Therapists in Chicago, IL

I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship or intimacy concerns, familial stressors, and life transitions. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, though my specialty is working with adults going through life changes. These life changes often include but are not limited to career shifts, relationship changes, motherhood and and other life adjustments. I enjoy working on self-awareness, managing anxiety and depression, creating goals and making change, communication and relationships, boundary setting, and self-care. My hope is that clients gain self-awareness and feel empowered to make change.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship or intimacy concerns, familial stressors, and life transitions. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, though my specialty is working with adults going through life changes. These life changes often include but are not limited to career shifts, relationship changes, motherhood and and other life adjustments. I enjoy working on self-awareness, managing anxiety and depression, creating goals and making change, communication and relationships, boundary setting, and self-care. My hope is that clients gain self-awareness and feel empowered to make change.

Christine Treski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PCGC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that everyone deserves to experience happiness and fulfillment in life, no matter where they may be starting from. My goal as a therapist is to co-create a supportive and understanding space where we can explore what’s troubling you and holding you back. With warmth and encouragement, I am here to help you tap into your inner strengths and create meaningful change, so you can move forward with confidence toward a life that feels true to you.
I believe that everyone deserves to experience happiness and fulfillment in life, no matter where they may be starting from. My goal as a therapist is to co-create a supportive and understanding space where we can explore what’s troubling you and holding you back. With warmth and encouragement, I am here to help you tap into your inner strengths and create meaningful change, so you can move forward with confidence toward a life that feels true to you.

Taking the step to begin (or revisit) therapy can be stressful and nerve-wracking. It often requires bravery: a willingness to go within to explore one’s values as well as one’s struggles. However, it can be the key to unlock tools to live a more meaningful, authentic, and happy life. Through therapy, we will work together for you to feel your best and cope with the ups, downs, and everything in between that life presents. My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, family conflict, infertility, perinatal support, and women’s health issues.
Taking the step to begin (or revisit) therapy can be stressful and nerve-wracking. It often requires bravery: a willingness to go within to explore one’s values as well as one’s struggles. However, it can be the key to unlock tools to live a more meaningful, authentic, and happy life. Through therapy, we will work together for you to feel your best and cope with the ups, downs, and everything in between that life presents. My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, family conflict, infertility, perinatal support, and women’s health issues.

I offer a safe place to explore the current issues that are bringing you into therapy. I believe the therapy process works best when it is collaborative, non-judgmental, and empathetic. No matter whether your struggles are newer or longer lasting I aim to fully understand your issues and join you in the process for healing and recovery. It is my goal that you will feel heard, understood, valued, and empowered in order to improve your life, health, and strengthen your relationships.
I offer a safe place to explore the current issues that are bringing you into therapy. I believe the therapy process works best when it is collaborative, non-judgmental, and empathetic. No matter whether your struggles are newer or longer lasting I aim to fully understand your issues and join you in the process for healing and recovery. It is my goal that you will feel heard, understood, valued, and empowered in order to improve your life, health, and strengthen your relationships.

Welcome, my name is Mark Aghakhan and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I utilize interventions that best match one’s style and approach toward daily experiences. Among areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, coping skills, identity, and strength building.
Welcome, my name is Mark Aghakhan and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I utilize interventions that best match one’s style and approach toward daily experiences. Among areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, coping skills, identity, and strength building.

I have been practicing for over 35 years. My insightful and spiritual approach to psychotherapy is geared toward individuals committed to develop and/or increase self-awareness with the goal of improving and/or transforming their quality of life.
I have been practicing for over 35 years. My insightful and spiritual approach to psychotherapy is geared toward individuals committed to develop and/or increase self-awareness with the goal of improving and/or transforming their quality of life.

Melissa Richardson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Both personally and professionally, I feel a natural inclination to connect with and help others. I believe that, because nobody’s life is perfect, we all need some extra support at times. This perspective is what keeps me motivated and driven to do the work that I do. With an approach that is trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based, I strive to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I believe in collaboration and working with clients to identify areas in which they seek change and to learn how to develop and use personal strengths and resources to make positive change possible.
Both personally and professionally, I feel a natural inclination to connect with and help others. I believe that, because nobody’s life is perfect, we all need some extra support at times. This perspective is what keeps me motivated and driven to do the work that I do. With an approach that is trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based, I strive to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I believe in collaboration and working with clients to identify areas in which they seek change and to learn how to develop and use personal strengths and resources to make positive change possible.

