Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Meet Emma Flores – Your Support for Life’s Transitions and Challenges College is full of new experiences—some exciting, some stressful, and some that catch you completely off guard. Whether you’re starting your first semester, adjusting to campus life, or preparing for what comes after graduation, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Emma Flores is here to help you navigate it all. Emma is a warm, approachable therapist who truly understands the unique challenges college students face. She knows that life during these years isn’t just about getting good grades—it’s about finding your identity, managing relationships, coping with change, and balancing independence with responsibility. She creates a safe, welcoming space where you can talk openly about what’s on your mind without fear of judgment. Emma works with students who are feeling anxious, stressed, stuck, or uncertain about the future. She also supports those dealing with depression, relationship issues, self-doubt, and big life transitions. Her style is collaborative—you bring your experiences and goals, and together you’ll explore what’s getting in the way and how to move forward. One of Emma’s strengths is making therapy feel comfortable and relatable. She understands that reaching out for help can be intimidating, so she meets you exactly where you are. Her sessions feel like a genuine conversation with someone who’s fully in your corner—someone who will listen, guide, and challenge you in ways that feel safe and encouraging. Emma is especially passionate about helping students: Manage anxiety, stress, and burnout Navigate family, friendship, and romantic relationship changes Build confidence and self-worth Adjust to new environments or cultural transitions Develop healthy coping skills for academic and personal challenges She believes that therapy is not just for times of crisis—it’s also a tool for growth, clarity, and self-discovery. Working with Emma means gaining insight into your patterns, building resilience, and creating the life you want, one step at a time. If you’ve been feeling like you have to “hold it all together” on your own, Emma wants you to know that you don’t. She’s here to remind you that it’s okay to ask for help—and that doing so is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you’re looking for short-term support to get through a rough patch or ongoing therapy to help you grow and thrive, Emma is ready to walk alongside you. Your college years are a time of change, growth, and possibility. With the right support, you can face challenges with confidence—and Emma Flores is here to help you do just that.

Experiencing anxiety can feel overwhelming and you may find yourself avoiding people, places and things in an attempt to manage your symptoms. You may find that your world is getting smaller and smaller and may feel like you are in a constant cycle of anxiety and a mix of other painful emotions. I would like to help you change your relationship with anxiety. Through collaboration, you can learn skills to help you face and manage your anxiety symptoms, so that you can live the life that you want to live.

Therapy is a unique process, one that aims to guide you through challenges and roadblocks, helping you move towards a healthier and more meaningful life. My goal is to create a space where growth is safe and cultivated. Using an evidence-based approach, I work to help you gain awareness of your emotional experience, working to understand the way you experience and interact with the world. I help you explore parts of yourself you may not be completely comfortable with, learning to tolerate the discomfort that surfaces during this process. I challenge clients to try something different, encouraging a more intentional approach. Change can be hard and scary; it takes courage and willingness to say you need help. I see individuals with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship concerns, and identity development. I also maintain a strong commitment to cultural humility. Life can throw out some pretty tough things, and while we don't always have a choice in what comes our way, we do have a choice in how we respond. Let's work together to find out how you want to respond to the challenges in your life.

Are you having trouble with falling and staying asleep? Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? I specialize in working with people who are having trouble sleeping, who are experiencing anxiety, and who are going through reproductive transitions or who are experiencing distress related to their reproductive health (e.g., PMDD, pregnancy, postpartum, infertility). In my work, I aim to cultivate a safe space to hold and honor your emotions, while also providing you with new coping tools to help you process your emotions, get some distance from your thoughts, and help you engage with your life. To do this, I use a blend of evidence-based psychotherapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy.

Welcome! We at The Celestial Life see clients for nutrition counseling and we specialize in folks who struggle with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image.

I welcome the individual that is curious to understand the myriad of feelings, patterns and issues in one's life. I create space to be known and understand the self. Young adulthood is a time of discovery, to figure out how you want to be. Old defenses and coping skills may not be working as well. My professional interests are broad when it comes to the human condition including grief and loss, relationships and transitions. I work through a relational psychodynamic strength-based attachment lens. You and I work within the relational interaction between us as we discover your self-structure. This allows a person to expand and evolve. The hardest step is reaching out. If the way I work is of interest, please give me a call to see if treatment would be a good fit. All questions are good questions. Invest in yourself, you are worth it. I practice in Missouri, Maine, Illinois and New Mexico. My undergraduate educational experience is from Dartmouth College along with my MSW from Washington University. I have certificates of study from the St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute, in the Advanced Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Program and from The National Institute for the Psychotherapies, NYC, in Integrative Trauma Studies. I am currently in year 2 of Somatic Expererience Method Training. I have worked inpatient, residential and outpatient with a team oriented approach in nationally known facilities, McLean Hospital, St. Louis Children's Hospital, and Care and Counseling St. Louis prior to opening my own practice in 2015. Be well, Cindy

