Therapists for college students near 60637

At Carlson Counseling Connection, we work best with undergraduate and graduate students who are trying to navigate the intense pressure, independence, and constant transitions of university life. Many of the students who thrive in therapy with me look like they are managing everything just fine on the outside—staying on top of classes, keeping up social lives, or building impressive resumes—even when they are feeling burnt out, anxious, or uncertain on the inside. You might be a great fit for my practice if you are experiencing: Academic & Future Anxiety: You feel an overwhelming pressure to perform, maintain high grades, or figure out your career path, leading to frequent overthinking, perfectionism, or fear of failure. Major Life Transitions: You are adjusting to life on campus, moving away from home, managing increased independence, or preparing to transition out of university into the workforce. Burnout & Emotional Fatigue: You find it difficult to rest without feeling guilty, often feeling mentally drained, overextended by commitments, or running on empty. Boundary & Identity Stress: You are navigating shifting family dynamics, roommate conflicts, complex friendships, or learning how to stand up for your own needs without feeling like you're letting others down. Therapy can be a candid, low-pressure space where you don't have to keep up appearances or put on a brave face. Together, we'll cut through the noise, build practical ways to handle stress, and help you create a balanced university experience that actually feels sustainable.

I honor the strength and courage it takes to begin therapy. Engaging in therapy can support emotional expression, deepen self-reflection, and open the door to self-compassion and empowerment. My approach is collaborative—we’ll work together to explore your experiences, gain understanding, and create meaningful change. I strive to offer a supportive and affirming space where authenticity can be safely expressed and embraced. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns and tailor my approach to each individual. I recognize how self-expression and self-advocacy can sometimes be overshadowed by the ways people learn to protect themselves from pain. I also understand that the past can shape the present in subtle ways, and that societal expectations can lead us to disconnect from our true selves. My experiences working with college students started during my doctoral training and have continued throughout my ten+ years in private practice. I provided psychotherapy to students at the UIC counseling center, where I completed both my training as an extern and my training as a Postdoctoral Fellow; at DePaul University Counseling Services where I completed my training as an extern; and at NIU Counseling and Consultation Services where I completed my training as an intern.

With three years of experience in the mental health field, my passion is helping individuals overcome challenges, heal from trauma, and work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. I specialize in trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, crisis intervention, and using a multi-therapeutic approach to ensure that each client receives the personalized care they need. Whether it's dealing with stress, anxiety, family dynamics, or a traumatic event, I strive to provide compassionate, understanding support that respects each person’s unique journey. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from multiple therapeutic theories to best meet your needs. I believe that healing is a process that takes time, effort, and a safe space to grow. That’s why I work closely with my clients to build trust and a strong rapport, creating a collaborative partnership where your voice is always heard, your concerns are validated, and your growth is the focus. I am deeply motivated by the desire to help people understand that they are not alone in their struggles. I want every client I work with to know that change is possible and that with the right support, they can take the steps needed to build resilience, heal from past experiences, and lead a life of greater fulfillment. Working with me means engaging in a process that is open-minded, flexible, and rooted in respect for your individual experiences and goals. I take the time to understand your needs and adjust my approach to best support your healing and growth. Together, we will focus on developing coping strategies, building self-awareness, and setting achievable goals that empower you to make meaningful changes. If you are ready to begin your journey toward emotional well-being, I am here to support you with compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to your growth. You don’t have to go through this alone—I would be honored to be part of your path to healing.

As a bilingual (Spanish & English) trauma-sensitive therapist, I offer integrative, individualized care. My approach is shaped by your unique needs. Everyone has a unique story and deserves an individualized approach to treatment. I believe in a holistic and caring approach, actively listening and engaging with you to build a strong therapeutic alliance- a vital step in healing. In our work together, my focus will be on understanding you as a whole person, shaping our therapeutic path around your unique experiences and needs. I believe that building a strong, trusting relationship is the foundation of all healing. In the safe space we create, you'll have the opportunity to process your emotions, build resilience, and discover new ways of coping. With a deep respect for your background and identity, I am committed to empowering you to improve your quality of life and mental health.

