Alcohol Use Therapists in Chicago, IL

Mark Farrell O'Brien
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are substances affecting your work, school, or relationships? Do you find yourself using alcohol or other drugs to take the edge off only to watch your grades slip, miss deadlines at work, or notice the people closest to you pulling away? Do you wonder if it’s possible to feel in control again without white-knuckling through every week? More and more men are realizing that what started as a way to cope has quietly become the problem itself affecting their focus, performance, and relationships. It doesn’t have to stay that way.
Are substances affecting your work, school, or relationships? Do you find yourself using alcohol or other drugs to take the edge off only to watch your grades slip, miss deadlines at work, or notice the people closest to you pulling away? Do you wonder if it’s possible to feel in control again without white-knuckling through every week? More and more men are realizing that what started as a way to cope has quietly become the problem itself affecting their focus, performance, and relationships. It doesn’t have to stay that way.
(312) 756-7236 View (312) 756-7236
Michelle Lehto Flores
Counselor, MA, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Michelle. I enjoy working with people who often feel stuck in cycles of anger and or conflict, and feel as though they struggle with communicating what they need or often feel unheard. They want to understand their triggers, communicate more effectively, and regain a sense of control in their relationships and daily life. You may find yourself motivated for insight and practical change while seeking emotional regulation and navigating what that truly looks like for you. My goal is work with you in understanding how to effectively communicate and create lasting change that goes beyond quick fixes.
Hi! I'm Michelle. I enjoy working with people who often feel stuck in cycles of anger and or conflict, and feel as though they struggle with communicating what they need or often feel unheard. They want to understand their triggers, communicate more effectively, and regain a sense of control in their relationships and daily life. You may find yourself motivated for insight and practical change while seeking emotional regulation and navigating what that truly looks like for you. My goal is work with you in understanding how to effectively communicate and create lasting change that goes beyond quick fixes.
(773) 232-4757 View (773) 232-4757
Dr. Cassandra Brandes
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping people get unstuck from thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that don't serve them. I work with adults and teens, specializing in highly effective treatments for OCD, alcohol and other substance use problems (e.g., nicotine, cocaine, cannabis), anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Therapy with me is client-centered, meaning your goals and values guide our work together. I can help you identify personal values to achieve your “life worth living.” I believe that you and I are a team in your treatment: you are the expert on your own experiences, and I offer space for self-discovery and tools to help you thrive.
I specialize in helping people get unstuck from thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that don't serve them. I work with adults and teens, specializing in highly effective treatments for OCD, alcohol and other substance use problems (e.g., nicotine, cocaine, cannabis), anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Therapy with me is client-centered, meaning your goals and values guide our work together. I can help you identify personal values to achieve your “life worth living.” I believe that you and I are a team in your treatment: you are the expert on your own experiences, and I offer space for self-discovery and tools to help you thrive.
(872) 313-5616 View (872) 313-5616
Sylvester J Merritt
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Clients want to be heard and validated without judgment on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. So often the view of therapy is someone telling someone what to do with their life, when the therapeutic space should be a collaborative space that helps a client identify their strengths and learning how they can become the narrators of their lives again. Learning adaptive skills rather than coping strategies provides structures for sustaining progress in understanding symptoms, managing responses with empathy, and sustaining progress made in treatment.
Clients want to be heard and validated without judgment on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. So often the view of therapy is someone telling someone what to do with their life, when the therapeutic space should be a collaborative space that helps a client identify their strengths and learning how they can become the narrators of their lives again. Learning adaptive skills rather than coping strategies provides structures for sustaining progress in understanding symptoms, managing responses with empathy, and sustaining progress made in treatment.
(872) 219-2522 x801 View (872) 219-2522 x801
Kenzo Shibata
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
You’re thoughtful. You handle a lot. From the outside, it looks like you’re doing fine. But inside, you feel stretched thin. That can show up in habits like overdrinking or losing hours online. I work with a diversity of clients and I specialize in working with men of all ages who find themselves in this paradox: capable, committed, and responsible, yet stuck in behaviors that aren't in line with their values. Therapy with me is a solution-focused space to look at what’s behind those patterns and make real, workable changes — not by overanalyzing, but by getting clear on what matters and what comes next.