My ideal client is wanting to recreate the moments they desire most within their relationships and at school. My goal is to help people embrace their strengths. I do this through creating an environment where differences are appreciated and authentic choices can be identified. I enjoy helping students as they adjust to life changes, navigate friendships, and cope with school related stressors. I value working with couples as they identify ways to maintain intimacy. I enjoy helping students and their families adjust to life changes. I believe it is possible for you to experience a deeper connection. If you are interested in making this happen, feel free to reach out to me via email or by phone. I look forward to getting to know you more and seeing if I am a good fit within your journey.

I work with college students and adults who are navigating stress, anxiety, academic pressures, relationships, and life transitions. I take a collaborative and supportive approach, tailoring therapy to each person’s unique needs and goals. Some clients choose to explore EMDR, and I’m trained to use it when it fits, but many find our sessions helpful through conversation, reflection, and practical coping strategies. I aim to create a space where students feel understood and empowered, whether you’re struggling with burnout, uncertainty about the future, or past experiences that continue to affect your life. I accept BCBS of Michigan and BCN and offer telehealth sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays to make therapy accessible and easy to fit into a busy schedule.

I work with those who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and not taking care of oneself first. Trauma comes in many forms and may not always look like what you'd expect. I also work well with caregivers and other helpers who experience compassion fatigue, along with those who find themselves giving more than they receive in their relationships. No matter the circumstances that bring you into therapy, we will spend time on how to set boundaries, tune in to your needs, and heal your trauma. Sessions are tailored to your needs and focused on attainable goals. I use a combination of methods from CBT, Family Systems, Attachment Theory, and EMDR to create a plan tailored to your specific needs. I practice non-judgmentally and offer a safe space for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community. I offer free phone consultations so we can decide together if I would be the right fit for you. Making that first contact is the hardest step, but please know that once you do, you are no longer alone. It is an honor to walk with you on your journey to wellness and I am grateful for your consideration in letting me join you. ** I do not accept insurance. My fee is $150 per session **

Are you struggling with anxious racing thoughts, depressed moods, or overwhelming stress? We can help you manage. You possess your own wisdom and natural tendency towards growth; we will help uncover that. While we are laid back, relatable and warm, we take our work very seriously and consider it an honor to work with you. You’re welcome to seek treatment in the comfort of your own space through our convenient, secure telehealth platform. It’s essential for us that our clients get quality, comprehensive care. We go the extra mile to make sure you are receiving an excellent service, whether that’s by sending helpful resources, suggesting “assignments” between sessions, or introducing you to another trusted provider to join your treatment team. With your permission, we collaborate with your other providers as needed to make sure you receive the best treatment possible. We realize that seeking therapy can be a brave first step to getting help, or you may be already familiar with the concept and this is a trusted tool to maintain mental wellbeing. Wherever you are in your process, we meet you where you are at.

My dedication to mental health comes from an interest in patients’ stories and the need to help them, educate them, and encourage them to take an active role in their care. My goal is to collaborate with my patients with empathy to help them better understand their health so they can make important health decisions. I believe in providing individualized care through a holistic approach. I am Board Certified in General Psychiatry. My areas of expertise include Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and psychosis. I am an avid reader and love cooking, gardening, and painting. I have two children and enjoy spending time with my family.

Many of the clients I support are college or graduate students and athletes, who are overwhelmed and struggling to create balance and peace of mind throughout the various obstacles and pressures they face. They’re dealing with anxiety, stress, burnout, low self-confidence, relationship challenges, school or sports performance issues, injuries, life transitions, and more. As a former high school social worker, women's basketball coach, and student-athlete, I have a deep understanding of the numerous challenges that go along with academics and sports. By using a collaborative, holistic, and strengths-based approach, I will tailor your therapy sessions to fit your own unique values, needs, and goals. I provide sports psychology tools for athletes and both in-person and online therapy, so you can conveniently access support amidst your busy schedule. Reach out to schedule a 15-minute complimentary consultation call. I can't wait to help you reach your goals!

Are you having difficulty with relationships and connecting with others? Are you impacted by trauma, stressful relationships such as caregiving, family members with substance use, your own substance use, or conflict in relationships? Is you history influencing your present day life? Are you looking for a therapeutic relationship that will be comfortable for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so you can begin to find peace, increased self-worth, better boundaries, and improved ability to feel joy and be present? If you relate to these concerns send me an email and lets talk.

