Therapists in Chicago, IL
Dr. Alan F. Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I offer both Therapeutic Alliance Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic therapy and progress moves forward with a focus on the goals we establish during the therapy process.
I help people wishing to improve the quality of their lives by focusing on their interpersonal needs and how they gratify or frustrate their most important priorities. My training provides me with a strong foundation in helping to guide individuals, couples and families to identify the obstacles hindering their feelings of satisfaction and to apply the most effective therapeutic interventions. I have served 38 years on the faculty of Northwestern University Medical School and I have had the opportunities to serve as an expert consultant to many companies, attorneys, public safety agencies, and as an expert witness.
I offer both Therapeutic Alliance Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic therapy and progress moves forward with a focus on the goals we establish during the therapy process.
I help people wishing to improve the quality of their lives by focusing on their interpersonal needs and how they gratify or frustrate their most important priorities. My training provides me with a strong foundation in helping to guide individuals, couples and families to identify the obstacles hindering their feelings of satisfaction and to apply the most effective therapeutic interventions. I have served 38 years on the faculty of Northwestern University Medical School and I have had the opportunities to serve as an expert consultant to many companies, attorneys, public safety agencies, and as an expert witness.
Thomas Kalapurakal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I utilize an psychodynamic and strength based approach to help clients understand their stressors, overcome barriers, and maintain their authentic sense of self.
I specialize in working with the adult and young adult populations as they navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life changes/transitions, relationship difficulties, work/life balance and more. I also provide counseling for issues related to Athletic Performance. I believe that by creating a strong therapeutic relationship through empathic understanding, the client will be empowered when focusing on personal development. Authenticity, honesty, and empathy are values that drive my work as a counselor.
I utilize an psychodynamic and strength based approach to help clients understand their stressors, overcome barriers, and maintain their authentic sense of self.
I specialize in working with the adult and young adult populations as they navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life changes/transitions, relationship difficulties, work/life balance and more. I also provide counseling for issues related to Athletic Performance. I believe that by creating a strong therapeutic relationship through empathic understanding, the client will be empowered when focusing on personal development. Authenticity, honesty, and empathy are values that drive my work as a counselor.
Anne Leiter
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
My specialties include self-esteem and identity, victims of narcissism, relationship concerns, body image, anxiety, depression and trauma. I primarily use Psychodynamic approach while incorporating mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment, and Relational Therapy. I am warm and empathetic, humorous and honest. I provide a safe space where clients can explore and hopefully discover their purpose in life. I believe that our past experiences shape our lives and that it is important to carefully examine critical and sometimes difficult moments. I believe that there is no “quick fix” in therapy and that true change takes time.
My specialties include self-esteem and identity, victims of narcissism, relationship concerns, body image, anxiety, depression and trauma. I primarily use Psychodynamic approach while incorporating mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment, and Relational Therapy. I am warm and empathetic, humorous and honest. I provide a safe space where clients can explore and hopefully discover their purpose in life. I believe that our past experiences shape our lives and that it is important to carefully examine critical and sometimes difficult moments. I believe that there is no “quick fix” in therapy and that true change takes time.
Sarah Vassileff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I practice from a bottom-up approach while looking through a psychodynamic, trauma- and attachment-focused lens to help you heal internal wounds and find safety within.
As your therapist, one of my priorities is to walk alongside you as you grow into the most integrated version of yourself, embracing your autonomy and strengths. It can be difficult to balance your sense of internal safety and the external commotion of the world. A sense of disillusionment occurs when our external wants do not meet our internal needs. I focus on your concept of Self as it relates to emotional disturbance, fragmentation of the self, maladaptive thinking patterns, and dissociation. My aim is to work with you to embrace ad overcome challenges endured throughout the lifespan and to help you find alignment within.
I practice from a bottom-up approach while looking through a psychodynamic, trauma- and attachment-focused lens to help you heal internal wounds and find safety within.
As your therapist, one of my priorities is to walk alongside you as you grow into the most integrated version of yourself, embracing your autonomy and strengths. It can be difficult to balance your sense of internal safety and the external commotion of the world. A sense of disillusionment occurs when our external wants do not meet our internal needs. I focus on your concept of Self as it relates to emotional disturbance, fragmentation of the self, maladaptive thinking patterns, and dissociation. My aim is to work with you to embrace ad overcome challenges endured throughout the lifespan and to help you find alignment within.
Scott M Gleeson
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Through both a psychodynamic perspective and cognitive behavioral approach, my goal is to help you target your source of suffering, initiate breakthroughs and step into your true potential.
