Therapists in Chicago, IL
Lauren Mulligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R-DMT, CYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I believe my role as a therapist is to help you hold and find meaning in your pain, and delight with you in what is playful and pleasureful in your life. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I am interested in creating a genuine, transparent and accountable relationship with you. My hope is that within our relationship we can identify and interrupt harmful patterns that may emerge in your relationships and reinforce patterns that bring you joy and connection. Therapy is inherently political, and I aim to engage with my clients in ways that are liberatory, anti-racist and affirming of their intersecting identities.
I believe my role as a therapist is to help you hold and find meaning in your pain, and delight with you in what is playful and pleasureful in your life. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I am interested in creating a genuine, transparent and accountable relationship with you. My hope is that within our relationship we can identify and interrupt harmful patterns that may emerge in your relationships and reinforce patterns that bring you joy and connection. Therapy is inherently political, and I aim to engage with my clients in ways that are liberatory, anti-racist and affirming of their intersecting identities.
Becoming a counselor is one of the greatest joys of my life. It is an incredible honor to walk alongside each and every one of my clients as they let me into their stories. I believe our stories are powerful and shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us. It can take courage to walk into the counseling room and talk about your pain, struggles, and hurt. It is my hope you leave our space feeling known, empowered, and like you are working toward holistic healing and growth. It has been my joy to work with both individuals and couples, equipping them with tools and being an ally with them on their journeys.
Becoming a counselor is one of the greatest joys of my life. It is an incredible honor to walk alongside each and every one of my clients as they let me into their stories. I believe our stories are powerful and shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us. It can take courage to walk into the counseling room and talk about your pain, struggles, and hurt. It is my hope you leave our space feeling known, empowered, and like you are working toward holistic healing and growth. It has been my joy to work with both individuals and couples, equipping them with tools and being an ally with them on their journeys.
Chicago Pride Center offers a breadth of specializations and training to tailor the therapeutic experience to the needs and preferences of each client, serving children and adults throughout the life-course. We bring a depth of experience in work with LGBTQ+, Gender Expansive folx, Allys, non-monogamous relationships as well as veterans through trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
Chicago Pride Center offers a breadth of specializations and training to tailor the therapeutic experience to the needs and preferences of each client, serving children and adults throughout the life-course. We bring a depth of experience in work with LGBTQ+, Gender Expansive folx, Allys, non-monogamous relationships as well as veterans through trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
Grace Eiden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Life can be painful. Challenges and discomfort are part of the human experience. However, the suffering that comes with these challenges can be managed. Together, we can explore the roots of these struggles and develop strategies to navigate through them, empowering you to become the person you were meant to be. I’m passionate about helping clients with issues like social anxiety, dating challenges, work-life balance, low self-confidence, communication difficulties, and difficulty finding meaning in life.
Life can be painful. Challenges and discomfort are part of the human experience. However, the suffering that comes with these challenges can be managed. Together, we can explore the roots of these struggles and develop strategies to navigate through them, empowering you to become the person you were meant to be. I’m passionate about helping clients with issues like social anxiety, dating challenges, work-life balance, low self-confidence, communication difficulties, and difficulty finding meaning in life.
Often times the first step to feeling better is simply the act of being heard and feeling truly understood. I have found continual reward in helping people navigate the most challenging and stressful times of their lives. I strongly believe that the quality of the therapeutic relationship directly effects an individual’s healing process, thus my primary goal is focused on developing and maintaining a safe, open, empathetic and trusting dynamic with each client I work with. I establish this with honesty and transparency, by remaining authentic to my own natural counseling style and through genuine, meaningful interactions.
Often times the first step to feeling better is simply the act of being heard and feeling truly understood. I have found continual reward in helping people navigate the most challenging and stressful times of their lives. I strongly believe that the quality of the therapeutic relationship directly effects an individual’s healing process, thus my primary goal is focused on developing and maintaining a safe, open, empathetic and trusting dynamic with each client I work with. I establish this with honesty and transparency, by remaining authentic to my own natural counseling style and through genuine, meaningful interactions.
I work with a diverse range of pre-teen, adolescents, and couples, and individuals across all age groups. My primary areas of focus on anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe and supportive, allowing you to openly discuss your concerns.
I work with a diverse range of pre-teen, adolescents, and couples, and individuals across all age groups. My primary areas of focus on anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe and supportive, allowing you to openly discuss your concerns.
EMDR Therapy with Vlasta Kudina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Vlasta, an EMDR Therapist. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients free themselves from symptoms and behaviors that have been keeping them stuck, preventing them from living life on their own terms. As a former athlete and coach, I like to approach therapy with the same goal-oriented manner, working on developing and mastering skills. I understand what it is like to feel betrayed by your own body and mind, but it is important to know that it is never too late to regain control and mastery over both.
