Therapists for college students near Chicago, IL

Shawn earned his Master's Degree in Counseling from National Louis University and received his Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from Lake Forest College. I began my career working in Mchenry County SASS which was the child and adolescent crisis response team. During that time I developed and honed skills that resonate with children and adolescents in order to help determine core issues and work towards action plans on how to progress on those issues. Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can decrease your quality of life and make you feel not like yourself. Life can be stressful, overwhelming and difficult at times and it takes a lot of courage and strength to take the initial steps to seek help. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I would like to welcome the opportunity to work with you in making the changes. I will provide insight, guidance, a safe environment where you can feel empowered to find clarity and self-awareness to make the needed and wanted changes. I work with a broad range of clients including adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in anxiety, mood disorders, co-dependency and interpersonal relationship issues.

Rob Latiker is a Licensed Social Worker who has been practicing since 2008. He has a B.A. from Purdue University and an MSW from Indiana University. Rob's specialty is CBT and MII, which focuses on trauma, anxiety, depression, and cognitive behavioral changes. In addition, Rob's background in law enforcement, military, and social work has afforded him the opportunity to work with various people in variant environments. In his spare time, Rob enjoys cooking, traveling, kayaking, sports, working out, and skydiving.

Joyce Almacen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has a double major in Psychology and Nursing (B.S. in Psychology and B.S. in Nursing) from Clarke University and an MSN - PMHNP from University of St. Francis. Joyce has a unique set of psychiatric work experiences coming from a background of being a psychiatric nurse for many years and now as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Joyce has dealt with various types of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, and many more. Those experiences as well as her experience in diverse mental health population have helped impact the way she treats and connects with all her patients. Joyce believes in patient-centered care and aims to create treatment plans based on a holistic approach. She believes that taking the time and listening to her patients creates her ability to deliver clinical excellence. Joyce understands that mental health treatment is different for everyone. Therefore, her mission is helping them meet their personal goals for treatment as well as their overall mental wellness.

Araceli Ascencio, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals across Illinois navigate the complexities of life with empathy and expertise. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, or life transitions, Araceli is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for you to explore your challenges and work towards healing. Specializing in individual and group therapy, she serves a diverse population, including teens, adults, and seniors, with a focus on cultural effectiveness and inclusion. Her collaborative and client-centered approach ensures that therapy is tailored to each person's unique strengths and needs. Araceli is particularly passionate about supporting BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, recognizing the unique challenges these populations may face. She brings a deep understanding of cultural dynamics and strives to create a trustworthy space where individuals can feel seen and heard. Additionally, she specializes in helping clients manage grief, navigate later life and midlife transitions, and address reproductive challenges. With extensive experience in treating PTSD and trauma, she is well-equipped to guide clients through their most difficult moments.

Successful life management requires self-awareness, self-acceptance and balance. Knowing one's strengths and weaknesses is also important. My purpose as a Therapist is to help clients identify problematic thoughts and behaviors that interfere with living their best life. My approach to counseling includes: Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Positive Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My goal is to build an alliance with my clients and help them create a realistic growth and development plan to improve their quality of life. Monica received her Masters in Community Counseling from Argosy University Chicago, and has a special interest in gerontology and counseling military service men and women and their families. Monica is well rounded in her experience, as she has worked with clients from various ages and cultural backgrounds. Monica has also worked in various settings, including a specialty behavioral health and substance abuse managed care organization, a substance abuse treatment center, and a behavioral health and wellness private practice.

Elizabeth Holtz is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2000. She graduated from Benedictine University with a degree in Counseling Psychology. Elizabeth Holtz believes in an eclectic treatment approach as one size does not fit all when it comes to counseling. I believe that clinicians should meet clients where they are. I try to find what the person is missing in terms of sense of self rather than work toward an idealized version based on societal norms. Its more about the client's goals than the therapist's . Her areas of expertise include Spectrum disorders, ADHD and bipolar disorder. Her interests are tennis, golf and keeping up with developments in medicine, psychology and psychiatry.

