Therapists in Chicago, IL
I am a gay therapist that finds meaning working with individuals with histories of trauma, complex family dynamics, and those in toxic relationships with themselves and others. I also work with LGBTQ couples and mixed neurotype couples who want to explore open relationships, polyamory, and how to feel more connected and safer with their partners. My role as a therapist is to help my clients understand the symptoms that once protected them from trauma with the wisdom and compassion of your present self and encourage them to feel confident while you practice new skills to look ahead.
I am a gay therapist that finds meaning working with individuals with histories of trauma, complex family dynamics, and those in toxic relationships with themselves and others. I also work with LGBTQ couples and mixed neurotype couples who want to explore open relationships, polyamory, and how to feel more connected and safer with their partners. My role as a therapist is to help my clients understand the symptoms that once protected them from trauma with the wisdom and compassion of your present self and encourage them to feel confident while you practice new skills to look ahead.
First thing we do is discuss the presenting issue. The homework is to complete a personality style questionnaire that is key in helping to focus on the work. Then we see how the personality works with the presenting issue. Then we set up a way to address the issue that is tailored to the personality style. I assign common sense realistic ways for you to be able to use that will result in an immediate healthy sense of well being. I do individual and relationship counseling. I have the life and professional experience needed to help you.
First thing we do is discuss the presenting issue. The homework is to complete a personality style questionnaire that is key in helping to focus on the work. Then we see how the personality works with the presenting issue. Then we set up a way to address the issue that is tailored to the personality style. I assign common sense realistic ways for you to be able to use that will result in an immediate healthy sense of well being. I do individual and relationship counseling. I have the life and professional experience needed to help you.
Erich H. Heintzen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I believe that as we evolve and grow, our connections with ourselves, others and the world around us can become deeper and more fulfilling. However, when we are under stress, in a relationship crisis, or feel anxious or depressed, our connections to our loved ones and to ourselves are limited. We may be unable to communicate, feel angry, lack energy and feel overwhelmed. In order to relieve life's pressures, it is important to slow down, and become more self-aware--reconnecting with ourselves once again. Counseling fosters trust, and is a process that promotes growth and change.
I believe that as we evolve and grow, our connections with ourselves, others and the world around us can become deeper and more fulfilling. However, when we are under stress, in a relationship crisis, or feel anxious or depressed, our connections to our loved ones and to ourselves are limited. We may be unable to communicate, feel angry, lack energy and feel overwhelmed. In order to relieve life's pressures, it is important to slow down, and become more self-aware--reconnecting with ourselves once again. Counseling fosters trust, and is a process that promotes growth and change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and received my Doctorate in Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 2003. I have been working in the mental health field in various capacities, including community mental health, college counseling, group practice, private practice, and substance abuse treatment since1996. Twenty years of experience in this field has not only strengthened my skills, but continues to ignite my passion for working with individuals on the verge of self-exploration and change. I pride myself on being down-to-earth, relatable, and nonjudgmental in order to create a therapeutic environment that allows patients to express themselves.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and received my Doctorate in Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 2003. I have been working in the mental health field in various capacities, including community mental health, college counseling, group practice, private practice, and substance abuse treatment since1996. Twenty years of experience in this field has not only strengthened my skills, but continues to ignite my passion for working with individuals on the verge of self-exploration and change. I pride myself on being down-to-earth, relatable, and nonjudgmental in order to create a therapeutic environment that allows patients to express themselves.
Do you feel like your emotions have flatlined? Maybe there are days in which you are having BIG feelings that others don't seem to understand. Does it feel like you're struggling to just show up in life? Perhaps you recognize a sense of discomfort in your body, because of bad experiences. Maybe you feel like you are in the wrong body to begin with. Work is hard. Socializing is hard. Taking care of yourself is hard. You are struggling with your relationships. Something feels off. You may not be sure what is missing or how you got to this place in life, but here you are. For more information, visit: www.allpartsseen.com
Do you feel like your emotions have flatlined? Maybe there are days in which you are having BIG feelings that others don't seem to understand. Does it feel like you're struggling to just show up in life? Perhaps you recognize a sense of discomfort in your body, because of bad experiences. Maybe you feel like you are in the wrong body to begin with. Work is hard. Socializing is hard. Taking care of yourself is hard. You are struggling with your relationships. Something feels off. You may not be sure what is missing or how you got to this place in life, but here you are. For more information, visit: www.allpartsseen.com
Sage Therapy was founded in October 2020 from a deep passion to create a supportive and reliable mental healthcare practice for all clients. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality therapy, regardless of their background or identity. We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services to clients of all ages, from kids and teens to adults of all identities. Our practitioners have experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns.
Sage Therapy was founded in October 2020 from a deep passion to create a supportive and reliable mental healthcare practice for all clients. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality therapy, regardless of their background or identity. We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services to clients of all ages, from kids and teens to adults of all identities. Our practitioners have experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns.
