Optum Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL
Our lives' narratives sometimes may not be pleasant nor self-fulling. Nonetheless, the therapeutic space can serve as a starting point to reflect and create new beginnings. It can also be a space where we revisit past narratives that may have marked you significantly or try to embrace our fears for the future. In our work together, I aim to connect with you in a way that not only allows for safety, trust and vulnerability but instills a sense of empowerment that affirms your ability to endure uncertainty. I view therapy as a space where both you and I can help each other to co-narrate your life experiences.
Our lives' narratives sometimes may not be pleasant nor self-fulling. Nonetheless, the therapeutic space can serve as a starting point to reflect and create new beginnings. It can also be a space where we revisit past narratives that may have marked you significantly or try to embrace our fears for the future. In our work together, I aim to connect with you in a way that not only allows for safety, trust and vulnerability but instills a sense of empowerment that affirms your ability to endure uncertainty. I view therapy as a space where both you and I can help each other to co-narrate your life experiences.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the addiction and mental health field for 25+ years. I offer Counseling and Coaching Services to individuals and couples who are interested in personal growth. I believe in treating the whole person because integrating the mind, the body, and the community is essential in optimizing a person's quality of life. From complex trauma and addiction to learning everyday life skills, I try to help individuals find the strength and acceptance to overcome painful emotions. I strive for each client to leave sessions feeling empowered and confident in their abilities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the addiction and mental health field for 25+ years. I offer Counseling and Coaching Services to individuals and couples who are interested in personal growth. I believe in treating the whole person because integrating the mind, the body, and the community is essential in optimizing a person's quality of life. From complex trauma and addiction to learning everyday life skills, I try to help individuals find the strength and acceptance to overcome painful emotions. I strive for each client to leave sessions feeling empowered and confident in their abilities.
Congratulations on taking this step toward caring for your mental health. I'm Dr. April, and I specialize in helping clients work through trauma and PTSD, women’s issues, and depression using a trauma-informed, relational approach. My work centers on helping you reconnect with your authentic self by exploring your relationship with yourself, others, and the world. I strive to create a judgment-free space of safety, acceptance, and empowerment where you can build confidence, strengthen your voice, and navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience.
Congratulations on taking this step toward caring for your mental health. I'm Dr. April, and I specialize in helping clients work through trauma and PTSD, women’s issues, and depression using a trauma-informed, relational approach. My work centers on helping you reconnect with your authentic self by exploring your relationship with yourself, others, and the world. I strive to create a judgment-free space of safety, acceptance, and empowerment where you can build confidence, strengthen your voice, and navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience.
Matthew Cramer treats people struggling with: addictive use of substances or behaviors, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, job stress and the lasting impact of trauma. If you're considering therapy but aren't sure, then you've come to the right place. Most people who see Matthew have little to no experience with therapists or therapy. Many are uncomfortable asking for help, believing it is a sign of "weakness." Others come from families where "staying strong," and keeping "personal business" in the family was the norm. Whatever the story, they are able to open up to him.
Matthew Cramer treats people struggling with: addictive use of substances or behaviors, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, job stress and the lasting impact of trauma. If you're considering therapy but aren't sure, then you've come to the right place. Most people who see Matthew have little to no experience with therapists or therapy. Many are uncomfortable asking for help, believing it is a sign of "weakness." Others come from families where "staying strong," and keeping "personal business" in the family was the norm. Whatever the story, they are able to open up to him.
Do you find yourself wishing your relationships with others were deeper? Do you crave intimacy, to feel known, listened to, and valued? If you are experiencing conflict or lack of closeness in your personal relationships, I am here to come alongside you and your significant other(s) to rebuild and heal.
Do you find yourself wishing your relationships with others were deeper? Do you crave intimacy, to feel known, listened to, and valued? If you are experiencing conflict or lack of closeness in your personal relationships, I am here to come alongside you and your significant other(s) to rebuild and heal.
I am in-network and accept Insurance from BlueCross Blue Shield PPO, Optum, UMR, United Healthcare as well as private pay (cash/check).
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples on a wide range of emotional and relationship challenges. My clients often come to therapy seeking understanding, clarity, and growth in areas such as communication, anxiety, depression, or family dynamics. I specialize in women's health, eating disorders, couples as well as grief and trauma (among other issues). I believe that therapy should feel supportive, collaborative, and focused on helping you build skills and process emotions that lead to lasting change and a more balanced, fulfilling life.
I am in-network and accept Insurance from BlueCross Blue Shield PPO, Optum, UMR, United Healthcare as well as private pay (cash/check).