Relational trauma can make you feel like you’re not good enough and somehow too much at the same time. You might be hyper aware of others' needs which leaves you feeling emotionally exhausted. You over-function in relationships and struggle with conflict and boundaries due to fear of rejection. No matter what you do, it feels like you’re a supporting character in the cast of your own life. You may have developed these parts of yourself in order to feel safe, but what would life look like if you could shed old scripts and live authentically with emotional balance and self-trust? Let’s explore how trauma and loss may influence the way you interact with the world around you. I prefer a more holistic approach to therapy and don’t believe that we can always think our way out of something. I’m interested in helping you develop healthy relationships with others, but more importantly your relationship with yourself.

Through compassion and support, I strive to empower my clients to cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and autonomy. My objective is to equip individuals with the tools needed to navigate their personal journeys with confidence. Recognizing that each person comes from a unique background with varied needs, I prioritize a collaborative therapeutic process tailored to your specific circumstances. I am committed to creating a safe, judgment-free environment where questions and feedback are always welcome. While therapists are often seen as “experts,” I firmly believe that you are the expert of your own life. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in working with children aged 11+, teens, college students, emerging adults, and adults from diverse backgrounds. I take an eclectic approach, integrating modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Art Therapy, Bibliotherapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Practices to help you achieve your goals. Commonly, I support individuals experiencing anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, perfectionism, life transitions, and challenges related to college or emerging adulthood. I also work with clients to manage stress, build coping skills, address women’s issues, and explore the impact of being a child or an adult child of an alcoholic or dysfunctional family (ACOA) and (COA). Alongside my clients, I help identify areas requiring focus, set meaningful goals, and develop skills to foster a sustainable holistic approach to long-term emotional well-being. I am dedicated to helping individuals confront life’s challenges with courage and will always meet them where they are on their personal wellness journey.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I’m Mercedes Yates-Jones, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois and Virginia. I am also the founder of Safe to Say Therapy located in Winfield, IL. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and have spent over a decade helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. Before starting my private practice, I worked with the Department of Veteran Affairs and in several private practice settings, supporting clients with a wide range of needs. I also have experience in inpatient psychiatric care, which has shaped my calm and steady presence when clients are feeling overwhelmed or facing difficult moments. I work with children ages 10 and up, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, burnout, academic stress, relationship concerns, life transitions, or periods of feeling stuck. I also have a heart for supporting students, veterans, parents, caregivers, and individuals from underserved communities. I created Safe to Say Therapy because I believe everyone deserves a space where they feel safe, understood, and truly supported. My goal is to meet you with warmth and authenticity and walk alongside you as you move toward clarity, confidence, and meaningful change, at a pace that feels right for you.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Illinois, and I’m passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. I strive to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you can feel comfortable sharing your concerns openly. People often describe my style as calm and respectful. I believe clear communication and patient education are essential, so I make sure you feel informed, confident, and supported throughout your care. My approach is patient-centered and collaborative. I recognize that everyone’s experiences, needs, and goals are unique, and I enjoy working closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that supports both your mental health and overall well-being. I provide care for anxiety, depression, and ADHD, including comprehensive evaluations and medication management. My focus is on accessibility, meaningful symptom improvement, and helping you build lasting emotional stability.

Hello! We are a group private practice who aims to minimize mental health stigmas among all cultures and populations. We find that being REAL, genuine, and authentic quickly reduces great barriers to care. We look forward to partnering with you to navigate life's unique challenges.

Ideally clients book with me looking to heal and move forward in life when they’re feeling “stuck in neutral”. My expertise extends to addressing a range of mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression and PTSD, OCD, developmental and behavioral issues. I provide personalized therapeutic approaches to foster resilience and emotional growth in my clients. Through empathy, communication, and evidence-based interventions, I tend to create a safe space for individuals to process their experiences, build confidence and develop healthy coping mechanisms. I have experience working with individuals as young as 6 to 55 years of age. I am a therapist specialized in working with children, adolescents and adults. I am skilled in helping individuals navigate through the emotional and psychological impacts of trauma. I help individuals gain their voices back. With my extensive experience in family therapy, I work to strengthen family dynamics and support healing within the home as well. Therapeutically; I understand that certain circumstances or life events may have impacted you, however I believe your past shouldn’t control your future. “Just like history; your story continues”, meaning don’t let anything or anyone end your story for you. “In order to see progress, you have to trust the process and believe you will overcome these hurdles”.