Therapists in Chicago, IL
Relationships are the heart of all meaningful change. Whether you are coming to therapy because you feel lost, demoralized, or moved to deepen your self-awareness, being authentically understood is crucial to healing. In my practice, I strive to create an accepting atmosphere in which you feel comfortable thoroughly exploring the concerns in your life. Together, we can understand how the relationship we build in our work is both a microcosm of your emotional dynamics, as well as a vehicle for surprise, change, and growth.
Relationships are the heart of all meaningful change. Whether you are coming to therapy because you feel lost, demoralized, or moved to deepen your self-awareness, being authentically understood is crucial to healing. In my practice, I strive to create an accepting atmosphere in which you feel comfortable thoroughly exploring the concerns in your life. Together, we can understand how the relationship we build in our work is both a microcosm of your emotional dynamics, as well as a vehicle for surprise, change, and growth.
I am a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor with over 30 years of experience. I work with diverse individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I am a caring and dedicated therapist who often goes the extra mile when it will assist a client. I highly value creative and artistic expression, and I help my clients tap into their strengths and passions. Clients I work with especially well are curious, introspective, willing to dig deep, and interested in becoming more compassionate towards themselves and others. They aren't afraid to look at their feelings in the here-and-now of the therapeutic relationship.
I am a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor with over 30 years of experience. I work with diverse individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I am a caring and dedicated therapist who often goes the extra mile when it will assist a client. I highly value creative and artistic expression, and I help my clients tap into their strengths and passions. Clients I work with especially well are curious, introspective, willing to dig deep, and interested in becoming more compassionate towards themselves and others. They aren't afraid to look at their feelings in the here-and-now of the therapeutic relationship.
Starting therapy can feel vulnerable—especially if you've had to move through the world feeling dismissed, misunderstood, or told to make yourself smaller. For those of us in marginalized communities, it can be especially challenging to navigate systems that were never designed to hold us. My work centers on helping you reconnect with your core values, resist erasure, and imagine what thriving can look like on your own terms. I bring a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens to this work, and I hold deep respect for your lived experience and capacity to heal.
Starting therapy can feel vulnerable—especially if you've had to move through the world feeling dismissed, misunderstood, or told to make yourself smaller. For those of us in marginalized communities, it can be especially challenging to navigate systems that were never designed to hold us. My work centers on helping you reconnect with your core values, resist erasure, and imagine what thriving can look like on your own terms. I bring a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens to this work, and I hold deep respect for your lived experience and capacity to heal.
I believe that therapy extends beyond symptom relief; it entails gaining insight into one's self, patterns, and relationship dynamics. In other words, in order to "feel better," I think it is important to uncover how and why these symptoms developed over time. I aspire to help patients obtain this deeper understanding by fostering a sense of security and connectedness, which will allow me to act as a collaborative guide through this exploration. In therapy, I encourage patients to be active participants in their process so as to develop a sense of empowerment leading to relief from current symptoms as well as sustainable change.
I believe that therapy extends beyond symptom relief; it entails gaining insight into one's self, patterns, and relationship dynamics. In other words, in order to "feel better," I think it is important to uncover how and why these symptoms developed over time. I aspire to help patients obtain this deeper understanding by fostering a sense of security and connectedness, which will allow me to act as a collaborative guide through this exploration. In therapy, I encourage patients to be active participants in their process so as to develop a sense of empowerment leading to relief from current symptoms as well as sustainable change.
I work with adults and young adults who feel overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or are navigating major life transitions. You may notice patterns that keep repeating, feel disconnected from yourself or others, or carry the impact of past experiences into the present. Many of my clients are seeking a supportive, thoughtful space to better understand themselves, reduce distress, and feel more grounded and connected in their lives.
I work with adults and young adults who feel overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or are navigating major life transitions. You may notice patterns that keep repeating, feel disconnected from yourself or others, or carry the impact of past experiences into the present. Many of my clients are seeking a supportive, thoughtful space to better understand themselves, reduce distress, and feel more grounded and connected in their lives.
I work with adolescents and adults. I have been in the field of Mental Health & Law for over 25 years. I utilize a variety of treatment approaches to treat depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders, culture conflicts, LGBTQ issues and life transitions. I received my MS degree from MS State University (MSU) and my MJ degree from Loyola University Chicago, School of Law.
I work with adolescents and adults. I have been in the field of Mental Health & Law for over 25 years. I utilize a variety of treatment approaches to treat depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders, culture conflicts, LGBTQ issues and life transitions. I received my MS degree from MS State University (MSU) and my MJ degree from Loyola University Chicago, School of Law.
Losses and life transitions can change everything you thought you knew. Maybe a family member has been recently diagnosed with cancer, the loss of someone close to you has altered your outlook on life, or life transitions have changed your relationships with others or with yourself. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating life changes, transitions, and losses. Together we will explore the best ways for you to cope with difficult emotions, understand yourself and who you are becoming, increase your sense of self-worth and purpose, and discover renewed direction in life.
