Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

I approach therapy as a collaborative endeavor. I strive to create a warm and accepting space where clients can safely explore the roadblocks they are encountering. My belief is that we are all capable of being resilient; we all have strengths we can rely on to support us through confusing and challenging times. Through therapy, my clients feel empowered to discover new ways to understand themselves and relate to others. My expertise includes relationships, family issues, academic stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression. Born and raised in Taiwan, and having later moved to the U.S. as an international student, I am deeply attuned to the excitement, opportunities for growth, and challenges of studying abroad and navigating new cultures. In addition to offering bilingual (English/Mandarin) psychotherapy, I actively investigate how language and culture shape our identities and the way we interact with the world around us. Throughout my professional career, I have been an advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. At the University of Indianapolis, I was an ambassador for international students at the Center for Global Engagement. I led initiatives to foster cultural humility among staff at Purdue University, as well as workshops on culturally-informed approaches to self-care at the Asian and Asian American Resource and Cultural Center. I am committed to working with people struggling with discrimination, microaggressions, language barriers, and identity explorations. I completed my Doctoral Internship at Purdue University, Counseling and Psychological Services. As part of my clinical training, I worked at university counseling centers in the Midwest (DePauw University, Indiana State University) and hospitals in Taiwan. I obtained a doctoral degree in Psychology (Psy.D.) from the University of Indianapolis, a program accredited by the American Psychological Association.

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Hi! I’m Matthew Boltz and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I provide therapy for children, adolescents/teenagers, and adults in Chicago. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, autism, behavioral disorders, depression, executive functioning difficulties, family stress, life change & transitions, school/work stress, stress, and self-esteem. I have over 10 years of experience working in the field of social work and providing behavioral/mental health services. I began my career working in inpatient and outpatient hospitalization programs and then spent five years working within the education system to provide mental health services as a social worker in elementary, middle, and high schools across the state of Illinois. I have extensive experience working with many subject matters in regard to the education system such as school functioning, special education law, IEPs and 504’s, coordination of care between support staff, and advocacy within the school setting. While working in the school, I also began working in private practice providing therapy to a variety of people with different presenting issues and concerns as mentioned above. I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness-based therapy to support treatment goals through skill-building, gaining insights, and clarifying values. I employ a person-centered and strengths-based approach when working with my clients to honor each of their own individual wants and needs during the therapeutic process. I am an affirming and accepting therapist that provides a collaborative, non-judgmental, and supportive therapeutic environment. My goal is to empower each client with the coping strategies and skills necessary to make the desired changes in their own life. If you have any other questions, would like to schedule a brief phone consultation, or want to schedule your first appointment, please feel free to call or email me. I look forward to talking with you.

AVID Intimacy is a practice that specializes in Relationship and Sex therapy. We work with individuals and people in relationships to navigate relationship issues, anxiety, depression, as well as issued related to sexuality including intimacy issues, exploration of sexual and romantic orientation and recovering from sexual abuse or assault.

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In our therapy sessions, we’ll work collaboratively to increase your insight and better understand the deeper roots of the current problems that you are facing. Together, we will increase your ability to better tolerate difficult emotions, more effectively cope with the issues that you are facing, and create a problem-solving style that works for you. My empathic, direct, and empowering clinical style will help you discover the best version of you. Here are some of my specialties: *Generalist *Interpersonal, Relational Style *Adults *Individuals *LBGTQ+ Affirming *Depression *Mood Disorders *Anxiety *PTSD/C-PTSD *Trauma Informed *Substance Abuse *Self-esteem/Assertiveness/Boundaries *Grief/Loss *Relationship Issues *Understanding unhealthy family/childhood patterns & roles and changing how these are repeated in one’s adult relationships *Narcissistic abuse recovery

I offer therapy in an affirming environment where individuals share concerns about their current and past challenges. I work collaboratively with clients to help them gain insight into their lives, manage distress, and develop tools to create meaningful and sustainable relationships. With the support of therapy, you can move towards a healthier, more balanced life. I have specialized training and experience working with LGBTQ adults in different life phases, as well as artists who see creativity as a part of their life and a source of their growth. I have over a decade of experience helping folks find healing from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, unhealthy relationship patterns and addiction.