Adaobi Innocent, MSN, APRN PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who serves patients in Illinois. She offers a holistic approach to mental health care, combining medical expertise with a compassionate understanding of the connections between mind, body, and spirit. Adaobi works collaboratively with her patients, creating personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Her approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their recovery, fostering resilience and promoting overall mental wellness. Adaobi is passionate about addressing complex mental health challenges, particularly those related to anxiety, depression, and psychosis/schizophrenia. She also specializes in treating childhood behavior issues, providing comprehensive care that helps children, adolescents, and families navigate these difficulties. With a focus on understanding the intricate dynamics that influence mental health, Adaobi is committed to helping her patients achieve a better quality of life through thoughtful, individualized care. Adaobi works with diverse populations, including individuals on the autism spectrum, the LGBTQ+ community, and men and women facing different life challenges.

Kelly Beyer, LPC, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. Serving clients in Illinois, Kelly uses a variety of therapeutic techniques to address issues such as PTSD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Her goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions, leading to meaningful personal growth and improved well-being. Kelly specializes in treating adults and seniors, offering individual therapy tailored to the unique needs of each client. She is particularly passionate about helping individuals dealing with gender identity issues, ADHD, and women's issues. As a trained EMDR therapist, Kelly effectively assists clients in processing traumatic experiences and reducing their emotional distress. Her approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Interpersonal Theory, and Psychodynamic Therapy to ensure comprehensive and personalized care. She is committed to providing specialized support to these populations, helping them cope with the unique stressors and traumas associated with their professions.

Darcy Klika is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2007. Darcy is committed to helping individuals navigate life?s challenges and discover their inner strengths. She provides a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe environment. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in a blend of evidence-based modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and solution-focused therapy. Darcy believes in tailoring therapy to meet the unique needs of each individual, empowering them to cultivate self-awareness, develop coping skills, and create positive change in their lives. Darcy specializes in working with clients facing a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, self-esteem, and life transitions. Whether you?re struggling with daily stressors or seeking deeper insight into yourself, Darcy is here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.

Tessa Castillo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Tessa offers a combination of clinical expertise, psychopharmacological knowledge, and holistic care that enables her to address the complex needs of individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Outside of work, Tessa loves cooking and baking, experimenting with new recipes, and baking delicious treats for her daughter. She also loves traveling, exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and trying new foods is her way to reward herself.

Dr. Ruhina N. Ali is a Psychiatrist in Illinois. She studied General Psychiatry and completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic and graduated from St. Matthew's College of Medicine. Dr. Ali looks at the whole person, the family, and all environmental factors when she approaches patient care. She uses the latest scientific research and evidence-based practice to build a treatment plan with the patient and family. And Dr. Ali uses compassion and empathy to help patients and families heal. In her free time, Dr. Ali enjoys walking in the woods, spending time with her family, traveling and visiting new places, the ocean, and baking.

Raul S. Arambula is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. He earned his Master's of Social Work from Southern Illinois University. Raul helps clients by providing a CBT approach to individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, coping skills, and self-esteem. Outside of work, Raul likes to color, work on puzzles, research topics of self-development, play with his family cat with a laser, cuddle with his big teddy bear of a dog as well as watch movies with the family, and play and conversate with his two little daughters.

Anthony Mason is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. He graduated with his Master of Social Work and has experience working as a school social worker in a kindergarten through 8th grade school. Anthony specializes in working with children and adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, and other behavioral health issues. He enjoys using a strength-based approach incorporated with cognitive behavior therapy and solution focused techniques. He is passionate about understanding people and helping them take the steps towards change. In his free time, you will find Anthony spending time with family and friends, watching Marvel movies, spending time outside, playing video games, and reading.

Gabriela Leyva is a Licensed Professional Counselor at LifeStance Health, dedicated to providing compassionate and evidencebased mental health care to individuals, couples, and families across Illinois. With over 16 years of experience, she helps children, adolescents, and adults navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Gabriela understands that seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, and she strives to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and build resilience. Gabriela has extensive experience working with individuals facing ADHD, PTSD, and grief, supporting them in understanding their emotions and developing practical strategies to improve daily functioning. She also specializes in couples therapy, helping partners strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and navigate relational challenges. In addition, she is passionate about working with clients struggling with sleep disorders and chronic pain, using tailored interventions to promote longterm wellbeing. A strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Gabriela has worked with a broad range of populations, including LGBTQ individuals, those on the autism spectrum, and BIPOC communities.