Losses and life transitions can change everything you thought you knew. Maybe a family member has been recently diagnosed with cancer, the loss of someone close to you has altered your outlook on life, or life transitions have changed your relationships with others or with yourself. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating life changes, transitions, and losses. Together we will explore the best ways for you to cope with difficult emotions, understand yourself and who you are becoming, increase your sense of self-worth and purpose, and discover renewed direction in life.
You’re thoughtful, self-aware, and probably the friend everyone comes to for advice - but inside, things still feel messy. Maybe dating feels confusing or discouraging, anxiety won’t quiet down, or family dynamics keep pulling you back into old roles. You’ve done a lot of reflecting already, but you want something deeper than surface-level coping skills. Therapy with me is a space to be real, curious, and honest (no pressure to have it all together). We’ll laugh when it makes sense, sit with the hard stuff when needed, and gently challenge patterns that no longer serve you.
You’re thoughtful, self-aware, and probably the friend everyone comes to for advice - but inside, things still feel messy. Maybe dating feels confusing or discouraging, anxiety won’t quiet down, or family dynamics keep pulling you back into old roles. You’ve done a lot of reflecting already, but you want something deeper than surface-level coping skills. Therapy with me is a space to be real, curious, and honest (no pressure to have it all together). We’ll laugh when it makes sense, sit with the hard stuff when needed, and gently challenge patterns that no longer serve you.
I think that our past experiences and the systems we exist in create a template for how we relate to ourselves and others. While many aspects of this template are adaptive and important for our survival, there may be parts that interfere with our ability to live fully and meaningfully. Together, we will identify the parts that are no longer serving you, which also means understanding the context in which they evolved and the purpose they held at the time.
I think that our past experiences and the systems we exist in create a template for how we relate to ourselves and others. While many aspects of this template are adaptive and important for our survival, there may be parts that interfere with our ability to live fully and meaningfully. Together, we will identify the parts that are no longer serving you, which also means understanding the context in which they evolved and the purpose they held at the time.
I provide a safe supportive refuge for people who live outside the norm or don’t fit into boxes.
Maybe you’ve always felt different — too sensitive, too weird, too much or not enough. Maybe you feel deeply, think endlessly, and move through the world uniquely — carrying both a heaviness and a brilliance that others don’t always see. Maybe living in a world on fire has worn you down and you’re not sure how to live amidst all the suffering. Maybe anxiety, burnout, or the the weight of a chronic illness has left you disconnected from the life you want. Whatever brings you here, you are invited in exactly as you are.
I provide a safe supportive refuge for people who live outside the norm or don’t fit into boxes.
Maybe you’ve always felt different — too sensitive, too weird, too much or not enough. Maybe you feel deeply, think endlessly, and move through the world uniquely — carrying both a heaviness and a brilliance that others don’t always see. Maybe living in a world on fire has worn you down and you’re not sure how to live amidst all the suffering. Maybe anxiety, burnout, or the the weight of a chronic illness has left you disconnected from the life you want. Whatever brings you here, you are invited in exactly as you are.
Sara has a strong background in supporting people with overlapping mental health diagnoses and complex trauma. She understands that no two journeys are the same, and tailors her approach using a variety of therapeutic methods that best fit each person’s unique needs and goals. Grounded in trauma-informed care, Sara meets every client with openness, respect, and deep understanding. She believes in honoring each person’s story—without judgment—and sees each client as the expert of their own life.
Sara has a strong background in supporting people with overlapping mental health diagnoses and complex trauma. She understands that no two journeys are the same, and tailors her approach using a variety of therapeutic methods that best fit each person’s unique needs and goals. Grounded in trauma-informed care, Sara meets every client with openness, respect, and deep understanding. She believes in honoring each person’s story—without judgment—and sees each client as the expert of their own life.
Ever board a flight on a dark, dreary day, only to find yourself minutes later above the clouds in a clear sky? The truth is, the sun is always shining; it's just that at times, we can't see it. It's easy to loose track of the simple facts. I see therapy as a chance to reawaken some of the basic truths we may have known at one time, but through the ups and downs of life, have lost track of. Once reoriented to our truths, life feels more balanced and stable.
Ever board a flight on a dark, dreary day, only to find yourself minutes later above the clouds in a clear sky? The truth is, the sun is always shining; it's just that at times, we can't see it. It's easy to loose track of the simple facts. I see therapy as a chance to reawaken some of the basic truths we may have known at one time, but through the ups and downs of life, have lost track of. Once reoriented to our truths, life feels more balanced and stable.
Ruri Kim
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LSW, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical approach is authentic and integrative, resulting in a collaborative treatment plan based on client’s culture and values, the best available clinical research, and clinical expertise for my clients to thrive in their lives. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Executive Functioning (EF) skills, complex trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, racial/cultural identities, academic performance, family conflicts, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, stress and other life concerns. I also speak Korean.
