Therapists in Chicago, IL

I enjoy working with people who are ready to explore their mental health, whatever that may be. I have worked with clients of all ages with many different diagnoses: Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, etc. It takes a lot of bravery to begin therapy and I enjoy providing information and education, teaching coping skills, or just providing a space to talk and explore whatever struggle my client may be encountering. I am also passionate about working with children and helping them grow their understanding of themselves and help their families learn how to best support them.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to explore their mental health, whatever that may be. I have worked with clients of all ages with many different diagnoses: Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, etc. It takes a lot of bravery to begin therapy and I enjoy providing information and education, teaching coping skills, or just providing a space to talk and explore whatever struggle my client may be encountering. I am also passionate about working with children and helping them grow their understanding of themselves and help their families learn how to best support them.

If you or someone you love are feeling overwhelmed with life, relationships, school or work, I can help. I have over 25 years' of helping people achieve the results they want. Another set of eyes focused on your difficulty is instrumental in finding lasting solutions. I work with adults. Therapy occurs in a safe, caring and confidential relationship. My approach is uniquely tailored to you and your needs. If you are looking for a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your difficulties without fear or judgement then reach out and improve your situation right away.
If you or someone you love are feeling overwhelmed with life, relationships, school or work, I can help. I have over 25 years' of helping people achieve the results they want. Another set of eyes focused on your difficulty is instrumental in finding lasting solutions. I work with adults. Therapy occurs in a safe, caring and confidential relationship. My approach is uniquely tailored to you and your needs. If you are looking for a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your difficulties without fear or judgement then reach out and improve your situation right away.
Home Remedy provides an alternative for families who are considering an out-of-home placement for their child. Home Remedy is designed exclusively for families who have exhausted all local treatment options. We provide intensive, in-home therapeutic services that strengthen families, empower parents, decrease difficult and negative behaviors of children, and improve family relationships. We are an effective alternative for families with struggling adolescents who are considering an out-of-home placement.
Home Remedy provides an alternative for families who are considering an out-of-home placement for their child. Home Remedy is designed exclusively for families who have exhausted all local treatment options. We provide intensive, in-home therapeutic services that strengthen families, empower parents, decrease difficult and negative behaviors of children, and improve family relationships. We are an effective alternative for families with struggling adolescents who are considering an out-of-home placement.

Cynthia Elide Sanchez Vazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Not Verified Not Verified
Online Only
Opening up and being vulnerable to someone can be very intimidating. I welcome any questions that you may have about the therapy process and would enjoy exploring any fears that may arise in taking the first step to opening up to someone. My hope is that by creating a safe space we can establish a connection that fosters a collaborative relationship. I am a strong believer in meeting you where you are at and seeing every client as unique. After all, everyone’s process is different and we all have a story.
Opening up and being vulnerable to someone can be very intimidating. I welcome any questions that you may have about the therapy process and would enjoy exploring any fears that may arise in taking the first step to opening up to someone. My hope is that by creating a safe space we can establish a connection that fosters a collaborative relationship. I am a strong believer in meeting you where you are at and seeing every client as unique. After all, everyone’s process is different and we all have a story.

I specialize in the treatment of Complex Trauma and am passionate about supporting people who are struggling to recover a sense of worth and security in relationship to themselves and others. I believe humans have a core essence, or soul, that often has had to go into hiding for safe-keep. Many of the people I treat learned how to be high-functioning members of society, while privately harboring a sense of emptiness, shame and alienation. They often yearn to feel valued, while remaining stuck in unfulfilling relationships, and in familiar roles at work and in love. Painful experiences keep repeating, while the yearning persists.
I specialize in the treatment of Complex Trauma and am passionate about supporting people who are struggling to recover a sense of worth and security in relationship to themselves and others. I believe humans have a core essence, or soul, that often has had to go into hiding for safe-keep. Many of the people I treat learned how to be high-functioning members of society, while privately harboring a sense of emptiness, shame and alienation. They often yearn to feel valued, while remaining stuck in unfulfilling relationships, and in familiar roles at work and in love. Painful experiences keep repeating, while the yearning persists.

