Therapists in Chicago, IL

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have nearly 15 years of clinical practice and supervision of other clinicians. I am a very client-centered therapist, so my main goal is to meet the clients where they are and support them through the change process. No one knows you better than you do; sometimes, you just need a little help figuring it all out. I work with adults who are looking to make some changes in their lives. They may not know what they need to change or how, but they are "mostly" ready and motivated to do the work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have nearly 15 years of clinical practice and supervision of other clinicians. I am a very client-centered therapist, so my main goal is to meet the clients where they are and support them through the change process. No one knows you better than you do; sometimes, you just need a little help figuring it all out. I work with adults who are looking to make some changes in their lives. They may not know what they need to change or how, but they are "mostly" ready and motivated to do the work.

Welcome to therapy! I work from a place of common humanity: everyone has self-defeating behavior, and everyone needs help sometimes. Therapy can help you break free from unhelpful cycles such as avoidance, panic, overthinking, and people-pleasing. It sounds paradoxical, but "fighting" these cycles often creates more pain. Therapy can help you accept and make sense of your struggles, reduce the pain associated with them, and use them as tools for growth. I enjoy helping clients with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, unhealthy relationships, ambivalence about change, life transitions, and mood swings.
Welcome to therapy! I work from a place of common humanity: everyone has self-defeating behavior, and everyone needs help sometimes. Therapy can help you break free from unhelpful cycles such as avoidance, panic, overthinking, and people-pleasing. It sounds paradoxical, but "fighting" these cycles often creates more pain. Therapy can help you accept and make sense of your struggles, reduce the pain associated with them, and use them as tools for growth. I enjoy helping clients with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, unhealthy relationships, ambivalence about change, life transitions, and mood swings.

Hey there! I’m Mike (he/they), Clinical Social Work Intern currently pursuing my MSW at University of Illinois Chicago. Overall, I am driven by my value of harmony, empathy, and social justice, and I am deeply committed to advancing underserved populations. I thrive on making personal connections with my clientele while providing realistic tools and resources to improve their efficacy. No one form of therapy is right for everyone and as such, an eclectic approach allows for me to meet clientele where they are. I am experienced in working with people of various ages, races, orientations, and genders.
Hey there! I’m Mike (he/they), Clinical Social Work Intern currently pursuing my MSW at University of Illinois Chicago. Overall, I am driven by my value of harmony, empathy, and social justice, and I am deeply committed to advancing underserved populations. I thrive on making personal connections with my clientele while providing realistic tools and resources to improve their efficacy. No one form of therapy is right for everyone and as such, an eclectic approach allows for me to meet clientele where they are. I am experienced in working with people of various ages, races, orientations, and genders.

Do you find yourself feeling unmotivated, distracted, or trying to keep your head above water? Our sessions will focus on better understanding you as a whole, and the most effective path to reach your goals. We will use a holistic approach to your health, considering physical, social, and emotional wellness. We will challenge you to dig deeper and create meaningful insight.
Do you find yourself feeling unmotivated, distracted, or trying to keep your head above water? Our sessions will focus on better understanding you as a whole, and the most effective path to reach your goals. We will use a holistic approach to your health, considering physical, social, and emotional wellness. We will challenge you to dig deeper and create meaningful insight.

Therapeutic work requires trust, and I feel it is an enormous privilege to be trusted with another person’s struggles, joys, and stories. I deeply value the human experience and am dedicated to my role as a therapist. As a final-year Masters student at the University of Chicago, my approach to therapy is constantly growing alongside my communities, the larger socio-political landscape, and the natural world. I employ multiple modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Psychodynamic, Relational-Cultural Theory, and queer theory. I’m able to tailor my therapeutic approach to your unique needs and individual growth.
Therapeutic work requires trust, and I feel it is an enormous privilege to be trusted with another person’s struggles, joys, and stories. I deeply value the human experience and am dedicated to my role as a therapist. As a final-year Masters student at the University of Chicago, my approach to therapy is constantly growing alongside my communities, the larger socio-political landscape, and the natural world. I employ multiple modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Psychodynamic, Relational-Cultural Theory, and queer theory. I’m able to tailor my therapeutic approach to your unique needs and individual growth.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is a supportive, holistic approach that is solution-focused as well. My goal is to help clients accomplish their goals, process concerns in therapy, and to empower my clients. My approach to therapy is supportive, collaborative, holistic-centered, solution-focused, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) focused therapy. I also use other therapeutic approaches if it best serve my clients' needs in therapy.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is a supportive, holistic approach that is solution-focused as well. My goal is to help clients accomplish their goals, process concerns in therapy, and to empower my clients. My approach to therapy is supportive, collaborative, holistic-centered, solution-focused, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) focused therapy. I also use other therapeutic approaches if it best serve my clients' needs in therapy.

