Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Karla Rivera is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has an M. A. in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University. Karla is committed to helping individuals navigate life?s challenges and achieve their fullest potential. She has a warm and empathetic approach and creates a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their self holistically. Karla helps clients develop effective coping strategies, build resilience, and enhance their overall well-being. She tailors therapy to the individual as no two people are the same. Karla works in collaboration with the client as she believes the client is the expert of themselves as she is here to foster growth and support them toward healing and self-discovery. Outside of work, Karla enjoys reading, car detailing, tattooing, and baking. She loves spending time in nature and trying new restaurants in Chicago.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides trauma-informed care targeted toward empowering individuals to move beyond survival, and toward a more fulfilling, connected life. I provide services for children aged 5 and older, adolescents, and adults. I utilize an integrated approach that considers your unique needs, contexts, and goals. Drawing from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS), we will build practical coping skills, increase psychological flexibility, and cultivate self-compassion. Through narrative processing, we will work to assign meaning to your experiences—transforming painful or confusing chapters into integrated parts of your story. My specializations include targeted treatment for: Posttraumatic Stress, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Generalized and Social Anxiety, Relationship Difficulties, Parenting Challenges, Family Instability Our work will prioritize helping you become more functional and engaged in the aspects of your life that are most important to you by exploring recurring patterns and the beliefs and emotions that shape them. Together, we examine how past experiences influence present dynamics, allowing you to better understand yourself and respond more purposefully. Whether you are navigating the long-term impacts of adverse childhood experiences or more recent life transitions we will focus not only on symptom relief but also on deep, sustainable change.

Lisa is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since February 2018. She graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a Masters in Art Clinical Psychology in Specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. Lisa believes in integrating Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Applied Behavior Analysis to provide counseling treatment services. Lisa believes whatever client brings into session should be the focus and hope to empower as well as support client in working through life's journey. Her main areas of focus include (but not limited to) working with individuals living with emotional regulation issues, dealing with life transitions, substance use issues, and those seeking safe space to share life experiences. In her spare time, Lisa enjoys walking, reading books, and spending time with personal animal.

I am so glad you're here! Starting therapy can often feel like a massive undertaking, so please take a moment to acknowledge the significance of accomplishing this first step. Regardless of whether you are a regular in therapy or a first-timer, my goal in every session is to be approachable, safe, and non-judgmental. I believe that you are the expert on yourself, so I will always be curious about your experience and collaborate with you in sessions.  My clinical approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and holistic, since you are more than the issues that inspired you to seek therapy. As an art therapist, I know firsthand the power of both verbal and non-verbal communication. Whether or not you choose to make art in our sessions, I will focus on all forms of communication and connection. I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the potential for change within themselves, and I am passionate about helping my clients discover that power.  While I have experience with many different ages and diagnoses, I am particularly interested in working with children, young adults, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges. When collaborating with clients, I pull from various therapeutic modalities: Art Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Motivational Interviewing Play Therapy Strength-based Therapy Person-Centered Therapy pronouns: she/her/hers Julia is in network with BCBS PPO and Aetna

As an Asian therapist based in Chicago, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals, couples, and families—especially those from marginalized communities—who are navigating mood disorders, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, interpersonal conflicts, cultural identity questions, and the healing of trauma. Therapy with me is not about “fixing” you—it’s about understanding and honoring who you are, so that healing can naturally unfold and guide you toward the life you want with authenticity and confidence. I integrate multiple approaches to personalize your care, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychodynamic theories, Expressive Arts Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Somatic practices. I offer trauma-informed therapy in both Mandarin and English, creating an affirming, nonjudgmental space for you to feel heard, understood, and supported—especially if you’ve never had that opportunity before.

Whether it’s your first time starting therapy or you’re returning after some time, I am genuinely glad you’re here, and I’m excited to support you on your journey. In a world where hustle culture often pushes mental health aside, there is so much power and courage in choosing to prioritize your well-being. Even during the most difficult seasons of life, there is beauty in the process—sometimes, we just need that reminder and support. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, attachment-based therapy, and specialized support for medical trauma to best serve my clients. I believe in the power of human connection, and with the right tools and support, everyone has the capacity to heal and thrive. I strive to offer a supportive environment where you can better understand your emotional world, gain insight into yourself, and build practical skills to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence.

I support LGBTQIA+ students navigating trauma, dissociation, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and identity exploration, using ACT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, and coping skills like TIPP. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and grounded in cultural humility, always centering your values and goals. Together, we'll build tools for self-regulation, resilience, and stronger connections. Whether you're working through religious trauma, family struggles, or feeling stuck, I provide a safe space for growth, authenticity, and healing. My pronouns are she/her.