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples on a wide range of emotional and relationship challenges. My clients often come to therapy seeking understanding, clarity, and growth in areas such as communication, anxiety, depression, or family dynamics. I specialize in women's health, eating disorders, couples as well as grief and trauma (among other issues). I believe that therapy should feel supportive, collaborative, and focused on helping you build skills and process emotions that lead to lasting change and a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Shannon feels that the relationship that she has with a client is the most important aspect of counseling. With a safe and trusting environment, Shannon and her clients can collaboratively work through their specific needs together. She believes that clients should feel as though they have power in counseling, in their decision-making and in their lives. Shannon believes open and honest communication about ones' difficulties and the counseling process is key to success. Shannon hopes to create a brave space where clients can be vulnerable, try new things and speak openly in a position where they feel accepted rather than judged.
Shannon feels that the relationship that she has with a client is the most important aspect of counseling. With a safe and trusting environment, Shannon and her clients can collaboratively work through their specific needs together. She believes that clients should feel as though they have power in counseling, in their decision-making and in their lives. Shannon believes open and honest communication about ones' difficulties and the counseling process is key to success. Shannon hopes to create a brave space where clients can be vulnerable, try new things and speak openly in a position where they feel accepted rather than judged.
As a therapist, I believe everyone has the capacity for growth and healing when given a safe space to be fully seen and heard. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative — I meet you where you are and walk alongside you as you move toward greater self-understanding and balance.
I can be found at helloalma.
As a therapist, I believe everyone has the capacity for growth and healing when given a safe space to be fully seen and heard. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative — I meet you where you are and walk alongside you as you move toward greater self-understanding and balance.
I can be found at helloalma.
Sometimes life gets heavy, complicated, or just confusing. You might be feeling stuck, questioning your next steps, or wanting to reconnect with parts of yourself that have been pushed aside. Therapy with me is about creating a space where you can slow down, think clearly, and make decisions that feel true to who you are, not who the world expects you to be.
Sometimes life gets heavy, complicated, or just confusing. You might be feeling stuck, questioning your next steps, or wanting to reconnect with parts of yourself that have been pushed aside. Therapy with me is about creating a space where you can slow down, think clearly, and make decisions that feel true to who you are, not who the world expects you to be.
Linda Quizhpi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with a wide range of age groups and diverse populations. Linda takes into consideration all aspects of a client’s life as a whole in order to create a unique treatment plan to help address one’s needs. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused interventions, dialectical behavior therapy, and many other modalities. In her free time, Linda enjoys reading, journaling, and working with local advocacy groups aiming to promote positive change.
Linda Quizhpi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with a wide range of age groups and diverse populations. Linda takes into consideration all aspects of a client’s life as a whole in order to create a unique treatment plan to help address one’s needs. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused interventions, dialectical behavior therapy, and many other modalities. In her free time, Linda enjoys reading, journaling, and working with local advocacy groups aiming to promote positive change.
Taylor supports adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, and more.
In therapy, Taylor mainly uses a combination of CBT and client centered therapy. Her goal is to help clients develop an awareness of and overcome distorted thinking. In every case, Taylor guides clients to recognize that they have control over their future.
Taylor earned an MSW from University of Nevada, Reno. Her experience includes working with the homeless population as well as youth struggling with substance abuse, domestic violence, and discrimination due to sexual orientation or identity.
Taylor supports adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, and more.
In therapy, Taylor mainly uses a combination of CBT and client centered therapy. Her goal is to help clients develop an awareness of and overcome distorted thinking. In every case, Taylor guides clients to recognize that they have control over their future.
Taylor earned an MSW from University of Nevada, Reno. Her experience includes working with the homeless population as well as youth struggling with substance abuse, domestic violence, and discrimination due to sexual orientation or identity.
I work with those who feel burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck in an “always doing, never resting” cycle—especially those who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, self-criticism, or the belief that they can’t make mistakes. Growing up and navigating my twenties, I learned to aim for perfection as a way to avoid criticism and judgment. Over time, that pressure caught up with me and led to burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Through my own journey, I came to understand just how much our past experiences shape how we show up in our lives today. Fortunately, this has helped me truly understand what clients are going through.
I work with those who feel burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck in an “always doing, never resting” cycle—especially those who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, self-criticism, or the belief that they can’t make mistakes. Growing up and navigating my twenties, I learned to aim for perfection as a way to avoid criticism and judgment. Over time, that pressure caught up with me and led to burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Through my own journey, I came to understand just how much our past experiences shape how we show up in our lives today. Fortunately, this has helped me truly understand what clients are going through.
