Marriage Counseling Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Heather Gunderson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Heather Gunderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois who helps people who are struggling emotionally, socially, and relationally.
My approach with my clients is thoughtfully direct and relational. I have been in practice since 1995 and have experience helping with anxiety, depression, divorce, self-esteem, relational issues, transitional developmental issues, parent-child issues, behavior issues, and academic issues.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois who helps people who are struggling emotionally, socially, and relationally.
My approach with my clients is thoughtfully direct and relational. I have been in practice since 1995 and have experience helping with anxiety, depression, divorce, self-esteem, relational issues, transitional developmental issues, parent-child issues, behavior issues, and academic issues.
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Photo of Samantha L Allen - Foundations Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Foundations Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you experiencing anxiety, stress, unexplained sadness, isolation, intrusive thoughts, relationship or marriage problems?
While I am a behaviorally oriented clinician, my approach is holistic and eclectic to cater to client’s individual challenges and needs. I utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities; Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ,Strengths Based Approach, Person Centered.
Are you experiencing anxiety, stress, unexplained sadness, isolation, intrusive thoughts, relationship or marriage problems?
While I am a behaviorally oriented clinician, my approach is holistic and eclectic to cater to client’s individual challenges and needs. I utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities; Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ,Strengths Based Approach, Person Centered.
(773) 839-4035 View (773) 839-4035
Photo of Matt Cleaver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Matt Cleaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience and hold a master's in Social Work. I have a great deal of experience working with anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, school refusal, life transitions, step-down from higher levels of care (hospital or IOP/PHP are common) and neurodiversity . I provide, individual, family (however you define it) and relationship therapy with people of nearly all ages (min.8YO with some exceptions) as well as brief treatment for acute crises and custom treatment paths for people's unique needs..
I am a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience and hold a master's in Social Work. I have a great deal of experience working with anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, school refusal, life transitions, step-down from higher levels of care (hospital or IOP/PHP are common) and neurodiversity . I provide, individual, family (however you define it) and relationship therapy with people of nearly all ages (min.8YO with some exceptions) as well as brief treatment for acute crises and custom treatment paths for people's unique needs..
(773) 365-9991 View (773) 365-9991
Photo of Haile Pollard-Durodula, Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Haile Pollard-Durodula
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You're a teen who feels like no one truly understands you. A young adult trying to find your footing in a world that keeps shifting. A parent watching your child struggle and feeling helpless about how to reach them. Or a family that loves each other deeply but can't seem to stop hurting each other. Anxiety, depression, and generational patterns have been quietly running the show — and you're exhausted. You don't want to just manage life anymore. You want to actually feel good in it. You want real connection, real healing, and a space where nobody asks you to minimize your story.
You're a teen who feels like no one truly understands you. A young adult trying to find your footing in a world that keeps shifting. A parent watching your child struggle and feeling helpless about how to reach them. Or a family that loves each other deeply but can't seem to stop hurting each other. Anxiety, depression, and generational patterns have been quietly running the show — and you're exhausted. You don't want to just manage life anymore. You want to actually feel good in it. You want real connection, real healing, and a space where nobody asks you to minimize your story.
(630) 394-5826 View (630) 394-5826
Photo of Brooke Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Brooke Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with couples who are ready to move beyond surface-level solutions and better understand the patterns shaping their relationship.
Relationships can feel challenging when patterns repeat and needs go unmet. If you are seeking clarity, growth, and a more grounded way of relating, you do not have to navigate it alone. I offer a supportive and direct space for meaningful work. When you are ready, let's go!
I work with couples who are ready to move beyond surface-level solutions and better understand the patterns shaping their relationship.
Relationships can feel challenging when patterns repeat and needs go unmet. If you are seeking clarity, growth, and a more grounded way of relating, you do not have to navigate it alone. I offer a supportive and direct space for meaningful work. When you are ready, let's go!
(815) 984-9890 View (815) 984-9890
Photo of Keila Mexicano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Keila Mexicano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60630
Keila is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Bachelor's degree from DePaul University and Masters degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has experience in a wide variety of settings including nursing homes, hospitals, and community mental health organizations where she practiced 1:1 therapy, crisis stabilization, and short-term family therapy with adult clients. She specializes in relationship issues, mood disorders, and life transitions.
Keila is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Bachelor's degree from DePaul University and Masters degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has experience in a wide variety of settings including nursing homes, hospitals, and community mental health organizations where she practiced 1:1 therapy, crisis stabilization, and short-term family therapy with adult clients. She specializes in relationship issues, mood disorders, and life transitions.
