Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Do you feel trapped by your thoughts, overwhelmed by emotions, or burdened by past experiences? It's easy to feel stuck when life's challenges become too much to handle alone. These struggles can make it hard to live in the moment, pursue your goals, or even enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or just feeling lost, it is possible to find a path forward. I'm here to help. As a trained therapist specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach to help you break free from the patterns holding you back.

I work with driven achievers who find themselves feeling stuck with rumination, overthinking, unwanted and intrusive thoughts, or are overwhelmed with uncertainty. You may find yourself wanting to feel confident at work or school, in relationships, and in going about your daily tasks, but that doubt keeps you second guessing and avoiding. Together we will explore the challenges you are facing, utilize methods to recognize what keeps you stuck in the anxiety cycle, and learn how to respond to and face fears with self-compassion, and confidence. Building trust is central to the therapeutic relationship and I seek to meet individuals where they are in their process. I believe clients are the experts in their own lives and I use a style that is collaborative, goal-oriented, supportive, and nonjudgmental. I am trained in evidence-based practices for the treatment of OCD, anxiety, panic disorder and phobias, hair pulling and skin picking (BFRBs), and athlete mental health. I offer the space to cope with uncertainty, develop new skills, and make meaningful adjustments, and am licensed in IL, WI and FL.

Our vision at Little Seed Wellness (formerly known as Practical Magic Healing) is to build a future where Queer individuals have the freedom and autonomy to make empowered decisions about their lives and bodies. We aim to cultivate inclusive communities that inspire healing, growth, and representation, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and compassionate world. Our therapists specialize in trauma focused care, EMDR, IFS/Parts Work, eating disorder and substance abuse counseling, and harm reduction practices.

Many of the students I work with are navigating major life transitions while carrying the weight of stress, anxiety, trauma, family expectations, relationship challenges, or feelings of not quite belonging. I especially enjoy working with first-generation college students, students from immigrant families, women, and neurodivergent students, including those with ADHD. Together, we create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can better understand yourself, build practical coping skills, strengthen relationships, and move toward a life that feels more aligned with your values. You don't have to have everything figured out before coming to therapy—we can start exactly where you are.

You're juggling a lot right now. Classes, relationships, figuring out what you actually want to do with your life, maybe dealing with family stuff that followed you to college. Some days you feel fine. Other days, getting out of bed feels like a win. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety that won't shut off, the racing thoughts at 2am, the knot in your stomach before class, the way you replay conversations wondering if you said the wrong thing. Or maybe it's more like a fog, low motivation, feeling disconnected, going through the motions without really being present. We work with college students and young adults who are navigating: - Anxiety that gets in the way of school, friendships, or just feeling okay - Depression, low mood, or losing interest in things you used to care about - Relationship issues with partners, friends, roommates, or family - Identity questions: who you are, who you're becoming, who you want to be - Stress from academic pressure, career uncertainty, or feeling behind - Trauma or difficult past experiences that keep showing up - Coming out, gender identity, or finding your place in the LGBTQ+ community - Feeling like you have to have it all figured out (you don't) We're not going to tell you what to do or give you a bunch of homework. Therapy here is a conversation. We create a space where you can say the things you don't say out loud and figure out what's actually going on. We'll meet you where you are. We offer in-person sessions in Chicago's Ravenswood neighborhood and telehealth throughout Illinois. We accept BCBS PPO and Aetna PPO insurance and are happy to set up a free 15 minute phone consultation to see if we are the right fit for you.

Introduction Dr. Victoriya Tsaran completed her undergraduate studies in Psychology at Loyola University, and completed both her Master’s and Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Schaumburg. Currently, Dr. Victoriya Tsaran is the owner and clinical director at Progressive Psychological Healthcare. Dr. Tsaran’s multicultural background allows her to utilize the awareness and understanding of diverse client needs, and utilizes multicultural sensitivity and appreciation in her therapuetic approach. Dr. Victoriya Tsaran provides therapy services in both English and Russian. Experience Dr. Victoriya Tsaran has worked in a wide range of professional settings, including behavioral health hospitals, community mental health centers, skilled nursing facilities and medical rehabilitation centers providing mental health services. In addition, Dr. Tsaran has worked in school settings as well as therapeutic schools and private group practices. Dr. Tsaran’s clinical experience includes working with hundreds of unique, complex and diverse clients. She believes that the client’s success is born out of a trusting and supportive relationship that the client and therapist build together. This is not an easy task since many components play a role in the type of relationship that is allowed to be developed in the therapeutic relationship. The relationships that Dr. Tsaran has developed with her clients and patients was based on her ability to empathize with their developmental needs and understand their unique environment, their perspective of the world around them, and the way they view themselves and others while maintaining healthy professional boundaries. Providing a safe and nurturing environment that encourages a trusting relationship is the goal Dr. Tsaran has for her clients, especially during the early stages of therapy. Therapy Approach Dr. Tsaran’s clinical work revolves around being supportive, flexible, and progressive. Dr. Tsaran approaches her patients and their problems from an individualized perspective and utilizes an individualized treatment plan that is tailored specifically to her patient’s individual and unique needs. Over the years, Dr. Tsaran has developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilizes a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. Her wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows Dr. Tsaran to be flexible in her individualized treatment approach with every client. Dr. Tsaran’s areas of specialty include: working with children, young adults, adults, families and couples therapy. She is experienced in treating various clinical presentations including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, adjustment disorders, behavioral problems, relationship conflict and parenting stress. “I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.”