Carl Jung once said: "Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." Coming to therapy is an act of courage in itself and a testament to awakening your heart as a compass. Working together in a safe environment of acceptance and empathic dialogue, we will navigate struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and outline strategies that create hope and healing in the short term and generate meaningful, lasting change in the long term.
Through both a psychodynamic perspective and cognitive behavioral approach, my goal is to help you target your source of suffering, initiate breakthroughs and step into your true potential.
Carl Jung once said: "Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." Coming to therapy is an act of courage in itself and a testament to awakening your heart as a compass. Working together in a safe environment of acceptance and empathic dialogue, we will navigate struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and outline strategies that create hope and healing in the short term and generate meaningful, lasting change in the long term.
Adam Shafer
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
I understand the healing process as one of self-determination through therapeutic empathy. Being curious while employing sensitive honesty makes me a good fit for people who are open to exploring deeper personal and interpersonal connections. The lens of attachment, psychodynamic theory, and existential thought within ecological and systemic perspectives help me appreciate the pressures that impact quality of life issues. I am interested in working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds who find themselves struggling in relationships, depression, anxiety, complex trauma, psychosis, and grief/loss.
I understand the healing process as one of self-determination through therapeutic empathy. Being curious while employing sensitive honesty makes me a good fit for people who are open to exploring deeper personal and interpersonal connections. The lens of attachment, psychodynamic theory, and existential thought within ecological and systemic perspectives help me appreciate the pressures that impact quality of life issues. I am interested in working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds who find themselves struggling in relationships, depression, anxiety, complex trauma, psychosis, and grief/loss.
Kate Koslowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
My approach is eclectic, primarily pulling from narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a psychodynamic approach.
I help individuals navigate uncertainty and stress, while gaining insight into themselves and their relationships. Many clients find this helpful at times of major transition–recently graduated from college, while in a new relationship, or when becoming a parent. My practice focuses on anxiety, relationships, and the challenges and joys of parenthood; I have a special interest in working with parents-to-be and first-time parents.
My approach is eclectic, primarily pulling from narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a psychodynamic approach.
I help individuals navigate uncertainty and stress, while gaining insight into themselves and their relationships. Many clients find this helpful at times of major transition–recently graduated from college, while in a new relationship, or when becoming a parent. My practice focuses on anxiety, relationships, and the challenges and joys of parenthood; I have a special interest in working with parents-to-be and first-time parents.
Lola Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic and schema therapy methods to meet each client’s unique needs.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic and schema therapy methods to meet each client’s unique needs.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
Allison Sheade
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Allison Sheade is a feminist psychodynamic, relational, trauma-focused LCPC in Chicago. Her style is warm, empathic, collaborative, and direct. Allison has an active style, and clients enjoy knowing that she will offer insights, interpretations, and feedback that are effective, helpful, and supportive. Allison has worked in community mental health, at the Women's Center at Northwestern University, and in outpatient settings. Allison works with diverse populations and operates from a multicultural perspective, valuing differences of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender and sexuality (+ poly & kink), ableness, and world-view.
Allison Sheade is a feminist psychodynamic, relational, trauma-focused LCPC in Chicago. Her style is warm, empathic, collaborative, and direct. Allison has an active style, and clients enjoy knowing that she will offer insights, interpretations, and feedback that are effective, helpful, and supportive. Allison has worked in community mental health, at the Women's Center at Northwestern University, and in outpatient settings. Allison works with diverse populations and operates from a multicultural perspective, valuing differences of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender and sexuality (+ poly & kink), ableness, and world-view.
Jonathan Foiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
My work and training is grounded in the relational psychodynamic tradition which I also teach to social work students at the University of Chicago.
Many of us walk around thinking that we should be happier, that we're missing an inner sense of vitality. Therapy can be a place to better understand the story of your life and think about how it might be different. My role is to help you clarify your inner sources of conflict in the hopes of living a better, more fulfilling life. I have worked with a wide variety of clients across my careers, and I have found that we are all more human than not. I practice from a trauma-informed lens and believe that true healing is always possible.
My work and training is grounded in the relational psychodynamic tradition which I also teach to social work students at the University of Chicago.
Many of us walk around thinking that we should be happier, that we're missing an inner sense of vitality. Therapy can be a place to better understand the story of your life and think about how it might be different. My role is to help you clarify your inner sources of conflict in the hopes of living a better, more fulfilling life. I have worked with a wide variety of clients across my careers, and I have found that we are all more human than not. I practice from a trauma-informed lens and believe that true healing is always possible.
