Photo of Kanai S Gandhi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kanai S Gandhi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
I work with a diverse group of clients. From my couples facing communication, connection and lack of intimacy, to my individuals having symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and self-esteem issues, I have worked with all. Moreover, I am open to working with clients from marginalized communities, being a BIPOC therapist, I work with a lot of empathy.
I work with a diverse group of clients. From my couples facing communication, connection and lack of intimacy, to my individuals having symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and self-esteem issues, I have worked with all. Moreover, I am open to working with clients from marginalized communities, being a BIPOC therapist, I work with a lot of empathy.
(708) 512-3310 View (708) 512-3310
Photo of Samiha Jallouqa, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Samiha Jallouqa
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
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.
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.
(773) 609-0361 View (773) 609-0361
Photo of Julie Wallace Zimmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Julie Wallace Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
I seek to set my clients at ease in a comfortable setting so that they can tell their story in a nurturing and non-judgmental setting. Only then can we begin to focus on what they want to accomplish: setting realistic goals for both personal and professional success. I believe that this is done best with a sense of humor, as laughter is the best medicine! I show my clients that therapy can be as fun and as productive as they want it to be, where your thoughts and feelings are taken very seriously, and where what you put in is what you get out!
I seek to set my clients at ease in a comfortable setting so that they can tell their story in a nurturing and non-judgmental setting. Only then can we begin to focus on what they want to accomplish: setting realistic goals for both personal and professional success. I believe that this is done best with a sense of humor, as laughter is the best medicine! I show my clients that therapy can be as fun and as productive as they want it to be, where your thoughts and feelings are taken very seriously, and where what you put in is what you get out!
(773) 683-3462 View (773) 683-3462
Photo of Marguerite Reese, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Marguerite Reese
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals with relationship problems, anxieties / phobia issues, grief, depression, low-self esteem and work-life balance issues.
I have loved being a therapist for 15+ years. It is such joy to make an impact in someone's life. I think that is something my clients would say about me - I want to help them make changes that will aid them in having the life they have always wanted. I am a believer that all we have is the present, sadly can't change the past, but can learn from it to have the future we want. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relationship problems.
I enjoy working with individuals with relationship problems, anxieties / phobia issues, grief, depression, low-self esteem and work-life balance issues.
I have loved being a therapist for 15+ years. It is such joy to make an impact in someone's life. I think that is something my clients would say about me - I want to help them make changes that will aid them in having the life they have always wanted. I am a believer that all we have is the present, sadly can't change the past, but can learn from it to have the future we want. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relationship problems.
(312) 878-3615 View (312) 878-3615
Photo of Sheila Marie Collins, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Sheila Marie Collins
Psychologist, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
I am a strong believer that successful therapy is centered around finding a therapist that’s a good fit for you. It can be hard to make steps toward change- whether those big changes or small. I focus both on developing new strengths and skills to effectively manage life’s difficulties in the short term, while gaining insight into reasons behind behaviors to regain the control and understanding of past patterns to facilitate future autonomy in handling life’s stressors. My style has been described by clients as supportive, warm, interactive, easy to talk to, direct, nonjudgmental while also being able to utilize humor & creativity.
I am a strong believer that successful therapy is centered around finding a therapist that’s a good fit for you. It can be hard to make steps toward change- whether those big changes or small. I focus both on developing new strengths and skills to effectively manage life’s difficulties in the short term, while gaining insight into reasons behind behaviors to regain the control and understanding of past patterns to facilitate future autonomy in handling life’s stressors. My style has been described by clients as supportive, warm, interactive, easy to talk to, direct, nonjudgmental while also being able to utilize humor & creativity.
(312) 940-1858 View (312) 940-1858
Photo of Loren Mercola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Loren Mercola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Type 73
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
IS THE LIFE YOU ARE LIVING NOW THE LIFE THAT WANTS TO LIVE IN YOU? If not, I can help! Create the reality you want. Dare to dream. Find your passion. Change directions. Discover your untapped potential. Celebrate relationships. Enrich your spirit. Live your best life by being your BEST self! With a collaborative counseling/coaching style, I offer guidance, support, education and strategies to empower you to achieve your goals and live a healthy, balanced life. Working together will provide you with opportunities to grow and learn to: Accept Accountability for your Choices, Actions & Reactions