I am a trauma-informed therapist specializing in sexual abuse, sexual assault, trauma recovery, PTSD, and chronic pelvic pain. I like to use tactile materials in session— clay, collage, knitting, sand trays, watercolor…etc. Sometimes it’s hard to sit in a room with someone and just start talking. Art is a tool we can use to ease anxiety and greet the subconscious. I don’t take too many clients, so I care deeply about each person I work with. I will remember the names of your loved ones. I will want to see pictures of your dog. I will consult with your doctors, advocate for you, and send you resources outside of session. Most of all, I will be genuinely curious to hear what you have to say. Reach out if you want a free phone consult. We can decide together if we're a good fit. You don't owe me anything and you don't have to worry about my feelings. Therapy is your sacred space— I am here to protect it.

Jefferson Park Counseling offers individual and couples therapy both in person and through telehealth, helping those working on anxiety and mood disorders. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, and Cigna. Mental health is often minimized, yet can cause severe difficulties in life. Therapy can help you find the steps to find relief and peace. We have therapists available now to help you address what you need to in order to feel like your best self. At Jefferson Park Counseling, we offer both individual and couples therapy. We have extensive experience addressing many different concerns, including: -Depression -Anxiety -Anger management -Obsessive Compulsive Disorder -Stress management -Relationship issues -Bipolar Disorder -Life Transitions -Grief/Loss -Young adulthood

Chauncey is a graduate student intern beginning her work with Pure Health Center. She is passionate about working with teens and adults through all of life's highs and lows. Chauncey’s approach is person centered, collaborative, and community oriented believing that healing is non-linear and happens best in relation to others. She understands that clients know themselves best and works to help clients live in their unique truths. While predominately person centered, she uses a mix of ACT and DBT to work with those who have experienced trauma, mood disorders, grief, emotional dysregulation or to explore identity formulation and familial dynamics. She particularly enjoys working with marginalized populations such as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodiverse folks. Chauncey has spent the past year working with The Family Institute. She is currently earning her Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on child/adolescence at Northwestern University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Human Services at DePaul University. In her free time, she enjoys playing with her cat, cooking, reading, connecting with friends, and catching up on reality TV.

We're here because we've been there, so we can't help but to be wholeheartedly invested in your journey. We want to provide you the warmth, validation, and affirmation that can feel so rare in adulthood. Working with us will challenge you, but it will also feel like coming home. We're fired up about your freedom and fight for it alongside you. Always intersectional, pleasure-positive, and identity-celebrating, we have a low tolerance for boxes, assumptions, and systems that stifle your creative healing. We are your unashamed and unapologetic accomplices in doing life-changing, culture-shifting work. We're obsessed with staying up-to-date on affirming, anti-oppressive language and concepts, and think learning directly from queer and BIPOC community leaders is just as important as gathering data from research. We believe in the transformative power of accurate information about sex, gender, and relationships.

Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track. I have a Bachelors of Art Degree in Psychology from DePaul University and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from Adler University, both located in Chicago, Illinois. In addition, I am a bilingual/bi-cultural native Spanish-speaking psychologist with extensive experience working with the Latinx community. My training experiences include working with child and adult victims of domestic violence and trauma, community mental health centers, and hospital outpatient clinics.

I see students who are struggling with stress and anxiety management, going through a difficult breakup, or feeling worried for their future and needing help preparing for graduation. I also see students who have experienced sexual assault while in college. I am trained in the treatment of trauma and grief. From our work together you can expect a safe space to process and receive support, learn new coping skills, and guidance through challenging transitions that college life brings.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Relationships are at the heart of our lives, whether they’re with family, partners, friends, or even ourselves. Navigating these connections can sometimes feel challenging, especially during big transitions or when conflicts arise. As a therapist specializing in relationship dynamics and systems theory, I work with individuals, couples, and families to create stronger, healthier connections. My approach focuses on understanding the patterns and interactions that shape your experiences. Together, we’ll uncover insights about how these systems influence your life and work toward meaningful change. Whether you’re dealing with communication struggles, family conflict, or simply looking to grow as a person, I’m here to support you. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Using evidence-based techniques, we’ll tackle challenges like conflict resolution, self-awareness, and improving relationship satisfaction. No matter where you’re starting, I’m here to help you create deeper connections and find clarity in your relationships. Let’s work together to help you build the fulfilling, balanced life you deserve.

I work with young adults managing stress, anxiety and life transitions. Many of the college students I work with are seeking help with adjustment to college, gaining a greater understanding of friendship and relationship dynamics, and building stress management strategies. My office is conveniently located blocks from DePaul's Lincoln Park Campus.

At Bridgepoint Psychology Center clients are the experts of their own lives and we, the clinicians, are here to provide support, guidance, and foster reflection. As a center that honors and celebrates diversity, Bridgepoint provides a safe space for clients to connect with their authentic selves. Equipped with unique specializations and advanced training, Bridgepoint Psychology Center provides superior care to individuals, couples, and families in the Chicagoland area.

Our patterns, desires, and growth are often tested in relationships. It can feel like we're going in circles when we find ourselves challenged by a transition or milestone or questioning our role in the lives of those closest to us. Beneath expectations we find understanding and beneath therapy jargon lies a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and sincere relationship. Here, our explorations can lead to deeper, novel understandings of your mind and body, and foster insights and empathy for yourself and your loved ones. In our work we will begin to name the unnamed meanings, perspectives, and desires that you hold and find their place in the future you want to build. Even in the fog of day-to-day life, you are instinctively taking steps towards your goals. My role is to offer support, curiosity, and skills that appreciate and bolster your intuition and strengths.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

My clients are people who often feel stuck in their thoughts, whether those thoughts are anxious, self-critical, perfectionistic, or filled with doubt. They might be struggling with OCD, social anxiety, phobias, trauma, or just the overwhelming pressure to always get things “right.” My clients come from a variety of background and identities. They want relief, but not just a quick fix. They’re looking to better understand themselves, break free from rigid patterns, and move toward a life that feels more connected, meaningful, and aligned.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.