Hi! I'm Vlasta, an EMDR Therapist. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients free themselves from symptoms and behaviors that have been keeping them stuck, preventing them from living life on their own terms. As a former athlete and coach, I like to approach therapy with the same goal-oriented manner, working on developing and mastering skills. I understand what it is like to feel betrayed by your own body and mind, but it is important to know that it is never too late to regain control and mastery over both.
I am a child/adolescent psychologist. I received my PhD in counseling psychology from Loyola University Chicago and my training at Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Med Center, La Rabida Children's Hospital at UofC and Urban Youth Trauma Center.
I am a child/adolescent psychologist. I received my PhD in counseling psychology from Loyola University Chicago and my training at Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Med Center, La Rabida Children's Hospital at UofC and Urban Youth Trauma Center.
Nicole L Burlingame
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I enjoy working with adults and emerging adults on discovering and developing their individual identity. Often when we become ourselves, underlying traumas and other mental health issues are brought to light, so it is important to me to ensure that those issues are handled with care and compassion. Those that I work with strive to understand who they are in spite of the things that have happened to them so that they may live a truly happy life exactly as they were meant to, they just need a little assistance developing the skills to overcome current and future obstacles. For more info see my website empressclinicalservices.com
I enjoy working with adults and emerging adults on discovering and developing their individual identity. Often when we become ourselves, underlying traumas and other mental health issues are brought to light, so it is important to me to ensure that those issues are handled with care and compassion. Those that I work with strive to understand who they are in spite of the things that have happened to them so that they may live a truly happy life exactly as they were meant to, they just need a little assistance developing the skills to overcome current and future obstacles. For more info see my website empressclinicalservices.com
Starting therapy is courageous! Therapy can help in emotional expression, self-reflection and the freedom to engage in self-compassion and empowerment. My approach to therapy is collaborative; working together to explore, understand and change experiences so that life can be experienced in a meaningful way. I have experience working with a variety of concerns, and focus on creating a therapeutic space where one can safely discover and express their authenticity.
Starting therapy is courageous! Therapy can help in emotional expression, self-reflection and the freedom to engage in self-compassion and empowerment. My approach to therapy is collaborative; working together to explore, understand and change experiences so that life can be experienced in a meaningful way. I have experience working with a variety of concerns, and focus on creating a therapeutic space where one can safely discover and express their authenticity.
Catherine Meili
Counselor, LCPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
“Greetings, weary traveler.” My name is Catherine and I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor. Though I specialize in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), I live and counsel according to my value of adaptability as I follow Malcolm X’s philosophy of “by any means necessary” when it comes to modifying my approach to help those I’m privileged to work with.
“Greetings, weary traveler.” My name is Catherine and I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor. Though I specialize in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), I live and counsel according to my value of adaptability as I follow Malcolm X’s philosophy of “by any means necessary” when it comes to modifying my approach to help those I’m privileged to work with.
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When seeking the Lighted Path toward self acceptance, adjustment management and healing from the past or trauma it is important to find a knowledgable, motivated partner on the journey.
When seeking the Lighted Path toward self acceptance, adjustment management and healing from the past or trauma it is important to find a knowledgable, motivated partner on the journey.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience in a private practice setting. I am a faculty member of Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. I graduated from Harvard University in Psychology and Social Relations, and received an Ed.M. degree from the Harvard Gradate School of Education and a Ph.D. degree from Northwestern University. My personal style is compassionate, open and actively involved. I create a space in which I come to know and support an individual or a couple as we face life's challenges together with dignity and hope.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience in a private practice setting. I am a faculty member of Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. I graduated from Harvard University in Psychology and Social Relations, and received an Ed.M. degree from the Harvard Gradate School of Education and a Ph.D. degree from Northwestern University. My personal style is compassionate, open and actively involved. I create a space in which I come to know and support an individual or a couple as we face life's challenges together with dignity and hope.
You know it is time for a change, yet remain stuck in a host of familiar patterns that seem inescapable. My goal is to help you live a more pleasurable and productive life by making good choices, developing healthy coping skills and welcoming positive new experiences. My ideal client is motivated to improve his or her life yet does not have the tools to go about it. I am committed to helping my clients develop and fine tune tools that lead to more fulfillment in life and relationships.
You know it is time for a change, yet remain stuck in a host of familiar patterns that seem inescapable. My goal is to help you live a more pleasurable and productive life by making good choices, developing healthy coping skills and welcoming positive new experiences. My ideal client is motivated to improve his or her life yet does not have the tools to go about it. I am committed to helping my clients develop and fine tune tools that lead to more fulfillment in life and relationships.
Patricia Viviana Voloschin-Weiner
Counselor, LCPC, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
I offer Individual, Marital, and Family Therapy; Divorce Mediation and Court appointed Custody Evaluations as well as Court ordered clinical services such as Anger Management. I have over 35 years of experience offering services in English and Spanish. My goal is to assist clients explore feelings, beliefs, or behaviors that are of concern to them, challenge problematic thoughts and reactions, and work towards happiness and conflict resolution. In sessions we will identify aspects of your life or yourself that you would like to change, improve positive thinking and set realistic goals.