IS THE LIFE YOU ARE LIVING NOW THE LIFE THAT WANTS TO LIVE IN YOU? If not, I can help! Create the reality you want. Dare to dream. Find your passion. Change directions. Discover your untapped potential. Celebrate relationships. Enrich your spirit. Live your best life by being your BEST self! With a collaborative counseling/coaching style, I offer guidance, support, education and strategies to empower you to achieve your goals and live a healthy, balanced life. Working together will provide you with opportunities to grow and learn to: Accept Accountability for your Choices, Actions & Reactions
(312) 806-8880 View (312) 806-8880
Photo of Zareena Kheshgi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Zareena Kheshgi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I have a breadth and depth of clinical experience primarily doing psychotherapy in private practice, inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, family counseling and substance abuse treatment. My clients come to work on issues such as bipolar / depression, anxiety and panic, identity, low self-esteem, dating and relationship issues, traumatization, and aging and health issues. All are welcome, whether it be due to recent personal struggles or deep-rooted issues.
I have a breadth and depth of clinical experience primarily doing psychotherapy in private practice, inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, family counseling and substance abuse treatment. My clients come to work on issues such as bipolar / depression, anxiety and panic, identity, low self-esteem, dating and relationship issues, traumatization, and aging and health issues. All are welcome, whether it be due to recent personal struggles or deep-rooted issues.
(888) 870-1775 View (888) 870-1775
Photo of Balanced Mind Therapy, LLC, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Balanced Mind Therapy, LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Feeling disconnected? At this uncertain time, many are experiencing relational challenges within their family, marriage/romantic life, workplace, or social life. I will help you to address ongoing anxiety, depression, or avoidance of difficult feelings such as self-doubt. My approach is focused on a partnership, and supporting you to seek-out positive and meaningful experiences to rebuild connection and self-esteem. During our initial sessions, I will complete an assessment to form a better understanding of your background and we will form individualized goals such as improved relationship satisfaction or reduced anxiety.
Feeling disconnected? At this uncertain time, many are experiencing relational challenges within their family, marriage/romantic life, workplace, or social life. I will help you to address ongoing anxiety, depression, or avoidance of difficult feelings such as self-doubt. My approach is focused on a partnership, and supporting you to seek-out positive and meaningful experiences to rebuild connection and self-esteem. During our initial sessions, I will complete an assessment to form a better understanding of your background and we will form individualized goals such as improved relationship satisfaction or reduced anxiety.
(312) 313-5929 View (312) 313-5929
Photo of Debra Alper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Debra Alper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Our specialty is working with clients who have issues related to relational repetitions, poor conflict/communication skills, divorce and its aftermath as well as emotional abuse, co-dependency and self esteem issues.
I am a relational therapist and owner of Life Transitions Counseling, PLLC. We specialize in helping individuals and couples who are having relational issues in their lives. Sometimes these issues are repetitive like continuing to attract the wrong partners or friends, and sometimes they are time limited like going through a divorce and it’s aftermath. Often, it’s a matter of looking at the communication style as well as our attachment style we are familiar with and how that effects our relationships with others. We offer a warm, interactive environment to explore client’s need to have more satisfying relationships in their lives.
Our specialty is working with clients who have issues related to relational repetitions, poor conflict/communication skills, divorce and its aftermath as well as emotional abuse, co-dependency and self esteem issues.
I am a relational therapist and owner of Life Transitions Counseling, PLLC. We specialize in helping individuals and couples who are having relational issues in their lives. Sometimes these issues are repetitive like continuing to attract the wrong partners or friends, and sometimes they are time limited like going through a divorce and it’s aftermath. Often, it’s a matter of looking at the communication style as well as our attachment style we are familiar with and how that effects our relationships with others. We offer a warm, interactive environment to explore client’s need to have more satisfying relationships in their lives.
(773) 931-7220 View (773) 931-7220
Photo of Wendy Charness, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Wendy Charness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Do you feel your life doesn't reflect your hopes and dreams? Do your relationships lack the satisfaction & warmth you wish and deserve? Are you finding it challenging to be the spouse or parent you want to be? Have you been diagnosed with a medical condition and struggling to adjust? Are you caring for a loved one with an illness and feeling the stress? As your partner and guide, I can help you remove unhealthy patterns and develop more constructive ways of coping. I can assist you in feeling happier, more resilient in the face of life challenges, developing stronger relationships and achieving your full potential.