There are so many things outside of our control that are inevitably difficult to cope with. Even with the unforeseen situations and stressors that life throws our way, the one thing we do have control over is the way we respond to them. However, it is difficult to know how to respond when we are experiencing fear, anxiety, and other heightened emotions. I want to help people strengthen their coping capabilities in an environment that is open, non-judgmental, and collaborative. My goal is to provide support to individuals, couples, and families tackling every day and life stressors with more confidence, hope, self-empowerment. I have been working in mental health for 5 years and have over 5,800 hours of supervised and specialized experience with OCD, anxiety, and ED. I use CBT, ACT, ERP, BA, and DBT Skills to treat a variety of disorders including OCD, skin picking, hair pulling, hoarding, phobias, BDD, GAD, social anxiety, panic, depression, eating disorders, and others. I am a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider (BC-TMH) and a multi-state licensed professional counselor including Tennessee (LPC-MHSP), Kentucky (LPCC), Illinois (LCPC), Oklahoma (LPC), and FL. I currently live in the Chicago area and provide professional counseling to individuals in ALL FIVE states via TeleMental Health services. I look forward to connecting with you!

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Life post-high school can feel both exciting and uncertain. With that comes potential for opportunity and new experiences, coupled with pressure to achieve a level of independence you may not feel ready for or feel confident navigating. It might seem like everyone around you has a plan or perhaps you're struggling to build connection and find your place. Or perhaps you have past experiences that have followed you and are impeding your journey. Whatever is it, I'm here to help you gain clarity, and know that you're not alone. AREAS OF SPECIALTY SPECIFIC TO STUDENTS: Trauma, Anxiety/Depression, ADHD & Executive Functioning strategies, Relationships/Social Pressure, and Self-Identity & the Transition to Adulthood.

Hi! I'm Aaliyah McNair, LCSW, and I'm passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate life's challenges with compassion, honesty, and practical support. I have experience working across hospital, emergency, and outpatient mental health settings, supporting individuals through anxiety, trauma, major life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. I also enjoy working with professionals and caregivers experiencing compassion fatigue and burnout. I believe therapy should be a space where you don't have to pretend you're okay. Whether you're feeling anxious, navigating a difficult transition, processing past experiences, or simply feeling stuck, my goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard and understood.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

You’ve taken a brave step in inviting someone into your most personal space to partner in your healing. In our time together you will find a safe, non-judgmental environment to work through difficult experiences. I will support you to find resolution to your struggles, while helping you identify your inner strengths to reveal a healthier version of you. You are respected and valued, and this will be shown via honesty and empathy. I thrive in walking alongside you in your journey healing from toxic, antagonistic and/or difficult relationships. I have been providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples, adolescents, and families for over 15 years. I look forward to joining you in your wellness journey.

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.

Do you feel disconnected from yourself, your relationships, or the life you want to create? Are you longing to feel more authentic, grounded, and at home within yourself? Through curiosity and exploration, I help you honor your experiences, soften protective patterns, and reconnect with your inner wisdom and strength. I support individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, complex family dynamics, PCOS/PMOS, PMDD, and life transitions. I especially enjoy supporting those who have learned to prioritize others’ needs while losing touch with their own voice, desires, and inner knowing. My approach is holistic, intersectional, feminist, and trauma-informed; I integrate mindfulness, somatic, and body-based practices to support individuals navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, and patterns that may no longer serve them. I welcome clients who are seeking a deeper connection with themselves, their bodies, and their relationships. Together, we can create a nurturing and collaborative space where you feel seen, supported, &understood. Through presence, self-exploration, and self-compassion, we can move toward greater clarity, connection, and alignment. There's also room for play, creativity, and humor along the way!

Hello, I have many years working with children, adolescents and adults in community mental health, inpatient, and private practice. Psychotherapy requires a desire to understand one's self and the issues that trouble you. In treatment, we will work together to understand how your history impacts these current concerns and find new ways to work through them so that you will feel greater internal strength and freedom.

