Therapists for college students near 60637

You’re driven, capable, and used to pushing through. On the outside, it looks like you’ve got it together—but inside, the pressure can feel relentless. Maybe your thoughts are often focused on food, weight, appearance, or productivity. You might feel anxious, guilty, or exhausted trying to meet impossible standards. Even your accomplishments don’t bring the relief you hoped for. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep doing this by yourself. Therapy can be a space to pause, reflect, and begin shifting the patterns that keep you stuck. Together, we’ll create a plan to help you reconnect with what matters to you—not just what you feel you should be doing. We’ll explore new ways of responding to self-criticism, perfectionism, and burnout. I offer a compassionate, inclusive space where you can show up as you are—no need to perform, prove, or push. My approach is warm, collaborative, and personalized to you. I focus on your strengths and always make space for humor. I offer virtual and in-person (Ravenswood and Wicker Park) sessions with flexible scheduling.

I am a strengths-based, relational therapist who works primarily with trans, queer, and neurodivergent adults. Our sessions will focus on interpersonal growth, rather than finding a cure for symptoms. I want to understand your challenges and celebrate your successes. Together, we will explore the ways in which you are affected by societal systems and help you develop skills to advocate for your wants and needs. I strive to lead by example in showing that it is okay to make mistakes, to always be learning about oneself, and to continue growing and developing your identity as you move through different life experiences. When we are through with our work together, I hope you will have the tools you need to live a sustainable, satisfying, and ever-evolving life.

Gretchen Aich (she/her), PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Lewis University and is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Gretchen has advanced training in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care and works with children, adolescents, and adults, including Spanish-speaking clients. Gretchen brings experience from diverse mental health settings, including emergency departments, inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient clinics, private practice, and telehealth. Her background includes supporting individuals in crisis, working in community and court-mandated programs, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams. During her clinical training, she worked extensively with children and adolescents with complex needs, provided substance use and court-ordered therapy, and assisted with advanced treatments such as SPRAVATO and TMS. In her work with clients, Gretchen creates a safe, judgment-free space grounded in empathy, respect, and cultural humility. She believes each person is the expert in their own life and uses a collaborative, flexible approach to care. Through active listening and evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy, she partners with clients to set meaningful goals and support healing in a way that fits their lives.

In the pursuit of health, it can be easy to get trapped by diet culture messages that make us think we need to restrict our favorite foods to support our health goals. Clients are empowered to make daily food choices that support their health goals without judgment and without rigid rules. Cool, right?

Hey there!! My name is Kim Koehler and I am the founder and lead therapist at Afterglow Counseling. I am accepting new clients in Indiana and Illinois! I have several years of experience in counseling and therapy with individuals of diverse backgrounds. I specialize in treating individuals who are survivors of various forms of trauma, and those struggling with body image issues/changes, low self-esteem, life transitions, women’s issues, depression, OCD, and anxiety disorders. My approach is to meet you with patience, understanding, and empathy as you share your vulnerable moments with me. I believe that everyone has the power to make changes to parts of their lives that no longer feel aligned with themselves, and am here to offer you encouragement to do so. I have extensive training in trauma and crisis intervention, as well as several years in the private practice setting working with clients of various backgrounds and presentations. I value collaborative relationships, and believe that creation of your own goals for your journey in therapy is the first positive step towards regaining control and autonomy. I believe in empowering individuals to reflect on barriers in their lives, and the strengths they currently possess and skills they can add to overcome these barriers. I believe in practicing self-compassion during difficult periods of our lives, and am committed to working with you to improve your sense of self in the hopes of leading a life you love.