We are dedicated to offering Mental Health Services which are easily adaptable and low-stress and that combine strategies for assisting with the many difficult aspects and challenges that have become normal in our daily lives. Clients are encouraged and taught to actively learn about themselves and are challenged to explore new ways of being and thinking, all in a safe and comforting environment.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling school, relationships, identity questions, and pressure to “have it all together.” My role is to offer a grounded, compassionate space where you don’t have to perform or explain yourself perfectly to be understood. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with experience working with college students and young adults navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, identity development, relationship concerns, self-worth struggles, and life transitions. I’ve worked in a variety of settings including higher education, group therapy, and community-based car. My approach is collaborative, relational, and trauma-informed. I don’t believe therapy is about fixing you. It’s about helping you understand yourself more deeply, unlearn patterns that no longer serve you, and build a life that feels aligned with who you actually are. Together, we work at your pace, honoring your history while focusing on practical tools that support emotional regulation, boundaries, confidence, and resilience. Students often tell me they appreciate that sessions feel both reflective and grounding. We can explore the “why” behind your experiences while also building skills you can use day to day. I welcome clients who feel stuck, disconnected, emotionally overwhelmed, or unsure how to trust themselves again. Reaching out for support is a meaningful step, not a sign of weakness. If you’re looking for a therapist who is thoughtful, honest, and genuinely invested in your growth, I’d be honored to work with you.

My experience includes emotional & mood concerns, identity exploration, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, academic & vocational distress, and grief. Sharing your true self in therapy is a vulnerable act, and I respect your courage. I am mindful of your needs and meet you where you are. I would be honored to help you with the next step of your journey.

Everyone seeks support for different reasons, and I’m here to honor yours. In a world of constant connection, the present moment can still feel distant. As a daughter of Polish immigrants, I value cultural heritage and offer support in both English and conversational Polish. I’m especially passionate about working with people navigating family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, cultural identity, and the journey of reconnecting with younger parts of themselves. I believe healing happens through empathy, humor, and collaboration. I specialize in working with teens and adults experiencing: Identity exploration and cultural stress Trauma and intergenerational wounds Relationship challenges and attachment concerns Anxiety, self-esteem, and perfectionism Queerness and LGBTQIA+ identities Life transitions and emerging adulthood Neurodivergence, including ADHD and sensory sensitivities I am DBT-Certified and I co-facilitate the Thursday Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Class at Mind Body Co-op. Alongside DBT, I integrate somatic therapies, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support a compassionate, body-aware, and client-centered process. Whether you’re facing long-standing patterns or new changes, therapy offers space for clarity and growth. Through gentle challenge, curiosity, and affirmation, we’ll explore what helps you move forward with confidence. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University, where I learned to value presence and acceptance. A favorite quote of mine is by Eckhart Tolle: “How do you know this is the experience you need? Because this is the experience you are having at the moment.” Your experience matters—and I’d be honored to support you in making meaning of it.

Young adulthood can be both exciting and overwhelming—full of choices, change, and uncertainty. Whether you're graduating from school or navigating college, starting your career, facing relationship challenges, or feeling stuck, anxious, or down, therapy can be a grounding space to sort through it all. I understand the complex stressors that come with early adult life, and I am deeply passionate about supporting adults navigating a range of emotional and psychological challenges, such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic concerns, relationship troubles, and grief. My therapeutic style is compassionate and empathetic—I work to create a safe, supportive environment where you feel seen and heard. I also believe in the importance of being direct and gently challenging when needed, to help you grow and move toward meaningful change. I tailor my work to meet your unique goals and with respect to your lived experience.