If you are ready to discover a better version of yourself, let's talk. I believe therapy works best with collaboration, working together to find the most effective methods of meeting your self- established and recommended goals. My areas of expertise are within the LGBTQ community, including but not limited to gender identity, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD. I work with adults and adolescents confronting anxiety, depression, mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, grief/loss, self- harm, and chronic stress.
If you are ready to discover a better version of yourself, let's talk. I believe therapy works best with collaboration, working together to find the most effective methods of meeting your self- established and recommended goals. My areas of expertise are within the LGBTQ community, including but not limited to gender identity, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD. I work with adults and adolescents confronting anxiety, depression, mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, grief/loss, self- harm, and chronic stress.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Chicago, IL. My focus is on identifying and understanding dysfunctional life patterns that keep you stuck. We collaborate as a team so you know how to apply what is learned in sessions to create positive change in your life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Chicago, IL. My focus is on identifying and understanding dysfunctional life patterns that keep you stuck. We collaborate as a team so you know how to apply what is learned in sessions to create positive change in your life.

-The Psychology Practice- Dr. S. Mishevski
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
If you've made it this far, you've already taken a courageous step! Therapy can provide us with an opportunity to understand our past, so that we may create different future possibilities. We may often find ourselves in situations that repeat old familiar feelings/wounds, unbeknownst to us. These 'symptoms' alert to us something within ourselves is seeking attention & understanding. When we can begin to experientially integrate the past, we are better able to meet the moment more fully embodied & create new neural pathways, as well as new future potentials in 'the now'. The hard truth,
If you've made it this far, you've already taken a courageous step! Therapy can provide us with an opportunity to understand our past, so that we may create different future possibilities. We may often find ourselves in situations that repeat old familiar feelings/wounds, unbeknownst to us. These 'symptoms' alert to us something within ourselves is seeking attention & understanding. When we can begin to experientially integrate the past, we are better able to meet the moment more fully embodied & create new neural pathways, as well as new future potentials in 'the now'. The hard truth,

Exploring our losses, challenges and fears, as well as our successes and strengths, can be both difficult and rewarding. I seek to create an open, accepting and creative environment for this exploration. We can look to understand your goals and challenges, as well as develop more immediate skills in managing disruptive symptoms. In our first session we can discuss what brings you to therapy now, and what you hope to achieve.
Exploring our losses, challenges and fears, as well as our successes and strengths, can be both difficult and rewarding. I seek to create an open, accepting and creative environment for this exploration. We can look to understand your goals and challenges, as well as develop more immediate skills in managing disruptive symptoms. In our first session we can discuss what brings you to therapy now, and what you hope to achieve.
Meet Our Therapists

Lauren Trinca
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Every person deserves the space to be heard and process what is important to them. Therapy should be a safe space to work on the goals important to each individual. This is what I strive to provide each of my clients. I have found my ability to create that space through my warm, understanding, and empathetic manner has been beneficial to clients. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and young adults. I enjoy being a part of their journey towards change.
Every person deserves the space to be heard and process what is important to them. Therapy should be a safe space to work on the goals important to each individual. This is what I strive to provide each of my clients. I have found my ability to create that space through my warm, understanding, and empathetic manner has been beneficial to clients. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and young adults. I enjoy being a part of their journey towards change.

My name is Dr. Scott Dollinger. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist with 40 years of experience. I have trained and supervised approximately 500 clinicians. I help clients with their anxiety, depression, relationships, personal and professional performance, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder/neurodivergence, and recovery from all types of traumas. My therapeutic model is Biopsychosocial. I look at each individual’s unique neurological and medical condition, their personal history, and their past and current relationships and select the best evidence-based method to help them achieve their goals.
My name is Dr. Scott Dollinger. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist with 40 years of experience. I have trained and supervised approximately 500 clinicians. I help clients with their anxiety, depression, relationships, personal and professional performance, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder/neurodivergence, and recovery from all types of traumas. My therapeutic model is Biopsychosocial. I look at each individual’s unique neurological and medical condition, their personal history, and their past and current relationships and select the best evidence-based method to help them achieve their goals.

EMDR Therapy with Brianna Zielke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Hi! I’m an EMDR therapist, social worker, and mediator, specializing in addiction, PTSD, phobias, and depression. I love helping both teens and adults emerge from those constraints into a new worldview filled with a sense of freedom and self efficacy.
Hi! I’m an EMDR therapist, social worker, and mediator, specializing in addiction, PTSD, phobias, and depression. I love helping both teens and adults emerge from those constraints into a new worldview filled with a sense of freedom and self efficacy.