Do you feel overwhelmed, weighed down and stuck in place at times, like you know what you should do, but don’t have the motivation to make it happen? This is the effect ADHD, depression, anxiety and trauma can have on people, and you’re not alone. As your therapist, my goal is to make you feel heard and understood. Together, we will address your concerns by understanding how your thoughts, emotions, and physical health effect one another. We will seek to understand the underlying source of your symptoms and discover coping mechanisms that work for you through exploring your strengths, interests and support systems.
Do you feel overwhelmed, weighed down and stuck in place at times, like you know what you should do, but don’t have the motivation to make it happen? This is the effect ADHD, depression, anxiety and trauma can have on people, and you’re not alone. As your therapist, my goal is to make you feel heard and understood. Together, we will address your concerns by understanding how your thoughts, emotions, and physical health effect one another. We will seek to understand the underlying source of your symptoms and discover coping mechanisms that work for you through exploring your strengths, interests and support systems.
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.
My training includes practical experience in various therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy. I’ve completed extensive coursework in couples and family therapy, sex therapy, trauma, and addictions. At the core of my practice is a belief in the inherent resilience and capacity for change within every individual. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing on a range of evidence-based practices to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals and values.
My training includes practical experience in various therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy. I’ve completed extensive coursework in couples and family therapy, sex therapy, trauma, and addictions. At the core of my practice is a belief in the inherent resilience and capacity for change within every individual. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing on a range of evidence-based practices to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals and values.
I believe that challenges can present opportunities for healing and growth. In my work with clients, I provide a space where one can feel understood, supported and empowered. I truly believe that effective therapy is based in a genuine and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. Through this approach, I help clients to manage difficult emotions, address adverse thought patterns, and improve upon factors that may hinder one's quality of life.
I believe that challenges can present opportunities for healing and growth. In my work with clients, I provide a space where one can feel understood, supported and empowered. I truly believe that effective therapy is based in a genuine and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. Through this approach, I help clients to manage difficult emotions, address adverse thought patterns, and improve upon factors that may hinder one's quality of life.
Nina Dismukes has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with attention issues, learning disabilities, substance use, self-esteem, expressing emotions, trauma, coping skills, and more. Nina believes that effective therapy is a soulful-healing process that takes time, patience, loyalty, self-love, and the openness to communicate. Nina feels that it is important to help empower patients by allowing them to express themselves in a way that makes them feel comfortable and safe.
Nina Dismukes has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with attention issues, learning disabilities, substance use, self-esteem, expressing emotions, trauma, coping skills, and more. Nina believes that effective therapy is a soulful-healing process that takes time, patience, loyalty, self-love, and the openness to communicate. Nina feels that it is important to help empower patients by allowing them to express themselves in a way that makes them feel comfortable and safe.
As clinical director for Midwest Counseling & Diagnostic Center, and a practicing clinical psychologist, Dr. Joy E. Ryba treats individuals, couples and families presenting with issues related to drug and alcohol addiction, process addictions (gambling, spending and sex), depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and self-injury. She has been in private practice since 2004, after leaving the group practice of a large suburban behavior health hospital.
As clinical director for Midwest Counseling & Diagnostic Center, and a practicing clinical psychologist, Dr. Joy E. Ryba treats individuals, couples and families presenting with issues related to drug and alcohol addiction, process addictions (gambling, spending and sex), depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and self-injury. She has been in private practice since 2004, after leaving the group practice of a large suburban behavior health hospital.
I am committed to help you make the changes you want- Now. In your journey of self discovery, I will help you maximize your strengths, get support around your goals and desires, and create a healthy vision for yourself. I have worked with 100s of clients and have a wide range of experience to understand you. I am practical and results oriented. Make change work for you. Assessment is often used to help clarify issues and create a mutual plan.
I am committed to help you make the changes you want- Now. In your journey of self discovery, I will help you maximize your strengths, get support around your goals and desires, and create a healthy vision for yourself. I have worked with 100s of clients and have a wide range of experience to understand you. I am practical and results oriented. Make change work for you. Assessment is often used to help clarify issues and create a mutual plan.
I accept Optum as a VA Community Care provider.