(708) 809-3990 View (708) 809-3990
Photo of Ryne Thacker, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ryne Thacker
Pre-Licensed Professional
Chicago, IL 60657
You may be feeling weighed down by anxiety, stuck in painful patterns, or unsure of who you are becoming. Maybe you are navigating trauma, identity questions, or a life transition that feels overwhelming. I’m especially passionate about supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community and offer an affirming space where you can explore your story, better understand what keeps you stuck, and move toward healing. My goal is to help you feel seen, understood, and supported as you build greater clarity, self-connection, and ease in daily life.
You may be feeling weighed down by anxiety, stuck in painful patterns, or unsure of who you are becoming. Maybe you are navigating trauma, identity questions, or a life transition that feels overwhelming. I’m especially passionate about supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community and offer an affirming space where you can explore your story, better understand what keeps you stuck, and move toward healing. My goal is to help you feel seen, understood, and supported as you build greater clarity, self-connection, and ease in daily life.
(773) 694-5667 View (773) 694-5667
Photo of Sara Groth, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, CST
Sara Groth
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, CST
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have experience working with individual adults and partnerships in areas such as anxiety, depression, sex & intimate wellness, relationship conflict, sexual assault, life transitions, and self esteem. One of my primary areas of expertise is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas of positive sexual and/ or gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and sexual health. However, I work with people of all identities and backgrounds. I foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, and polyamorous- and kink-affirming.
I have experience working with individual adults and partnerships in areas such as anxiety, depression, sex & intimate wellness, relationship conflict, sexual assault, life transitions, and self esteem. One of my primary areas of expertise is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas of positive sexual and/ or gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and sexual health. However, I work with people of all identities and backgrounds. I foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, and polyamorous- and kink-affirming.
(773) 207-3330 View (773) 207-3330
Photo of David Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
David Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ever feel like you are holding a lot but those closest to you cannot see it? Are you a high achiever and driven but facing internal pressure, fatigue, and a constant need to hold it together for others? I work with high-achieving professionals, particularly Black, Indigenous, and other individuals of color who are navigating burnout, identity, relationships, and the emotional weight that comes with being “the strong one.” Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to perform, filter, or shrink. We slow things down and explore ways to heal to find peace and balance in your everyday life.
Ever feel like you are holding a lot but those closest to you cannot see it? Are you a high achiever and driven but facing internal pressure, fatigue, and a constant need to hold it together for others? I work with high-achieving professionals, particularly Black, Indigenous, and other individuals of color who are navigating burnout, identity, relationships, and the emotional weight that comes with being “the strong one.” Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to perform, filter, or shrink. We slow things down and explore ways to heal to find peace and balance in your everyday life.
(708) 315-6731 View (708) 315-6731
Photo of Julia Daniel, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-B
Julia Daniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-B
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I specialize in working with individuals and couples with communication concerns, complex trauma and sex therapy (OSCB, desire discrepancy, changing libido).
Being curious is what therapy is all about- whether exploring depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or sexual health, I hope to provide a safe, inclusive and expansive space for clients to explore a myriad of themes and deepen their relationship with themselves, the world, and others. My work reflects a commitment to fostering self-awareness, healing, and acceptance through a blend of creative expression, psychodynamic, and evidence-based therapeutic practices. I am here to help discover the hidden dynamics of desire, explore where your past meets your present and develop deeper, more authentic connections.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples with communication concerns, complex trauma and sex therapy (OSCB, desire discrepancy, changing libido).
Being curious is what therapy is all about- whether exploring depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or sexual health, I hope to provide a safe, inclusive and expansive space for clients to explore a myriad of themes and deepen their relationship with themselves, the world, and others. My work reflects a commitment to fostering self-awareness, healing, and acceptance through a blend of creative expression, psychodynamic, and evidence-based therapeutic practices. I am here to help discover the hidden dynamics of desire, explore where your past meets your present and develop deeper, more authentic connections.
(872) 246-8887 View (872) 246-8887
Photo of Antonina (Nina) Lunetta, MA, LCPC, NCC, IMH-E
Antonina (Nina) Lunetta
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in relationships (LGBTQIA+, straight, marital, pre- marital, & divorce, poly, ENM, monogamy, sex & kink+), individual work (anxiety, ADHD, communication & boundaries, building self identity & confidence), processing traumatic events, holistic wellness, education & career growth, and family work.
Relationships, jobs, boundaries & stress! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a direct & validating space where I assist my clients to improve direct & healthy communication, set personal and professional goals and boundaries, manage anxiety or trauma responses, and build self identity & confidence. I enjoy building a trusting relationship with you over time, and helping you identify, process, and address life obstacles & challenges as they arise. Accepting new clients - email me to get started, or book easily by clicking on my website button!
