Therapists in Chicago, IL
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.
I specialize in generalized anxiety, social and performance anxiety, panic attacks, developmental trauma, complex PTSD, depression, attachment disorders, attachment issues in romantic relations, body image issues, and low self-esteem. Additional focus chronic occupational stress, academic and professional development.
I specialize in generalized anxiety, social and performance anxiety, panic attacks, developmental trauma, complex PTSD, depression, attachment disorders, attachment issues in romantic relations, body image issues, and low self-esteem. Additional focus chronic occupational stress, academic and professional development.
It can be hard to get through life’s challenges on your own and you may find yourself needing extra help. Alyson is here to provide that support. Alyson believes each session should be individualized to meet a client’s specific needs. Alyson focuses on creating a an open environment and uses this as a foundation to work collaboratively toward each client’s goals. She understands that her life experiences may not be the same as her clients and she works to approach therapy from each client’s perspective. Alyson is here to help clients develop tools and strategies to live a more fulfilling life.
It can be hard to get through life’s challenges on your own and you may find yourself needing extra help. Alyson is here to provide that support. Alyson believes each session should be individualized to meet a client’s specific needs. Alyson focuses on creating a an open environment and uses this as a foundation to work collaboratively toward each client’s goals. She understands that her life experiences may not be the same as her clients and she works to approach therapy from each client’s perspective. Alyson is here to help clients develop tools and strategies to live a more fulfilling life.
Naomi Gargiulo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Not accepting new clients
Intersectionality and social justice are central in my practice and philosophy; in other words, I view you within the context of your identities and environment and consider what in those spheres may be helping or hurting you. My clinical specialties and interests include trauma, gender & sexuality exploration, depression & anxiety, and life transitions. I also have experience working with community college students, immigrants & refugees, and survivors of intimate partner violence.
Intersectionality and social justice are central in my practice and philosophy; in other words, I view you within the context of your identities and environment and consider what in those spheres may be helping or hurting you. My clinical specialties and interests include trauma, gender & sexuality exploration, depression & anxiety, and life transitions. I also have experience working with community college students, immigrants & refugees, and survivors of intimate partner violence.
Sarah Novak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Do you hold yourself to a standard that always seems to be out of reach? Are you feeling preoccupied with trying to control outcomes by every means necessary? Let’s work together to restore balance and embrace imperfection. Striving for perfection is exhausting and often comes at a toll to our personal relationships and our self-worth. We’re sometimes driven by the fear of negative judgment and inadequacy and many times looking for acceptance from others. It’s possible to get back to a place where dissatisfaction and self-doubt are released.
Do you hold yourself to a standard that always seems to be out of reach? Are you feeling preoccupied with trying to control outcomes by every means necessary? Let’s work together to restore balance and embrace imperfection. Striving for perfection is exhausting and often comes at a toll to our personal relationships and our self-worth. We’re sometimes driven by the fear of negative judgment and inadequacy and many times looking for acceptance from others. It’s possible to get back to a place where dissatisfaction and self-doubt are released.
Dr. Kala Taylor-The Psychology Center-Certified Life Coach
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MS, MBA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643 (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Dr. Kala Taylor ,(She), I currently work private practice with (The Psychology Center) in Chicago. Previously I worked psychotherapy in the State Government Correctional setting under the exempt licensure title Clinical Psychologist/Sr Psych. Inmates under my care have described my therapeutic approach as "nonjudgmental" and "compassionate." My personal experiences have led me to cultivate a deep empathy for all beings. and I’m committed to being (not just inclusive but) welcoming towards “others.” My experience working in mental health has led me to focus on working to help individuals with personal challenges.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kala Taylor ,(She), I currently work private practice with (The Psychology Center) in Chicago. Previously I worked psychotherapy in the State Government Correctional setting under the exempt licensure title Clinical Psychologist/Sr Psych. Inmates under my care have described my therapeutic approach as "nonjudgmental" and "compassionate." My personal experiences have led me to cultivate a deep empathy for all beings. and I’m committed to being (not just inclusive but) welcoming towards “others.” My experience working in mental health has led me to focus on working to help individuals with personal challenges.
