Female Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Julianna Murphy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR, NCC
Julianna Murphy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR, NCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When life happens, things can get hard and it is okay to ask for help. Sometimes one simply needs the space to be able to share those feelings and to learn how to manage and cope with support from another. Therapy is a normal part of that process, part of our wellness and simple put: taking care of ourselves. Life throws curveballs and sometimes when that happens, we don't know how to respond or process those moments which is how therapy can help.
When life happens, things can get hard and it is okay to ask for help. Sometimes one simply needs the space to be able to share those feelings and to learn how to manage and cope with support from another. Therapy is a normal part of that process, part of our wellness and simple put: taking care of ourselves. Life throws curveballs and sometimes when that happens, we don't know how to respond or process those moments which is how therapy can help.
(773) 303-6529 View (773) 303-6529
Photo of Linda Puetz, Counselor, LCPC
Linda Puetz
Counselor, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Throughout her career, Linda has helped people with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship struggles, workplace challenges, life transitions, parenting issues, and advocating for student learning needs. Linda’s approach is to use evidence-based techniques, such as mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and a strong counseling partnership that is affirming and inclusive. Linda is currently accepting new guests via telehealth.
Throughout her career, Linda has helped people with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship struggles, workplace challenges, life transitions, parenting issues, and advocating for student learning needs. Linda’s approach is to use evidence-based techniques, such as mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and a strong counseling partnership that is affirming and inclusive. Linda is currently accepting new guests via telehealth.
(872) 259-7063 View (872) 259-7063
Photo of Johanna Melgoza, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Johanna Melgoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Chicago, IL 60602
In the midst of life’s demands, you may feel exhausted from always prioritizing others—tiptoeing around their feelings while neglecting your own. Perhaps you grew up quickly, caring for others long before you had the chance to care for yourself. Now, you might be reaching your limit, realizing that things can’t continue this way. Constantly putting others first can leave you feeling drained, overburdened, or unappreciated. But you don’t have to navigate this alone. As a first-generation Latina, I understand the unique challenges of balancing two cultures, meeting family expectations, and finding your own identity in the process.
In the midst of life’s demands, you may feel exhausted from always prioritizing others—tiptoeing around their feelings while neglecting your own. Perhaps you grew up quickly, caring for others long before you had the chance to care for yourself. Now, you might be reaching your limit, realizing that things can’t continue this way. Constantly putting others first can leave you feeling drained, overburdened, or unappreciated. But you don’t have to navigate this alone. As a first-generation Latina, I understand the unique challenges of balancing two cultures, meeting family expectations, and finding your own identity in the process.
(312) 779-1153 View (312) 779-1153
Photo of Katherine Evans, Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Katherine Evans
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Are you looking for a therapist that specializes in relationships, whether romantic or friendship, and the ups and downs you go through? Are you looking for more connection and more meaningful relationships in your life, but frustrated, anxious or confused when triggered by hurt or disappointment from another? Then I would love to help you and your loved one reestablish connection again.
Are you looking for a therapist that specializes in relationships, whether romantic or friendship, and the ups and downs you go through? Are you looking for more connection and more meaningful relationships in your life, but frustrated, anxious or confused when triggered by hurt or disappointment from another? Then I would love to help you and your loved one reestablish connection again.
(312) 248-6607 View (312) 248-6607
Photo of Sam Ege, Counselor, MS, LCPC, ADHD-C
Sam Ege
Counselor, MS, LCPC, ADHD-C
16 Endorsed
Online Only
If you often catch yourself worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, I imagine you're feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, wanting to feel secure in the present moment. My goal is to meet you right where you are, equip you with the tools to navigate life's challenges, and encourage you to see things from different lenses in a safe environment where you can be yourself, as we journey back to the here and now. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and conversational in nature. I value curiosity, authenticity, integrity, and empowerment, both in and outside of the therapeutic setting.
If you often catch yourself worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, I imagine you're feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, wanting to feel secure in the present moment. My goal is to meet you right where you are, equip you with the tools to navigate life's challenges, and encourage you to see things from different lenses in a safe environment where you can be yourself, as we journey back to the here and now. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and conversational in nature. I value curiosity, authenticity, integrity, and empowerment, both in and outside of the therapeutic setting.