I am passionate in helping clients be open about their experiences that may be uncomfortable to talk about. I understand the difficulty in being vulnerable with others and how to move forward with that in mind. My passion is driven by the stigma in seeking mental health counseling services. I want to help you remove that stigma you may have and let you know that it is okay to experience depression, anxiety, and feelings of being overwhelmed in life. I believe anyone can benefit from counseling and therapy, and want to help you be mindful of the reason you are here today for a better tomorrow. I am also fluent in Cantonese-Chinese. I want to meet you where you are emotionally and help you gain insight on how your experiences have shaped you. I work with an open mind and use an integrative approach to bring focus toward your goals. I believe clients know themselves best; and will help you navigate through your narrative prioritizing your personal experiences, expectations, and goals. By listening to your story and experiences, I will work with you to explore the many chapters of your life and help you in your process of getting unstuck. I will create a safe space for you to share your experiences and emotions with no criticism or judgement involved. It would be an honor to accompany you in your healing process and finding balance.

In a world that tells us to be independent and mask our pain, reaching out for help can feel like a weakness or failure. I am here to tell you that there is strength in vulnerability and that you are not alone. We are built for connection and cannot heal in isolation. You deserve to reconnect with your values, to develop nurturing relationships, and to live as your most authentic self. I believe you are the expert of your own experience, and that the client-therapist relationship is collaborative. We will work together to develop a transparent, curious, and caring environment where you can safely and creatively explore your goals. As an art therapist and counselor, I practice from a trauma-informed, intersectional-feminist, relational, and person-centered approach and have experience working with adults, couples, and groups in a variety of levels of care. I specialize in EMDR, trauma, relationship issues, self-worth issues, mood disorders, grief, eating disorders, and substance use.

Caterina Frollano, LPC, specializes in the treatment of adults and adolescents with mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, women's health, multicultural identity development, and transitional stress. She uses an integrative approach to treatment and is skilled in various methods of intervention including DBT, CBT, dynamic, and multiculturally informed care. Additionally, she has advanced training in prenatal and postpartum care as well as parenting coaching. Caterina has provided psychotherapy at various settings and levels of care. The diversity of her experience enhances her ability to accurately diagnose and develop effective treatment plans for the needs of each client. She understands the importance of the therapeutic relationship and thus approaches therapy with your feelings and experience as a priority. If you're ready to schedule with Caterina, you are welcome to do so directly through the client portal by visiting the Allow Wellness website: www.allow-wellness.com.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Many people I work with feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of their next steps. They want clarity, steadiness, and a space where they can slow down and feel genuinely understood. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and strive to be culturally responsive, with a deep respect for those from marginalized or stigmatized communities. I offer a calm, collaborative space where you can explore your story, reconnect with your strengths, and move toward meaningful, lasting change. I support adults navigating substance use, shame, guilt, or impulsive patterns. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in harm-reduction and emotional insight. Together, we slow things down, build awareness, and create practical strategies that support healthier choices and greater self-trust. Reaching out can feel intimidating, and it’s okay if you’re unsure where to begin. I offer a brief 15–20 minute consultation where you can ask questions and get a sense of whether we’re a good fit. When you’re ready, I’m here to help you take the next step.

I enjoy working with adolescents, emerging adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/self-worth, relationship issues, substance use problems, life transitions, racial and gender identity, and sexuality. I am passionate about helping people create a life worth living based on their personal goals and values. My style is strengths-based, non-judgmental, and compassionate. I feel honored to walk alongside my clients on their journeys towards their goals. While I care deeply about the individual, I also recognize the impact of our economic and social systems on mental health. I believe that a trusting relationship between client and therapist is essential, and I will take care to build this relationship with you.

Dr. Shana Mehta works with teenagers and adults who struggle with various forms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. She has expertise with individuals who experience mood difficulties, generalized anxiety or panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, addiction, trauma, divorce, parenting difficulties, and significant life transitions. Additionally, she specializes in eating disorder treatment, specifically binge eating, compulsive overeating, emotional overeating, and mindless eating. Dr. Mehta views therapy as a collaborative process. She works with her client to gain a deeper understanding of past struggles and tendencies, assist in managing current challenges, and develop achievable goals. She uses a combination of evidence based therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, and Exposure Therapy. Dr. Mehta believes that there are many complex components that make ‘life change’ difficult. She finds passion in assisting clients in uncovering emotional layers, helping them to achieve realistic improvements, and finding enjoyment and happiness in life. If you're ready to schedule, visit www.allow-wellness.com to directly reserve an intake time.

