Psychoanalytic Therapists in Chicago, IL
I utilize a psychoanalytic lens to help people.
I specialize in helping people suffering with anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, and difficulties with self-confidence. Our work together will begin by getting to know one another and building a strong foundation for our work together. I am a warm, compassionate, and patient person and strive to utilize these traits to help others grow and know themselves on a deeper level. I believe the relationship between therapist and patient is the driving force in creating significant and long-lasting change. We will examine the various identities that you hold and the impact they have on you as an individual and your relationships.
I utilize a psychoanalytic lens to help people.
I specialize in helping people suffering with anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, and difficulties with self-confidence. Our work together will begin by getting to know one another and building a strong foundation for our work together. I am a warm, compassionate, and patient person and strive to utilize these traits to help others grow and know themselves on a deeper level. I believe the relationship between therapist and patient is the driving force in creating significant and long-lasting change. We will examine the various identities that you hold and the impact they have on you as an individual and your relationships.
John A. Garver Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
Among other experiences, I finished a two-year program in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis where I am currently in training to become a certified psychoanalyst.
I conceptualize therapy as a mutually created, deeply personal experience. No two therapies will ever be exactly alike given that we are all unique individuals shaped by the stories, desires, and expectations of ourselves and others. I start from a place of deep humility and honor, knowing that coming to therapy means turning to a professionalized stranger for help with what may be extremely difficult sufferings. In the beginning there may not be words for what is wrong, where it hurts, why things are the way they are. This is where we start. Together. Courageously.
Among other experiences, I finished a two-year program in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis where I am currently in training to become a certified psychoanalyst.
I conceptualize therapy as a mutually created, deeply personal experience. No two therapies will ever be exactly alike given that we are all unique individuals shaped by the stories, desires, and expectations of ourselves and others. I start from a place of deep humility and honor, knowing that coming to therapy means turning to a professionalized stranger for help with what may be extremely difficult sufferings. In the beginning there may not be words for what is wrong, where it hurts, why things are the way they are. This is where we start. Together. Courageously.
My work is psychoanalytic.
"Clinical diagnosis are important but they do not help... the crucial thing is the story." (Jung 1961). What is your story? A story waiting to be told, sitting within you like a thorn on your side, palpable but without words. Maybe it is a feeling of disorientation, where the outside world does not have answers, feeling lost, looking for meaning to deepen your understanding of your self. Together we can look at, and listen to that "thorn." We will go inwards, into the deeper parts of yourself, together we create a vessel for healing. I will be a companion as you go deep within yourself, to find healing.
My work is psychoanalytic.
"Clinical diagnosis are important but they do not help... the crucial thing is the story." (Jung 1961). What is your story? A story waiting to be told, sitting within you like a thorn on your side, palpable but without words. Maybe it is a feeling of disorientation, where the outside world does not have answers, feeling lost, looking for meaning to deepen your understanding of your self. Together we can look at, and listen to that "thorn." We will go inwards, into the deeper parts of yourself, together we create a vessel for healing. I will be a companion as you go deep within yourself, to find healing.
Olivia Berkeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654 (Online Only)
My training includes personal study of psychoanalytic theory and Jungian depth psychology, as well as a decade of my own therapy.
Every person has the potential to live with more freedom, joy, ease, and love, and therapy supports us to realize this potential. Many of my clients have experienced various forms of relational trauma — including wounding that has occurred in intimate relationships or in childhood — and yearn to heal from these experiences and find healthier ways of dealing with addiction or problematic substance use, stress, anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, relationship difficulties, and other challenging emotions. My goal is to help you live with more peace, acceptance, autonomy, confidence, satisfaction, intimacy, and joy.
My training includes personal study of psychoanalytic theory and Jungian depth psychology, as well as a decade of my own therapy.
Every person has the potential to live with more freedom, joy, ease, and love, and therapy supports us to realize this potential. Many of my clients have experienced various forms of relational trauma — including wounding that has occurred in intimate relationships or in childhood — and yearn to heal from these experiences and find healthier ways of dealing with addiction or problematic substance use, stress, anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, relationship difficulties, and other challenging emotions. My goal is to help you live with more peace, acceptance, autonomy, confidence, satisfaction, intimacy, and joy.
I listen and use the richness of psychoanalytic theory to help clients understand themselves and develop self awareness.