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My goal is to assist you in feeling more effective in how you face them. As a therapist, I prioritize warmth and validation to help you understand yourself, find ways to cope, and meet your goals. I work primarily with emerging and established adults who are managing anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, and chronic pain. I also help parents feel more confident in handling behavioral challenges and emotional regulation concerns in children. I believe it is important to examine how early childhood experiences shape our mindset and behaviors. I will support you in feeling more in control, accessing your strengths, gaining insight, and breaking unhelpful patterns. With curiosity and compassion, I will encourage you to embrace discomfort, identify your values, and address anxious thoughts. I use various strategies to explore symptoms, relationships, and behaviors to develop a treatment approach that is unique to you. We will work to better understand how you have adapted to and made sense of the world around you. Let's collaborate to help you feel empowered, discover (or rediscover) your worth, and move confidently through life's journey.

We are a team of therapists and coaches who are anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, fat-positive and are committed to our own journeys of healing in order to support yours. If you're struggling with substance use, perfectionism, anxiety, trauma, depression, identity exploration, athletic mindset/performance, grief, or body image we're here to help! We also offer gender affirming letters, which can be completed in one session. We have experience working with college students and college athletes and are here to talk things out, build new skills, use movement and mindfulness, and be your biggest supporters and advocates. We offer talk therapy, somatic and dance therapy, coaching, and energy healing. If you think we could be a good fit, please reach out and we'll schedule a consultation call to chat more.

We are a team of Chicago based psychotherapists dedicated to providing culturally sensitive, empathically driven personal therapy. We are strong allies and affirm all LGBTQIA identities. We are committed to anti-racist beliefs and practices. Your safety and trust are paramount to the values of Gemstone Wellness and we would love to welcome you into our warm and healing space.

Searching for a therapist can feel daunting, especially when life’s challenges seem to outweigh the moments of clarity. Yet, taking this step toward your well-being is a testament to your resilience and courage. Therapy offers not just a safe haven, but a pathway to understanding, growth, and personal empowerment. Whether you’re an athlete striving for peak performance, or an individual navigating the complexities of daily life, I’m here to support you on your journey. Together, we can navigate the psychology of performance, challenge thought patterns and behaviors, and explore personal beliefs to foster self-awareness, build self confidence, and tap into your inner champion. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that true healing involves nurturing both the mind and body. By blending traditional therapeutic modalities with sports psychology techniques, we can cultivate a strong relationship between the mind and body that can promote overall well-being.

At Piece by Piece we offer comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for children, adults, and older adults facing a range of cognitive, behavioral and emotional concerns. We have locations in Oak Brook and Lake Forest and now in Chicago in the Lincoln Park area. We are now offering services including therapy, executive functioning coaching as well as telehealth evaluations so we can offer services to a wider population who may not have access otherwise. We also offer neuropsychological evaluations in Spanish. Common reasons for referrals include ADHD, ASD, learning disorders, dementia, brain injury and various neurological conditions. Our evaluations are fast, with a typical two-week turnaround time and we work closely with referring providers to ensure all referral questions are addressed. We accept most insurance as well as offer self-pay and pro-bono options.

I help people process trauma, manage their emotions and anxiety, and maximize their performance with the combination of talk therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Brainspotting, and/or Internal Family Systems (IFS). A Free 15-minute consultation is offered to ensure a good fit.

College life can be a time of major transitions, and balancing academics, relationships, and self-care isn’t always easy—especially if you're a first-generation and/or low-income (FGLI) student, far from home, or struggling with self-esteem and perfectionism. I’m here to support you as you navigate these challenges and grow more confident in managing them. I specialize in helping students who may feel the pressure to succeed in a new environment, who worry about "getting it right," or who are simply adjusting to life away from family and familiar support networks. Together, we’ll explore strategies that feel true to you, build on your strengths, and work toward a healthier balance. If you’re new to therapy, I provide a welcoming space where you can be yourself and learn how to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Let’s take this journey at your pace, and find ways to make college life a little less overwhelming and a lot more fulfilling.