(872) 204-1531 View (872) 204-1531
Photo of Katherine Alexander, Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Katherine Alexander
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are career pressures and relationship challenges leaving you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Are complex family dynamics or past trauma making it hard to connect and find stability? Do you want to heal from your past and feel empowered to build a more fulfilling future? When life feels like jumping from one fire to the next, it's normal to feel paralyzed, but it doesn't have to stay that way. I help teens, young adults, single moms, and executives who want to heal from trauma, build healthy relationships, and feel empowered in their work and life. You don't have to do this alone anymore.
Are career pressures and relationship challenges leaving you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Are complex family dynamics or past trauma making it hard to connect and find stability? Do you want to heal from your past and feel empowered to build a more fulfilling future? When life feels like jumping from one fire to the next, it's normal to feel paralyzed, but it doesn't have to stay that way. I help teens, young adults, single moms, and executives who want to heal from trauma, build healthy relationships, and feel empowered in their work and life. You don't have to do this alone anymore.
(872) 326-8243 View (872) 326-8243
Photo of Jeannie Aschkenasy, Psychologist, PhD
Jeannie Aschkenasy
Psychologist, PhD
Chicago, IL 60601
I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples, who are interested in bridging the space between where they are and where they want to be. I do this by using my specialized skills as a clinical psychologist, and also by bringing a holistic lens to the work. I want to meet you where you are emotionally, mentally, and behaviorally. My goal is to provide a space where you can develop the coping skills and resources that you'll need to be successful -- however you define success -- in your everyday life.
I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples, who are interested in bridging the space between where they are and where they want to be. I do this by using my specialized skills as a clinical psychologist, and also by bringing a holistic lens to the work. I want to meet you where you are emotionally, mentally, and behaviorally. My goal is to provide a space where you can develop the coping skills and resources that you'll need to be successful -- however you define success -- in your everyday life.
(872) 231-3941 View (872) 231-3941
Photo of Oli Soto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Oli Soto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Hi, my name is Oli Soto, and I am the Clinical Director at Latinx Talk Therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, adults, children, and groups on issues related to depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I believe that psychotherapy is a gift to the self and should be accessible to all. Therapy is also a tool for personal growth, and I will guide you in applying what you learn in our sessions to your everyday life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural.
Hi, my name is Oli Soto, and I am the Clinical Director at Latinx Talk Therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, adults, children, and groups on issues related to depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I believe that psychotherapy is a gift to the self and should be accessible to all. Therapy is also a tool for personal growth, and I will guide you in applying what you learn in our sessions to your everyday life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural.
(312) 554-3466 x1 View (312) 554-3466 x1
Photo of Sonia Krishna Chand, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sonia Krishna Chand
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
I have extensive experience treating autism spectrum, anxiety, social anxiety, mood disorders, anger management, and personality disorders. I am on the autism spectrum, and I can empathize heavily with those who struggle emotionally and socially. I am also the author of a memoir "Dropped in a Maze" where I discuss social and emotional challenges pre and post diagnosis. I also provide tools from the lessons I learned along my journey that people can apply in their life. Such lessons include navigating friendship and therapeutic relationships, learning strategies, and self-esteem, etc. "Dropped in a Maze" can be found on Amazon.
I have extensive experience treating autism spectrum, anxiety, social anxiety, mood disorders, anger management, and personality disorders. I am on the autism spectrum, and I can empathize heavily with those who struggle emotionally and socially. I am also the author of a memoir "Dropped in a Maze" where I discuss social and emotional challenges pre and post diagnosis. I also provide tools from the lessons I learned along my journey that people can apply in their life. Such lessons include navigating friendship and therapeutic relationships, learning strategies, and self-esteem, etc. "Dropped in a Maze" can be found on Amazon.
(312) 847-4984 View (312) 847-4984
Photo of Natalie Hock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LPHA
Natalie Hock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LPHA
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I deeply enjoy challenging and deconstructing all flavors of shame and taboo. I work with clients to notice, give attention, and slow down when our culture encourages us to ignore, distract, and speed up. By thoughtfully exploring family patterns and our ways of being in relationship, we can come to intriguing conclusions about ourselves and others. I work with people ages 17+, and I see clients individually, as families, as sibling groups, and in all configurations of romantic relationships.
I deeply enjoy challenging and deconstructing all flavors of shame and taboo. I work with clients to notice, give attention, and slow down when our culture encourages us to ignore, distract, and speed up. By thoughtfully exploring family patterns and our ways of being in relationship, we can come to intriguing conclusions about ourselves and others. I work with people ages 17+, and I see clients individually, as families, as sibling groups, and in all configurations of romantic relationships.