Abbie Kelley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I have over 18 years experience working with clients of all ages. Areas of specialty include: anxiety, complex anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, Women's Health, self-esteem, relationships, career and academic exploration, and other stressors. I am passionate about helping women grow and nurture their relationship with themselves, their dynamic identity and their body. I am also passionate about helping parents grow together in their parenting journey and explore how to feel successful while raising children. Many people try to just "get by." I use therapy as a way to help clients thrive and feel successful in the world around them.
I have over 18 years experience working with clients of all ages. Areas of specialty include: anxiety, complex anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, Women's Health, self-esteem, relationships, career and academic exploration, and other stressors. I am passionate about helping women grow and nurture their relationship with themselves, their dynamic identity and their body. I am also passionate about helping parents grow together in their parenting journey and explore how to feel successful while raising children. Many people try to just "get by." I use therapy as a way to help clients thrive and feel successful in the world around them.
Ashley Perini
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in Tennessee.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in Tennessee.
Katie Hurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Becoming a mom shakes everything up. It’s like a second adolescence— your body, your relationships, and your identity all change. It can be deeply uncomfortable. My goal is for you to trust yourself again and find ease in your new role. I don’t take too many clients, so I care deeply about each person I work with. I will remember the names of your loved ones. I will want to see pictures of your dog. I will consult with your doctors, advocate for you, and send you resources outside of session. Most of all, I will be genuinely curious to hear what you have to say.
Becoming a mom shakes everything up. It’s like a second adolescence— your body, your relationships, and your identity all change. It can be deeply uncomfortable. My goal is for you to trust yourself again and find ease in your new role. I don’t take too many clients, so I care deeply about each person I work with. I will remember the names of your loved ones. I will want to see pictures of your dog. I will consult with your doctors, advocate for you, and send you resources outside of session. Most of all, I will be genuinely curious to hear what you have to say.
I work within BIPOC communities on navigating difficulties with ethnic and/or racial identity, past & present family dynamics, mood-related concerns, interpersonal relationships, neurodiversity, and overall emotional regulation. Through the years, I have seen how a safe therapeutic relationship creates space to explore one's self, family, and larger system in order to relearn ways of navigating life with culturally-informed self-determination. I use eclectic therapy to weave together different approaches that create a custom-tailored treatment plan according to each person's needs, backgrounds, strengths, goals, and more.
I work within BIPOC communities on navigating difficulties with ethnic and/or racial identity, past & present family dynamics, mood-related concerns, interpersonal relationships, neurodiversity, and overall emotional regulation. Through the years, I have seen how a safe therapeutic relationship creates space to explore one's self, family, and larger system in order to relearn ways of navigating life with culturally-informed self-determination. I use eclectic therapy to weave together different approaches that create a custom-tailored treatment plan according to each person's needs, backgrounds, strengths, goals, and more.
-Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy. Trained at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Kansas State University's School of Family Studies, and The University of Chicago School of Medicine, Clinic Founder Rob Gellman has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 years, and was a professor at Adler University from 2008-2011. He is a regularly invited speaker with local mental health agencies and national conferences. A recognized expert on families coping with chronic illness, infidelity, and the training of therapists and physicians, Rob's clinical practice is diverse, helping adults, children, couples and families on the path to wellness. ***Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Distress, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Young Couples, Depression, Chronic Illness, Grief and Loss, Family Conflict, and Lifecycle Transitions.
-Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy. Trained at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Kansas State University's School of Family Studies, and The University of Chicago School of Medicine, Clinic Founder Rob Gellman has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 years, and was a professor at Adler University from 2008-2011. He is a regularly invited speaker with local mental health agencies and national conferences. A recognized expert on families coping with chronic illness, infidelity, and the training of therapists and physicians, Rob's clinical practice is diverse, helping adults, children, couples and families on the path to wellness. ***Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Distress, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Young Couples, Depression, Chronic Illness, Grief and Loss, Family Conflict, and Lifecycle Transitions.
