Therapists in Chicago, IL
I strive to cultivate a culturally-informed, sex and kink-positive space for clients to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I’m affirming of all expressions of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as non-traditional relationship structures. My background includes specific work with those who have experienced traumatic injuries, the sudden loss of a loved one, and interpersonal violence, as well as understanding and coping with complex medical diagnoses. I also work with folks experiencing distress related to anxiety, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
I strive to cultivate a culturally-informed, sex and kink-positive space for clients to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I’m affirming of all expressions of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as non-traditional relationship structures. My background includes specific work with those who have experienced traumatic injuries, the sudden loss of a loved one, and interpersonal violence, as well as understanding and coping with complex medical diagnoses. I also work with folks experiencing distress related to anxiety, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
The process of finding a therapist and therapy itself can be daunting. I believe in a client-centered and decolonized approach to therapy and do my best to mitigate and dissolve the power dynamics in the therapeutic space. Accepting and supporting clients as they come into the therapy space is at the forefront of my practice and my commitment to radical authenticity. Clients can know that their needs, conflicts, life transitions, and goals will be addressed and supported in a therapeutic relationship with me as I walk with you as a personal advocate in your healing journey.
The process of finding a therapist and therapy itself can be daunting. I believe in a client-centered and decolonized approach to therapy and do my best to mitigate and dissolve the power dynamics in the therapeutic space. Accepting and supporting clients as they come into the therapy space is at the forefront of my practice and my commitment to radical authenticity. Clients can know that their needs, conflicts, life transitions, and goals will be addressed and supported in a therapeutic relationship with me as I walk with you as a personal advocate in your healing journey.
It is common for human beings who experience trauma and life stressors to feel like their lives are unraveling. My passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience and also improve their lives. I enjoy working with adults of all ages. I am fluent in English and Portuguese. As a client-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative space and a vehicle for change.
It is common for human beings who experience trauma and life stressors to feel like their lives are unraveling. My passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience and also improve their lives. I enjoy working with adults of all ages. I am fluent in English and Portuguese. As a client-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative space and a vehicle for change.
I work with a number of different presenting issues including men's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, couples and those who are dealing with substance use issues.
I work with a number of different presenting issues including men's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, couples and those who are dealing with substance use issues.
Psychotherapy has the potential to improve and even transform people's lives. If you're feeling like there's something missing in your life, psychotherapy can help. You deserve support if you’re experiencing anxiety, depression or the lingering effects of trauma and loss. If you're dealing with challenging life transitions or difficult personal and professional relationships, psychotherapy can be a valuable resource to help you navigate and cope more constructively.
Psychotherapy has the potential to improve and even transform people's lives. If you're feeling like there's something missing in your life, psychotherapy can help. You deserve support if you’re experiencing anxiety, depression or the lingering effects of trauma and loss. If you're dealing with challenging life transitions or difficult personal and professional relationships, psychotherapy can be a valuable resource to help you navigate and cope more constructively.
Accepting new clients! Are you feeling stuck in patterns or cycles that no longer work? Do you feel misunderstood by people in your life? Challenged by the limits of your brain or body when you have difficulty meeting expectations set by society? I am here to help! We can work together on processing experiences from your past, building healthy relationships with yourself and others, or strengthening a compassionate inner voice. The way I approach therapy is built around the idea that no one exists alone. The way we are now is a result of the relationships, experiences, and connections we've had throughout our lives.
Accepting new clients! Are you feeling stuck in patterns or cycles that no longer work? Do you feel misunderstood by people in your life? Challenged by the limits of your brain or body when you have difficulty meeting expectations set by society? I am here to help! We can work together on processing experiences from your past, building healthy relationships with yourself and others, or strengthening a compassionate inner voice. The way I approach therapy is built around the idea that no one exists alone. The way we are now is a result of the relationships, experiences, and connections we've had throughout our lives.
Catherine Clifford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating challenges like anxiety, ADHD, depression, or major life transitions. My goal is to create a warm and supportive space where you can explore your emotions and thoughts openly, without judgment. Together, we’ll develop manageable and personalized goals that encourage growth and self-empowerment.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating challenges like anxiety, ADHD, depression, or major life transitions. My goal is to create a warm and supportive space where you can explore your emotions and thoughts openly, without judgment. Together, we’ll develop manageable and personalized goals that encourage growth and self-empowerment.