Do you feel your life doesn't reflect your hopes and dreams? Do your relationships lack the satisfaction & warmth you wish and deserve? Are you finding it challenging to be the spouse or parent you want to be? Have you been diagnosed with a medical condition and struggling to adjust? Are you caring for a loved one with an illness and feeling the stress? As your partner and guide, I can help you remove unhealthy patterns and develop more constructive ways of coping. I can assist you in feeling happier, more resilient in the face of life challenges, developing stronger relationships and achieving your full potential.
(312) 548-9270 View (312) 548-9270
Photo of Chanel A Gray, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Chanel A Gray
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with experience working with adults, couples, families, and groups. I received my Master's in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Governors State University. I've worked in a variety of mental health settings including residential substance abuse treatment, senior/veteran housing, EAP, and private practice. I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with co-occurring disorders, relationship issues, and grief/loss. I use a variety of theoretical orientations and collaboratively work with clients to provide support and continuous growth.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with experience working with adults, couples, families, and groups. I received my Master's in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Governors State University. I've worked in a variety of mental health settings including residential substance abuse treatment, senior/veteran housing, EAP, and private practice. I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with co-occurring disorders, relationship issues, and grief/loss. I use a variety of theoretical orientations and collaboratively work with clients to provide support and continuous growth.
(708) 295-3526 View (708) 295-3526
Photo of Jeffrey Sumber, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jeffrey Sumber
Counselor, MA, MTS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610  (Online Only)
We work together to identify and support who you are at your core. I help you determine what you want from your relationships, family and career and then create a plan to make it happen. Of course, there may be some challenges along the way but I don't believe life has to be endless suffering. Schedule a session and we can figure out the path together. All you need already exists within you!
We work together to identify and support who you are at your core. I help you determine what you want from your relationships, family and career and then create a plan to make it happen. Of course, there may be some challenges along the way but I don't believe life has to be endless suffering. Schedule a session and we can figure out the path together. All you need already exists within you!
(312) 647-2396 View (312) 647-2396
Photo of Anne M Appel, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Anne M Appel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
With over 15 years of experience, I know that life is full of challenges and struggles which can leave us feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or angry. It takes courage to look at the areas of your life that you are dissatisfied with and share your thoughts and feelings. I provide a safe, non-judgemental, compassionate space where you have the opportunity to tell your unique story, gain insight, and make positive lasting change. Working to alleviate your distress, my focus is to guide you to take the necessary steps towards greater fulfillment, meaning, and an overall sense of well being.
With over 15 years of experience, I know that life is full of challenges and struggles which can leave us feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or angry. It takes courage to look at the areas of your life that you are dissatisfied with and share your thoughts and feelings. I provide a safe, non-judgemental, compassionate space where you have the opportunity to tell your unique story, gain insight, and make positive lasting change. Working to alleviate your distress, my focus is to guide you to take the necessary steps towards greater fulfillment, meaning, and an overall sense of well being.
(312) 313-0965 View (312) 313-0965
Photo of Nitaya Chawla, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Nitaya Chawla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
(630) 796-0890 View (630) 796-0890
Photo of Tara Medow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Tara Medow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I like people, and I believe in an elastic understanding of the human condition. My approach is informal and centered in the belief people move within the world in ways that make sense to them. Daily decisions often reveal parts of the self developed during formative years; it is human to adapt emotions to stressful events. It is also human to reenact distress because it is familiar. Personhood is largely informed by the body's fundamental desire to feel physiological balance. Exposure to trauma may be part of someone’s balance, and therapy can be a place to gain clarity in ways we bond with ourselves/others and understand purpose.