Molly Porter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life whether navigating traumatic life experiences to general life transitions. I utilize modalities such as Mindfulness-Based CBT, ACT, and Trauma-Informed perspectives to gain a deeper understanding and get to the root of why clients may be experiencing certain symptoms. We all have unique and intricate stories that require a similar treatment plan – honoring a person within their values and environment. I support and empower clients as they navigate who they are and what they want while providing the tools and resources to get them there, while using evidence-based interventions.
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life whether navigating traumatic life experiences to general life transitions. I utilize modalities such as Mindfulness-Based CBT, ACT, and Trauma-Informed perspectives to gain a deeper understanding and get to the root of why clients may be experiencing certain symptoms. We all have unique and intricate stories that require a similar treatment plan – honoring a person within their values and environment. I support and empower clients as they navigate who they are and what they want while providing the tools and resources to get them there, while using evidence-based interventions.

Jeanine Cannella Howe
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC, CDVP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Are you ready to make a change? "Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." Instead of ignoring problems, work with me to explore your challenges, set goals, and build on your strengths. Learn how to gain innovative ways of coping with life stressors. I incorporate approaches that will be most beneficial to the individual, couple, or family. I take a direct interactive collaborative approach. I believe our counseling relationship is important to your growth. The goal is to lead you to a more satisfied and balanced life.
Are you ready to make a change? "Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." Instead of ignoring problems, work with me to explore your challenges, set goals, and build on your strengths. Learn how to gain innovative ways of coping with life stressors. I incorporate approaches that will be most beneficial to the individual, couple, or family. I take a direct interactive collaborative approach. I believe our counseling relationship is important to your growth. The goal is to lead you to a more satisfied and balanced life.

Hi, I’m Dr. Nielsen, and I believe that each individual is unique as is their experience of themselves. In my work, I accompany each client on a journey to discover a greater understanding of who they are while reducing suffering and forging a more meaningful quality of life. It is from a humanistic and psychodynamic foundation of authenticity, acceptance, and nonjudgment that I approach my conceptualization of and work with each client. Deep listening and respect for the individual’s well-being as well as their problems allow me to develop strong working relationships. Therefore, I approach each session with great warmth and
Hi, I’m Dr. Nielsen, and I believe that each individual is unique as is their experience of themselves. In my work, I accompany each client on a journey to discover a greater understanding of who they are while reducing suffering and forging a more meaningful quality of life. It is from a humanistic and psychodynamic foundation of authenticity, acceptance, and nonjudgment that I approach my conceptualization of and work with each client. Deep listening and respect for the individual’s well-being as well as their problems allow me to develop strong working relationships. Therefore, I approach each session with great warmth and

Christopher Sloan Rigling
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
Waitlist for new clients
Please note that a new process group is currently taking referrals. My goal as a clinical psychologist is to be the catalyst for change in the lives of the people that I have the privilege to work with. Change is constant in life, and is the focus of my work. I specialize in psychotherapy based upon existential and psychoanalytic theory, and I provide consultation services for individuals striving to improve the quality of their lives, their life's work, and their living. I practice formal psychoanalysis with a portion of my patients that are interested and appropriate for long-term in-depth psychoanalysis.
Please note that a new process group is currently taking referrals. My goal as a clinical psychologist is to be the catalyst for change in the lives of the people that I have the privilege to work with. Change is constant in life, and is the focus of my work. I specialize in psychotherapy based upon existential and psychoanalytic theory, and I provide consultation services for individuals striving to improve the quality of their lives, their life's work, and their living. I practice formal psychoanalysis with a portion of my patients that are interested and appropriate for long-term in-depth psychoanalysis.

I am a state-licensed Christian counselor who always counsels with her Bible open. I want it to be obvious to my clients that I am a Christian! My goal is to help clients discover the "secrets" of scripture written plainly for our instruction. When answers for our situations can be lifted off the pages of God's love letter, it is energizingly freeing! The Bible is enough. I provide online Christian counseling for Illinois and Missouri residents.
I am a state-licensed Christian counselor who always counsels with her Bible open. I want it to be obvious to my clients that I am a Christian! My goal is to help clients discover the "secrets" of scripture written plainly for our instruction. When answers for our situations can be lifted off the pages of God's love letter, it is energizingly freeing! The Bible is enough. I provide online Christian counseling for Illinois and Missouri residents.

Christina Poe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
With over 25 years of experience in counseling and social services, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals, couples, and families navigating life’s challenges. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois, focusing on Advanced Clinical Practice, and I am dedicated to helping clients achieve emotional and mental well-being. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness techniques, all tailored to each client’s unique needs.
With over 25 years of experience in counseling and social services, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals, couples, and families navigating life’s challenges. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois, focusing on Advanced Clinical Practice, and I am dedicated to helping clients achieve emotional and mental well-being. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness techniques, all tailored to each client’s unique needs.
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.