You’re thoughtful. You handle a lot. From the outside, it looks like you’re doing fine. But inside, you feel stretched thin. That can show up in habits like overdrinking or losing hours online. I work with a diversity of clients and I specialize in working with men of all ages who find themselves in this paradox: capable, committed, and responsible, yet stuck in behaviors that aren't in line with their values. Therapy with me is a solution-focused space to look at what’s behind those patterns and make real, workable changes — not by overanalyzing, but by getting clear on what matters and what comes next.
(872) 327-6300 View (872) 327-6300
Doug Paul
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with a number of different presenting issues including men's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, couples and those who are dealing with substance use and other addictive behaviors.
I work with a number of different presenting issues including men's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, couples and those who are dealing with substance use and other addictive behaviors.
(872) 267-9600 View (872) 267-9600
Peggy L Kepple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, GC-C
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in substance abuse and grief with an interest in Type 1 Diabetes. I am passionate about helping my clients navigate life's journey, be it depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance abuse, grief and loss, strained relationships or employment struggles. I understand the genetic and environmental components of addiction and how individuals may self-medicate for unresolved issues. I am passionate about working with families who struggle with a loved ones addiction. In addition, I work with clients experiencing grief and loss. I believe in allowing clients a space to grieve.
I specialize in substance abuse and grief with an interest in Type 1 Diabetes. I am passionate about helping my clients navigate life's journey, be it depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance abuse, grief and loss, strained relationships or employment struggles. I understand the genetic and environmental components of addiction and how individuals may self-medicate for unresolved issues. I am passionate about working with families who struggle with a loved ones addiction. In addition, I work with clients experiencing grief and loss. I believe in allowing clients a space to grieve.
(312) 847-1517 View (312) 847-1517
Chris Beerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Chicago, IL 60618
If you've recently noticed your alcohol use, gambling, substance use, or other addictive behaviors are taking on a life of their own, you’re not alone.
My therapeutic style combines empathy, direct feedback, and a variety of evidence-based approaches to break destructive cycles. You’ll gain tools to manage temptations, build healthier coping, and restore balance. I’m here to listen deeply, understand your story, and partner with you to create the healthier, more purposeful life you envision.
If you've recently noticed your alcohol use, gambling, substance use, or other addictive behaviors are taking on a life of their own, you’re not alone.
My therapeutic style combines empathy, direct feedback, and a variety of evidence-based approaches to break destructive cycles. You’ll gain tools to manage temptations, build healthier coping, and restore balance. I’m here to listen deeply, understand your story, and partner with you to create the healthier, more purposeful life you envision.
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Dr. Lawrence Fianko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Online Only
If you're a driven professional feeling trapped by the daily pressure to perform—yet secretly wrestling with alcohol or substance use that’s starting to strain both your personal integrity and career—you’re not alone. Perhaps you’re waking up with regret, masking the stress at boardroom meetings with a stiff drink, or feeling isolated beneath the appearance of success. The ache of disconnect between who you are inside and the polished version the world sees can feel unbearable.
If you're a driven professional feeling trapped by the daily pressure to perform—yet secretly wrestling with alcohol or substance use that’s starting to strain both your personal integrity and career—you’re not alone. Perhaps you’re waking up with regret, masking the stress at boardroom meetings with a stiff drink, or feeling isolated beneath the appearance of success. The ache of disconnect between who you are inside and the polished version the world sees can feel unbearable.
(773) 232-5788 View (773) 232-5788
Gregory Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I specialize in treating individuals and couples grappling with depression and / or excessive alcohol use who feel trapped in a cycle of stress, negative emotions, conflict and use of alcohol or other avoidant behaviors as a temporary escape from pain.
I cultivate a genuine relationships with my clients where we're able to show up as ourselves without fear of judgment. At the same time, I use evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, which empower clients to challenge negative thought and behavior patterns and build motivation for change.
I specialize in treating individuals and couples grappling with depression and / or excessive alcohol use who feel trapped in a cycle of stress, negative emotions, conflict and use of alcohol or other avoidant behaviors as a temporary escape from pain.
I cultivate a genuine relationships with my clients where we're able to show up as ourselves without fear of judgment. At the same time, I use evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, which empower clients to challenge negative thought and behavior patterns and build motivation for change.