Katy Crone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is collaborative and is aimed at helping you develop long-lasting health (both as an individual and in your relationships). I'll help you address individual concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, panic, sleep issues, job fulfillment, and family stress. Initial sessions will involve a thorough intake so I can be sure I understand the breadth of your background and current problems. I will help you construct individualized goals for therapy, and we will agree on how to best work together. I utilize a variety of approaches and techniques including psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapies.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and is aimed at helping you develop long-lasting health (both as an individual and in your relationships). I'll help you address individual concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, panic, sleep issues, job fulfillment, and family stress. Initial sessions will involve a thorough intake so I can be sure I understand the breadth of your background and current problems. I will help you construct individualized goals for therapy, and we will agree on how to best work together. I utilize a variety of approaches and techniques including psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapies.
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Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
My clinical philosophy is grounded in psychodynamic psychotherapy with an occasional integration of behavioral techniques utilized in cognitive behavioral therapy.
Haven't we all felt stuck at some point? Giving our thoughts a little "air time" can be helpful in easing the tension that builds in our everyday lives. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with self-esteem and relationships. From the first time that we speak, I will be thinking about the "big picture" of your life. My aim is to help identify potential blindspots and help develop solutions that work specifically for you.
My clinical philosophy is grounded in psychodynamic psychotherapy with an occasional integration of behavioral techniques utilized in cognitive behavioral therapy.
Haven't we all felt stuck at some point? Giving our thoughts a little "air time" can be helpful in easing the tension that builds in our everyday lives. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with self-esteem and relationships. From the first time that we speak, I will be thinking about the "big picture" of your life. My aim is to help identify potential blindspots and help develop solutions that work specifically for you.
Caitlin Boshardy
LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647 (Online Only)
Clinically I pull from CBT, solution-focused therapy, ACT, and psychodynamic therapy depending on the needs of the client.
As a therapist I work with clients who are ready to feel empowered to work through life's challenges and grow into their most authentic self. I champion clients as they heal through past traumas, work on boundaries, and create fulfillment in their lives. Together we can address anxiety, depression, life transitions, boundaries, relationships, career transitions, and unhealthy coping skills that no longer serve you.
Clinically I pull from CBT, solution-focused therapy, ACT, and psychodynamic therapy depending on the needs of the client.
As a therapist I work with clients who are ready to feel empowered to work through life's challenges and grow into their most authentic self. I champion clients as they heal through past traumas, work on boundaries, and create fulfillment in their lives. Together we can address anxiety, depression, life transitions, boundaries, relationships, career transitions, and unhealthy coping skills that no longer serve you.
Kayla Hartman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and psychodynamic perspectives.
Throughout our lives, we are wounded in big and small ways in our relationships. I believe that healing these wounds must happen in relationships, as well. In my eyes, that’s what therapy is all about. I am particularly experienced in working with people who struggle with disordered eating and eating disorders using Health At Every Size principles. I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ people and those engaged in nontraditional shapes of relationships. I also support people with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, psychosis, and substance use.
I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and psychodynamic perspectives.
Throughout our lives, we are wounded in big and small ways in our relationships. I believe that healing these wounds must happen in relationships, as well. In my eyes, that’s what therapy is all about. I am particularly experienced in working with people who struggle with disordered eating and eating disorders using Health At Every Size principles. I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ people and those engaged in nontraditional shapes of relationships. I also support people with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, psychosis, and substance use.
Tricia Sybesma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626 (Online Only)
I incorporate psychodynamic theory, CBT techniques, values exploration, self-compassion, and others.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Maybe you’ve experienced a recent life change or event that is causing distress or discomfort. Maybe you’ve struggled with issues for a long time and have decided you have the desire and capacity to deal with it now. Maybe you’re looking for a place to process and reflect on the stressors that are part of daily life. Whatever your motivation for seeking support at this time, I’m glad you’re here and eager to learn more about how I can help.
I incorporate psychodynamic theory, CBT techniques, values exploration, self-compassion, and others.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Maybe you’ve experienced a recent life change or event that is causing distress or discomfort. Maybe you’ve struggled with issues for a long time and have decided you have the desire and capacity to deal with it now. Maybe you’re looking for a place to process and reflect on the stressors that are part of daily life. Whatever your motivation for seeking support at this time, I’m glad you’re here and eager to learn more about how I can help.
