Therapists in Chicago, IL
I am passionate about working with BIPOC individuals and those with marginalized identities who are navigating feelings of otherness, and other systemic challenges, with a focus on Muslim and South Asian mental health.
What’s your story? No matter where you are in this journey of life, therapy can be a valuable space to examine the complexities that shape your narrative. I value fostering a supportive and empathic therapeutic relationship within which you feel comfortable exploring your life experiences and vulnerabilities. My approach to therapy is collaborative, catering to you and your unique needs, strengths, and cultural and familial backgrounds. I draw from Narrative, Cognitive-based, and mindfulness approaches along with trauma-informed care to create compassionate and tailored therapy.
I am passionate about working with BIPOC individuals and those with marginalized identities who are navigating feelings of otherness, and other systemic challenges, with a focus on Muslim and South Asian mental health.
What’s your story? No matter where you are in this journey of life, therapy can be a valuable space to examine the complexities that shape your narrative. I value fostering a supportive and empathic therapeutic relationship within which you feel comfortable exploring your life experiences and vulnerabilities. My approach to therapy is collaborative, catering to you and your unique needs, strengths, and cultural and familial backgrounds. I draw from Narrative, Cognitive-based, and mindfulness approaches along with trauma-informed care to create compassionate and tailored therapy.
I am a Muslim female of color and I understand the complexity of issues and layers as it relates to acculturation, intersection of identities, racism and family life.
Self growth and seeking support is not always an easy thing to do. My commitment to you is that I will do my best to create a safe space to explore barriers and patterns in order to utilize your strengths and build a more fulfilling life. Whether you are experiencing a tough life transition, navigating relationships and identities or having difficulty managing emotional stressors, I will do my best to be a source of assistance.
I am a Muslim female of color and I understand the complexity of issues and layers as it relates to acculturation, intersection of identities, racism and family life.
Self growth and seeking support is not always an easy thing to do. My commitment to you is that I will do my best to create a safe space to explore barriers and patterns in order to utilize your strengths and build a more fulfilling life. Whether you are experiencing a tough life transition, navigating relationships and identities or having difficulty managing emotional stressors, I will do my best to be a source of assistance.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Chicago, IL. As a clinician, my work centers around compassion and respect for the individual; my overarching goal in therapy is to develop a collaborative relationship that allows me to work with you on identifying your needs and goals. I have a particular expertise in women's health, trauma and navigating through South Asian Culture/ Muslim identity. It takes courage to begin therapy, and I am here to help you navigate through this journey.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Chicago, IL. As a clinician, my work centers around compassion and respect for the individual; my overarching goal in therapy is to develop a collaborative relationship that allows me to work with you on identifying your needs and goals. I have a particular expertise in women's health, trauma and navigating through South Asian Culture/ Muslim identity. It takes courage to begin therapy, and I am here to help you navigate through this journey.
I am extremely passionate about working with adults, young adults, and emerging professionals from diverse backgrounds, with a specialization in Arab-American and Muslim mental health.
Allowing yourself to be supported is the first step towards becoming your best self. However, without adequate support, overcoming feelings of sadness, overwhelm, disconnection or insecurity can be an exhausting and isolating experience. This is why I understand the importance of finding the right therapist. You may be seeking to feel truly heard and understood without judgment by someone you can trust to help you feel more grounded, confident, and satisfied in your everyday life. As a therapist, my main goal is to create that safe and trusting relationship to guide and empower you towards achieving ultimate personal growth.
I am extremely passionate about working with adults, young adults, and emerging professionals from diverse backgrounds, with a specialization in Arab-American and Muslim mental health.
Allowing yourself to be supported is the first step towards becoming your best self. However, without adequate support, overcoming feelings of sadness, overwhelm, disconnection or insecurity can be an exhausting and isolating experience. This is why I understand the importance of finding the right therapist. You may be seeking to feel truly heard and understood without judgment by someone you can trust to help you feel more grounded, confident, and satisfied in your everyday life. As a therapist, my main goal is to create that safe and trusting relationship to guide and empower you towards achieving ultimate personal growth.