Sarah Stephens Ramani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
Not accepting new clients
My goal in therapy is to facilitate trust, safety and healing by developing strong, authentic relationships with clients. I draw from psychodynamic and attachment theory in my work; I believe that articulating one's thoughts and feelings is a powerful process that can create profound positive change. With this in mind, I create a collaborative environment for clients in which to explore some of life’s most difficult moments.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate trust, safety and healing by developing strong, authentic relationships with clients. I draw from psychodynamic and attachment theory in my work; I believe that articulating one's thoughts and feelings is a powerful process that can create profound positive change. With this in mind, I create a collaborative environment for clients in which to explore some of life’s most difficult moments.

My name is Melody Wilson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Indiana with over 16 years of clinical experience working with adults with Anger Management, Coping Skills, Grief, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Life Coaching, Parenting, Schizophrenia, Stress, Self Esteem, and Life Transitions. I use various therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and all those which are adequate for my client’s mental health needs. I firmly believe that support is not a weakness but a need!
My name is Melody Wilson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Indiana with over 16 years of clinical experience working with adults with Anger Management, Coping Skills, Grief, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Life Coaching, Parenting, Schizophrenia, Stress, Self Esteem, and Life Transitions. I use various therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and all those which are adequate for my client’s mental health needs. I firmly believe that support is not a weakness but a need!

Fabiola Montiel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I'm a seasoned psychologist who provides culturally responsive psychotherapy to adults of all ages. I work collaboratively with clients from a relational/psychodynamic framework, but I'm also skilled working in a more structured way to address specific and short-term goals. Above all, I believe the relationship between client and therapist is the central element in treatment. The relationship is the medium by which therapy helps clients foster a strong sense of self-worth and identity, increase happiness and life satisfaction, improve the quality of their relationships, and understand their feelings, motives, and behavior.
I'm a seasoned psychologist who provides culturally responsive psychotherapy to adults of all ages. I work collaboratively with clients from a relational/psychodynamic framework, but I'm also skilled working in a more structured way to address specific and short-term goals. Above all, I believe the relationship between client and therapist is the central element in treatment. The relationship is the medium by which therapy helps clients foster a strong sense of self-worth and identity, increase happiness and life satisfaction, improve the quality of their relationships, and understand their feelings, motives, and behavior.

I have been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner for the last 3 years. Prior to obtaining my Master’s degree, I worked as a Registered Nurse for 10 years in several different settings. My approach to service and treatment is always patient centered. I’m a huge advocate for patient’s rights and encourage my patient’s to be involved in their own medical decisions. I strive on developing strong relationships with my patients and being the most compassionate, empathetic and nonjudgmental person so they can feel comfortable talking to me and opening up about their health concerns.
I have been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner for the last 3 years. Prior to obtaining my Master’s degree, I worked as a Registered Nurse for 10 years in several different settings. My approach to service and treatment is always patient centered. I’m a huge advocate for patient’s rights and encourage my patient’s to be involved in their own medical decisions. I strive on developing strong relationships with my patients and being the most compassionate, empathetic and nonjudgmental person so they can feel comfortable talking to me and opening up about their health concerns.

I approach therapy with the belief that everyone deserves to be heard in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I believe that when we are in a quieter, calmer state of being that we can begin to process feelings and understand who we are. Life is difficult, and sometimes we need extra support through difficult events in our life. I'm an advocate for practicing healthy boundaries and self-care so that we can keep our lives in balance.
I approach therapy with the belief that everyone deserves to be heard in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I believe that when we are in a quieter, calmer state of being that we can begin to process feelings and understand who we are. Life is difficult, and sometimes we need extra support through difficult events in our life. I'm an advocate for practicing healthy boundaries and self-care so that we can keep our lives in balance.