Is anxiety or depression creating daily challenges? Does your negative self-talk leave you feeling low and/or anxious? Are you struggling with imposter syndrome? We regularly support clients in overcoming these challenges. Has the transition into college, living together, marriage, or consensual non-monogamy created new difficulties in your relationship(s)? Are you finding it tough to adjust to a new job, roommate, or recent move? You don’t have to navigate these alone. Are you feeling disconnected from your partner(s)? Or yourself? Is low self-esteem holding you back in life or love? Are you struggling to figure out what’s keeping you from the life and relationships you yearn for? Do you feel stuck? Relationships are our area of expertise. Whether you’re looking to improve your relationship with yourself, your partner(s), your family, or friends, we are here to help. As culturally sensitive, social justice focused, LGBTQIA/poly affirmative, and kink-aware therapists, we are equipped to help you explore how your social locations impact your areas of concern. Hold the Vision Therapy affirms that Black Lives Matter, Trans Lives Matter, Black Trans Lives Matter, sex work is work, people are not illegal, abortion is healthcare, ableism exists, and there is health at every size. The practice advocates for intersectional justice, racial liberation, Land Back, and Indigenous Sovereignty. We are committed to consistently doing the life-long internal and external work of dismantling oppressive systems.

Let’s be real: adulting is hard. Figuring out how to build a life—navigating new jobs, getting enough sleep and exercise, living alone for the first time, dating (ugh), or trying to make real friendships—it can all feel like a lot. You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I’m here to support you in making sense of it, finding your voice, and creating a life that actually feels like yours. I’m passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. As a relational therapist, I believe changes happen in connection. I pull from a range of approaches depending on what you need—whether that’s insight, tools, or simply someone who gets it. I’m warm, collaborative, and affirming—but also very direct. If something needs to be named, I’ll say it—with compassion and honesty of course. Growth requires truth. Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but reaching out shows real courage and a deep commitment to yourself. Whether you’re working through identity questions, navigating complicated relationships, or just trying to feel more like yourself again, I’m here to walk with you through it. Message me and we can have a chat about it!

Belle Counseling and Wellness provides individual therapy for adults 18+. We offer a safe and confidential space to explore yourself, your values, process your past and heal. As a trauma informed practice, we realize the widespread impact of trauma and seek to help our clients and the community find their path to recovery and holistic wellness. We recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in our clients, their families, our staff and our community. Our response to trauma seeks to fully integrate the trauma informed values into our policies, procedures and practices in order to actively resist re-traumatization. Our values include safety, trust, empowerment, collaboration, and acknowledging the historical barriers to wellness for women, communities of color, the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups. All services are currently being offered online for the health and safety of our staff and clients. We utilize a secure HIPAA compliant video platform – just click the link in your appointment confirmation text message or email to connect with us from any device.

Sometimes it feels like your past is still influencing your present. Maybe anxiety is making everyday life feel overwhelming, you're recovering from a difficult experience, navigating a major life transition, or struggling to manage emotions that seem to take over. Therapy can help you better understand what you're carrying and begin creating the life you want moving forward. I work with college students, graduate students, and young adults navigating anxiety, trauma, life transitions, family-of-origin challenges, emotional regulation, and substance use concerns. Together, we'll explore the experiences that have shaped you while building practical tools to help you feel more grounded, resilient, and confident in your everyday life. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and trauma-informed. I integrate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and an intersectional feminist lens to support healing in a way that honors your unique experiences and strengths. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel safe enough to explore difficult emotions, celebrate your growth, and reconnect with hope. Whether you're processing trauma, strengthening emotional regulation, or working toward recovery from substance use, we'll move at a pace that feels supportive while building lasting skills you can carry beyond therapy. My hope is that you leave therapy feeling more connected to yourself, more confident in your ability to navigate challenges, and empowered to create a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.