(773) 270-1728 View (773) 270-1728
Photo of Ruth Bowhay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ruth Bowhay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, Millennial and Gen Z women! You’re driven, ambitious, and chasing big goals—but does it ever feel like no matter how much you accomplish, something’s still missing? Maybe you’re constantly juggling responsibilities, second-guessing yourself, or feeling drained by the pressure to have it all together. Social media doesn’t help, and you’re tired of putting everyone else first. You’re ready to prioritize you—to set boundaries, speak up, and feel more confident in your own skin. Therapy is your space to unpack the overwhelm, quiet self-doubt, and build a life that actually feels good. Let’s get started.
Welcome, Millennial and Gen Z women! You’re driven, ambitious, and chasing big goals—but does it ever feel like no matter how much you accomplish, something’s still missing? Maybe you’re constantly juggling responsibilities, second-guessing yourself, or feeling drained by the pressure to have it all together. Social media doesn’t help, and you’re tired of putting everyone else first. You’re ready to prioritize you—to set boundaries, speak up, and feel more confident in your own skin. Therapy is your space to unpack the overwhelm, quiet self-doubt, and build a life that actually feels good. Let’s get started.
(773) 232-3407 View (773) 232-3407
Photo of Bianca Dado, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Bianca Dado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Finding a safe and supportive space to explore your mental well-being is crucial. As a licensed psychotherapist, I am dedicated to creating a non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your fears, deepest thoughts, mental struggles, and emotions. I strongly believe in the power of embracing your authentic self; it's a courageous step towards making meaningful progress in therapy and navigating life's challenges. We will collaboratively identify and cultivate your inherent strengths to develop targeted interventions that reduce symptoms and enhance psychological well-being.
Finding a safe and supportive space to explore your mental well-being is crucial. As a licensed psychotherapist, I am dedicated to creating a non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your fears, deepest thoughts, mental struggles, and emotions. I strongly believe in the power of embracing your authentic self; it's a courageous step towards making meaningful progress in therapy and navigating life's challenges. We will collaboratively identify and cultivate your inherent strengths to develop targeted interventions that reduce symptoms and enhance psychological well-being.
(248) 826-1804 View (248) 826-1804
Karolyn Webster
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, EdD, ALMFT
Chicago, IL 60611
Dr. Karolyn Webster, ALMFT, specializes in helping clients transform negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviors into positive ones through personalized therapeutic techniques. Serving individuals and couples throughout Illinois, Dr. Webster tailors her approach to address the unique challenges her clients face, combining evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness practices to foster growth and healing. Her practice focuses on adults and seniors, as well as teens, offering them a safe and compassionate space to navigate life’s complexities. Dr.
Dr. Karolyn Webster, ALMFT, specializes in helping clients transform negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviors into positive ones through personalized therapeutic techniques. Serving individuals and couples throughout Illinois, Dr. Webster tailors her approach to address the unique challenges her clients face, combining evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness practices to foster growth and healing. Her practice focuses on adults and seniors, as well as teens, offering them a safe and compassionate space to navigate life’s complexities. Dr.
(872) 349-3379 View (872) 349-3379
Photo of Caressa Chester, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caressa Chester
Pre-Licensed Professional
Online Only
The relationship between client and therapist is unique–you already have everything you need for change inside of you. While working with Caressa, you’ll aim to co-create a relationship and space grounded in trust, vulnerability, and honesty, and she is ready to support your navigation forward.
The relationship between client and therapist is unique–you already have everything you need for change inside of you. While working with Caressa, you’ll aim to co-create a relationship and space grounded in trust, vulnerability, and honesty, and she is ready to support your navigation forward.
(872) 331-4639 View (872) 331-4639
Photo of Emelissa Mejia, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Emelissa Mejia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Life is often filled with ups and downs—beauty and hardship, joy and sorrow. My passion is to partner with clients as we navigate these paradoxes together, offering support and guidance along the way. Whether you’re facing grief, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or struggles with self-worth, we’ll work toward holistic wellness that reflects your values and beliefs.
Life is often filled with ups and downs—beauty and hardship, joy and sorrow. My passion is to partner with clients as we navigate these paradoxes together, offering support and guidance along the way. Whether you’re facing grief, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or struggles with self-worth, we’ll work toward holistic wellness that reflects your values and beliefs.