As a non-binary, Muslim therapist I am dedicated to uplifting each person’s unique perspective while holistically taking into account the systems, communities, and identities that impact them.
Are you navigating transition and changing identity? Do you seek to make sense of your cultural upbringing and faith? Have you had difficulty finding a therapist with an intersectional understanding of systemic oppression and all the harm it brings? I am passionate about creating warm, collaborative therapeutic alliances that center the experiences of TGNC and BIPOC clients. I specialize in topics such as religion and spirituality, sexuality, gender expansiveness, grief, trauma, kink, and polyamory.
As a non-binary, Muslim therapist I am dedicated to uplifting each person’s unique perspective while holistically taking into account the systems, communities, and identities that impact them.
Are you navigating transition and changing identity? Do you seek to make sense of your cultural upbringing and faith? Have you had difficulty finding a therapist with an intersectional understanding of systemic oppression and all the harm it brings? I am passionate about creating warm, collaborative therapeutic alliances that center the experiences of TGNC and BIPOC clients. I specialize in topics such as religion and spirituality, sexuality, gender expansiveness, grief, trauma, kink, and polyamory.
Maryam Yousuf
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630 (Online Only)
As a Pakistani-American Muslim woman, I recognize that there is a significant need for counseling services within diverse communities. I'm especially passionate about working with individuals as they navigate major life transitions, such as going college, entering workforce, moving, marriage, parenthood, and so on. I also enjoy working with clients who experience grief and loss. I've worked with clients from various backgrounds and clinical presentations, focusing on addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, family issues, stressors, identity, etc.
As a Pakistani-American Muslim woman, I recognize that there is a significant need for counseling services within diverse communities. I'm especially passionate about working with individuals as they navigate major life transitions, such as going college, entering workforce, moving, marriage, parenthood, and so on. I also enjoy working with clients who experience grief and loss. I've worked with clients from various backgrounds and clinical presentations, focusing on addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, family issues, stressors, identity, etc.
Finding a therapist that meets your needs and makes you feel comfortable makes all the difference in the therapeutic process. It’s one of the most important factors that impact treatment and recovery. Therapy is a journey that should be shared with someone you’re comfortable with and trust. Working with me you will find a sympathetic and genuine therapist. I partner with my clients and gently challenge them in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I encourage them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and fears in order to understand the obstacles they are experiencing and help them make the changes that are necessary to improve life
Finding a therapist that meets your needs and makes you feel comfortable makes all the difference in the therapeutic process. It’s one of the most important factors that impact treatment and recovery. Therapy is a journey that should be shared with someone you’re comfortable with and trust. Working with me you will find a sympathetic and genuine therapist. I partner with my clients and gently challenge them in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I encourage them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and fears in order to understand the obstacles they are experiencing and help them make the changes that are necessary to improve life
Are you done struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships? Are you ready to feel fully yourself and alive again? Are you ready to build the life you want to live? My first goal when meeting with you is to establish a genuine & collaborative connection. This'll serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, understand experiences & make positive changes to your life. We'll work together to help you feel whole, peaceful, and connected. When you're done with therapy, you'll feel empowered and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at you. I can help you live your passion, purpose & truth.
Are you done struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships? Are you ready to feel fully yourself and alive again? Are you ready to build the life you want to live? My first goal when meeting with you is to establish a genuine & collaborative connection. This'll serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, understand experiences & make positive changes to your life. We'll work together to help you feel whole, peaceful, and connected. When you're done with therapy, you'll feel empowered and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at you. I can help you live your passion, purpose & truth.
Every person deserves to be valued for who they are and where they are in life. Life challenges can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves. There can be great value in reclaiming our entire selves, with all we have been through and currently face, while stepping into the unknown. Being truly witnessed can help us reconcile our realities, regain hope, and remember our gifts. I wish to honor your life by offering a warm, accepting haven for you to exist, unpack, discover, heal, and co-create your life in light of who you are and the unique opportunities and challenges you experience. You deserve to feel at home with yourself.