Chris Williams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself struggling to connect with others? Do you find that anxiety, fear of judgement from others or symptoms of ADHD prevents you from meeting new people, creating deeper connections with acquaintances, finding a romantic partner, speaking your mind or attending social events altogether? Is it hard to show your real self in social situations or at work, so you "mask" or hide that part of yourself, because you find it difficult to accept who you are and criticize yourself often? Well, this doesn't have to be your experience forever.
Do you find yourself struggling to connect with others? Do you find that anxiety, fear of judgement from others or symptoms of ADHD prevents you from meeting new people, creating deeper connections with acquaintances, finding a romantic partner, speaking your mind or attending social events altogether? Is it hard to show your real self in social situations or at work, so you "mask" or hide that part of yourself, because you find it difficult to accept who you are and criticize yourself often? Well, this doesn't have to be your experience forever.
Karen Parisian - Gradations Studio
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, ATR-BC , LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
At Gradations Studio - Art, Therapy and Wellness, I offer art therapy and talk therapy to individuals seeking a supportive and creative space to heal. I work with individuals of all ages and stages of life who are experiencing anxiety, depression, loss/grief, trauma, life transitions and challenges. In addition to art therapy and talk therapy, I work to incorporate a variety of modalities and coping strategies to address your unique needs.
At Gradations Studio - Art, Therapy and Wellness, I offer art therapy and talk therapy to individuals seeking a supportive and creative space to heal. I work with individuals of all ages and stages of life who are experiencing anxiety, depression, loss/grief, trauma, life transitions and challenges. In addition to art therapy and talk therapy, I work to incorporate a variety of modalities and coping strategies to address your unique needs.
I am a Licensed Social Worker, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Sex Therapist. My clinical experience is focused on working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families on issues including addiction, alcoholism, substance abuse, relationship/marital conflicts, codependency, divorce, infidelity, PTSD, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, life transition, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual health concerns, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, and intimacy injuries.
I am a Licensed Social Worker, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Sex Therapist. My clinical experience is focused on working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families on issues including addiction, alcoholism, substance abuse, relationship/marital conflicts, codependency, divorce, infidelity, PTSD, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, life transition, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual health concerns, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, and intimacy injuries.
O2 Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
We help clients facing relationship difficulties, like struggling with ineffective communication, high conflict and feelings of invalidation. Many feel lost, hopeless, and suffer from low self-esteem. They seek a supportive environment where they can be understood and guided. We offer strategies to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust while also boosting self-esteem. Our aim is to help you regain control over your lives and find renewed purpose and connection in their relationships and the world around you.
We help clients facing relationship difficulties, like struggling with ineffective communication, high conflict and feelings of invalidation. Many feel lost, hopeless, and suffer from low self-esteem. They seek a supportive environment where they can be understood and guided. We offer strategies to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust while also boosting self-esteem. Our aim is to help you regain control over your lives and find renewed purpose and connection in their relationships and the world around you.
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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.
Therapy can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. As a Queer Latinx therapist, I understand the need to search for clarity, guidance, and healing. Clients I’ve worked with have navigated complex identities and experiences, often feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They seek a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions, and their needs include validation, understanding, and practical tools to cope. Many also want insight into their patterns and relationships, aiming to build healthier connections with themselves and others.
Therapy can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. As a Queer Latinx therapist, I understand the need to search for clarity, guidance, and healing. Clients I’ve worked with have navigated complex identities and experiences, often feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They seek a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions, and their needs include validation, understanding, and practical tools to cope. Many also want insight into their patterns and relationships, aiming to build healthier connections with themselves and others.
I work best with people who are curious about themselves and their relationships with others. I often work with individuals who have been gifted with a lot of empathy for others but struggle to offer this compassion to themselves. If you would describe yourself as an “over-achiever”, “perfectionist”, “people-pleaser” or “workaholic” who is constantly striving to become “the best” version of themselves, even if it never feels like enough, I may be a good fit for you. I primarily work with anxiety, trauma, CPTSD, women's issues including PMDD, and sensory overload/overstimulation.
I work best with people who are curious about themselves and their relationships with others. I often work with individuals who have been gifted with a lot of empathy for others but struggle to offer this compassion to themselves. If you would describe yourself as an “over-achiever”, “perfectionist”, “people-pleaser” or “workaholic” who is constantly striving to become “the best” version of themselves, even if it never feels like enough, I may be a good fit for you. I primarily work with anxiety, trauma, CPTSD, women's issues including PMDD, and sensory overload/overstimulation.