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Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Not accepting new clients
We all want to live happy and productive lives and we all have strengths that help us do this. Strengths lie in our relationships and inside of us. Sometimes blocks keep us from being able to use our strengths. I'm not currently accepting new clients, but at Chicago Center for Relationship Counseling, we have many excellent therapists who are available to help access strengths and lift blocks.
We all want to live happy and productive lives and we all have strengths that help us do this. Strengths lie in our relationships and inside of us. Sometimes blocks keep us from being able to use our strengths. I'm not currently accepting new clients, but at Chicago Center for Relationship Counseling, we have many excellent therapists who are available to help access strengths and lift blocks.
At Willis CC, our guests are encouraged to challenge themselves & find new ways to cope with life’s challenges. We believe to be human is to experience pain. We believe suffering, while part of the human experience, is not the identity of our humanity. Therefore, helping you hold pain lightly & with compassion while taking action to change your life is essentially what therapy is all about. We are dedicated to offering support & nurturance to those seeking a new direction while holding onto their values. You don’t have to see a therapist for the rest of your life, in fact, the sooner you need us less, the better for everyone!
At Willis CC, our guests are encouraged to challenge themselves & find new ways to cope with life’s challenges. We believe to be human is to experience pain. We believe suffering, while part of the human experience, is not the identity of our humanity. Therefore, helping you hold pain lightly & with compassion while taking action to change your life is essentially what therapy is all about. We are dedicated to offering support & nurturance to those seeking a new direction while holding onto their values. You don’t have to see a therapist for the rest of your life, in fact, the sooner you need us less, the better for everyone!
Kirk Johnson
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
You are stressed out with your personal life, relationships, and/or work and feel like you haven't tapped into your true human potential. My name is Kirk Johnson and I'm a Licensed Counselor/Therapist. My clients typically start therapy to improve their stress/anxiety management, interpersonal relationships, identity exploration, self-confidence, and their trauma response. Often times, clients need to go deeper to find meaning in their past and present experiences and the narratives they tell themselves. These crucial conversations can help stabilize big feelings, and build inner strength.
You are stressed out with your personal life, relationships, and/or work and feel like you haven't tapped into your true human potential. My name is Kirk Johnson and I'm a Licensed Counselor/Therapist. My clients typically start therapy to improve their stress/anxiety management, interpersonal relationships, identity exploration, self-confidence, and their trauma response. Often times, clients need to go deeper to find meaning in their past and present experiences and the narratives they tell themselves. These crucial conversations can help stabilize big feelings, and build inner strength.
Laura Vecchiolla
Psychologist, PsyD, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Grief, loss, and trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on you or people you love. You may feel isolated from others and overwhelmed as you try to go about day-to-day tasks; you may struggle to feel safe, express your emotions, or understand how to make meaning from all that has happened. Other people might be telling you to “get over” it, as if grief has a deadline you haven’t met. Traumatic events from your past may bring up feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, or shame, which can prevent you from doing the things you want to do, affect your relationships, and make it hard to communicate or set healthy boundaries with others.
Grief, loss, and trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on you or people you love. You may feel isolated from others and overwhelmed as you try to go about day-to-day tasks; you may struggle to feel safe, express your emotions, or understand how to make meaning from all that has happened. Other people might be telling you to “get over” it, as if grief has a deadline you haven’t met. Traumatic events from your past may bring up feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, or shame, which can prevent you from doing the things you want to do, affect your relationships, and make it hard to communicate or set healthy boundaries with others.
There is power in seeking the help of others along our journey, and it is my hope that therapy can represent a unique healing environment, focused on your reality and your needs. The change that we all seek lies within our stories being validated and understood. As we witness the power of our stories in light of culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, and other intersections of identity through therapy, we partner in using your strengths to lessen your limitations. By developing your self-awareness, we can work to heal from past wounds, develop more understanding of your Self and those around you, and create better relationships.
