Emotionally Focused Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL

Mallory Welsh Khan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients! I help clients with their journey to become one's ideal self. I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing psychotherapy. My expertise is treating adults who struggle with anxiety/depression and are seeking to find a more meaningful life. I also enjoy working with new moms (as I too am a newer mom to a little one) and college students, faced with anxiety due to their life transition(s) which can bring on stress, depression, and/or anxiety with the many questions centering around, “What am I going to do next in my life?" "How do I navigate my new identity as a mother?"
Accepting new clients! I help clients with their journey to become one's ideal self. I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing psychotherapy. My expertise is treating adults who struggle with anxiety/depression and are seeking to find a more meaningful life. I also enjoy working with new moms (as I too am a newer mom to a little one) and college students, faced with anxiety due to their life transition(s) which can bring on stress, depression, and/or anxiety with the many questions centering around, “What am I going to do next in my life?" "How do I navigate my new identity as a mother?"

Seeking support is not often easy, and in engaging with therapy you have taken a very important step. I believe that there is no single therapeutic method that works for all people, and I instead look forward to meeting you where you are, building a trusting relationship, and collaborating with you on your goals while we create a personalized path towards empowering you and reducing your suffering. In walking this path together, we can work towards a better understanding of your Self, including your joys, sorrows, challenges, and strengths, as well as how you navigate the world.
Seeking support is not often easy, and in engaging with therapy you have taken a very important step. I believe that there is no single therapeutic method that works for all people, and I instead look forward to meeting you where you are, building a trusting relationship, and collaborating with you on your goals while we create a personalized path towards empowering you and reducing your suffering. In walking this path together, we can work towards a better understanding of your Self, including your joys, sorrows, challenges, and strengths, as well as how you navigate the world.

Patricia Vander Sande
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I am glad that you are making the first step in reaching out for help and support. It often takes courage to come in for the first session. My goal is to create a safe place where people can find help and support for those issues that are creating pain and distress in their lives. My hope is help free people up from whatever those things are. I have over 34 years of helping people dealing with trauma, relational issues, family of origin issues, depression, anxiety, cultural adjustment and re-entry issues. transitions, and healing from abusive relationships.
I am glad that you are making the first step in reaching out for help and support. It often takes courage to come in for the first session. My goal is to create a safe place where people can find help and support for those issues that are creating pain and distress in their lives. My hope is help free people up from whatever those things are. I have over 34 years of helping people dealing with trauma, relational issues, family of origin issues, depression, anxiety, cultural adjustment and re-entry issues. transitions, and healing from abusive relationships.

Lauren Ratliff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Accepting new clients as of 2/2025!
As a certified perinatal therapist and mother of three, I am passionate about mental health during reproduction, pregnancy, and motherhood. This is a time in a woman’s life that is often labeled as blissful and exciting, but it can be one of the most challenging transitions a woman experiences. This is a time of significant change, and usually involves uncertainty and emotional overwhelm. I aim to normalize this complex experience, and help you manage through this adjustment more seamlessly.
Accepting new clients as of 2/2025!
As a certified perinatal therapist and mother of three, I am passionate about mental health during reproduction, pregnancy, and motherhood. This is a time in a woman’s life that is often labeled as blissful and exciting, but it can be one of the most challenging transitions a woman experiences. This is a time of significant change, and usually involves uncertainty and emotional overwhelm. I aim to normalize this complex experience, and help you manage through this adjustment more seamlessly.

Anisa Brazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
I believe that everyone deserves to have a sanctioned space where they can prioritize their needs and goals, in order to process past and present experiences. In a society where we may not be taught or allowed to experience a full range of emotions, I want to ensure that my clients will feel affirmed in their feelings, while simultaneously challenging them to analyze their roots. My primary goal is to support clients in healing from the inside out and tailor the therapeutic relationship to each individual's need, while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of community, connection, and collaboration to achieve liberation.
I believe that everyone deserves to have a sanctioned space where they can prioritize their needs and goals, in order to process past and present experiences. In a society where we may not be taught or allowed to experience a full range of emotions, I want to ensure that my clients will feel affirmed in their feelings, while simultaneously challenging them to analyze their roots. My primary goal is to support clients in healing from the inside out and tailor the therapeutic relationship to each individual's need, while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of community, connection, and collaboration to achieve liberation.