I like people, and I believe in an elastic understanding of the human condition. My approach is informal and centered in the belief people move within the world in ways that make sense to them. Daily decisions often reveal parts of the self developed during formative years; it is human to adapt emotions to stressful events. It is also human to reenact distress because it is familiar. Personhood is largely informed by the body's fundamental desire to feel physiological balance. Exposure to trauma may be part of someone’s balance, and therapy can be a place to gain clarity in ways we bond with ourselves/others and understand purpose.
(773) 825-9761 View (773) 825-9761
Photo of Peggy Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Peggy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
(312) 262-4867 View (312) 262-4867
Photo of George J Didier, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
George J Didier
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
Welcome! I believe that one of the essential ingredients of change and transformative psychotherapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. Feeling understood and comfortable only helps reduce one's symptoms, encouraging self-acceptance, but also leads toward deeper work which promotes lasting change and a deeper experience of one's whole self.
Welcome! I believe that one of the essential ingredients of change and transformative psychotherapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. Feeling understood and comfortable only helps reduce one's symptoms, encouraging self-acceptance, but also leads toward deeper work which promotes lasting change and a deeper experience of one's whole self.
(312) 553-6961 View (312) 553-6961
Photo of Dominique Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Dominique Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
When it comes to problems we face, it can be difficult to see past ourselves and because of this, we may internalize this as we are the problem. In reality problems are something that are separate from who we are as individuals and there are often interpersonal relationships and external factors that play a major role in what may bring one to therapy. I help to provide clients with the strength and skills to work collaboratively to move towards change and progress. By calling attention to problematic stories and bringing healthy stories to light, this reframes how we think of issues & restores control of your own narrative.
When it comes to problems we face, it can be difficult to see past ourselves and because of this, we may internalize this as we are the problem. In reality problems are something that are separate from who we are as individuals and there are often interpersonal relationships and external factors that play a major role in what may bring one to therapy. I help to provide clients with the strength and skills to work collaboratively to move towards change and progress. By calling attention to problematic stories and bringing healthy stories to light, this reframes how we think of issues & restores control of your own narrative.
(312) 697-3878 x8 View (312) 697-3878 x8
Photo of Erik A Giles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Erik A Giles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, Pre-Lic
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
After 25 years in the corporate world, I love being a therapist! I came to this work to be authentic, direct, and conversational. I get that it feels weird to tell some stranger what’s bothering you… or worse the things you feel like you are screwing up. Often my clients tell me that after only the first session, they sleep better and finally feel like they aren’t floating or worse drowning in feelings they don’t know how to process. That is what I do. We’re going to address that and yes, I’ll be direct with you if there’s things you can change. I don’t have all the answers but together we can find ways to make things better.
After 25 years in the corporate world, I love being a therapist! I came to this work to be authentic, direct, and conversational. I get that it feels weird to tell some stranger what’s bothering you… or worse the things you feel like you are screwing up. Often my clients tell me that after only the first session, they sleep better and finally feel like they aren’t floating or worse drowning in feelings they don’t know how to process. That is what I do. We’re going to address that and yes, I’ll be direct with you if there’s things you can change. I don’t have all the answers but together we can find ways to make things better.
(312) 626-4334 View (312) 626-4334
Photo of Annie Rosenthal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Annie Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am a caring professional committed to helping people create positive change in their lives. I believe that you are the one who is in the driver's seat, choosing the direction on the map, while working collaboratively with a caring professional. Ultimately, my goal is to help you gain a better understanding of both your difficulties and strengths, and to acquire tools to gain more satisfaction in your life.
I am a caring professional committed to helping people create positive change in their lives. I believe that you are the one who is in the driver's seat, choosing the direction on the map, while working collaboratively with a caring professional. Ultimately, my goal is to help you gain a better understanding of both your difficulties and strengths, and to acquire tools to gain more satisfaction in your life.
(312) 380-0923 View (312) 380-0923
Self Esteem Therapists

When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?

When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.

What are the signs of low self-esteem?

Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.

What causes low self-esteem?

Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.

How can therapy improve self-esteem?

Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.