Priscilla Joseph is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. Priscilla is a highly experienced and compassionate Therapist with more than eight years of experience providing supportive and therapeutic services. Priscilla specialized in working with teens and young adults and is relatable and informative in the Child Welfare System. Outside of work, Priscilla enjoys traveling, dining, and shopping.

Karriann Longtin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2008. As a seasoned healthcare professional with a successful track record, Karriann has expanded her expertise and is embarking on an enriching journey as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Her commitment to providing exceptional care remains unwavering, now focused on the dynamic realm of mental health. Karriann's diverse background equips her with a holistic understanding of healthcare, allowing her to approach mental health with a multidimensional perspective. Driven by a passion for increasing the accessibility of psychiatric care and destigmatizing mental health issues, Karriann brings a unique perspective to her practice. Her transition to psychiatry is fueled by a deep-seated belief in the power of compassionate and comprehensive care to transform lives. Karriann is dedicated to fostering a therapeutic alliance with her patients, creating a safe space where they can openly discuss their mental health concerns without fear of judgment. As a PMHNP, Karriann is committed to staying abreast of the latest advancements in psychiatric care, ensuring that her practice is grounded in evidence-based interventions.

Adianis Contreras, LPC, wants each of her clients to reach a place of hope. Hope is the precursor of change. Without hope, it is difficult to come up with a goal or create steps to get out of an undesired situation. Adianis received a psychology degree from University of Missouri and she has completed her Master's Degree in mental health counseling. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, Adianis worked at a university clinic helping students struggling with trauma related stress, self-abuse, acculturation issues, dissociation of traumatic events, depression, life transitions, oppression, suicidal risk, anxiety management, and challenging irrational beliefs. In therapy, Adianis values transparency and makes sure clients have a say in their counseling experience. Her methods include identifying the beliefs that influence feelings and reactions, non-talk therapy techniques, validation of experience and strengths-based self-talk, and grounding techniques.

Terri Gray, PMHNP-BC, is an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, offering compassionate mental health care to individuals across Illinois. She provides medication management and supportive therapy, using a culturally sensitive approach to ensure each patient feels seen and understood. Her empathetic, respectful approach creates a safe space where clients can explore their concerns and receive tailored support for their mental health needs. Terri specializes in treating a range of conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression. With a focus on thorough evaluations, she works collaboratively with her patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote emotional well-being and stability. Terri is especially passionate about supporting individuals facing reproductive challenges and women's issues, recognizing the unique impact these experiences can have on mental health.

Kathy Bettinardi-Angres, NP, MSN, BSN, PMHNP-BC, brings over 20 years of expertise to her work as an advanced practice nurse specializing in mental health care. Practicing in Illinois, Kathy provides compassionate and evidence-based support to adults and seniors dealing with a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and grief. Her integrative approach prioritizes personalized care, ensuring that each client?s unique needs are addressed through a combination of therapeutic interventions and medication management. Kathy?s passion lies in working with individuals facing addiction and dual diagnoses. With a deep understanding of the complex interplay between substance use and mental health conditions, she helps clients navigate recovery and build resilience. She is particularly experienced in treating professionals who face unique stressors and accountability challenges, providing a safe space to address these concerns and restore balance. Kathy also specializes in helping clients through midlife transitions, pain management, and trauma recovery, empowering them to reclaim their lives and thrive. In her practice, Kathy incorporates techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and couples counseling to support clients in achieving their goals.

Lilian Pumah, PMHNP, AGNP, (Lilly) is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys with respect, dignity, and compassionate care. Specializing in the treatment of a diverse range of conditions, Lilly serves patients in various stages of life, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. She provides tailored care that meets the unique needs of each patient, ensuring that they receive the most effective and appropriate treatment for their situation. Lilly is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, drawing on her extensive experience to offer evidence-based interventions that promote recovery and resilience. She also focuses on helping those with psychosis and schizophrenia, offering support and strategies to manage these challenging conditions. Additionally, Lilly has a deep commitment to working with patients struggling with substance abuse, providing medication management and case management services that address both the psychological and physical aspects of addiction.