Many young adults and working professionals experience life transitions, career stressors, and relationship challenges during this season of life that contribute to chronic feelings of sadness, isolation, and worry. Or perhaps past hurts resurface and we find ourselves having a tough time getting over them. Sometimes in these instances, we hesitate to involve the ones closest to us and, though it can be scary to confide in a therapist, we recognize that we could truly benefit from an objective perspective.
Many young adults and working professionals experience life transitions, career stressors, and relationship challenges during this season of life that contribute to chronic feelings of sadness, isolation, and worry. Or perhaps past hurts resurface and we find ourselves having a tough time getting over them. Sometimes in these instances, we hesitate to involve the ones closest to us and, though it can be scary to confide in a therapist, we recognize that we could truly benefit from an objective perspective.

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to help. My ideal client seeks support for anxiety, depression, chronic pain, relational trauma, neurodivergence, or OCD and may find it hard to express emotions verbally. I provide a safe, compassionate space where we use creative tools like writing, movement, and visual art to explore emotions and build resilience. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths and develop personalized, evidence-based strategies to support your unique journey toward healing and growth.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to help. My ideal client seeks support for anxiety, depression, chronic pain, relational trauma, neurodivergence, or OCD and may find it hard to express emotions verbally. I provide a safe, compassionate space where we use creative tools like writing, movement, and visual art to explore emotions and build resilience. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths and develop personalized, evidence-based strategies to support your unique journey toward healing and growth.

There's some add that says - life comes at you fast. I look around and that is what I see. Meanwhile we are supposed to constantly absorb the assaults on our identity and idea of how things are supposed to be. How are you supposed to navigate this world when everything is so unpredictable? You deserve a safe space to find your voice. That I can provide. You deserve a space where you are seen, understood, and valued—a space where your experiences, identity, and goals are at the center. I’m here to support you in navigating the challenges
There's some add that says - life comes at you fast. I look around and that is what I see. Meanwhile we are supposed to constantly absorb the assaults on our identity and idea of how things are supposed to be. How are you supposed to navigate this world when everything is so unpredictable? You deserve a safe space to find your voice. That I can provide. You deserve a space where you are seen, understood, and valued—a space where your experiences, identity, and goals are at the center. I’m here to support you in navigating the challenges

Matt Smith
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
The crux of my approach is simple, but versatile: I use anything and everything available to make breakthroughs possible. We all do better with an expansive toolkit. EMDR for "stuckness" / trauma and Gottman methods for couples to repair & connect. (Well worth YouTubing either for a sense of them.) Once we understand each other and you are insight-equipped, we'll put insight into action. But in ways that feel authentic to your personal experience of things. Clients often report that my approachable, humorous, "very human" style makes therapy a much more effective experience even when exploring difficult content.
The crux of my approach is simple, but versatile: I use anything and everything available to make breakthroughs possible. We all do better with an expansive toolkit. EMDR for "stuckness" / trauma and Gottman methods for couples to repair & connect. (Well worth YouTubing either for a sense of them.) Once we understand each other and you are insight-equipped, we'll put insight into action. But in ways that feel authentic to your personal experience of things. Clients often report that my approachable, humorous, "very human" style makes therapy a much more effective experience even when exploring difficult content.

Hi there, I'm Sarah. My goal is simple: to support you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. With a warm and empathetic approach, I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating challenges such as interpersonal/childhood trauma (C-PTSD), anxiety, depression, dissociation, and shame. I'm passionate about helping you navigate the complexities of your inner world to find growth, self-acceptance, and empowerment. In our sessions, it's all about you. You're in the driver's seat, and I'm here to provide the guidance and support you need to thrive.
Hi there, I'm Sarah. My goal is simple: to support you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. With a warm and empathetic approach, I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating challenges such as interpersonal/childhood trauma (C-PTSD), anxiety, depression, dissociation, and shame. I'm passionate about helping you navigate the complexities of your inner world to find growth, self-acceptance, and empowerment. In our sessions, it's all about you. You're in the driver's seat, and I'm here to provide the guidance and support you need to thrive.
Meet Our Therapists

I work best with clients who are curious about themselves and who are ready to examine what could be better in their lives and relationships. You and I will collaborate to understand your current pain in terms of your past struggles and the protective coping strategies you've utilized to make it this far. We will build compassion for parts of you that may be critical, fearful, ashamed or hopeless, and we will study the relationships you have with these parts, with other people, and with the world while building skills to regulate your nervous system, inhabit your body more fully, and experience joy, connection and pleasure.
I work best with clients who are curious about themselves and who are ready to examine what could be better in their lives and relationships. You and I will collaborate to understand your current pain in terms of your past struggles and the protective coping strategies you've utilized to make it this far. We will build compassion for parts of you that may be critical, fearful, ashamed or hopeless, and we will study the relationships you have with these parts, with other people, and with the world while building skills to regulate your nervous system, inhabit your body more fully, and experience joy, connection and pleasure.