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
Jelena Bulic Milenovic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
Waitlist for new clients
Life is full of transitions and adjustments; in each of these, you deserve a safe and supportive space to talk about it in a relaxed, guided manner. I believe in the importance of language- how you talk to and about yourself and others- and in the power of stories that make life. I want to help you recognize which stories you wrote in alignment with your values and which were imposed on you by society, culture, and the people close to you. In therapy, I utilize evidence-based techniques while also recognizing that your mind is a vast universe to be approached from a philosophical and spiritual place.
Life is full of transitions and adjustments; in each of these, you deserve a safe and supportive space to talk about it in a relaxed, guided manner. I believe in the importance of language- how you talk to and about yourself and others- and in the power of stories that make life. I want to help you recognize which stories you wrote in alignment with your values and which were imposed on you by society, culture, and the people close to you. In therapy, I utilize evidence-based techniques while also recognizing that your mind is a vast universe to be approached from a philosophical and spiritual place.
Therapy is a place that balances acceptance and change. Maybe you have noticed an imbalance in your life and are struggling to either find out or work towards what matters most to you. I want to be your collaborator as we work towards what you care about by integrating mindfulness, looking at past patterns, and understanding how larger societal systems impact you. My goal is to help you live a life you feel connected to and are proud of. The success of our work together is dependent upon the establishment of a solid relationship between us and collaboration.
Therapy is a place that balances acceptance and change. Maybe you have noticed an imbalance in your life and are struggling to either find out or work towards what matters most to you. I want to be your collaborator as we work towards what you care about by integrating mindfulness, looking at past patterns, and understanding how larger societal systems impact you. My goal is to help you live a life you feel connected to and are proud of. The success of our work together is dependent upon the establishment of a solid relationship between us and collaboration.
Mary Maraventano-Stried
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
Each person processes physical and emotional experiences differently. My approach in treating these experiences as they become overwhelming to ones physical and mental health is with compassion and authenticity. When working in the respiratory therapy field I watched many of my patients struggle with managing their complex emotional responses due to the chronic respiratory illnesses. Anxiety, stress and depression has an impact not only on our mental well being but our physical health as well.
Each person processes physical and emotional experiences differently. My approach in treating these experiences as they become overwhelming to ones physical and mental health is with compassion and authenticity. When working in the respiratory therapy field I watched many of my patients struggle with managing their complex emotional responses due to the chronic respiratory illnesses. Anxiety, stress and depression has an impact not only on our mental well being but our physical health as well.
Rob Bodary
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I am a Licenced Clinical Professional Counselor with experience working with in residential, outpatient, and community based settings. I trained at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in clinical counseling, specializing in trauma. I've worked with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds on a wide variety of presenting issues including: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, attachment, thought and mood dysregulation, sexual health, and identity development. My clinical style utilizes person-centered and CBT techniques with a strong focus on creating an open, nonjudgmental therapeutic space.
I am a Licenced Clinical Professional Counselor with experience working with in residential, outpatient, and community based settings. I trained at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in clinical counseling, specializing in trauma. I've worked with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds on a wide variety of presenting issues including: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, attachment, thought and mood dysregulation, sexual health, and identity development. My clinical style utilizes person-centered and CBT techniques with a strong focus on creating an open, nonjudgmental therapeutic space.
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In practice for 20 years, I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified sex therapist specializing in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders as a starting place. Often underlying these disorders are issues with relationship patterns and stress related to stage of life transitions in both the personal and professional realms. In addition, I have expertise providing support during the prenatal and postpartum period, treating sexual health/functioning concerns, working through grief, loss and the challenge of infertility. Other ares of specialization include working with new mothers over 40 and young adults.
In practice for 20 years, I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified sex therapist specializing in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders as a starting place. Often underlying these disorders are issues with relationship patterns and stress related to stage of life transitions in both the personal and professional realms. In addition, I have expertise providing support during the prenatal and postpartum period, treating sexual health/functioning concerns, working through grief, loss and the challenge of infertility. Other ares of specialization include working with new mothers over 40 and young adults.
Sherri A Wandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
My clients are looking for effective therapy to resolve or manage symptoms related to procrastination, AD/HD, trauma, anxiety, depression and OCD. They want to work with a therapist who has a high level of expertise and experience working with their particular struggles. They are motivated and ready to tackle the issues that interfere with feeling they are performing at their best at home and work. They want therapy in which they’re met with warmth and compassion and feel understood, respected and validated. My clients are university students, professionals in high performance careers, and professionals staying home to parent.
My clients are looking for effective therapy to resolve or manage symptoms related to procrastination, AD/HD, trauma, anxiety, depression and OCD. They want to work with a therapist who has a high level of expertise and experience working with their particular struggles. They are motivated and ready to tackle the issues that interfere with feeling they are performing at their best at home and work. They want therapy in which they’re met with warmth and compassion and feel understood, respected and validated. My clients are university students, professionals in high performance careers, and professionals staying home to parent.
People often feel distressed, helpless, or overwhelmed long before they seek or begin working with a therapist. I know how much courage it takes to reach out for support, and I applaud your bravery in looking to seize your strengths, goals, wants and needs. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my intention is to help you better understand yourself and enhance your relationships.