As a South Asian therapist, I understand the intricate meanings tied to being an immigrant and a woman of color. I believe that every person's lived experiences uniquely shape their life and perceptions, which is why finding congruence and meaning in one’s life is important. In my practice, I utilize an integrative approach that blends systems, humanistic, and multicultural frameworks.
As a South Asian therapist, I understand the intricate meanings tied to being an immigrant and a woman of color. I believe that every person's lived experiences uniquely shape their life and perceptions, which is why finding congruence and meaning in one’s life is important. In my practice, I utilize an integrative approach that blends systems, humanistic, and multicultural frameworks.

Rachel Nicholson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
Hey! I’m Rachel Nicholson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, and I am so excited you’re here! Taking the first step toward therapy can feel a little scary (I’ve totally been there!), and I want you to know you don’t have to figure it all out alone. If you have been feeling stuck in your life or feeling like you're barely holding it together, I'm here to help! In our sessions, we’ll create a cozy, safe, judgment-free space where you can show up exactly as you are. Whether it’s messy thoughts, hard emotions, or “what if” fears you don’t say out loud, we will work through it together leaving you feeling supported.
Hey! I’m Rachel Nicholson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, and I am so excited you’re here! Taking the first step toward therapy can feel a little scary (I’ve totally been there!), and I want you to know you don’t have to figure it all out alone. If you have been feeling stuck in your life or feeling like you're barely holding it together, I'm here to help! In our sessions, we’ll create a cozy, safe, judgment-free space where you can show up exactly as you are. Whether it’s messy thoughts, hard emotions, or “what if” fears you don’t say out loud, we will work through it together leaving you feeling supported.

Now accepting new clients! Available Thursday to Saturday. Congratulations on taking the first step towards a brighter future and a healthier relationship with yourself and your family. I work with families, couples, and individuals from a variety of backgrounds. Your life experiences have shaped who you are today. It is my job to work collaboratively with you to reach your goals for treatment.
Now accepting new clients! Available Thursday to Saturday. Congratulations on taking the first step towards a brighter future and a healthier relationship with yourself and your family. I work with families, couples, and individuals from a variety of backgrounds. Your life experiences have shaped who you are today. It is my job to work collaboratively with you to reach your goals for treatment.

"Surviving keeps you from living." Often times we are faced with a part of us that refuses to pause and work through those feelings or issues that can be causing discomfort. Instead, it tells us to press on and keep going. The idea that in order to function we must suppress our feelings or emotions tends to have longterm negative effects. If you are tired of just surviving, waking up and pushing through, then it is time for you to learn how to fully live in your truth.
"Surviving keeps you from living." Often times we are faced with a part of us that refuses to pause and work through those feelings or issues that can be causing discomfort. Instead, it tells us to press on and keep going. The idea that in order to function we must suppress our feelings or emotions tends to have longterm negative effects. If you are tired of just surviving, waking up and pushing through, then it is time for you to learn how to fully live in your truth.

Lawrence Jennings
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60602
I believe the meaning we create from our experiences and environment plays a significant role in shaping how we navigate, adapt, and survive the world. My priority is that we cultivate a collaborative non-judgmental therapeutic relationship that centers on safety, positive regard, genuineness, and openness. Within this space, my clients will be able to freely explore their vulnerabilities, express distressful emotions (pain, grief, anger, etc.), make greater meaning out of their experiences, and redefine past experiences.
I believe the meaning we create from our experiences and environment plays a significant role in shaping how we navigate, adapt, and survive the world. My priority is that we cultivate a collaborative non-judgmental therapeutic relationship that centers on safety, positive regard, genuineness, and openness. Within this space, my clients will be able to freely explore their vulnerabilities, express distressful emotions (pain, grief, anger, etc.), make greater meaning out of their experiences, and redefine past experiences.