Dr. Aubrye Brower, Psy.D. is a licensed neuropsychologist who earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University and her undergraduate degree from DePaul University. She completed her APA-accredited predoctoral internship at the Gulf Coast Veterans Healthcare System in Biloxi, Mississippi, where she obtained advanced training in inpatient psychiatric services, Community Living Center (CLC) care, and neuropsychology. Dr. Brower went on to complete a two year APA-accredited postdoctoral fellowship at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which included an additional rotation at the Medical College of Wisconsin with a focus on traumatic brain injury (TBI), neurodegenerative disorders, and deep brain stimulation (DBS) evaluations. Throughout these clinical settings, she collaborated on interdisciplinary teams addressing the care and symptom management of individuals with stroke, TBI, multiple sclerosis, and geropsychiatric conditions. She also developed extensive experience conducting inpatient evaluations related to decision-making capacity, DBS candidacy, and normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). In her current practice, Dr. Brower provides comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for adults 18 years and older. Her areas of expertise include assessments related to normal aging, dementia and memory concerns, mood disorders, ADHD, TBI, strokes, and medically complex patients. In addition to diagnostic evaluations, she provides psychotherapy and capacity evaluations for adults in assisted living facilities, supporting individuals as they navigate cognitive, emotional, and functional changes. Dr. Brower is passionate about working with patients during times of uncertainty—when there are often more questions than answers. Her goal is to provide clarity, understanding, and compassionate guidance to patients and their families as they explore concerns related to cognition or emotional functioning. Believing that aging and illness can be times of great adjustment, Dr. Brower strives to accompany patients through the beginning phases of their journey—from diagnosis to aftercare—with empathy, education, and evidence-based care.

I use a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach with CBT and solution-focused strategies to support students dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, and behavioral challenges. I believe every student has inner strengths, and my role is to help you recognize and build on them. Therapy with me is collaborative and compassionate, creating space to talk openly without judgment. Whether you're coping with trauma, relationship struggles, or life transitions, I'm here to support your healing and growth. My pronouns are she/her.

Many people come in feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure why certain patterns keep repeating. As a therapist, I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, and LGBTQ+-related concerns. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and grounded in meeting you where you are. I approach therapy as a collaborative, trauma-informed process rooted in curiosity and radical honesty. My work is neurodivergent-affirming and attentive to how different ways of thinking, processing, and experiencing the world shape mental health. I integrate CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychodynamic Therapy, tailoring our work to your goals and lived experience. My work is informed by anti-racist and anti-oppressive perspectives, with particular attention to how identity, power, and lived experience affect mental health. I am especially mindful of the ways weight stigma and body-based shame can impact self-worth and emotional well-being. I strive to offer a space that affirms body diversity and supports clients in showing up fully as they are. If you’re looking for a therapist who values honesty, agency, and inclusive care, I welcome you to reach out.

I conduct neuropsychological testing with young adults and adults to understand how they learn and assess for ADHD, learning giftedness or challenges, as well as neurodivergence. I also coach young people entering into the therapy or counseling field. I also very much enjoy coaching people about relationships, dating relationships and boundaries in relationships.

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.

Dr. Arina Polevoy received her Doctorate from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a concentration in Clinical Neuropsychology. She completed her internship specializing in neuropsychology at the Illinois Psychological Association (IPA) Predoctoral Internship Consortium. At her internship, Dr. Polevoy specialized in working with adolescent and adults impacted by HIV/AIDS. She provided extensive neuropsychological evaluations to children with a variety of presentations including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as adults who suffer from Substance Use Disorders, HIV/AIDS, epilepsy, Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), dementia, as well as a variety of psychiatric conditions. She has also conducted numerous disability evaluations cooperating with the Department of Rehabilitation Services. Following her internship completion, Dr. Polevoy completed a dual Post-Doctoral, two-year fellowship program at Thomson Memory Center and Northwest Behavioral Health Services. At her fellowships, Dr. Polevoy gained a great deal of training in the assessment and treatment of children, adults, and geriatrics with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, learning disabilities, ASD, and complex medical conditions, such as TBI, children with history of low birth weight, and seizure disorder. Dr. Polevoy has a great deal of experience assessing and diagnosing older adults with suspected dementia, as well as providing comprehensive capacity evaluations. Dr. Polevoy’s current interests include assessment and treatment of individuals over the lifespan. Given her training with children, adults, and older adults, Dr. Polevoy conducts assessments in Russian, Hebrew, and English with a variety of ages and presentations. Her vast clinical interests include assessments of ADHD, TBIs, learning and developmental disorders, epilepsy, HIV-related disorders, substance use disorders, socio-emotional evaluations, and complex medical conditions, such as stroke, cancer, Multiple Sclerosis, sleep apnea, and a variety of dementia presentations. Additionally, she has a great deal of experience conducting assessments for patients who are undergoing bariatric surgery. Dr. Polevoy is affiliated with various hospitals as well as rehabilitation facilities.

Our practice prides itself on being affirming, accommodating, and accessible. We are empathic story containers, encouraging clients to work through their life narratives. We offer services to meet the needs of those we serve. We offer individual, group, family, and couples services in both in-person and virtual formats. We accept many forms of insurance and offer sliding scale and pro bono to those who qualify. We are a small private practice comprised of 40% women of color and 60% marginalized identities. Many of the clients we serve share our identities and benefit from our lived experiences and shared cultures. We offer expertise in a range of needs, including anxiety, ADHD, depression, gender, substance misuse, and trauma. We are trained in art therapy, IFS, substance misuse, and group counseling theories. I am a queer, bicultural, first-generation Cuban-American born and raised in the Midwest. I have been enriched by purposefully surrounding myself with diversity. My personality is direct and approachable. Curiosity, humor and compassion are central. I approach therapy collaboratively and compassionately, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, insight-oriented, and relationship-focused methods. I find that art making can assist with the physical impact of our daily stressors and can open up new and creative ways to see life’s challenges. I work in ways that are both supportive and challenging.