Our unhappiness is often due to repeating patterns, the "whys" of which can be puzzling to ourselves and others. These patterns prevent us from experiencing joy and contentment, enjoying healthy intimacy with others and living a meaningful life. I am committed to offering therapy that allows you the space in which we can look with honesty and self-compassion at your unique history, patterns and circumstances with curiosity and openness. I see my role as facilitating and accompanying you on a journey of self-discovery. My goal for you is to "be who (you) are and be that well."
I listen and use the richness of psychoanalytic theory to help clients understand themselves and develop self awareness.
Our unhappiness is often due to repeating patterns, the "whys" of which can be puzzling to ourselves and others. These patterns prevent us from experiencing joy and contentment, enjoying healthy intimacy with others and living a meaningful life. I am committed to offering therapy that allows you the space in which we can look with honesty and self-compassion at your unique history, patterns and circumstances with curiosity and openness. I see my role as facilitating and accompanying you on a journey of self-discovery. My goal for you is to "be who (you) are and be that well."
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently in a psychoanalytic training program at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis & Psychotherapy.
My psychotherapy practice, CWC Psychotherapy, focuses on helping patients uncover the emotional roots of issues—whether interpersonal, work-related, or family-centered—that prevent them from finding peace, developing a genuine sense of self, or becoming who they want to be. The relationship I build with my patients is central to the healing process; it is collaborative, curious, and nonjudgmental. I prioritize a warm, accepting approach so patients feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings, leading to greater agency in aligning their lives with their values.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently in a psychoanalytic training program at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis & Psychotherapy.
My psychotherapy practice, CWC Psychotherapy, focuses on helping patients uncover the emotional roots of issues—whether interpersonal, work-related, or family-centered—that prevent them from finding peace, developing a genuine sense of self, or becoming who they want to be. The relationship I build with my patients is central to the healing process; it is collaborative, curious, and nonjudgmental. I prioritize a warm, accepting approach so patients feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings, leading to greater agency in aligning their lives with their values.
My training in cognitive behavioral and psychoanalytic theory and practice has allowed me to formulate individualized and comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the presenting problems of each patient.
A positive working alliance between a psychologist and patient is crucial for growth and development within the clinical context. Therefore, it is key for each patient to seek out a psychologist whom they feel comfortable and connected with. I offer an initial consultation at no charge in order to determine if the right fit exists. If after a consultation it does not feel like a good fit, then I will help you find a clinician who provides one. As a licensed clinical psychologist, with more than seven years of clinical experience, I have an extensive background working with adolescents, adults, and families.
My training in cognitive behavioral and psychoanalytic theory and practice has allowed me to formulate individualized and comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the presenting problems of each patient.
A positive working alliance between a psychologist and patient is crucial for growth and development within the clinical context. Therefore, it is key for each patient to seek out a psychologist whom they feel comfortable and connected with. I offer an initial consultation at no charge in order to determine if the right fit exists. If after a consultation it does not feel like a good fit, then I will help you find a clinician who provides one. As a licensed clinical psychologist, with more than seven years of clinical experience, I have an extensive background working with adolescents, adults, and families.
challenge self concepts and heal from the past by way of Cognitive Behavioral change and Psychoanalytic techniques that are Client-Centered and empowering.
When seeking the Lighted Path toward self acceptance, adjustment management and healing from the past or trauma it is important to find a knowledgable, motivated partner on the journey.
challenge self concepts and heal from the past by way of Cognitive Behavioral change and Psychoanalytic techniques that are Client-Centered and empowering.
When seeking the Lighted Path toward self acceptance, adjustment management and healing from the past or trauma it is important to find a knowledgable, motivated partner on the journey.
Elizabeth Pierre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
My preferred treatment approach is psychoanalytic and trauma informed.
I enjoy working primarily with individuals who have a history of interpersonal violence. I especially feel honored to journey with those navigating their relationships as they work through their trauma history. I recognize how one's racial, cultural, and faith background impact recovery and welcome integrating these components in therapy. I also take time to explore how childhood experiences shape the individual and current relationships. My hope is that, through our time together, you will gain greater insight into yourself, which will contribute to your flourishing and the flourishing of your relationships.
My preferred treatment approach is psychoanalytic and trauma informed.