I like people. It's hard to not feel compassion for an individual who is willing to bear their soul to find a better out come. I am clinically astute, however, I deliver a warm and compassionate and objective viewpoint to assist my clients. I have a diverse background which allows me to fully empathize with the clients I serve. I am licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin . I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic history. Prior to working in my own practice, I worked with specialized children in foster care.
I like people. It's hard to not feel compassion for an individual who is willing to bear their soul to find a better out come. I am clinically astute, however, I deliver a warm and compassionate and objective viewpoint to assist my clients. I have a diverse background which allows me to fully empathize with the clients I serve. I am licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin . I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic history. Prior to working in my own practice, I worked with specialized children in foster care.
Meet Our Emotionally Focused Therapists

Jodi Daniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
I embrace a pragmatic approach to therapy, encompassing a variety of therapeutic modalities to address numerous issues. I recognize we all view life from our own, personal context. Exploring context allows space for understanding, empathy, forgiveness, healing, and growth. I believe the goal of therapy shouldn't only be relieving symptoms, but also to foster the positive presence of inner capacities and strengths, allowing people to live life with a greater sense of freedom, flexibility, possibility, and contentment. I work with various issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, adjustment, and life changes.
I embrace a pragmatic approach to therapy, encompassing a variety of therapeutic modalities to address numerous issues. I recognize we all view life from our own, personal context. Exploring context allows space for understanding, empathy, forgiveness, healing, and growth. I believe the goal of therapy shouldn't only be relieving symptoms, but also to foster the positive presence of inner capacities and strengths, allowing people to live life with a greater sense of freedom, flexibility, possibility, and contentment. I work with various issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, adjustment, and life changes.

Ar Morningside Counseling and Assessment, I provide therapy that is collaborative and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
Ar Morningside Counseling and Assessment, I provide therapy that is collaborative and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.

In person therapy or teletherapy. I have over 25 years of experience as a therapist working with adults and adolescents. My focus has been working with clients that have addictions, substance abuse issues, anxiety, depression, co-dependency, life changes/transitions, relationship issues, divorce, infertility, women's issues, mood disorders, and self-injury. I believe in identifying client's strengths to assist in a healthier lifestyle. Much of my therapy style is through CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy. I provide a safe environment of compassion and understanding, wherein each client is seen as an individual.
In person therapy or teletherapy. I have over 25 years of experience as a therapist working with adults and adolescents. My focus has been working with clients that have addictions, substance abuse issues, anxiety, depression, co-dependency, life changes/transitions, relationship issues, divorce, infertility, women's issues, mood disorders, and self-injury. I believe in identifying client's strengths to assist in a healthier lifestyle. Much of my therapy style is through CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy. I provide a safe environment of compassion and understanding, wherein each client is seen as an individual.

My focus is on helping parents find balance, learn self-care, loosen the guilt and learn about their littles. I help those in all types of parenting roles with their new or changing identities as they're shifted into a life different than the one they once had. Parenthood brings to the surface a lot of old feelings and wounds that often need to be processed as well as figuring out which patterns are being played out from their own childhood and if there are any they need help not repeating. I have a specialty in babies, toddlers and preschoolers but assist them by working with their parents. I do 1:1 therapy with adults and kids.
My focus is on helping parents find balance, learn self-care, loosen the guilt and learn about their littles. I help those in all types of parenting roles with their new or changing identities as they're shifted into a life different than the one they once had. Parenthood brings to the surface a lot of old feelings and wounds that often need to be processed as well as figuring out which patterns are being played out from their own childhood and if there are any they need help not repeating. I have a specialty in babies, toddlers and preschoolers but assist them by working with their parents. I do 1:1 therapy with adults and kids.