Robin looks forward to collaborating with clients to increase their understanding of themselves and the challenges they may be facing. Robin uses a variety of approaches, customized to the needs of her clients. Robin operates on the premise that people thrive when treated with dignity and respect. By providing an environment of acceptance and non-judgment, Robin supports clients as they identify and utilize their strengths, values, and abilities to overcome obstacles and live healthier and more fulfilling lives. Robin especially enjoys helping clients challenge old beliefs and behaviors and incorporate new ways of thinking to foster long-term improvements in their overall quality of life. Robin is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with a Master's degree from Adler University in Counseling and Organizational Psychology. Robin has worked in a number of community mental health settings with variety of populations. Robin particularly enjoys working with adults, whether it be managing day-to-day issues or navigating difficult life transitions.

Feeling burnt out, anxious, or stuck in patterns that just won’t let up? Maybe you’re constantly putting pressure on yourself to do it all and do it perfectly. Or maybe past experiences, stress, or anxiety are making it hard to enjoy college the way you hoped. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. I work with college students navigating trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, identity shifts, and the pressure to succeed—especially athletes, pre-health students, and anyone juggling high expectations. I also support individuals who are trying to make sense of their relationships with partners, friends, roommates, or family and want to set healthier boundaries or reconnect with themselves. Therapy with me is laid back, collaborative, and totally tailored to you. We’ll look at the patterns holding you back, unpack what’s been weighing on you, and build tools to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected. Whether you’re struggling with self-esteem, body image, intense emotions, or just trying to figure out who you are and what you want, I’m here to help.

I work with LGBTQIA+ students and others navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, and immigration/refugee issues, using strength-based, client-centered, psychodynamic, and insight-oriented therapy. I meet you where you are, and your identity, history, and values all matter here. Our work aims to help you gain clarity, heal what's holding you back, and build tools to move forward. My goal is to offer an empathetic, safe space where you feel seen, affirmed, and empowered to grow. My pronouns are he/they.

I am available to schedule within one week! YOU are more than what has happened to you. As a multilingual and Latina therapist of 9 years, I provide psychotherapy to college students & adults of all ages struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, life transitions, family dynamics, relationship issues, grief and loss, chronic illness/pain, racial injustice, cultural issues, and various disabilities. I have extensive experience using cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, motivational interviewing, & self-compassion. I believe therapy is an ongoing conversation where you are the expert of your lived experience. My goal is to empower you to use your strengths while believing in yourself & what you can do on your own healing journey. I am here to shine a flashlight & guide you, but you are & will be the person to create the change & healing you need in your life. To support that emotional wellness, I focus on promoting both physical & mental health & care. As a Latina and Mexican-American therapist, my cultural identity is integral to who I am and to my practice. I am passionate about providing linguistically & culturally competent care. I serve individuals from various races & ethnicities including immigrants. Using this culturally aware & strengths-based approach, I listen to your needs & guide you based on your beliefs whether that be to incorporate your culture, faith, identity, or simply your values as a person.

Derek completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, and is a graduate of the Masters in Counseling program at Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Before joining Progressive Psychological Healthcare, Derek worked in a variety of clinical settings including an outpatient private practice, residential group home for teenagers, IOP/PHP programs and a community mental health center. He also has significant experience working for an Employee Assistance Program providing therapeutic support and coping skills to professionals in a variety of industries. Therapy Approach Derek collaborates with clients to form individualized, goal-oriented treatment plans that help clients get from where they are to where they want to be. Derek incorporates appropriate empirically supported treatments to help clients understand themselves more fully. He provides them with skill sets to achieve their current goals, and to empower them in future life challenges. Specializations: Generalized Anxiety, Work/life balance, Depression, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Social Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Specific Phobias, Life- transition issues, Trauma, Grief/loss, Excoriation Disorder (Skin-picking) Currently working with: Children, Adolescents, and Adults Theoretical Lens: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Acceptance-Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SBFT)

Hattie Stein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. She obtained her Master's degree in Social Work from Jane Addams College of Social Work, and also holds a Bachelor's of Arts from DePaul University. Hattie offers a warm, compassionate, and tailored approach to working with clients and utilizes a combination of dialogue, psychoeducation, and evidence-based practices. Through gentle challenging, Hattie helps clients see beyond rigid thoughts, patterns, and beliefs and support them through actionable steps towards a more fulfilling life. Hattie's training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy allows her to meet clients where they are at and provide them with tools to become the architect of their own life. Outside of work, Hattie enjoys spending time with friends and family, podcasts, and trying out new recipes in the kitchen.