As a Nurse Practitioner, I help patients navigate their medication needs. I prescribe SSRIs, SNRIs, insomnia medication, & ADHD treatment. I help patients who are looking for additional help managing the symptoms from anxiety and depression that impact their daily lives and prohibit them from functioning at the level they want. My goal is to ensure your concerns are heard, your wishes are honored and you feel like an active partner in your mental health care plan. If you're not happy with the treatment plan, then you're not going to want to keep following that plan. My patients are an integral part of the planning process.
As a Nurse Practitioner, I help patients navigate their medication needs. I prescribe SSRIs, SNRIs, insomnia medication, & ADHD treatment. I help patients who are looking for additional help managing the symptoms from anxiety and depression that impact their daily lives and prohibit them from functioning at the level they want. My goal is to ensure your concerns are heard, your wishes are honored and you feel like an active partner in your mental health care plan. If you're not happy with the treatment plan, then you're not going to want to keep following that plan. My patients are an integral part of the planning process.
Meet Our Therapists

Stressed about the Election? I have immediate openings available for new clients who need support at this time. You do not need to be alone in what you feel. As we go through life, we experience joy, happiness, and share experiences with those we love. At the same time, we often go through hardships; we face the daily stresses of maintaining our commitments in work and relationships. Some of these hardships can be predicted, however, many cannot. Life can throw us off balance. Your experience is unique to you, I get that and will do my best to understand where you are coming from and aid you in reaching the place you want to be in.
Stressed about the Election? I have immediate openings available for new clients who need support at this time. You do not need to be alone in what you feel. As we go through life, we experience joy, happiness, and share experiences with those we love. At the same time, we often go through hardships; we face the daily stresses of maintaining our commitments in work and relationships. Some of these hardships can be predicted, however, many cannot. Life can throw us off balance. Your experience is unique to you, I get that and will do my best to understand where you are coming from and aid you in reaching the place you want to be in.

My particular area of passion lies in aiding those struggling with addiction, a field in which I have nearly two decades of experience. I hold licenses as a clinical social worker and a clinical addiction counselor. My educational background includes a Master's in Social Work from Indiana University, completed in 2006. Since 2006, my professional journey has encompassed 4 years in private practice, 12 years addressing the needs of DCS/probation/court-ordered clients, 7 years in a jail setting (including 6 years as a clinical supervisor), and a role as a clinical director at an addiction recovery center.
My particular area of passion lies in aiding those struggling with addiction, a field in which I have nearly two decades of experience. I hold licenses as a clinical social worker and a clinical addiction counselor. My educational background includes a Master's in Social Work from Indiana University, completed in 2006. Since 2006, my professional journey has encompassed 4 years in private practice, 12 years addressing the needs of DCS/probation/court-ordered clients, 7 years in a jail setting (including 6 years as a clinical supervisor), and a role as a clinical director at an addiction recovery center.

Brian Nickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients who are burned out. I understand the challenges that come with overwhelming responsibilities while coping with unsupportive conditions. My clients have important work, school, or family responsibilities they can't just walk away from, but they need new tools or approaches to manage their lives so that they can thrive.
I work with clients who are burned out. I understand the challenges that come with overwhelming responsibilities while coping with unsupportive conditions. My clients have important work, school, or family responsibilities they can't just walk away from, but they need new tools or approaches to manage their lives so that they can thrive.

My clinical focus is on working with LGBTQIA+ and gender nonconforming individuals, as well as couples and those in non-traditional relationship styles. I also specialize in supporting individuals with ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodivergence. As an advocate for fat liberation, I encourage clients to love their bodies and take up space unapologetically. I am sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships. Whether it's exploring one's identity or seeking a fulfilling career path, I am passionate about helping clients identify and prioritize their values to align their lives with what brings them joy.
My clinical focus is on working with LGBTQIA+ and gender nonconforming individuals, as well as couples and those in non-traditional relationship styles. I also specialize in supporting individuals with ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodivergence. As an advocate for fat liberation, I encourage clients to love their bodies and take up space unapologetically. I am sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships. Whether it's exploring one's identity or seeking a fulfilling career path, I am passionate about helping clients identify and prioritize their values to align their lives with what brings them joy.