There is power in seeking the help of others along our journey, and it is my hope that therapy can represent a unique healing environment, focused on your reality and your needs. The change that we all seek lies within our stories being validated and understood. As we witness the power of our stories in light of culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, and other intersections of identity through therapy, we partner in using your strengths to lessen your limitations. By developing your self-awareness, we can work to heal from past wounds, develop more understanding of your Self and those around you, and create better relationships.
Luz E. Mendez
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I offer counseling for children (ages 4-10), adolescents (11 to 17), and their families. Together, we will identify goals and strategies that can alleviate emotional distress and improve behavior. I work with school counselors and teachers to strengthen the student's support system. I also work with couples who are experiencing relationship difficulties. At times, improving communication may seem to be the solution, and other times, the relationship may need deeper exploration to understand the dynamics that may be contributing to the relationship difficulties. I also offer individual counseling.
I offer counseling for children (ages 4-10), adolescents (11 to 17), and their families. Together, we will identify goals and strategies that can alleviate emotional distress and improve behavior. I work with school counselors and teachers to strengthen the student's support system. I also work with couples who are experiencing relationship difficulties. At times, improving communication may seem to be the solution, and other times, the relationship may need deeper exploration to understand the dynamics that may be contributing to the relationship difficulties. I also offer individual counseling.
Hello, I'm so glad that you have taken on this journey of growth and healing. I am excited to be the person who will walk this path with you. My name is Ana and I have been in the helping profession for over 15 years, working with teens and adults. I use an eclectic approach to build our therapeutic relationship and best meet your needs through active listening and empathy. I draw from a variety of methods to create a tailored approach for each individual and situation.
Hello, I'm so glad that you have taken on this journey of growth and healing. I am excited to be the person who will walk this path with you. My name is Ana and I have been in the helping profession for over 15 years, working with teens and adults. I use an eclectic approach to build our therapeutic relationship and best meet your needs through active listening and empathy. I draw from a variety of methods to create a tailored approach for each individual and situation.
Shelly Gore, LCSW, is dedicated to guiding individuals through life's challenges with compassion and expertise. At LifeStance Health in Illinois, she offers specialized therapy to help clients achieve contentment and resilience. Shelly welcomes children, adolescents, and adults into her practice, ensuring a safe space for healing and growth. With over two decades of experience, Shelly specializes in PTSD/Trauma, ADHD, and PostPartum Depression/Anxiety. She is passionate about supporting individuals through life transitions, trauma recovery, and managing anxiety and depression.
Shelly Gore, LCSW, is dedicated to guiding individuals through life's challenges with compassion and expertise. At LifeStance Health in Illinois, she offers specialized therapy to help clients achieve contentment and resilience. Shelly welcomes children, adolescents, and adults into her practice, ensuring a safe space for healing and growth. With over two decades of experience, Shelly specializes in PTSD/Trauma, ADHD, and PostPartum Depression/Anxiety. She is passionate about supporting individuals through life transitions, trauma recovery, and managing anxiety and depression.
Stephanie Kaloustian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling overwhelmed with emotions and the depth with which you experience them? Do you feel the world doesn't understand your sensitivity? Have you been feeling isolated by how you feel? Do you feel like you’re burdening others when you share and are looking for a place you can openly express yourself? Do you feel like you experience the world around you differently from others? If you feel like you can relate to these questions, you are not alone and you are in the right place. Wherever you are right now is a great place to start.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed with emotions and the depth with which you experience them? Do you feel the world doesn't understand your sensitivity? Have you been feeling isolated by how you feel? Do you feel like you’re burdening others when you share and are looking for a place you can openly express yourself? Do you feel like you experience the world around you differently from others? If you feel like you can relate to these questions, you are not alone and you are in the right place. Wherever you are right now is a great place to start.
See more therapy options for Chicago
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL
3,000+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
78% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Life Transitions |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
64% | Aetna |
49% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Chicago?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.