Every person deserves to be valued for who they are and where they are in life. Life challenges can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves. There can be great value in reclaiming our entire selves, with all we have been through and currently face, while stepping into the unknown. Being truly witnessed can help us reconcile our realities, regain hope, and remember our gifts. I wish to honor your life by offering a warm, accepting haven for you to exist, unpack, discover, heal, and co-create your life in light of who you are and the unique opportunities and challenges you experience. You deserve to feel at home with yourself.
Zaraar Zahid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, CCATP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I work with individuals and couples facing depression; stress; trauma; life transitions; social & generalized anxiety; neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD & Autism); family stressors; grief; relationship & intimacy issues; LGBTQIA+ individuals; and navigating life as an immigrant and/or person of color. I meet you where you are at. If you would like to know more about what this could mean for you, I encourage you to reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation.
I work with individuals and couples facing depression; stress; trauma; life transitions; social & generalized anxiety; neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD & Autism); family stressors; grief; relationship & intimacy issues; LGBTQIA+ individuals; and navigating life as an immigrant and/or person of color. I meet you where you are at. If you would like to know more about what this could mean for you, I encourage you to reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation.
Dr. Heidi Ramirez is currently a post-doctoral psychologist. She graduated with a doctorate of psychology (Psy.D.) in clinical forensic psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles Campus. Her clinical experience consists of working with underserved populations, specifically with incarcerated adolescents and adult males. She began her training with children and adolescents who were assigned to a trauma-informed charter school in Los Angeles, CA and completed her pre-doctoral internship at a forensic psychological private practice in Tempe, AZ.
Dr. Heidi Ramirez is currently a post-doctoral psychologist. She graduated with a doctorate of psychology (Psy.D.) in clinical forensic psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles Campus. Her clinical experience consists of working with underserved populations, specifically with incarcerated adolescents and adult males. She began her training with children and adolescents who were assigned to a trauma-informed charter school in Los Angeles, CA and completed her pre-doctoral internship at a forensic psychological private practice in Tempe, AZ.
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Sumara Baig
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647 (Online Only)
You have the answers - my role as your therapist is to collaborate and bring your capacities and experiences to the forefront. My personal identities (i.e. latine and South Asian), along with my education in psychology, religion, and social work, inform my practice through an anti-oppression lens that is affirming of people on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, people of all sizes, genders, racial, and religious identities, parenting and non-parenting people, diverse relationship structures, kinksters, people who have been incarcerated, and people who work(ed) in survival economies (i.e. sex work).
You have the answers - my role as your therapist is to collaborate and bring your capacities and experiences to the forefront. My personal identities (i.e. latine and South Asian), along with my education in psychology, religion, and social work, inform my practice through an anti-oppression lens that is affirming of people on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, people of all sizes, genders, racial, and religious identities, parenting and non-parenting people, diverse relationship structures, kinksters, people who have been incarcerated, and people who work(ed) in survival economies (i.e. sex work).
I work with individuals who are experiencing challenges associated with anxiety, depression, relational issues, stressful jobs, trauma, grief, and complex life transitions. My subspecialty is in working with BIPOC and first and second generation individuals looking to explore the intersection of their identities. My holistic approach aims to improve your well-being through “whole person” care, focusing on the mind and body to help you get unstuck when navigating the challenges in your life. I offer warm, culturally aware, and genuine connection as you work to free yourself of burdens that are bogging you down.
I work with individuals who are experiencing challenges associated with anxiety, depression, relational issues, stressful jobs, trauma, grief, and complex life transitions. My subspecialty is in working with BIPOC and first and second generation individuals looking to explore the intersection of their identities. My holistic approach aims to improve your well-being through “whole person” care, focusing on the mind and body to help you get unstuck when navigating the challenges in your life. I offer warm, culturally aware, and genuine connection as you work to free yourself of burdens that are bogging you down.