I offer Individual, Marital, and Family Therapy; Divorce Mediation and Court appointed Custody Evaluations as well as Court ordered clinical services such as Anger Management. I have over 35 years of experience offering services in English and Spanish. My goal is to assist clients explore feelings, beliefs, or behaviors that are of concern to them, challenge problematic thoughts and reactions, and work towards happiness and conflict resolution. In sessions we will identify aspects of your life or yourself that you would like to change, improve positive thinking and set realistic goals.
I specialize in working with adults aged 18 or older who are grappling with anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and body image issues. They often feel overwhelmed and isolated, seeking a safe space to explore their feelings and challenges. Motivated and ready to make meaningful changes, their primary goal is recovery and healing—learning effective coping strategies, discovering self compassion, fostering a healthier relationship with themselves and their bodies, and creating space for what they truly desire in life.
I specialize in working with adults aged 18 or older who are grappling with anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and body image issues. They often feel overwhelmed and isolated, seeking a safe space to explore their feelings and challenges. Motivated and ready to make meaningful changes, their primary goal is recovery and healing—learning effective coping strategies, discovering self compassion, fostering a healthier relationship with themselves and their bodies, and creating space for what they truly desire in life.
Sometimes, it is normal and natural to feel overwhelmed and lost. During these moments, it is courageous to step toward your inner world and explore self-care. Often, we can’t do it alone, and therapy can provide the structure and support to help you take that step. Therapy can be a journey where you feel understanding, compassion, and encouragement. Embarking on your journey toward better mental health is a courageous decision, and I engage with you in the process with eagerness and deep commitment to support you along the way. In our sessions, I will hold a safe space for you free from judgment. I invite you to come as you are.
Sometimes, it is normal and natural to feel overwhelmed and lost. During these moments, it is courageous to step toward your inner world and explore self-care. Often, we can’t do it alone, and therapy can provide the structure and support to help you take that step. Therapy can be a journey where you feel understanding, compassion, and encouragement. Embarking on your journey toward better mental health is a courageous decision, and I engage with you in the process with eagerness and deep commitment to support you along the way. In our sessions, I will hold a safe space for you free from judgment. I invite you to come as you are.
Kat Brunhaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAATC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I work collaboratively with young adults and adults using the creative process to find stability in this unpredictable world. I am passionate about working with neurodivergent brains to support finding balance and confidence in their abilities by finding acceptance and pride in their identity and learning new ways to work with their brain. My clients find clarity in identifying what they value, where their passions lie, and how they want to turn these insights into actions.
I work collaboratively with young adults and adults using the creative process to find stability in this unpredictable world. I am passionate about working with neurodivergent brains to support finding balance and confidence in their abilities by finding acceptance and pride in their identity and learning new ways to work with their brain. My clients find clarity in identifying what they value, where their passions lie, and how they want to turn these insights into actions.
Destiny Franklin
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
One of the hardest steps of the therapeutic process is what you’re going through now. Searching to find the counselor that aligns with your needs can feel daunting. I commend you for taking the first steps. My long experience with finding a therapist with shared identities and values was the catalyst to me entering the counseling profession. I value creating a space where transformation can occur through exchanges of knowledge from your life experience and my education. The theories I intend to integrate into the space are Psychodynamic and Adlerian. I remain open to other theories according to what best meets your needs.
One of the hardest steps of the therapeutic process is what you’re going through now. Searching to find the counselor that aligns with your needs can feel daunting. I commend you for taking the first steps. My long experience with finding a therapist with shared identities and values was the catalyst to me entering the counseling profession. I value creating a space where transformation can occur through exchanges of knowledge from your life experience and my education. The theories I intend to integrate into the space are Psychodynamic and Adlerian. I remain open to other theories according to what best meets your needs.
Paige Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Is there something holding you back from living the life you want? Do you feel anxious, depressed, uncertain, fearful or confused as to how to move forward? Do you hope to change an aspect of your life but you don’t know where to start? The journey of therapy can be a powerful tool to help you move through and uncover some of the obstacles that prevent you towards claiming the life you imagined. While I commonly see people struggling with change in their life, anxiety, and navigating their 20's-30s, some other common themes include grief, self-acceptance, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and perinatal mental health concerns.
Is there something holding you back from living the life you want? Do you feel anxious, depressed, uncertain, fearful or confused as to how to move forward? Do you hope to change an aspect of your life but you don’t know where to start? The journey of therapy can be a powerful tool to help you move through and uncover some of the obstacles that prevent you towards claiming the life you imagined. While I commonly see people struggling with change in their life, anxiety, and navigating their 20's-30s, some other common themes include grief, self-acceptance, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and perinatal mental health concerns.
See more therapy options for Chicago
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL
3,000+
Average cost per session
$153
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% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
66% | Aetna |
48% | 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.