(708) 787-8752 View (708) 787-8752
Photo of Shea L. Acott, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CTP
Shea L. Acott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CTP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
We experience deep pain, barriers, and roadblocks that we never asked for but are stuck with. My intention is to tap into the strength and capability that you already possess to create and cultivate the joy and peace you deserve. You already possess the tools and capacity for healing, but wounds often obscure these. I take a body-first approach in my work with clients to ensure that they have the tools they will benefit from on their healing journeys: their own mind, body, and spirit. I center my approach around principles of community wellness, anti-imperialism, and anti-racist practices.
We experience deep pain, barriers, and roadblocks that we never asked for but are stuck with. My intention is to tap into the strength and capability that you already possess to create and cultivate the joy and peace you deserve. You already possess the tools and capacity for healing, but wounds often obscure these. I take a body-first approach in my work with clients to ensure that they have the tools they will benefit from on their healing journeys: their own mind, body, and spirit. I center my approach around principles of community wellness, anti-imperialism, and anti-racist practices.
(872) 245-0503 View (872) 245-0503
Photo of Haley Rawles, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Haley Rawles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Chicago, IL 60657
I believe that creating a safe and trusting environment is a necessary building block to the therapeutic relationship. My mission as a therapist is to collaborate and explore the interactions among mental, emotional, and somatic experiences, and work within these to aid in your goals toward growth.
I believe that creating a safe and trusting environment is a necessary building block to the therapeutic relationship. My mission as a therapist is to collaborate and explore the interactions among mental, emotional, and somatic experiences, and work within these to aid in your goals toward growth.
(872) 246-7496 View (872) 246-7496
Photo of Anna Lamden, Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA, MS
Anna Lamden
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA, MS
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially if you are overwhelmed by depression or anxiety, struggle with disordered eating, have been hurt in previous relationships, or simply feel like no one gets it. However, you have taken the first step by stopping here. In addition to my extensive clinical and academic experience, my personal journey in therapy has deepened my ability to be empathetic, insightful and non-judgmental. Our relationship will be a collaborative partnership, one created to help you become a happier, more productive, healthier version of yourself.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially if you are overwhelmed by depression or anxiety, struggle with disordered eating, have been hurt in previous relationships, or simply feel like no one gets it. However, you have taken the first step by stopping here. In addition to my extensive clinical and academic experience, my personal journey in therapy has deepened my ability to be empathetic, insightful and non-judgmental. Our relationship will be a collaborative partnership, one created to help you become a happier, more productive, healthier version of yourself.
(312) 818-4998 View (312) 818-4998
Photo of Kathryn Mendes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Kathryn Mendes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Chicago, IL 60640
My goal as a therapist is to work collaboratively to help you understand, make sense of, and make peace with your own story. As a feminist-informed, systemic therapist, I believe it is crucial to understand the relationships to people and larger systems that impact each client’s world. I hope to empower all my clients to walk away from therapy with the knowledge that they are the experts in their own lives, and I am here to help tap into that knowledge and use it for growth.
My goal as a therapist is to work collaboratively to help you understand, make sense of, and make peace with your own story. As a feminist-informed, systemic therapist, I believe it is crucial to understand the relationships to people and larger systems that impact each client’s world. I hope to empower all my clients to walk away from therapy with the knowledge that they are the experts in their own lives, and I am here to help tap into that knowledge and use it for growth.
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Photo of Tekeia Hinton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Tekeia Hinton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
Tekeia Hinton is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is experienced in working with anxiety disorders, transitional stress, substance use, depression, loss, crisis, and trauma. She uses techniques from many therapies including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. She also incorporates skills of mindfulness and education. Tekeia received her Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Argosy University. Outside of the office, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends. She particularly enjoys the fall season and learning about new cultures.
Tekeia Hinton is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is experienced in working with anxiety disorders, transitional stress, substance use, depression, loss, crisis, and trauma. She uses techniques from many therapies including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. She also incorporates skills of mindfulness and education. Tekeia received her Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Argosy University. Outside of the office, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends. She particularly enjoys the fall season and learning about new cultures.
(872) 250-7375 View (872) 250-7375

See more therapy options for Chicago

Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or because they feel more comfortable with a therapist of their own gender due to shared life experiences or perspectives. Considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender may matter or improve their therapeutic experience. The most important consideration is that a client is able to build a trusting relationship with their therapist.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist. For women, this could be because they believe that they will be able to better connect with a woman, and that a female therapist will be able to relate to their specific challenges and personal issues. It may be particularly beneficial for women to see a female therapist, for example, for gender-specific issues, such as sexism in the workplace, relationship issues, and gender roles. The most important factor in therapy is the client-therapist connection, and a therapist's gender as well as many other factors may play an important role in this.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.