your unique pressures, providing a place for clarity and focused action. Whether it’s the weight of exams or the pace of the corporate ladder, I'm here to help you find your footing. My virtual sessions are designed to fit within your busy schedule and give you access to the support you need to maintain balance and foster resilience.

As a queer and socially informed therapist, my practice is shaped by lived experience, intuitive connection, and a commitment to integrative healing. At Lucid Flame Body & Mind, I offer somatic, sex, and spiritual therapy that honors the complexity of identity, the wisdom of the body, and the power of relational depth. Clients working with me can expect a space that is attuned, inclusive, and rooted in trauma-informed care—where nervous system safety, emotional nuance, and spiritual connection are prioritized. My areas of focus include sexual wellness, disordered eating, identity exploration, and trauma recovery, alongside holistic modalities such as energy work and intuitive practices such as tarot. These are important to me because they reflect the layered ways we heal—through evidence-based support, embodied presence, and culturally respectful integration of spirit and self. Whether you're seeking clarity, connection, or liberation, I welcome you into a practice that centers authenticity, compassion, and empowerment.

Devi Natarajan is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Counseling Psychology degree from Northwestern University. Trained in both Child and Adult Psychology, Devi has over 12 years of experience working in the Behavioral Health Hospital, Community Mental Health and Private Practice settings. Currently, Devi is the founder and clinical director of her private practice, MindTude, working primarily with the young adult population at Northwestern University, University of Chicago and other local universities in the Chicagoland area.

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

Welcome! My name is "Dr. Ed." I'm a Ph.D.-Diplomate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Houston and Governors State. In our multicultural world, therapy is a safe place to respect your values and honor your strengths! √ I'm 4.6 rated with 60+ reviews on HealthGrades, United Health, Aetna and Cigna. My treatment philosophy is built on respect and appreciation of the dignity for each person I work with. Let me emphasize this one more time, YOU don't have to settle for a poor self-image from negative experiences nor settle with poor relationships with your family, spouse, kids and yourself. Let's figure it out..together.. My therapy specialty is working with adults, couples, families, and pre-teens who are dealing with feelings of rejection, grief, and situation anxiousness-including balancing family and work-life stressors. I greatly appreciate listening to the adult male voice in relationships and families. Learning ways to bridge the gap in communication styles between men and women, parents and children, is important work! Prior to becoming a therapist, I was a core faculty member for nine years at Capella University-graduate and doctoral programs in Social Work and Public Service Leadership. Outside of work, Dr. Ed enjoys traveling to Barbados, Cancun, Houston Rodeo, is active in the KAY fraternity, and is an Astros and Cubs fan. "If I am not good to myself, how can I expect anyone else to be good to me"- Maya Angelou

Leslie is a licensed clinical social worker. She earned her Masters in Clinical Social Work at the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, and her Bachelors in Social Work at Luther College in Iowa. Leslie has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with various issues including depression, anxiety, coping skills, difficult life transitions, and building self-compassion. She has worked with individuals in many different settings ranging from individual and group therapy to crisis intervention in the Emergency Room. Leslie practices from a strength-based approach and combines several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness. Throughout treatment, she works with clients to utilize coping skills, identify their core values, and develop a strong sense of self. Leslie believes that regardless of age, clients are their own expert and therefore aims to build a strong therapeutic relationship that provides a warm and accepting environment that can lead to positive change.

Pari Health & Wellness approaches therapy through a collaborative & client-centered lens. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. Drawing from evidence-based practices such as mindfulness and CBT, I’m committed to transparency—not just in thought, but in dismantling the cognitive barriers between who you’re taught to be and who you truly are. I work with you to identify goals and build coping strategies while fostering this meaningful change. I integrate solution-focused, holistic techniques to help you develop self-awareness, resilience, and tools for navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re addressing anxiety, depression, grief, child sexual abuse, or personal growth, my focus is on empowering your transformation at your pace.

I am a licensed clinical counselor who believes that everyone has it in them to be the force of change that they want to be. I look forward to working with anybody who wants to learn about themselves in a safe environment free from judgement. I do have a specialty in working with people who are dealing with substance use, with or without co-occurring mental health issues and life transitions. I also address career concerns, stress over life decisions, relationships, boundaries, and healthy habits for wellness. My therapeutic style is primarily based on motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, and strengths-based models, and I particularly enjoy working with college and graduate students to help harness your strengths. I incorporate aspects of CBT interventions and skills when necessarily to be able to help you achieve your goals. I am part of the Path referral network, which means that when you reach out, my team will get back to you quickly to schedule our first session. I am committed to making therapy affordable. Through Path, I am in-network for most commercial insurances, so you're only responsible for your co-pay!

Great to meet you! Hi, I’m Melissa. I work with curious, thoughtful people who are ready to show up for themselves — even when growth feels uncomfortable. Many of the clients I connect with are navigating big life transitions, like adjusting to college or next steps after college, navigating adulthood, or realizing the old path no longer fits. If you’re someone who’s willing to stay with the process and understands that meaningful change takes work, we’ll likely be a good fit. A bit about my approach to therapy I believe the relationship we build together matters more than any single approach or technique. Feeling safe, understood, and respected is where real change begins. Clients describe me as steady, thoughtful, and encouraging — someone who can sit with you when things feel messy and help you think outside the box when the usual answers don’t work. I focus on everyday, “garden-variety” struggles that still have a big impact on quality of life, especially during periods of transition. What you can expect from our first session Our first session is a chance to slow down, get to know each other, and talk about what brought you in and where you hope to go. We’ll explore what’s working, what feels stuck, and what kind of support actually feels helpful to you. Over time, many clients walk away with more clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense that they can create a path forward — even if it looks different than they originally imagined. Growth isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I have been working as a licensed clinical psychologist for over 20 years, serving adults in both individual and couples’ therapy. My style is supportive and non-judgmental in order to create a safe and trusting atmosphere. As a Humanist, I believe that people are always striving to succeed, but at times are blocked by fears, doubts and loss of clear identity. I see my clients as collaborators in the therapeutic process, and together we create a personal path for growth and change.