I enjoy working primarily with individuals who have a history of interpersonal violence. I especially feel honored to journey with those navigating their relationships as they work through their trauma history. I recognize how one's racial, cultural, and faith background impact recovery and welcome integrating these components in therapy. I also take time to explore how childhood experiences shape the individual and current relationships. My hope is that, through our time together, you will gain greater insight into yourself, which will contribute to your flourishing and the flourishing of your relationships.
I have had extensive training in traditional and contemporary approaches to psychoanalytic thought and practice, both in my graduate work at ISPP and as a graduate of the Adult Psychotherapy Program at the Institute for Psychoanalysis.
Most people who come to therapy are looking to make a change for the better in their lives. My patients have found that the therapy relationship is a powerful and profound forum for understanding themselves and their experiences more deeply, and that this leads to making positive changes that last. Whether you are struggling with making a relationship work, dealing with the effects of depression or anxiety, or overwhelmed trying to navigate the "real world" after leaving school, we can work together to find your most fulfilling path. I work in a group of like-minded therapists who share my vision for helping others.
I have had extensive training in traditional and contemporary approaches to psychoanalytic thought and practice, both in my graduate work at ISPP and as a graduate of the Adult Psychotherapy Program at the Institute for Psychoanalysis.
Most people who come to therapy are looking to make a change for the better in their lives. My patients have found that the therapy relationship is a powerful and profound forum for understanding themselves and their experiences more deeply, and that this leads to making positive changes that last. Whether you are struggling with making a relationship work, dealing with the effects of depression or anxiety, or overwhelmed trying to navigate the "real world" after leaving school, we can work together to find your most fulfilling path. I work in a group of like-minded therapists who share my vision for helping others.
Psychological suffering can be debilitating to the point where people can become hopeless, but I believe psychoanalytic therapy presents a unique opportunity to deal with suffering. Through the process of therapy, I invite clients to speak the truth of their pain, life stories, and current problems. I will make sure to listen to these stories carefully in an empathic and culturally informed way. Together we will explore what is said, felt, and experienced. I strive to make the therapy space a place where you feel free to say what comes to mind and be authentic.
Psychological suffering can be debilitating to the point where people can become hopeless, but I believe psychoanalytic therapy presents a unique opportunity to deal with suffering. Through the process of therapy, I invite clients to speak the truth of their pain, life stories, and current problems. I will make sure to listen to these stories carefully in an empathic and culturally informed way. Together we will explore what is said, felt, and experienced. I strive to make the therapy space a place where you feel free to say what comes to mind and be authentic.
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In addition to clinical practice, I am an active member of the American Psychoanalytic Association, and a faculty member at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute, organizations that are devoted to preparing and supporting future practitioners as well as mental health concerns of society.
Your awareness of personal pain may be the beginning of your determination to make needed changes in your life. If you long for an improved sense of your self and better relationships, seeking help is the first step. Each person deserves the helpful guidance of another person and I consider it a privilege to be a part of that journey. My background, experience, education, and multicultural focus has prepared me to serve a wide variety of people and to appreciate your unique qualities. Discovering your ability to understand yourself at a deeper level opens up the freedom to make positive choices in your life.
In addition to clinical practice, I am an active member of the American Psychoanalytic Association, and a faculty member at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute, organizations that are devoted to preparing and supporting future practitioners as well as mental health concerns of society.
Your awareness of personal pain may be the beginning of your determination to make needed changes in your life. If you long for an improved sense of your self and better relationships, seeking help is the first step. Each person deserves the helpful guidance of another person and I consider it a privilege to be a part of that journey. My background, experience, education, and multicultural focus has prepared me to serve a wide variety of people and to appreciate your unique qualities. Discovering your ability to understand yourself at a deeper level opens up the freedom to make positive choices in your life.
In my practice I draw from contemporary psychoanalytic and relational theories.
Whatever has brought you to seek help at this time, you are taking a courageous step forward. In our initial meetings, I will hold an open space for you to begin to tell your unique story of your self, relationships, family, culture, strengths and struggles. You can expect me to listen deeply to begin to learn about you and your reasons for seeking therapy. We all have some aspects about ourselves that we don’t fully understand or may not have words for yet. Psychotherapy can create a place where you can discover some of these unspoken thoughts and feelings, and in turn, powerful transformation can occur.