Bushra Sarkar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
For some of you, this is the first time you are choosing to live the life you want to live outside of the cultural and religious lines that were set for you. For others, this is the first time you are setting out on your own in a new city for school or a job. Maybe you just went through your first breakup and you are rediscovering yourself. Maybe this is the first time you’re grieving the loss of someone. These first moments can be significant in life, and while some firsts are more exciting than others, they all have something in common – our first moments, whatever they are, can bring out a mixed bag of complicated feelings.
For some of you, this is the first time you are choosing to live the life you want to live outside of the cultural and religious lines that were set for you. For others, this is the first time you are setting out on your own in a new city for school or a job. Maybe you just went through your first breakup and you are rediscovering yourself. Maybe this is the first time you’re grieving the loss of someone. These first moments can be significant in life, and while some firsts are more exciting than others, they all have something in common – our first moments, whatever they are, can bring out a mixed bag of complicated feelings.
Nothing human can be alien to me -Terence. Within the bounds of a safe relationship, I hope you can let the ugly, shameful and confusing parts of you breathe. Together, we can encounter them with compassion, as this is often where the work lies. I endeavor to create a warm holding environment for you as we explore issues more deeply and understand their origins through psychoanalytic, relational and existential perspectives. I share my conceptualizations with clients and provide psychoeducation to deepen insight into our unconscious experiences, while honoring individual uniqueness, cultural nuances, and other complexities.
Nothing human can be alien to me -Terence. Within the bounds of a safe relationship, I hope you can let the ugly, shameful and confusing parts of you breathe. Together, we can encounter them with compassion, as this is often where the work lies. I endeavor to create a warm holding environment for you as we explore issues more deeply and understand their origins through psychoanalytic, relational and existential perspectives. I share my conceptualizations with clients and provide psychoeducation to deepen insight into our unconscious experiences, while honoring individual uniqueness, cultural nuances, and other complexities.
Nicolette Avery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is warm, positive, holistic, and collaborative. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental trusting environment to allow clients to tell their story. My goal is to remove the stigma related to therapy and provide a clinical approach to everyday life stressors. As a therapist I can help individuals leverage their strengths and to understand life experiences better. I seek to work with clients to build a trusting relationship, be a listening ear and provide effective coping skills when things become overwhelming.
My approach to therapy is warm, positive, holistic, and collaborative. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental trusting environment to allow clients to tell their story. My goal is to remove the stigma related to therapy and provide a clinical approach to everyday life stressors. As a therapist I can help individuals leverage their strengths and to understand life experiences better. I seek to work with clients to build a trusting relationship, be a listening ear and provide effective coping skills when things become overwhelming.
Coffee Chat Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR, CCTP, MHS, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
Coffee Chat Counseling provides care to individuals who are aged 13 and older. We love working with clients who are seeking support with life transitions, who are healing from trauma, who are diagnosed and adjusting to living with chronic illness, as well as those who are struggling to manage mood and anxiety disorders, addiction, and OCD. As a queer owned practice, we have a strong commitment to working with the LGBTQIA+ community. Our mission is to de-stigmatize mental health care while making therapy as approachable as possible by providing a safe, non-judgmental space for our clients to express themselves.
Coffee Chat Counseling provides care to individuals who are aged 13 and older. We love working with clients who are seeking support with life transitions, who are healing from trauma, who are diagnosed and adjusting to living with chronic illness, as well as those who are struggling to manage mood and anxiety disorders, addiction, and OCD. As a queer owned practice, we have a strong commitment to working with the LGBTQIA+ community. Our mission is to de-stigmatize mental health care while making therapy as approachable as possible by providing a safe, non-judgmental space for our clients to express themselves.
Flourish Counseling & Wellness is a group practice providing counseling & medication management focused on women's and perinatal mental health - from fertility to pregnancy, through postpartum and parenthood. We envision a world where families have the information and support they need to heal, connect and flourish. To support that vision, we have assembled an experienced group of clinicians to serve clients in Chicago, Oak Park, and throughout Illinois. Our team consists of clinical social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychologists, marriage/family therapists and certified Perinatal Mental Health Clinicians (PMH-C).