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Anshika Nath
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60646
Hello! I am a counselor (in training) working with children, adolescents and young adults to adults, as well as LGBTQ+ and multicultural individuals! My therapeutic style is person-centered and holistic, with a focus on creating a nonjudgmental and safe environment where clients can be their authentic selves. I believe change happens within you and I view my role as walking alongside you as a guiding light on your journey. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, honoring their lived experiences and supporting them in navigating life.
Hello! I am a counselor (in training) working with children, adolescents and young adults to adults, as well as LGBTQ+ and multicultural individuals! My therapeutic style is person-centered and holistic, with a focus on creating a nonjudgmental and safe environment where clients can be their authentic selves. I believe change happens within you and I view my role as walking alongside you as a guiding light on your journey. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, honoring their lived experiences and supporting them in navigating life.
(708) 498-3316 View (708) 498-3316
Michelle D. Byrd
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you caught in a cycle of anxiety? Whether you're navigating relationship challenges, constant pressure to succeed, or concerns about addictive behaviors, anxiety can make anything feel insurmountable. But there is hope for improvement. I am here to support you with practical and effective techniques to manage stress while building a fulfilling and sustainable life. You can achieve a sense of peace and clarity. Together, we'll delve into your values and choices, uncovering the resilience you've gained from past challenges to help you reach your objectives.
Are you caught in a cycle of anxiety? Whether you're navigating relationship challenges, constant pressure to succeed, or concerns about addictive behaviors, anxiety can make anything feel insurmountable. But there is hope for improvement. I am here to support you with practical and effective techniques to manage stress while building a fulfilling and sustainable life. You can achieve a sense of peace and clarity. Together, we'll delve into your values and choices, uncovering the resilience you've gained from past challenges to help you reach your objectives.
(312) 654-5079 View (312) 654-5079
Jenny Kepler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Online Only
Hello. Thanks for stopping by. Do you ever feel like life is one hurdle after another? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as will an an addictions therapist. Let's work together to break down barriers. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression alcohol abuse or other life struggles, I provide a person-centered approach that emphasizes strengths and understanding of how symptoms developed so that they can be reduced or eliminated. At times I introduce art therapy exercises to help clients express themselves.
Hello. Thanks for stopping by. Do you ever feel like life is one hurdle after another? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as will an an addictions therapist. Let's work together to break down barriers. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression alcohol abuse or other life struggles, I provide a person-centered approach that emphasizes strengths and understanding of how symptoms developed so that they can be reduced or eliminated. At times I introduce art therapy exercises to help clients express themselves.
(224) 576-0153 View (224) 576-0153
Mindy Gold
Counselor, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60613
My ideal client is someone who is genuinely committed to creating meaningful change in their life. They recognize that change is often uncomfortable and challenging, and they understand that personal growth requires effort, persistence, and a willingness to step outside their comfort zone. While they may experience fear, uncertainty, or resistance, they choose to move forward anyway. They value the process of personal growth, are open to self-reflection, and are prepared to do the work necessary to achieve their goals.
My ideal client is someone who is genuinely committed to creating meaningful change in their life. They recognize that change is often uncomfortable and challenging, and they understand that personal growth requires effort, persistence, and a willingness to step outside their comfort zone. While they may experience fear, uncertainty, or resistance, they choose to move forward anyway. They value the process of personal growth, are open to self-reflection, and are prepared to do the work necessary to achieve their goals.
(773) 696-4296 View (773) 696-4296
Cindy Gradle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60638
I am an experienced psychotherapist and I work with clients from diverse backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with clients who are adult children of alcoholics and helping clients who have suffered a loss(es) and seek bereavement counseling. I also work with adults and youths who have both depression and anxiety, including panic attacks and phobias. I offer specific strategies to combat anxiety and panic attacks. My particular expertise has been working with parents and their children. Other areas of practice are sexual abuse and domestic violence.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and I work with clients from diverse backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with clients who are adult children of alcoholics and helping clients who have suffered a loss(es) and seek bereavement counseling. I also work with adults and youths who have both depression and anxiety, including panic attacks and phobias. I offer specific strategies to combat anxiety and panic attacks. My particular expertise has been working with parents and their children. Other areas of practice are sexual abuse and domestic violence.