You weren’t meant to spend your life in survival mode. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or a major life transition, or noticing patterns in relationships, self-doubt, or emotional overwhelm that feel hard to break, therapy can help you make sense of what’s going on beneath the surface. I work with adolescents and adults to understand how anxiety, trauma, and current life stressors shape your present experience, helping you move with self-compassion, reconnect with your authentic self, and build a life that feels more grounded and fully your own. Stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem concerns, relationship challenges, and major life transitions can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. Therapy offers space to slow down, understand patterns, and gain clarity. Using a trauma-informed, collaborative approach, I support clients in building resilience and a more authentic way of living. Taking steps toward change takes courage, especially when you’ve been carrying things on your own. I’m here to walk alongside you in that process. If you’re looking for a therapist who will honor your strengths, respect your story, and offer a supportive space to make sense of what you’ve been carrying, I’d love to connect.

I am both a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC). I work exclusively with athletes and performing artists, I also worked as the Director of Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) at DePaul for nine years. I LOVE DePaul students and have vast knowledge of DePaul.

I seek to build a strong therapeutic relationship through active listening and collaboration. My role as your therapist is to appreciate the complexity and nuances of your concerns. I believe you have the innate ability to heal from pain and dysfunction, and my role is to meet you where you are at and provide perceptive to your situation. At the early stages of our work together, I emphasize establishing trust through clear communication and active listening. As we get to know each other, my style adapts to your needs. Regarding my training and experience, I have worked as a master’s-level licensed counselor for eight years. I have extensive experience working with a variety of people and presenting problems. To illustrate, I have worked with creative students as well as adults entering the workforce, individuals struggling with mood disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), and life transitions issues. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and am particularly attuned to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community, creatives, and emerging adults. my therapeutic approach is rooted in fostering an environment of open dialogue and trust, where clients feel validated and supported. I tend to use the following therapeutic modalities in my practice: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Solutions focused.

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.

I understand that seeking change or trying something different can be difficult. I enjoy working alongside my clients to help each individual achieve their therapy goals in a way that feels comfortable for them. By using an empathetic and client centered approach, I support and encourage my clients to focus on their strengths to overcome life’s challenges. I strive to create a safe and empowering space where clients can be vulnerable, explore new perspectives, and speak openly in an environment where they feel accepted rather than judged. I believe the relationship between client and therapist is essential in the helping process.

Are Anxious thoughts, difficult emotions, body image or challenging life events holding you back from living your best life? Our approach assists individuals in empowering themselves to connect with their authentic selves and focuses on a mind-body connection. Through compassion, action oriented steps, and acceptance/mindfulness-based approaches I help individuals better understand their reason for seeking support. If you are looking to increase awareness of your core value system and to engage in a life worth living daily then let me help you create a life filled with presence and purpose. Completely virtual services allow for convenience, safety, and security with your providers through individual therapy and nutrition services. One size never fits all, we commit to maintain an atmosphere that affirms our clients' diverse lived experiences, identities and unique relationship to food, body & mental health. We see therapy and nutrition sessions as a non-judgmental space where together we seek to be curious rather than critical. We believe that full recovery is possible and join with individuals to help guide them to overcome their fears to create meaningful change. Check out the website to learn more and contact us for a free 15 minute initial call.

Peace, love and a few good laughs…in one way or another, most of us hope to maximize the presence and growth of these delicious things in our lives. After working in a university counseling center for ten years, I have a strong sense of many of the most common concerns students may face. That being said, we are all individuals with our own strengths and struggles. Every one of us experiences unique challenges that arise within the context of living our human lives. I am a queer-identified, neurodivergent, trans-affirmative, body positive, sex positive, emotion focused, experiential therapist, working with traditional college age students and adults of all ages. I am a generalist practitioner and have experience working with a wide range of concerns. Areas of specific clinical interest include working with those addressing issues related to gender diversity and sexual orientation. My clinical expertise includes providing treatment for depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder (Asperger's/Pathological Demand Avoidance) body image concerns, eating disorders and disordered eating. I find that my approach to therapy resonates well with college students in general and specifically with therapists in training, artists and creatives (of all sorts). Please contact me directly to schedule a brief (15 minute) consultation to discuss how we might work together to increase the peace and love you find in life and to share a few good laughs along the way.