Flourish Counseling & Wellness is a group practice providing counseling & medication management focused on women's and perinatal mental health - from fertility to pregnancy, through postpartum and parenthood. We envision a world where families have the information and support they need to heal, connect and flourish. To support that vision, we have assembled an experienced group of clinicians to serve clients in Chicago, Oak Park, and throughout Illinois. Our team consists of clinical social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychologists, marriage/family therapists and certified Perinatal Mental Health Clinicians (PMH-C).
Sun Patron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
I offer a comprehensive range of therapeutic services designed to support individuals & families through various challenges. Providing tailored support for individuals of all ages facing crises. Stress Reduction: Techniques and strategies to manage and reduce stress effectively. Burnout Prevention: Guidance and tools to prevent burnout and promote a healthy work-life balance. Anxiety & Depression Management: utilizing therapeutic approaches to alleviate anxiety and depression. Fostering Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Developing strategies to cope with life’s challenges. Addressing & support with traumatic experiences & overall wellness
I offer a comprehensive range of therapeutic services designed to support individuals & families through various challenges. Providing tailored support for individuals of all ages facing crises. Stress Reduction: Techniques and strategies to manage and reduce stress effectively. Burnout Prevention: Guidance and tools to prevent burnout and promote a healthy work-life balance. Anxiety & Depression Management: utilizing therapeutic approaches to alleviate anxiety and depression. Fostering Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Developing strategies to cope with life’s challenges. Addressing & support with traumatic experiences & overall wellness
My approach to therapy is holistic and incorporates the connection of the mind, body and emotions. Clients have described me as warm, supportive, non-judgmental and calm. My goal is to help better manage your thoughts, feelings, and to help you feel happier and healthier. I welcome the opportunity to join your journey to healing and recovery.
My approach to therapy is holistic and incorporates the connection of the mind, body and emotions. Clients have described me as warm, supportive, non-judgmental and calm. My goal is to help better manage your thoughts, feelings, and to help you feel happier and healthier. I welcome the opportunity to join your journey to healing and recovery.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Muslim Therapists
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
A culturally sensitive therapist will be respectful of faith, race, sexual orientation, gender, age, disabilities, or anything that is relevant to an individual’s reasons for seeking therapy. This mental health practitioner will therefore be able to recognize the role of faith in a client’s life, and they can appreciate the cultural values and beliefs of others. Cultural sensitivity on the part of the therapist may enhance the possibility of a strong therapeutic bond, even if the clinician does not have an extensive understanding of a client’s background before therapy begins.
How might I inquire about a therapist's experience with Muslim clients?
It is best to ask directly whether a therapist has worked with Muslim clients, and if so, the extent to which cultural or religious principles factored into their work together. You can also ask whether a therapist who is familiar with Islamic practices, values, and beliefs incorporates them into their professional work, and if so, how. If the therapist does not have a sufficient knowledge base, they may well know and can refer you to someone who has such experience.
What if the therapist does not have my exact background?
It is not necessary for a therapist to share one’s exact religious background for therapy to be successful. A qualified and culturally sensitive therapist will appreciate diversity within the Muslim community as well as diversity overall, and will have a sense of how religious and cultural issues can contribute to mental health. In addition, a good therapist would be willing to learn from their clients.
How do I recognize an effective Muslim therapist?
Like all therapists, a Muslim therapist who is effective will have the requisite training and expertise in evidence-based techniques, as well as the ability to connect with you on a personal level. An effective Muslim therapist may also demonstrate a clear understanding of your cultural background and faith. A therapist with such cultural sensitivity will set the stage for a strong therapeutic alliance.
Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of the Muslim faith?
The directory of Muslim therapists includes mental health providers who have shared their cultural background in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist with a similar background. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists identified as Muslim is limited, the directory will also show therapists with extensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.