In my practice I draw from contemporary psychoanalytic and relational theories.
Whatever has brought you to seek help at this time, you are taking a courageous step forward. In our initial meetings, I will hold an open space for you to begin to tell your unique story of your self, relationships, family, culture, strengths and struggles. You can expect me to listen deeply to begin to learn about you and your reasons for seeking therapy. We all have some aspects about ourselves that we don’t fully understand or may not have words for yet. Psychotherapy can create a place where you can discover some of these unspoken thoughts and feelings, and in turn, powerful transformation can occur.
Recently (2022) I completed psychoanalytic training at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis where I am also clinical adjunct faculty and a current board member.
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis should be an investment in creating a life. It should be a goal-driven partnership between the two people in the room. In the therapeutic process we find new goals and have to reassess priorities, shifting back and forth between concrete issues and more abstract concerns with the continued effort of reducing emotional pain and finding a way to live in the world. If you have a question, please email me at zak(at)zakmucha.com or call 773-273-0474 and we can plan for a meeting over the phone or in person. I will be glad to answer any questions regarding fees and insurance.
Recently (2022) I completed psychoanalytic training at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis where I am also clinical adjunct faculty and a current board member.
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis should be an investment in creating a life. It should be a goal-driven partnership between the two people in the room. In the therapeutic process we find new goals and have to reassess priorities, shifting back and forth between concrete issues and more abstract concerns with the continued effort of reducing emotional pain and finding a way to live in the world. If you have a question, please email me at zak(at)zakmucha.com or call 773-273-0474 and we can plan for a meeting over the phone or in person. I will be glad to answer any questions regarding fees and insurance.
Through a psychoanalytic experience we explore the underlying causes of symptoms like depression, anxiety, dissociation, and anger.
Everything has felt meaningless lately. Another week sleepwalking through the motions at work and dreading your time at home. Since that event, you’re not even sure what any of it is for. The people around you have noticed a change in your behavior; you’ve stopped socializing and have become gloomier. You had no idea how devastating this loss/change would be or how much it would change your life. Now, nights are spent restlessly staring at the ceiling. You barely eat and can’t remember the last time you exercised. Painful thoughts flood in without warning and overwhelm you. Life has become colorless, and you don’t see a way forward.
Through a psychoanalytic experience we explore the underlying causes of symptoms like depression, anxiety, dissociation, and anger.
Everything has felt meaningless lately. Another week sleepwalking through the motions at work and dreading your time at home. Since that event, you’re not even sure what any of it is for. The people around you have noticed a change in your behavior; you’ve stopped socializing and have become gloomier. You had no idea how devastating this loss/change would be or how much it would change your life. Now, nights are spent restlessly staring at the ceiling. You barely eat and can’t remember the last time you exercised. Painful thoughts flood in without warning and overwhelm you. Life has become colorless, and you don’t see a way forward.
I have training in family systems therapy, Emotionally focused therapy, interpersonal trauma and attachment, and I am also a psychoanalyst in training at Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
You might look for individual therapy because you experience obstacles that happen again and again; you are trying to figure out who you are and what you want in life. You might be looking for couples therapy because you feel disconnected from your partner or have difficulty communicating; you fight or have difficulty with being intimate. You might be looking for family therapy because you don’t know how to connect with your kids; there is conflict in your family and you don’t know how to resolve it. You might be a person of color, immigrant or second generation and struggle with issues mentioned above.
I have training in family systems therapy, Emotionally focused therapy, interpersonal trauma and attachment, and I am also a psychoanalyst in training at Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
You might look for individual therapy because you experience obstacles that happen again and again; you are trying to figure out who you are and what you want in life. You might be looking for couples therapy because you feel disconnected from your partner or have difficulty communicating; you fight or have difficulty with being intimate. You might be looking for family therapy because you don’t know how to connect with your kids; there is conflict in your family and you don’t know how to resolve it. You might be a person of color, immigrant or second generation and struggle with issues mentioned above.
I integrate principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and psychoanalytic therapy to help clients to address their unique needs.
Thanks for visiting! I am currently accepting new clients. I believe that therapy is an opportunity to make positive and lasting change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I am committed to working with individual clients struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes and transitions, relationships, grief and loss and trauma. I utilize a strengths-based approach to collaborate with clients, locate resilience, and assist them in recognizing their value and potential. I strongly believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship and use that relationship to empower and encourage clients to make meaningful change.