People often feel distressed, helpless, or overwhelmed long before they seek or begin working with a therapist. I know how much courage it takes to reach out for support, and I applaud your bravery in looking to seize your strengths, goals, wants and needs. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my intention is to help you better understand yourself and enhance your relationships.
Ana Briones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603 (Online Only)
It is my belief that the most important relationship we can cultivate is the one that we have with ourselves. This relationship is reflected in our everyday life and enables us to heal and grow. However, during challenging times we may need someone alongside us as we work to understand the inner workings of ourselves. I believe therapy is a space for you to show up as your true unedited self, free of worry and expectations. Together we will co-create a warm and empathic space where you can share your stories and begin to find peace, safety, and harmony with all parts of your authentic self.
It is my belief that the most important relationship we can cultivate is the one that we have with ourselves. This relationship is reflected in our everyday life and enables us to heal and grow. However, during challenging times we may need someone alongside us as we work to understand the inner workings of ourselves. I believe therapy is a space for you to show up as your true unedited self, free of worry and expectations. Together we will co-create a warm and empathic space where you can share your stories and begin to find peace, safety, and harmony with all parts of your authentic self.
Ashley Brouman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
Ashley’s hope as a therapist is to support people with building a foundation to live a life that aligns with their values. Your experiences, environments, and relationships all shape who you are, but due to trauma and unhealthy connection you may experience distress and need support to ultimately move from surviving to thriving. Ashley approaches therapy as a collaborative relationship and prioritizes safety, empathy, and authenticity throughout the process. She values strength based, person centered treatment, and in your work together you will focus on what’s important to you while also challenge areas that are counterproductive.
Ashley’s hope as a therapist is to support people with building a foundation to live a life that aligns with their values. Your experiences, environments, and relationships all shape who you are, but due to trauma and unhealthy connection you may experience distress and need support to ultimately move from surviving to thriving. Ashley approaches therapy as a collaborative relationship and prioritizes safety, empathy, and authenticity throughout the process. She values strength based, person centered treatment, and in your work together you will focus on what’s important to you while also challenge areas that are counterproductive.
Sometimes parenting feels traumatic, and you are tired of feeling alone. I help parents understand their child's most frustrating, confusing, and overwhelming behaviors while also guiding them to experience more confidence and regulation. My theoretical paths include trauma-informed, attachment-based, and somatic in nature. I practice somatic touch, which effectively facilitates regulation in a person's nervous system. It is hard to change the way we parent even if we know what to do. I provide the practical resources and support that you need.
Sometimes parenting feels traumatic, and you are tired of feeling alone. I help parents understand their child's most frustrating, confusing, and overwhelming behaviors while also guiding them to experience more confidence and regulation. My theoretical paths include trauma-informed, attachment-based, and somatic in nature. I practice somatic touch, which effectively facilitates regulation in a person's nervous system. It is hard to change the way we parent even if we know what to do. I provide the practical resources and support that you need.
Are you tired of feeling stressed and anxious? Feeling stuck or overwhelmed by it all? At times, it can feel as though anxiety controls every aspect of your life. Your anxiety decides what you say or don’t, it impacts the choices you make, and holds you back from doing the things you want to do. Some days, before you even open your eyes, you may already feel anxious. You have done everything you can imagine to find relief on your own. A part of you worries that you are plagued with this anxiety for life, while another part of you knows it can get better.
Are you tired of feeling stressed and anxious? Feeling stuck or overwhelmed by it all? At times, it can feel as though anxiety controls every aspect of your life. Your anxiety decides what you say or don’t, it impacts the choices you make, and holds you back from doing the things you want to do. Some days, before you even open your eyes, you may already feel anxious. You have done everything you can imagine to find relief on your own. A part of you worries that you are plagued with this anxiety for life, while another part of you knows it can get better.
Rakema Booker-Ward
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
I’m excited that you are here! That means you have chosen to put yourself first! Negative thoughts and emotions can often have you feeling unwanted and unloved. As a result, you may find your relationship with yourself or others suffering. To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.
I’m excited that you are here! That means you have chosen to put yourself first! Negative thoughts and emotions can often have you feeling unwanted and unloved. As a result, you may find your relationship with yourself or others suffering. To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.
As your counselor, my number one goal is creating a space safe for you that allows for open and honest dialogue. I recognize the courage and vulnerability it takes to begin the therapeutic process and am here to support you through whatever they bring to session. I believe in meeting you where you are at, with the energy you bring into the session. I operate from a person-centered, collaborative lens, promoting a strong sense of client autonomy.
As your counselor, my number one goal is creating a space safe for you that allows for open and honest dialogue. I recognize the courage and vulnerability it takes to begin the therapeutic process and am here to support you through whatever they bring to session. I believe in meeting you where you are at, with the energy you bring into the session. I operate from a person-centered, collaborative lens, promoting a strong sense of client autonomy.
See more therapy options for Chicago
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL
3,000+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
78% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Life Transitions |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
64% | Aetna |
50% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Chicago?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.