I specialize in relationships (LGBTQIA+, straight, marital, pre- marital, & divorce, poly, ENM, monogamy, sex & kink+), individual work (anxiety, ADHD, communication & boundaries, building self identity & confidence), processing traumatic events, holistic wellness, education & career growth, and family work.
Relationships, jobs, boundaries & stress! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a direct & validating space where I assist my clients to improve direct & healthy communication, set personal and professional goals and boundaries, manage anxiety or trauma responses, and build self identity & confidence. I enjoy building a trusting relationship with you over time, and helping you identify, process, and address life obstacles & challenges as they arise. Accepting new clients - email me to get started, or book easily by clicking on my website button!
(312) 517-2940 View (312) 517-2940
Photo of Colette Blakely - Blakely Counseling Services & Life Coaching, LLC, Counselor
Blakely Counseling Services & Life Coaching, LLC
Counselor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In her private practice, Blakely Counseling Services, she works with adults, teens, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, lifestyle concerns, grief, and other mental health concerns.
Blakely Life Coaching, LLC helps clients to self-actualize and to align their values with their daily lives. Dr. Blakely partners with you to reach your goals, with care and agreed upon guidelines. Her strength is motivational engagement that leads to the change and growth desired. Dr. Blakely has provided coaching services since 2020.
In her private practice, Blakely Counseling Services, she works with adults, teens, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, lifestyle concerns, grief, and other mental health concerns.
Blakely Life Coaching, LLC helps clients to self-actualize and to align their values with their daily lives. Dr. Blakely partners with you to reach your goals, with care and agreed upon guidelines. Her strength is motivational engagement that leads to the change and growth desired. Dr. Blakely has provided coaching services since 2020.
(312) 313-3462 View (312) 313-3462
Photo of Crystal Clair - CFC Therapy Group, Counselor, MA, LCPC
CFC Therapy Group
Counselor, MA, LCPC
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Whether you and your partner are seeking to enhance intimacy, or you are looking for relief from persistent anxiety, we are here to help.
We specialize in relationships. From break-ups to break-downs, and everything in between-we strive to help individuals, families, and couples find and express their authentic selves. Our therapists are here to help. Think you can’t afford therapy? Our interns see clients for as low as $40 a session.
Whether you and your partner are seeking to enhance intimacy, or you are looking for relief from persistent anxiety, we are here to help.
We specialize in relationships. From break-ups to break-downs, and everything in between-we strive to help individuals, families, and couples find and express their authentic selves. Our therapists are here to help. Think you can’t afford therapy? Our interns see clients for as low as $40 a session.
(872) 713-5402 View (872) 713-5402
Photo of Chris Lowe, Psychologist, PsyD
Chris Lowe
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I work with individuals and couples who are motivated to better understand themselves and the recurring patterns that create difficulty in their lives.
I have advanced training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy and I use third-wave cognitive behavioral (CBT) interventions to help individuals and couples build better coping skills. My aim is not just to treat symptoms, but to help you build a deeper, more compassionate understanding of yourself.
I work with individuals and couples who are motivated to better understand themselves and the recurring patterns that create difficulty in their lives.
I have advanced training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy and I use third-wave cognitive behavioral (CBT) interventions to help individuals and couples build better coping skills. My aim is not just to treat symptoms, but to help you build a deeper, more compassionate understanding of yourself.
(773) 645-4234 View (773) 645-4234
Photo of David S Schwartz, LCPC
David S Schwartz
Verified Verified
Online Only
How can I help? That's how therapy begins. Whether you decided to seek therapy because you're sad, anxious, angry, struggling in your job or relationship, or because you are pursuing self-growth, choosing a therapist can be overwhelming. If you're looking for a therapist who is warm, direct, and focused on helping you be more honest with yourself and with others, then I might be a good fit for you. Ultimately, my goal is to help you live a better life.
How can I help? That's how therapy begins. Whether you decided to seek therapy because you're sad, anxious, angry, struggling in your job or relationship, or because you are pursuing self-growth, choosing a therapist can be overwhelming. If you're looking for a therapist who is warm, direct, and focused on helping you be more honest with yourself and with others, then I might be a good fit for you. Ultimately, my goal is to help you live a better life.