I integrate principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and psychoanalytic therapy to help clients to address their unique needs.
Thanks for visiting! I am currently accepting new clients. I believe that therapy is an opportunity to make positive and lasting change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I am committed to working with individual clients struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes and transitions, relationships, grief and loss and trauma. I utilize a strengths-based approach to collaborate with clients, locate resilience, and assist them in recognizing their value and potential. I strongly believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship and use that relationship to empower and encourage clients to make meaningful change.
Ramya B Iyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
In recent years I've trained as a psychoanalyst at The Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute and am currently on faculty.
Starting therapy shows great courage and hope. I will collaborate with you to explore and reduce overwhelming feelings of worry and sadness while helping you better manage relationships in your life. I am guided by the belief that human relationships can be healing and aim to develop an authentic connection with my patients.
In recent years I've trained as a psychoanalyst at The Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute and am currently on faculty.
Starting therapy shows great courage and hope. I will collaborate with you to explore and reduce overwhelming feelings of worry and sadness while helping you better manage relationships in your life. I am guided by the belief that human relationships can be healing and aim to develop an authentic connection with my patients.
Kelsey Stallter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I pursued additional training in grief and trauma therapy at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
Life can be filled with moments of profound beauty, joy, and excitement as well as deep pain, loss, and isolation. Often these emotions can feel overwhelming. My therapeutic approach is to help you find meaning in the fullness of your experience and to assist you in managing the intense emotions that may come along the journey of life. I have experience treating a wide range of clients including children, adolescents, and adults.
I pursued additional training in grief and trauma therapy at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
Life can be filled with moments of profound beauty, joy, and excitement as well as deep pain, loss, and isolation. Often these emotions can feel overwhelming. My therapeutic approach is to help you find meaning in the fullness of your experience and to assist you in managing the intense emotions that may come along the journey of life. I have experience treating a wide range of clients including children, adolescents, and adults.
Wellness Home of Chicago
Pre-Licensed Professional, Danish , Shaikh , BA, MA, Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I believe mental health is as fundamental to well-being as physical health. Our mental state profoundly impacts our mood, energy levels, and overall outlook on life, shaping our happiness and fulfillment. I specialize in supporting individuals facing trauma, stress, addiction, life transitions, grief, loneliness, family concerns, identity and purpose exploration, anxiety, depression, and OCD. My preferred treatment approach is psychoanalytic, Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and trauma-informed.
I believe mental health is as fundamental to well-being as physical health. Our mental state profoundly impacts our mood, energy levels, and overall outlook on life, shaping our happiness and fulfillment. I specialize in supporting individuals facing trauma, stress, addiction, life transitions, grief, loneliness, family concerns, identity and purpose exploration, anxiety, depression, and OCD. My preferred treatment approach is psychoanalytic, Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and trauma-informed.
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Psychoanalytic Therapists
Does psychoanalytic therapy work?
Psychoanalytic therapy derives from the work of Sigmund Freud. In this type of therapy, discovering buried thoughts and emotions from the unconscious will help a person work through their difficulties and negative behaviors. Research shows that psychoanalytic therapy can be highly effective, with patients reporting improvement in mood, quality of life, and overall well-being.
How long are people typically in psychoanalytic therapy?
Traditional psychoanalysis is in-depth and is conducted in five sessions every week. Today, modern psychoanalytic therapy is less intense and normally incorporates as few as one or two sessions a week. In some cases, positive change can occur quickly. However, if the condition, difficulty, or behavior is deep-seated, improvement may require many months or years of therapy.
Is psychoanalytic therapy suitable for young people?
Children and adolescents can benefit from this type of therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts and emotions. Psychoanalytic therapy uses specific techniques such as dream analysis, symbolism, and free association or word association; all of which can be useful tools for less-communicative young people. Through this therapy, a patient will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.
Can psychoanalytic therapy be done online?
Modern-day psychoanalytic therapy is very different from traditional psychoanalysis. While an individual can sit face-to-face with the psychoanalyst for multiple sessions a week, they do not have to. Today, psychoanalytic therapy can be effectively conducted online or by phone. The key is that the individual confronts what is repressed and avoided, and this can be done whether in person or over online video.