Has availability for new clients now! Hello, and congratulations on taking this first step in finding a therapist – I celebrate your choice to make a difference in your life. I am a therapist with a goal to help you understand your potential for living your most fulfilled life – whatever that looks like for you. I bring compassion, warmth, humor and a thoughtful pragmatism to my practice to establish authentic rapport with clients, as I believe that a relationship built on trust is the most important and effective aspect of deeply therapeutic work. Whether our work is via video telehealth or in-person, I can help!
Has availability for new clients now! Hello, and congratulations on taking this first step in finding a therapist – I celebrate your choice to make a difference in your life. I am a therapist with a goal to help you understand your potential for living your most fulfilled life – whatever that looks like for you. I bring compassion, warmth, humor and a thoughtful pragmatism to my practice to establish authentic rapport with clients, as I believe that a relationship built on trust is the most important and effective aspect of deeply therapeutic work. Whether our work is via video telehealth or in-person, I can help!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois who helps people who are struggling emotionally, socially, and relationally. Everyone goes through challenges and conflicts in life and it can be frustrating to know when and where to get help. I can help with those struggles so that you can create real and lasting change.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois who helps people who are struggling emotionally, socially, and relationally. Everyone goes through challenges and conflicts in life and it can be frustrating to know when and where to get help. I can help with those struggles so that you can create real and lasting change.

Josh Brewster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming—like you’re moving through a fog, unsure of what’s ahead or how to find solid ground. I work with people who feel stuck in that fog. Anxiety keeps you on edge, grief leaves you feeling lost, and relationship struggles create distance where you crave connection. Even with your best efforts, old patterns can pull you back in. I help people who are ready for change but unsure where to start. I know how exhausting it can be trying to hold it all together. My role is to help you find clarity, rebuild confidence, and feel more in control. You don’t have to figure it out alone—I’m here to help you move forward.
Life can feel overwhelming—like you’re moving through a fog, unsure of what’s ahead or how to find solid ground. I work with people who feel stuck in that fog. Anxiety keeps you on edge, grief leaves you feeling lost, and relationship struggles create distance where you crave connection. Even with your best efforts, old patterns can pull you back in. I help people who are ready for change but unsure where to start. I know how exhausting it can be trying to hold it all together. My role is to help you find clarity, rebuild confidence, and feel more in control. You don’t have to figure it out alone—I’m here to help you move forward.

I work with people who want to deeply understand themselves, create more meaningful connections with others, and learn new ways of coping with pain and life's challenges. Many people seek therapy because they are dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD and the effects of trauma, and relationship challenges. But often, those are broad terms for more subtle issues—dissatisfaction, stuckness, loneliness, feeling lost, or experiencing difficult feelings about oneself or others. Whatever your specific concern, therapy can promote growth, change, and more freedom in your life.
I work with people who want to deeply understand themselves, create more meaningful connections with others, and learn new ways of coping with pain and life's challenges. Many people seek therapy because they are dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD and the effects of trauma, and relationship challenges. But often, those are broad terms for more subtle issues—dissatisfaction, stuckness, loneliness, feeling lost, or experiencing difficult feelings about oneself or others. Whatever your specific concern, therapy can promote growth, change, and more freedom in your life.

I believe the most impactful element of our lives is our relationships, both with ourselves and our partners. As a counselor specializing in relational and sexual wellbeing, I work with individuals and couples to address common goals including enhancing the experience of sex and sexuality, improving empathy and emotional connection in a relationship, and reducing relational conflict. Working through these concerns can have an enormous impact on one's quality of life, as I have seen in working with clients courageous enough to do this deep work.
I believe the most impactful element of our lives is our relationships, both with ourselves and our partners. As a counselor specializing in relational and sexual wellbeing, I work with individuals and couples to address common goals including enhancing the experience of sex and sexuality, improving empathy and emotional connection in a relationship, and reducing relational conflict. Working through these concerns can have an enormous impact on one's quality of life, as I have seen in working with clients courageous enough to do this deep work.
See more therapy options for River North, Chicago
Nearby Emotionally Focused Therapists Searches for River North, Chicago
- Dearborn Park
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Old Town Triangle
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
Nearby Searches for River North, Chicago
- Greektown
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Old Town
- Old Town Triangle
- Printers Row
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop