Therapists in Chicago, IL
I very much enjoy working with adults and teens who are managing depression, anxiety, stress, conflict, mood shifts, life transitions, and trauma-related issues, to name a few. My work is first focused on building a rapport through empathetic listening in order to foster a space for open communication, trust, and radical honesty. I want you to feel safe and comfortable and to explore your unique strengths and challenges, as well as enjoy the process of growth along the way.
I very much enjoy working with adults and teens who are managing depression, anxiety, stress, conflict, mood shifts, life transitions, and trauma-related issues, to name a few. My work is first focused on building a rapport through empathetic listening in order to foster a space for open communication, trust, and radical honesty. I want you to feel safe and comfortable and to explore your unique strengths and challenges, as well as enjoy the process of growth along the way.
You know that feeling when life has you doing the absolute most, but you still feel stuck? My ideal client gets it—they’re juggling work stress, battling burnout, or just tired of feeling “off.” They might be dealing with self-doubt, anxiety, or feeling lost in the shuffle of life. What they want is simple: to take back control, boost their self-confidence, and find some real balance. They need a space where they can drop the mask, be their true selves, and dig deep without judgment. We’re in this together, and I’m all about helping them build that inner strength to get where they want to be.
You know that feeling when life has you doing the absolute most, but you still feel stuck? My ideal client gets it—they’re juggling work stress, battling burnout, or just tired of feeling “off.” They might be dealing with self-doubt, anxiety, or feeling lost in the shuffle of life. What they want is simple: to take back control, boost their self-confidence, and find some real balance. They need a space where they can drop the mask, be their true selves, and dig deep without judgment. We’re in this together, and I’m all about helping them build that inner strength to get where they want to be.
In my work with clients, I may explore generational wounds, personal identities and context in the world, and the mind-body connection. I approach my work from a trauma-informed lens and am inspired by person-centered theory. I seek to build an authentic working relationship with my clients that is based in compassionate and affirming honesty. I am interested in helping people work through relational, family, and/or systemic trauma. I am also interested in helping people make sense of multiple truths in regards to conflicting social identities, coming to terms with harm they caused or complex grief.
In my work with clients, I may explore generational wounds, personal identities and context in the world, and the mind-body connection. I approach my work from a trauma-informed lens and am inspired by person-centered theory. I seek to build an authentic working relationship with my clients that is based in compassionate and affirming honesty. I am interested in helping people work through relational, family, and/or systemic trauma. I am also interested in helping people make sense of multiple truths in regards to conflicting social identities, coming to terms with harm they caused or complex grief.
Melissa A. Novak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore, examine, and assess where you are today versus where you want to be in future. Together, we will identify the challenges that keep you from living a more satisfying life and develop concrete plans and skills to address these obstacles. My approach is always collaborative, in which you are the expert of your own experience and strengths. I work with couples and adults with a variety of issues such as sexual dysfunction, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and PTSD.
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore, examine, and assess where you are today versus where you want to be in future. Together, we will identify the challenges that keep you from living a more satisfying life and develop concrete plans and skills to address these obstacles. My approach is always collaborative, in which you are the expert of your own experience and strengths. I work with couples and adults with a variety of issues such as sexual dysfunction, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and PTSD.
My specialty is providing strengths based and exploratory therapy to help you feel empowered, confident, and promote self-fulfillment in your life. My ultimate goal is to create a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship that leads to a foundation of cultivating long lasting change and self-discovery. I have years of experience treating relationship/family issues, general life dissatisfaction, depression, anxiety, substance use, and self-esteem. I enjoy supporting individuals in all aspects of womanhood, especially new or expecting mothers.
My specialty is providing strengths based and exploratory therapy to help you feel empowered, confident, and promote self-fulfillment in your life. My ultimate goal is to create a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship that leads to a foundation of cultivating long lasting change and self-discovery. I have years of experience treating relationship/family issues, general life dissatisfaction, depression, anxiety, substance use, and self-esteem. I enjoy supporting individuals in all aspects of womanhood, especially new or expecting mothers.
Life. Is. Hard. Taking the first step towards change can be incredibly scary; you are deciding to walk outside of your comfort zone and challenge yourself, hoping that your walk through the dark halls of uncertainty leads to the discovering the change that you want and deserve. But if you're open to it, therapy can change you. Therapy can help you explore your self, situations, stressors, and relationships. Therapy can help you reflect to gain important new levels of perspective and understanding of yourself and others. Therapy can help you identify and set boundaries in your life.
Life. Is. Hard. Taking the first step towards change can be incredibly scary; you are deciding to walk outside of your comfort zone and challenge yourself, hoping that your walk through the dark halls of uncertainty leads to the discovering the change that you want and deserve. But if you're open to it, therapy can change you. Therapy can help you explore your self, situations, stressors, and relationships. Therapy can help you reflect to gain important new levels of perspective and understanding of yourself and others. Therapy can help you identify and set boundaries in your life.
Optimize the pleasure of each moment and minimize the fallout from stressful situations, challenging relationships and interpersonal interactions. Gain insight into your perceptions, thoughts, triggers, emotions, reactions and behaviors. Develop strategies to enhance coping skills, boost confidence, modify habits, and increase motivation. Take control and improve the quality of your personal and professional life.
Optimize the pleasure of each moment and minimize the fallout from stressful situations, challenging relationships and interpersonal interactions. Gain insight into your perceptions, thoughts, triggers, emotions, reactions and behaviors. Develop strategies to enhance coping skills, boost confidence, modify habits, and increase motivation. Take control and improve the quality of your personal and professional life.
Ann Surber
Licensed Social Worker, AM, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603 (Online Only)
I believe therapy at its core is about the transformative potential that being in relationship offers. It is through relationships that we create and discover meaning, and new ways of being and relating to ourselves and others can emerge. Whether you are seeking to address emotional or relational concerns or interested in deepening your self knowledge, I will support you in developing an understanding of your inner life within a safe and compassionate environment. This process of knowing yourself will gift you with a greater sense of agency and insight to make empowering choices, and broaden your capacity to live, work, and play.
I believe therapy at its core is about the transformative potential that being in relationship offers. It is through relationships that we create and discover meaning, and new ways of being and relating to ourselves and others can emerge. Whether you are seeking to address emotional or relational concerns or interested in deepening your self knowledge, I will support you in developing an understanding of your inner life within a safe and compassionate environment. This process of knowing yourself will gift you with a greater sense of agency and insight to make empowering choices, and broaden your capacity to live, work, and play.
Bernard Robert Golden
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I actively foster a collaborative alliance with clients. I provide focus and support as we work together to increase your self-awareness and identify specific strategies to help you address the challenges you are experiencing. As part of this process, I help you become more mindful of habits that might get in your way while learning new approaches to live more authentically. I help you identify and build upon your strengths in cultivating resilience to manage life's challenges. I draw on over forty years of clinical experience with varied populations in inpatient and outpatient settings.
I actively foster a collaborative alliance with clients. I provide focus and support as we work together to increase your self-awareness and identify specific strategies to help you address the challenges you are experiencing. As part of this process, I help you become more mindful of habits that might get in your way while learning new approaches to live more authentically. I help you identify and build upon your strengths in cultivating resilience to manage life's challenges. I draw on over forty years of clinical experience with varied populations in inpatient and outpatient settings.
Nathan Robbel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
The world’s a dumpster fire. I know it, you know it; I’m not about to sugarcoat that. But we only get one shot here, and therapy’s a legitimate excuse to take a deep breath, put your fucking phone away, disconnect from everything, and talk about YOU. What do you want? What are you passionate about? And what’s getting in the way? Regardless, you wouldn’t be here without recognizing something in your life needs to change. Maybe you know exactly what that thing is, or maybe it’s illusive. But you’re here. That means you’re invested in YOU and the path you're on. I sincerely respect that.
The world’s a dumpster fire. I know it, you know it; I’m not about to sugarcoat that. But we only get one shot here, and therapy’s a legitimate excuse to take a deep breath, put your fucking phone away, disconnect from everything, and talk about YOU. What do you want? What are you passionate about? And what’s getting in the way? Regardless, you wouldn’t be here without recognizing something in your life needs to change. Maybe you know exactly what that thing is, or maybe it’s illusive. But you’re here. That means you’re invested in YOU and the path you're on. I sincerely respect that.
Welcome! I believe the path to growth and healing is unique to everyone, and that individuals are the ultimate experts on their lives. I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients struggling with a range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, peer/relational difficulties, life adjustment/transitions, work-life balance, and identity exploration. I am committed to building safe and trusting relationships, while providing an accepting environment for my clients to begin working towards positive change.
Welcome! I believe the path to growth and healing is unique to everyone, and that individuals are the ultimate experts on their lives. I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients struggling with a range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, peer/relational difficulties, life adjustment/transitions, work-life balance, and identity exploration. I am committed to building safe and trusting relationships, while providing an accepting environment for my clients to begin working towards positive change.
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Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is our job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is our job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
I work with life transitions, grief, and spirituality. Perhaps your sense of purpose or meaning has gone missing - maybe someone you know is no longer here, or perhaps something you thought was a certainty in your life - a job, a relationship, a friend, a pet, a community, your health or very life - isn't so certain anymore. You don't know why or maybe even how. We'll start there. We'll hold space together as we work collaboratively to build awareness, cultivate compassion toward your self no matter how your self shows up, and act toward your values and desires.
I work with life transitions, grief, and spirituality. Perhaps your sense of purpose or meaning has gone missing - maybe someone you know is no longer here, or perhaps something you thought was a certainty in your life - a job, a relationship, a friend, a pet, a community, your health or very life - isn't so certain anymore. You don't know why or maybe even how. We'll start there. We'll hold space together as we work collaboratively to build awareness, cultivate compassion toward your self no matter how your self shows up, and act toward your values and desires.
Jenn Andler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Hello! Therapy can be an intimidating step sometimes, but I’m so impressed that you are prioritizing your health and taking this next step. I started my career as a school counselor before transitioning over to private practice. I made the switch so that I could spend more time working with the client on the goals at hand, and to develop the therapeutic relationship. My goal is for all clients to feel safe and comfortable. I strive to create a space that is led by compassion, understanding and inclusion. You can also expect an environment that is free of judgement, or shame, where diversity is celebrated.
Hello! Therapy can be an intimidating step sometimes, but I’m so impressed that you are prioritizing your health and taking this next step. I started my career as a school counselor before transitioning over to private practice. I made the switch so that I could spend more time working with the client on the goals at hand, and to develop the therapeutic relationship. My goal is for all clients to feel safe and comfortable. I strive to create a space that is led by compassion, understanding and inclusion. You can also expect an environment that is free of judgement, or shame, where diversity is celebrated.
Carmel Browne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654 (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! I have been a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois since 2004 and have provided care to a wide range of clients, groups, and individuals from parents, young children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with clients from all walks of life and who present with challenges and concerns such as depression, anxiety, addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss. Over the years because of my experience in a number of fields and have learned to navigate a great many systems such as child welfare, dual disorder treatment, and behavioral health.
Hello and Welcome! I have been a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois since 2004 and have provided care to a wide range of clients, groups, and individuals from parents, young children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with clients from all walks of life and who present with challenges and concerns such as depression, anxiety, addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss. Over the years because of my experience in a number of fields and have learned to navigate a great many systems such as child welfare, dual disorder treatment, and behavioral health.
Mariah Peloso Somatic Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TCYM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
Are you hitting a wall in talk therapy and seeking ways to move stress out of your body? As a Certified Brainspotting Therapist and Trauma Conscious Yoga Method Practitioner, I integrate body-based techniques with traditional talk therapy to help process emotions stored in the body. This approach helps alleviate anxiety, trauma, and challenges related to life transitions, all through a parts work-informed perspective.
Are you hitting a wall in talk therapy and seeking ways to move stress out of your body? As a Certified Brainspotting Therapist and Trauma Conscious Yoga Method Practitioner, I integrate body-based techniques with traditional talk therapy to help process emotions stored in the body. This approach helps alleviate anxiety, trauma, and challenges related to life transitions, all through a parts work-informed perspective.
Shalayne McMillian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642 (Online Only)
Feeling that you have lost your inner peace, confused about what steps to take next or just simply not feeling like yourself can be uncomfortable. Being in this season of your life that brings sadness, joy, hurt, pain, happiness, struggle and success is not meant to be done alone. You may need a space to gain back hope, hold yourself accountable and celebrate your wins. Our work together will be supportive and challenging. We will use these sessions to learn how to work through adversities, identify feelings and express yourself by working toward the goal of gaining a better understanding and connection with yourself.
Feeling that you have lost your inner peace, confused about what steps to take next or just simply not feeling like yourself can be uncomfortable. Being in this season of your life that brings sadness, joy, hurt, pain, happiness, struggle and success is not meant to be done alone. You may need a space to gain back hope, hold yourself accountable and celebrate your wins. Our work together will be supportive and challenging. We will use these sessions to learn how to work through adversities, identify feelings and express yourself by working toward the goal of gaining a better understanding and connection with yourself.
Drew Singeisen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or stress? Maybe you're struggling with a difficult relationship or a loss. Perhaps you're on a journey of self-discovery or facing a major life transition. Whatever your situation, I'm here to help. As your therapist, I create a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I understand that life can be complex, and I'm dedicated to collaboratively working with you. We'll tailor an approach that meets your specific needs, drawing on evidence-based practices to help you develop healthy coping, improve communication, and build resilience.
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or stress? Maybe you're struggling with a difficult relationship or a loss. Perhaps you're on a journey of self-discovery or facing a major life transition. Whatever your situation, I'm here to help. As your therapist, I create a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I understand that life can be complex, and I'm dedicated to collaboratively working with you. We'll tailor an approach that meets your specific needs, drawing on evidence-based practices to help you develop healthy coping, improve communication, and build resilience.
Do you have a sense deep down that your life could be so much better? Have you found that despite your best efforts, you continue to struggle with low self-esteem and self-sabotaging behaviors and emotions that thwart your happiness? In my work as a psychotherapist, I have helped people with a wide range of problems overcome the obstacles that get in the way of positive change. It would would be a pleasure and privilege to work with you in helping you achieve your goals for a more fulfilling life.
Do you have a sense deep down that your life could be so much better? Have you found that despite your best efforts, you continue to struggle with low self-esteem and self-sabotaging behaviors and emotions that thwart your happiness? In my work as a psychotherapist, I have helped people with a wide range of problems overcome the obstacles that get in the way of positive change. It would would be a pleasure and privilege to work with you in helping you achieve your goals for a more fulfilling life.
I’m Esther Leal, a second-year Graduate Student at Adler University, where I’m pursuing an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and an M.A. in Forensic Mental Health Leadership. I’m originally from Brazil and fluent in Portuguese, having learned English as a child while dreaming of life in the U.S. In 2017, I moved to Louisiana, graduated from high school in 2018, and went on to earn a degree in psychology with a minor in mathematics from Nicholls State University in 2022. My journey brought me to Chicago in 2023 for my master’s studies.
I’m Esther Leal, a second-year Graduate Student at Adler University, where I’m pursuing an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and an M.A. in Forensic Mental Health Leadership. I’m originally from Brazil and fluent in Portuguese, having learned English as a child while dreaming of life in the U.S. In 2017, I moved to Louisiana, graduated from high school in 2018, and went on to earn a degree in psychology with a minor in mathematics from Nicholls State University in 2022. My journey brought me to Chicago in 2023 for my master’s studies.
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% | Stress |
67% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
65% | Aetna |
48% | Cigna and Evernorth |
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.