I earned my PhD in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University Chicago and my Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. I completed my APA-Accredited internship in health service psychology from the University of Pennsylvania Counseling & Psychological Services program. I’ve worked in many diverse settings with diverse roles in college counseling centers, private practice, and community mental health. I provide individual therapy and have extensive experience in outreach and consultation services related to mental health topics, advocacy, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Additionally, I have extensive program development and evaluation experience. I am process-oriented and work from a relational-cultural perspective heavily considering how my client’s unique life experiences such as their family dynamics and upbringings, significant life events, communities, values, and cultural identities relate to their presenting concerns and needs in our work together. I view therapy as an opportunity to cultivate a collaborative relationship with my clients while centering connection, exploration, validation, and growth. I invite my clients to use therapy as a space to slow down and practice curiosity towards themselves and their experiences. I have worked with clients presenting with all types of concerns and therapeutic goals. From my clinical and research experiences, I have particular expertise in working with individuals managing the imposter syndrome (objectively successful people with feelings of self-doubt and incompetence); BIPOC individuals and individuals from historically minoritized groups; individuals navigating interpersonal relationship challenges such as identifying relational patterns, addressing conflict, and learning how to communicate and set boundaries that honor the client and their unique personal and cultural values; individuals seeking to explore the impact of the sociopolitical climate on their mental health, particularly with clients holding multiple minoritized identities; and college, graduate, and professional students with issues related to work/life balance, academic identity, and self-worth. --- The Center for Liberation & Wellness, PLLC (The CLW) is a private therapy practice located in Chicago founded by Dr. Lincoln Hill. The CLW has a mission of providing culturally humble therapeutic services utilizing Black feminist and relational-cultural theoretical paradigms as guiding principles towards health, liberation, and wellness. The CLW believes that prioritizing healing is not a luxury, but a necessity for self and communal growth. The CLW is committed to advocacy efforts that promote anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and, subsequently, a more just society for all humanity, particularly those from historically minoritized communities.

Professional Statement As a clinician, my philosophy is to meet clients where they are and help them establish their own goals. I believe in empowering individuals to take ownership of their healing process, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges. My areas of specialization include trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, mood dysregulation, and domestic violence. I work with a diverse range of clients from various backgrounds and belief systems, and I am fluent in Polish, which allows me to connect with a broader population. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is hearing clients express that they feel better after our sessions, knowing that I have helped them take another step toward healing and growth. I am deeply committed to understanding others' perspectives and feelings, and I genuinely care about helping clients achieve the goals they set for themselves. Listening actively and without judgment is a core part of my approach, and I find great fulfillment in supporting clients as they work toward positive change in their lives. What should a new client know about working with you? I believe in creating a supportive and respectful space where clients can move at their own pace. I will never push them beyond their comfort zone unless they specifically request it. With nearly 20 years of experience in providing mental health services, I understand the importance of fostering trust and allowing clients to guide their own healing process. My approach is grounded in patience and understanding, empowering individuals to take the steps they’re ready for while offering the encouragement and support they need to move forward when they feel ready. What is your typical process for working with clients? I begin by providing a brief overview of the services offered, as well as a clear explanation of HIPAA policies to ensure clients understand their rights and confidentiality. During the initial session, I conduct a thorough mental health assessment, working collaboratively with the client to develop a personalized treatment plan. This process includes helping the client identify their own goals for therapy, empowering them to take an active role in their healing journey. I also prioritize scheduling a follow-up appointment, ensuring continuity of care and the opportunity to revisit and adjust goals as needed. This approach creates a foundation of trust and allows for ongoing progress in therapy.

At Skylight Ascend Wellness, we blend medical expertise with heart. Our practice provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for adolescents and adults through a holistic approach that integrates medication management, therapy, and wellness support. We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders while helping each person rediscover balance and confidence. Our care is collaborative, inclusive, and designed for real life—whether you’re a student navigating stress or an adult seeking clarity and calm. ✨ Let’s light the path to your emotional wellness—mind, body, and brain. 📍 Serving Illinois, Minnesota, Colorado, and Florida | Virtual options available

I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person.