John Fiene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Individuals, couples, or families, regardless of any age or background, may benefit from a consult for psychodynamic therapy to seek help with a particular circumstance. People curious about the unconscious or the experience of therapy are encouraged to inquire. The main determining factor for therapy to be successful is the ability to form a trusting bond. Whether you are seeking therapy for the first time or reaching out again, I hope to offer a deeply meaningful treatment relationship.
Individuals, couples, or families, regardless of any age or background, may benefit from a consult for psychodynamic therapy to seek help with a particular circumstance. People curious about the unconscious or the experience of therapy are encouraged to inquire. The main determining factor for therapy to be successful is the ability to form a trusting bond. Whether you are seeking therapy for the first time or reaching out again, I hope to offer a deeply meaningful treatment relationship.
As a therapist, researcher, and pleasure activist I strive to create a safe, accessible environment for you to connect with and express your most authentic self. During sessions, your trust and safety are priorities for me. I practice from a relational and client-centered framework, understanding that you are the expert in your own experience. With my warm and direct approach, I seek to ask the right questions to help you make new connections and provide a fresh perspective. I have experience supporting clients through gender-identity development, C-PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder, gender dysphoria, anxiety and depression.
As a therapist, researcher, and pleasure activist I strive to create a safe, accessible environment for you to connect with and express your most authentic self. During sessions, your trust and safety are priorities for me. I practice from a relational and client-centered framework, understanding that you are the expert in your own experience. With my warm and direct approach, I seek to ask the right questions to help you make new connections and provide a fresh perspective. I have experience supporting clients through gender-identity development, C-PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder, gender dysphoria, anxiety and depression.
Regardless of our problems, we all deserve the chance to feel supported and empowered. My approach to therapy starts by cultivating a safe environment and a positive relationship with my clients, and I like to approach treatment collaboratively. I have many ways to help you achieve your goals in therapy, but only you can be the expert on your own life. Together, we can find ways for you to live a happier, healthier life.
Regardless of our problems, we all deserve the chance to feel supported and empowered. My approach to therapy starts by cultivating a safe environment and a positive relationship with my clients, and I like to approach treatment collaboratively. I have many ways to help you achieve your goals in therapy, but only you can be the expert on your own life. Together, we can find ways for you to live a happier, healthier life.
As an MA, LPC, I help individuals explore their thoughts, feelings and behavior to reach a more clear self-understanding and change long-standing patterns of behavior that may be disrupting relationships, work and study. The nonjudgemental and accepting nature of clinical mental health counseling makes it possible to face painful experiences. My client utilizes their capacity to change, seeking mental clarity, presence and balance. As a professional counselor I will work within clearly contracted, ethical boundaries, with respect for my clients, their values, their beliefs, their culture, to explore and resolve life difficulties.
As an MA, LPC, I help individuals explore their thoughts, feelings and behavior to reach a more clear self-understanding and change long-standing patterns of behavior that may be disrupting relationships, work and study. The nonjudgemental and accepting nature of clinical mental health counseling makes it possible to face painful experiences. My client utilizes their capacity to change, seeking mental clarity, presence and balance. As a professional counselor I will work within clearly contracted, ethical boundaries, with respect for my clients, their values, their beliefs, their culture, to explore and resolve life difficulties.
My approach is solution focused and strength based. I am nuturing and supportive and will work to build a relationship of mutual trust and respect in an environment that fosters growth and change. I will assist clients to become aware of alternative behaviors as they approach their treatment goals. Treatment goals will seek to increase an overall sense of well being and address challenges they face.
My approach is solution focused and strength based. I am nuturing and supportive and will work to build a relationship of mutual trust and respect in an environment that fosters growth and change. I will assist clients to become aware of alternative behaviors as they approach their treatment goals. Treatment goals will seek to increase an overall sense of well being and address challenges they face.
Koziol Therapy and Coaching, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
We specialize in complex trauma/C-PTSD, PTSD, depression/anxiety, relationship issues, dissociative disorders, personality disorders, life transitions/adjustment, anger management, obsessive-compulsive behaviors/OCD, self-esteem/shame, oppositional defiance in children, substance abuse, ADHD (children and adults).
We specialize in complex trauma/C-PTSD, PTSD, depression/anxiety, relationship issues, dissociative disorders, personality disorders, life transitions/adjustment, anger management, obsessive-compulsive behaviors/OCD, self-esteem/shame, oppositional defiance in children, substance abuse, ADHD (children and adults).
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How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL
3,000+
Average cost per session
$154
Therapists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
77% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Life Transitions |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
66% | Aetna |
49% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | 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.