Sab is a trauma-informed therapist who works to create a collaborative space in which to seek wellness, pleasure, and liberation. They believe in supporting and empowering folx in navigating life’s troubles with recognition of systems of oppression, misinformation, shame and stigma. Sab is a creative community activist with a passion for expressive arts, dedication to racial justice, and commitment to their own shadow work regarding the use and impact of their whiteness.
Sab is a trauma-informed therapist who works to create a collaborative space in which to seek wellness, pleasure, and liberation. They believe in supporting and empowering folx in navigating life’s troubles with recognition of systems of oppression, misinformation, shame and stigma. Sab is a creative community activist with a passion for expressive arts, dedication to racial justice, and commitment to their own shadow work regarding the use and impact of their whiteness.

I am the owner and psychotherapist at Essential Therapy Chicago. I've had years of experience helping clients grow and find emotional healing in private practice settings. In my work, I aim to create an open, welcoming therapy environment where clients feel empowered to make positive changes in their personal lives and relationships. I work with clients to identify their strengths and to set goals of therapy that are exciting and motivating. I base my practice on an integrative approach which allows me to not only provide short-term symptom relief and mood stabilization, but also to foster longer-term growth and self-explorations.
I am the owner and psychotherapist at Essential Therapy Chicago. I've had years of experience helping clients grow and find emotional healing in private practice settings. In my work, I aim to create an open, welcoming therapy environment where clients feel empowered to make positive changes in their personal lives and relationships. I work with clients to identify their strengths and to set goals of therapy that are exciting and motivating. I base my practice on an integrative approach which allows me to not only provide short-term symptom relief and mood stabilization, but also to foster longer-term growth and self-explorations.

Julia Noobler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a process of self-exploration and discovery; by engaging in a mutually respectful relationship you and I can create opportunities for understanding, growth, and answers. I believe in a collaborative, goal oriented approach to resolving and overcoming a variety of life stressors. We will work together to develop your insight into the way you form and engage in relationships, function in the face of pressure or other life distress, and prevail over intrusive thoughts or worries.
Therapy is a process of self-exploration and discovery; by engaging in a mutually respectful relationship you and I can create opportunities for understanding, growth, and answers. I believe in a collaborative, goal oriented approach to resolving and overcoming a variety of life stressors. We will work together to develop your insight into the way you form and engage in relationships, function in the face of pressure or other life distress, and prevail over intrusive thoughts or worries.

Are you ready to break old patterns and feel more confident in yourself and your relationships? I specialize in helping young adults and women build self-compassion, assertiveness, and comfort with imperfection, both individually and relationally. I believe that every individual is capable of change and growth, and I am excited to support you on that path.
Are you ready to break old patterns and feel more confident in yourself and your relationships? I specialize in helping young adults and women build self-compassion, assertiveness, and comfort with imperfection, both individually and relationally. I believe that every individual is capable of change and growth, and I am excited to support you on that path.

Hi. I provide services to children, adolescents, families, and adults seeking treatment for a range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety, Panic Disorder, Conduct Disorder, ADHD, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I specializes in treating children and adolescents who have experienced abuse and trauma, who have challenges making sense of their traumatic experiences by “acting out” and/or who have difficulties forming and maintaining healthy pro-social skills and relationships.
Hi. I provide services to children, adolescents, families, and adults seeking treatment for a range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety, Panic Disorder, Conduct Disorder, ADHD, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I specializes in treating children and adolescents who have experienced abuse and trauma, who have challenges making sense of their traumatic experiences by “acting out” and/or who have difficulties forming and maintaining healthy pro-social skills and relationships.
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 |
76% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Stress |
67% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
70% | Aetna |
52% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | 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.