Many of my clients are adults carrying the weight of trauma, C‑PTSD, community violence, military stress, moral injury, or painful life transitions. Others feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them or struggle with anxiety, burnout, or sleep disruption that affects work and relationships. Clients often come to me when they’re overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. As a Veteran, I deeply understand trauma's impact on daily life and well-being. I also support clients seeking psychological testing to clarify PTSD, ADHD, Autism, or diagnostic concerns. Together, we work toward stability and meaningful change.
I accept Optum as a VA Community Care provider.
Many of my clients are adults carrying the weight of trauma, C‑PTSD, community violence, military stress, moral injury, or painful life transitions. Others feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them or struggle with anxiety, burnout, or sleep disruption that affects work and relationships. Clients often come to me when they’re overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. As a Veteran, I deeply understand trauma's impact on daily life and well-being. I also support clients seeking psychological testing to clarify PTSD, ADHD, Autism, or diagnostic concerns. Together, we work toward stability and meaningful change.
See more therapy options for River North, Chicago
Nearby Optum Therapists Searches for River North, Chicago
- Dearborn Park
- Little Italy
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Noble Square
- 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
Optum Therapists
Does insurance cover therapy, prescriptions and other behavioral health services?
In general, yes. Laws in the U.S. require insurers to cover essential behavioral health care at the same level as other health care services. Most health plans require a medical diagnosis and treatments that are evidence based and medically essential. This means that life coaching and alternative therapies are not covered, nor is therapy without a diagnosis. Call the number on the back or your insurance card or visit your insurance company's website to review your Summary of Benefits. If you have insurance through your employer, your Human Resources department may also be able to answer questions.
How much does therapy cost with insurance?
The cost of therapy depends on your region, how much training and experience your therapist has, and the type of treatment. The rate for talk therapy generally falls between $100 and $250. For a client seeing an in-network provider, the cost of therapy is often similar to the cost of other health care services. Clients pay co-pays and may need to satisfy a plan’s deductible before benefits kick in.
What is the difference between In-Network and Out-of-Network insurance coverage?
An in-network provider has contracted with an insurer to get paid directly for services, and to accept the insurer’s rate of compensation. Clients are responsible for deductibles and copays. If a therapist is out of network, that means that the client pays the therapist directly for services at the therapist’s regular fee. Out-of-Network providers often give clients a receipt so that they can file for partial reimbursement with their insurance company.
Is it difficult to find an In-Network therapist?
It is not unusual for therapists to limit the number of insurance patients in their practice, so it’s important to check in-network availability when you schedule your first appointment. In regions and times where therapy is in high demand it may take longer to get scheduled with an in-network therapist.
What is the difference between HMO and PPO insurance plans?
HMO health plans only cover in-network services, there is no reimbursement for out-of-network providers. PPO plans often cover both in- and out-of-network services, though the client may pay more for out-of-network services.
What is a Superbill?
A superbill is a receipt for therapy services. It provides all the information required by insurance companies to reimburse you for out-of-network services, including the diagnostic codes for your care, the amount paid, and the dates and duration of care.
Does insurance cover Online therapy?
Many therapists who shifted their practice to online therapy during the pandemic have kept that arrangement. And most insurers continue to cover telehealth services, with a few exceptions. Preventive care (such as an annual depression screening) is often required to be in-person to be covered, and some states require prescribers of controlled substances to see those patients in person.
Does insurance cover Group therapy?
Many insurance plans provide coverage for group therapy provided there is a medical diagnosis for group members, but there are some noteworthy exceptions. For example, Medicare does not always cover group therapy. Group therapy tends to cost less than individual therapy.
Does insurance cover Couples therapy?
Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of couples therapy because there is no medical diagnosis or medically necessary treatment. However, a few plans will offer a limited benefit, so it is still worth checking with your insurance company. Sometimes therapy is covered for a couple when one person has a diagnosis and another family member joins them for joint therapy, but it is considered therapy for the medical condition that includes a family member as a listener or helper, not couples counseling. Without insurance, most clients pay between $100-300 per 60-90 min session for couples therapy. Often clients can find classes or workshops that make it more affordable to work on their relationship. And some employers offer Employee Assistance Plans that help defray the cost of couples therapy.
What is an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)?
Employee Assistance Plans are purchased by employers for the benefit of their employees. EAPs typically assist employees with referrals and may also provide the first few sessions of therapy free of charge, with the patient's regular health insurance kicking in after those initial sessions. EAP benefits often apply to all types of therapy without the need for a medical diagnosis, making it easier to access couples therapy, therapy for life transitions, and other non-medical counseling. Just as with standard health insurance, clients should always check that a provider accepts their EAP benefits before scheduling. Learn more about Insurance Coverage and Finding Affordable Therapy