(708) 998-4609 View (708) 998-4609
Sarah Suzuki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Tired of just coping and ready to start improving your life? I understand, and my collaborative, interactive approach can help. As a solution-focused therapist, I skip lengthy analysis and focus on your goals to efficiently find practical solutions. In just eight compassionate sessions or less, you'll feel understood and leave each week with immediate strategies and a customized game plan providing concrete next steps tailored to you. I don't just stop at counseling - as your short-term concierge, I recommend tailored follow-up resources for you to pursue once our work is complete.
Tired of just coping and ready to start improving your life? I understand, and my collaborative, interactive approach can help. As a solution-focused therapist, I skip lengthy analysis and focus on your goals to efficiently find practical solutions. In just eight compassionate sessions or less, you'll feel understood and leave each week with immediate strategies and a customized game plan providing concrete next steps tailored to you. I don't just stop at counseling - as your short-term concierge, I recommend tailored follow-up resources for you to pursue once our work is complete.
(312) 487-4842 x1 View (312) 487-4842 x1
Megan N Hutchinson Krings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a passion for journeying with individuals and families who have a hunch or a longing for something different, better, in their lives. Together I collaborate with folks to address how neglected hunches may breed uncomfortable symptoms such as burn out, addictions, isolation and frustrations within relationships. By exploring values, strengths, and communication styles I coach clients through their discomforts and empower them to bring forth a new sense of self-worth and direction.
I have a passion for journeying with individuals and families who have a hunch or a longing for something different, better, in their lives. Together I collaborate with folks to address how neglected hunches may breed uncomfortable symptoms such as burn out, addictions, isolation and frustrations within relationships. By exploring values, strengths, and communication styles I coach clients through their discomforts and empower them to bring forth a new sense of self-worth and direction.
(779) 234-4088 View (779) 234-4088
Ascent Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Online Only
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.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Trailside Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Licensed in CO and IL with immediate availability. Sometimes life just feels like too much. You may be trying to keep up with everything while carrying stress, anxiety, or emotions that just won't let up. Maybe you've noticed yourself falling into patterns that don't feel healthy anymore, or relying on alcohol or other ways of coping that aren't really helping in the long run. If you're tired of feeling stuck, aren't sure where to start, or simply want someone who will listen without judgment, you're in the right place. Together, we'll find practical, healthier ways to move through life's challenges so you can feel more like YOU!
Licensed in CO and IL with immediate availability. Sometimes life just feels like too much. You may be trying to keep up with everything while carrying stress, anxiety, or emotions that just won't let up. Maybe you've noticed yourself falling into patterns that don't feel healthy anymore, or relying on alcohol or other ways of coping that aren't really helping in the long run. If you're tired of feeling stuck, aren't sure where to start, or simply want someone who will listen without judgment, you're in the right place. Together, we'll find practical, healthier ways to move through life's challenges so you can feel more like YOU!
(719) 745-2742 View (719) 745-2742
Infinity Counseling and Wellness
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS
Serves Area
My ideal client would be open to my observations of their personality; one who knows that I too can learn from them, not only the other way around; who is a good historian and willing to be compliant in sharing pertinent factors to their recovery; one with whom I can establish a basis of mutual trust and who understands that my role as a therapist is not to only one who can empathize with their situation but appreciate a good sense of humor; one who is willing to apply my experience, strength and hope to their problem; one who is open to the importance of accepting life on life's terms.
My ideal client would be open to my observations of their personality; one who knows that I too can learn from them, not only the other way around; who is a good historian and willing to be compliant in sharing pertinent factors to their recovery; one with whom I can establish a basis of mutual trust and who understands that my role as a therapist is not to only one who can empathize with their situation but appreciate a good sense of humor; one who is willing to apply my experience, strength and hope to their problem; one who is open to the importance of accepting life on life's terms.
(219) 333-4811 View (219) 333-4811

See more therapy options for Chicago

Alcohol Use Therapists
Are there specific medications for alcohol use?
There are oral medications approved to treat alcohol use disorder—such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, which also comes in an injectable form. These medications do help people reduce their drinking as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, disulfiram can make a person feel sick when they drink, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.

How do alcohol recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other patients in recovery; in outpatient programs,individuals live at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff can also include people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other tools for recovery.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for alcohol use reduce the amount of alcohol they intake. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.