I am currently accepting new clients and couples for Winter and Spring 2025! With a deep love for all people and an understanding of just how challenging it is to be human, I am prepared to create a warm and inviting space for you to explore and process complex feelings and heal painful wounds. My goal is to truly see you for who you are and ensure that you’re not alone in the process of self-discovery and healing. Through collaborative relationship building and strengths-based counseling, I will support you through life’s highs and lows and empower you to live life meaningfully, intentionally, and lovingly.
I am currently accepting new clients and couples for Winter and Spring 2025! With a deep love for all people and an understanding of just how challenging it is to be human, I am prepared to create a warm and inviting space for you to explore and process complex feelings and heal painful wounds. My goal is to truly see you for who you are and ensure that you’re not alone in the process of self-discovery and healing. Through collaborative relationship building and strengths-based counseling, I will support you through life’s highs and lows and empower you to live life meaningfully, intentionally, and lovingly.

Are you searching for guidance & a safe place of support to bring clarity in moments of loss, confusion & uncertainty? My name is Wendy Gutierrez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with 10 years of clinical experience, working with Children/ Adolescents & diverse populations.
Are you searching for guidance & a safe place of support to bring clarity in moments of loss, confusion & uncertainty? My name is Wendy Gutierrez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with 10 years of clinical experience, working with Children/ Adolescents & diverse populations.

As a licensed clinical professional counselor, my practice focus is on adult issues of work/life balance, relationship issues, managing depression and anxiety, as well as substance use and compulsive behaviors. Grounded in client-centered and humanistic philosophies of growth and change, my style is active, collaborative and respectful. As an artist trained as a psychotherapist, I believe strongly in the untapped creative capacity and resilience of each person to translate actionable insight into relevant, meaningful change.
As a licensed clinical professional counselor, my practice focus is on adult issues of work/life balance, relationship issues, managing depression and anxiety, as well as substance use and compulsive behaviors. Grounded in client-centered and humanistic philosophies of growth and change, my style is active, collaborative and respectful. As an artist trained as a psychotherapist, I believe strongly in the untapped creative capacity and resilience of each person to translate actionable insight into relevant, meaningful change.

I specialize with working with adoptive families. I help children make stronger bonds with their families, and work through areas of conflict. I work with non-adoptive children and families as well.
I specialize with working with adoptive families. I help children make stronger bonds with their families, and work through areas of conflict. I work with non-adoptive children and families as well.

Thelma Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Our experiences in life can present us with challenges, stress, depression, anxiety and emotional turmoil in the here and now. Everyone can benefit from emotional support to help navigate the difficulties of life, especially when our own coping and problem skills don't seem to manage what we are experiencing. Initiating therapy is the start of building our coping skills in navigating through the course of life and achieving our goals. I believe that the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is critical in a non-judgmental and safe setting. I want to help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential.
Our experiences in life can present us with challenges, stress, depression, anxiety and emotional turmoil in the here and now. Everyone can benefit from emotional support to help navigate the difficulties of life, especially when our own coping and problem skills don't seem to manage what we are experiencing. Initiating therapy is the start of building our coping skills in navigating through the course of life and achieving our goals. I believe that the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is critical in a non-judgmental and safe setting. I want to help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential.

Katya Budzinski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654
Life is never perfect. In fact, we are often faced with challenges that are difficult to navigate on our own. When you find yourself struggling with various stressors in life, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Be mindful that there is no shame in seeking help and extra support when needed. As a therapist, I look to create an environment in which you feel comfortable sharing your concerns, vulnerabilities, and even accomplishments!
Life is never perfect. In fact, we are often faced with challenges that are difficult to navigate on our own. When you find yourself struggling with various stressors in life, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Be mindful that there is no shame in seeking help and extra support when needed. As a therapist, I look to create an environment in which you feel comfortable sharing your concerns, vulnerabilities, and even accomplishments!

Melissa Kwafo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
Our life experiences can often impact how we are able to show up for ourselves and others. We may notice feeling anxious, disregulated, or numb more often than not, and desire to feel more secure in our connections and interactions. I am a trauma informed, sensorimotor therapist with a social justice lens. I believe therapy promotes healing, growth, and change within a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment.
Our life experiences can often impact how we are able to show up for ourselves and others. We may notice feeling anxious, disregulated, or numb more often than not, and desire to feel more secure in our connections and interactions. I am a trauma informed, sensorimotor therapist with a social justice lens. I believe therapy promotes healing, growth, and change within a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment.

Life is sometimes hard & the idea of starting the process of therapy can add to that stress and anxiety. You've already taken the first step by being here on Psychology Today. If you are constantly feeling frustrated, anxious or overwhelmed, I am here to help you figure out what's going on and move towards the life you want to live. I will support you on your journey towards positive change and emotional well-being. My approach is warm, engaging, collaborative and sometimes even humorous.
Life is sometimes hard & the idea of starting the process of therapy can add to that stress and anxiety. You've already taken the first step by being here on Psychology Today. If you are constantly feeling frustrated, anxious or overwhelmed, I am here to help you figure out what's going on and move towards the life you want to live. I will support you on your journey towards positive change and emotional well-being. My approach is warm, engaging, collaborative and sometimes even humorous.
See more therapy options for Chicago
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL
3,000+
Average cost per session
$155
Therapists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
77% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Stress |
67% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
69% | Aetna |
51% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | 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.