My clinical approach is authentic and integrative, resulting in a collaborative treatment plan based on client’s culture and values, the best available clinical research, and clinical expertise for my clients to thrive in their lives. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Executive Functioning (EF) skills, complex trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, racial/cultural identities, academic performance, family conflicts, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, stress and other life concerns. I also speak Korean.
In the therapeutic setting, my goal is to provide clients the space to be their most authentic selves. Too often in society, we are forced to wear a façade, or be a fraction of ourselves in any given space, for fear of being “too much” or fear of not being accepted fully. In our sessions, I encourage you to take up space unapologetically. I love being able to help my clients discover their real selves and give them the tools to overcome any obstacles in their journeys towards wellness. I show up to sessions as my authentic self, and I encourage my clients to do the same. The work begins where the masks end.
In the therapeutic setting, my goal is to provide clients the space to be their most authentic selves. Too often in society, we are forced to wear a façade, or be a fraction of ourselves in any given space, for fear of being “too much” or fear of not being accepted fully. In our sessions, I encourage you to take up space unapologetically. I love being able to help my clients discover their real selves and give them the tools to overcome any obstacles in their journeys towards wellness. I show up to sessions as my authentic self, and I encourage my clients to do the same. The work begins where the masks end.
Trover Gray Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC, CODP
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Sometimes life goes awry: dreams don't work out, relationships change, tragedy strikes. Other times, things are going well and we want to continue the progress. Regardless of what's brought you here, therapy can be a great way to help. The foundation of my work is trust; I want to ensure you feel safe and comfortable in therapy. Since 2007, I've practiced in many different environments and helped thousands of patients work toward their goals. I'm cross-trained in several fields and have worked in outpatient, inpatient, and emergent settings with a variety of populations including pediatric, adolescent, and adult.
Sometimes life goes awry: dreams don't work out, relationships change, tragedy strikes. Other times, things are going well and we want to continue the progress. Regardless of what's brought you here, therapy can be a great way to help. The foundation of my work is trust; I want to ensure you feel safe and comfortable in therapy. Since 2007, I've practiced in many different environments and helped thousands of patients work toward their goals. I'm cross-trained in several fields and have worked in outpatient, inpatient, and emergent settings with a variety of populations including pediatric, adolescent, and adult.
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
Many of the clients that I have worked with during the past 30 years have faced stressful life events that have triggered anxiety, depression, and anger. Frequently, these feelings have begun to significantly interfere with relationships, work, and overall sense of self. I provide a safe and respectful relationship that promotes courage and strength to confront and work through these difficult feelings and experiences. By talking with a caring and trained professional, my clients are able to develop new perspectives about themselves and their concerns and this allows them to approach life with increased hope and enjoyment.
Many of the clients that I have worked with during the past 30 years have faced stressful life events that have triggered anxiety, depression, and anger. Frequently, these feelings have begun to significantly interfere with relationships, work, and overall sense of self. I provide a safe and respectful relationship that promotes courage and strength to confront and work through these difficult feelings and experiences. By talking with a caring and trained professional, my clients are able to develop new perspectives about themselves and their concerns and this allows them to approach life with increased hope and enjoyment.
Sungsim believes that all human beings are born with spirituality that can be expressed in religious or non-religious ways. Discovering, recovering, and nurturing spiritual capacity related to finding meaning, purpose, connection, and well-being is a primary goal with her clients. She is committed to spiritually sensitive practice and education for developing human potential and social justice.
Sungsim believes that all human beings are born with spirituality that can be expressed in religious or non-religious ways. Discovering, recovering, and nurturing spiritual capacity related to finding meaning, purpose, connection, and well-being is a primary goal with her clients. She is committed to spiritually sensitive practice and education for developing human potential and social justice.
I’m Monica Alvarez, an LCPC licensed in California and Illinois and I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
I’m Monica Alvarez, an LCPC licensed in California and Illinois and I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
I often hear from clients I work with that they are feeling disconnection from themselves, others, and/or their experiences. I believe a more fulfilling life can emerge from tending to your internal environment and understanding the barriers, patterns, and factors that have contributed to this disconnect.
I often hear from clients I work with that they are feeling disconnection from themselves, others, and/or their experiences. I believe a more fulfilling life can emerge from tending to your internal environment and understanding the barriers, patterns, and factors that have contributed to this disconnect.
See more therapy options for Chicago
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL
3,000+
Average cost per session
$158
Therapists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Anxiety |
| 87% | Depression |
| 75% | Relationship Issues |
| 74% | Self Esteem |
| 71% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 68% | Life Transitions |
| 67% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 93% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 74% | Aetna |
| 52% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients
| 58% | In Person and Online | |
| 42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 77% | Female | |
| 19% | Male | |
| 4% | 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.