(872) 401-8162 View (872) 401-8162
Photo of Gabriela Brizuela, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, ALMFT
Gabriela Brizuela
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, ALMFT
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631
Hi, I’m Gabriela (she/ her/ ella)! Our work in therapy is about the core essence of what it means to be human, to love, to hurt, to hurt others, and to help. I am rooting for you! I know that what brings you here may feel overwhelming, but this is the first step. I believe therapy should be collaborative and inclusive. I bring a lot of energy and humor as well as compassion and understanding to my sessions.
Hi, I’m Gabriela (she/ her/ ella)! Our work in therapy is about the core essence of what it means to be human, to love, to hurt, to hurt others, and to help. I am rooting for you! I know that what brings you here may feel overwhelming, but this is the first step. I believe therapy should be collaborative and inclusive. I bring a lot of energy and humor as well as compassion and understanding to my sessions.
(773) 673-9601 View (773) 673-9601
Photo of Michael E Bricker, Psychologist, PhD, LCP, CAADC
Michael E Bricker
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, CAADC
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
As a psychologist, and a mental health professional providing counseling for over 15 years, I am committed to offering individuals and couples effective and compassionate psychotherapy and consultation services.
While my training has included a variety of psychotherapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, I have specialized training in: Emotion-Focused Therapy (for couples and individuals), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Multicultural Therapy (LGBTQ, Race/Ethnicity/Gender). I am certified as a Senior Substance Abuse Counselor in the State of Illinois.
As a psychologist, and a mental health professional providing counseling for over 15 years, I am committed to offering individuals and couples effective and compassionate psychotherapy and consultation services.
While my training has included a variety of psychotherapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, I have specialized training in: Emotion-Focused Therapy (for couples and individuals), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Multicultural Therapy (LGBTQ, Race/Ethnicity/Gender). I am certified as a Senior Substance Abuse Counselor in the State of Illinois.
(773) 280-5044 x2 View (773) 280-5044 x2
Photo of Leo Summers, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Leo Summers
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Chicago, IL 60640
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other concerns, I utilize a Humanistic approach in working with clients and have additional training in the Gottman Method of Couples therapy.
I work with clients of all ages, from children to older adults, and am specifically committed to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and recognize the distinct experiences and challenges faced by diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in compassion, respect, and inclusivity. I believe that a therapeutic relationship should be a safe space where every client feels seen and validated. By creating a warm and empathetic environment, I aim to help you explore your authentic self, tackle life’s challenges, and work towards a more fulfilling life.
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other concerns, I utilize a Humanistic approach in working with clients and have additional training in the Gottman Method of Couples therapy.
I work with clients of all ages, from children to older adults, and am specifically committed to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and recognize the distinct experiences and challenges faced by diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in compassion, respect, and inclusivity. I believe that a therapeutic relationship should be a safe space where every client feels seen and validated. By creating a warm and empathetic environment, I aim to help you explore your authentic self, tackle life’s challenges, and work towards a more fulfilling life.
(872) 282-4798 View (872) 282-4798
Photo of Shelly Gore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shelly Gore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
You have made the first step in exploring your therapy options! I am here to support you to live your best life. I have over 20 years of experience in the field and have worked with clients of many different cultural identities and ages, including early intervention-through +75 years of age. I have experience with neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, etc.
You have made the first step in exploring your therapy options! I am here to support you to live your best life. I have over 20 years of experience in the field and have worked with clients of many different cultural identities and ages, including early intervention-through +75 years of age. I have experience with neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, etc.
(872) 309-4794 View (872) 309-4794
Photo of Antonio Romano, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Antonio Romano
Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Extensively trained in treating addictions, other areas of expertise included nutritional issues, weight management, couple's therapy, relationship issues, group therapy & abuse.
Antonio Romano provides psychotherapy services to adults, children, and families suffering from emotional and psychological problems. His approach is particularly focused on the needs of clients who are struggling with issues of cultural adjustment and transition. Serves individuals and families utilizing CBT, DBT, SFBT and ERP therapies. Treatment goals are identified in a collaborative and safe setting to address emotional regulation issues, increase problem solving, and improve overall life quality.
Extensively trained in treating addictions, other areas of expertise included nutritional issues, weight management, couple's therapy, relationship issues, group therapy & abuse.
Antonio Romano provides psychotherapy services to adults, children, and families suffering from emotional and psychological problems. His approach is particularly focused on the needs of clients who are struggling with issues of cultural adjustment and transition. Serves individuals and families utilizing CBT, DBT, SFBT and ERP therapies. Treatment goals are identified in a collaborative and safe setting to address emotional regulation issues, increase problem solving, and improve overall life quality.
(312) 561-3579 View (312) 561-3579

See more therapy options for Chicago

Marriage Counseling Therapists
How does marriage counseling work?
Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?
Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?
Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?
Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.