Ash Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60645
The buzzwords associated with my specific approach are: psychodynamic, humanistic, relational, somatic/body-based, and skills-based.
To me, therapy is a team sport. I'm there to help create a space and relationship where you feel safe exploring the things that are happening in your life. Maybe that thing is identity exploration, depression or anxiety that just won't quit, or figuring out how survive and then thrive after a big trauma. All of this is big stuff. I'm here to help you hold it and find a way through it. I have plenty of tools that I can bring to bear (questions, coping skills training, identifying patterns, and reframing situations), but ultimately, my approach centers around you and what you need to be successful, however you define success.
The buzzwords associated with my specific approach are: psychodynamic, humanistic, relational, somatic/body-based, and skills-based.
To me, therapy is a team sport. I'm there to help create a space and relationship where you feel safe exploring the things that are happening in your life. Maybe that thing is identity exploration, depression or anxiety that just won't quit, or figuring out how survive and then thrive after a big trauma. All of this is big stuff. I'm here to help you hold it and find a way through it. I have plenty of tools that I can bring to bear (questions, coping skills training, identifying patterns, and reframing situations), but ultimately, my approach centers around you and what you need to be successful, however you define success.
Jenna K Feldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
In this work, I approach therapy with a strengths-based, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed lens and depending on your needs, I may pull from a variety of Psychodynamic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing (SE) and other body-centered approaches.
Many of the individuals and couples I work with experience anxiety, professional/work-related stress, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and unresolved trauma. Often, clients are looking to reflect on their personal and family history, build self-awareness, process everyday stressors, and/or develop coping skills. In my work with clients, I seek to establish a supportive, empathetic, and consistent relationship that will be the foundation for deep introspection and growth.
In this work, I approach therapy with a strengths-based, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed lens and depending on your needs, I may pull from a variety of Psychodynamic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing (SE) and other body-centered approaches.
Many of the individuals and couples I work with experience anxiety, professional/work-related stress, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and unresolved trauma. Often, clients are looking to reflect on their personal and family history, build self-awareness, process everyday stressors, and/or develop coping skills. In my work with clients, I seek to establish a supportive, empathetic, and consistent relationship that will be the foundation for deep introspection and growth.
Sarah Stephens Ramani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
My goal in therapy is to facilitate trust, safety and healing by developing strong, authentic relationships with clients. I draw from psychodynamic and attachment theory in my work; I believe that articulating one's thoughts and feelings is a powerful process that can create profound positive change. With this in mind, I create a collaborative environment for clients in which to explore some of life’s most difficult moments.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate trust, safety and healing by developing strong, authentic relationships with clients. I draw from psychodynamic and attachment theory in my work; I believe that articulating one's thoughts and feelings is a powerful process that can create profound positive change. With this in mind, I create a collaborative environment for clients in which to explore some of life’s most difficult moments.
Katerina Fager
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is systemic with psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and emotionally focused based elements.
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
My approach to therapy is systemic with psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and emotionally focused based elements.
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
Elisabeth Ihlenfeld
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP-II, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
Waitlist for new clients
My orientation is a psychodynamic one, but I also integrate principles of CBT, DBT, and Brief Solution-Focused Therapy into problem solving and the cultivation of better self-management strategies where relevant and useful.
Strange as it may sound, my ideal client is someone who has been suffering in a profound way and, despite numerous past interactions with mental health providers, has yet to fully make sense of themself, let alone remove the obstacles to change and growth that have them stuck. Regardless of what diagnosis a person has been given before, my interest is in what is "behind it." How and why did they develop the particular maladaptive strategies behind the symptoms comprising what we call a psychological "disorder?' What purpose do they serve, despite the suffering they engender? This is the "need to know" stuff of real change...
My orientation is a psychodynamic one, but I also integrate principles of CBT, DBT, and Brief Solution-Focused Therapy into problem solving and the cultivation of better self-management strategies where relevant and useful.
Strange as it may sound, my ideal client is someone who has been suffering in a profound way and, despite numerous past interactions with mental health providers, has yet to fully make sense of themself, let alone remove the obstacles to change and growth that have them stuck. Regardless of what diagnosis a person has been given before, my interest is in what is "behind it." How and why did they develop the particular maladaptive strategies behind the symptoms comprising what we call a psychological "disorder?' What purpose do they serve, despite the suffering they engender? This is the "need to know" stuff of real change...
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Norridge
- North Riverside
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Riverside
Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.
How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.
Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.
What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.