Child Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Dr. Benton K Johnson II - Ephphatha 'Be Opened' Consulting Services, Inc., PhD, LCPC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Ephphatha 'Be Opened' Consulting Services, Inc.
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
Clients that come to me for issues regarding their dissatisfaction with their progress on overcoming their challenges in life. Life issues range from traumatic experiences, LGBTQ issues, addictions & substance use disorders, spiritual problems, career problems, chronic illness, child & parenting issues as well as family imbalances. They want change and they want it with someone who can connect with them in real ways that help them know they are cared for, can be confident, and can overcome the challenges that confront them.
Clients that come to me for issues regarding their dissatisfaction with their progress on overcoming their challenges in life. Life issues range from traumatic experiences, LGBTQ issues, addictions & substance use disorders, spiritual problems, career problems, chronic illness, child & parenting issues as well as family imbalances. They want change and they want it with someone who can connect with them in real ways that help them know they are cared for, can be confident, and can overcome the challenges that confront them.
(312) 779-6973 View (312) 779-6973
Photo of Denise Gulotta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Gulotta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I am the owner of InnerBloom Therapy Practice. I work with adults, children, and teens. I also work with parents to help them learn how to support their child and facilitate change at home by implementing strategies worked on during sessions. I help clients who experience stress and anxiety, life transitions, loss, mood disorders, problems at school, behavior issues, and difficulty regulating their emotions and developing connections with others. My fifteen years of experience as a school social worker have provided me with an understanding of the daily stressors and mental health needs of children and teens.
I am the owner of InnerBloom Therapy Practice. I work with adults, children, and teens. I also work with parents to help them learn how to support their child and facilitate change at home by implementing strategies worked on during sessions. I help clients who experience stress and anxiety, life transitions, loss, mood disorders, problems at school, behavior issues, and difficulty regulating their emotions and developing connections with others. My fifteen years of experience as a school social worker have provided me with an understanding of the daily stressors and mental health needs of children and teens.
(773) 516-2051 View (773) 516-2051
Photo of Nancy Gordon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Children, adolescents and their parents are welcome.
INSIGHT, SKILLS, SUPPORT. Strength-based. Solution focused. I work with clients of all ages using cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies along with guided imagery, dreamwork, and art. I believe that mindfulness can help to reduce negative thinking, worrying and self-criticism. These are bad habits - and they can be changed. I am skilled at teaching children/adults how to be more mindful instead of getting caught up in harmful, unproductive thoughts that lead to self defeating actions.
Children, adolescents and their parents are welcome.
INSIGHT, SKILLS, SUPPORT. Strength-based. Solution focused. I work with clients of all ages using cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies along with guided imagery, dreamwork, and art. I believe that mindfulness can help to reduce negative thinking, worrying and self-criticism. These are bad habits - and they can be changed. I am skilled at teaching children/adults how to be more mindful instead of getting caught up in harmful, unproductive thoughts that lead to self defeating actions.
(773) 234-3943 View (773) 234-3943
Photo of Jori Brick, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jori Brick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
The kids, teens, and young adults who work with me want a therapist who sees them as individuals, not just diagnoses, and who offers a compassionate and non-judgmental space for healing and growth. Many of my clients and their caregivers desire a therapeutic approach that goes beyond surface-level interventions, delving deeper into the complexities of their inner worlds and fostering authentic connections that facilitate meaningful change. Caregivers who are struggling with understanding and addressing their child or teens needs also appreciate the insight, education, and support I give to them in the therapeutic space.
The kids, teens, and young adults who work with me want a therapist who sees them as individuals, not just diagnoses, and who offers a compassionate and non-judgmental space for healing and growth. Many of my clients and their caregivers desire a therapeutic approach that goes beyond surface-level interventions, delving deeper into the complexities of their inner worlds and fostering authentic connections that facilitate meaningful change. Caregivers who are struggling with understanding and addressing their child or teens needs also appreciate the insight, education, and support I give to them in the therapeutic space.
(872) 253-4667 View (872) 253-4667
Photo of Kirsten S Langley, PsyD, Psychologist
Kirsten S Langley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Langley is a compassionate therapist, dedicated to understanding and supporting her clients in times of need. She has helped children, adolescents, adults, couples and families overcome the challenges they face. Working with at-risk teens or adults battling depression, helping children with autism or counseling couples; Dr. Langley focuses on each individual's unique journey, while maintaining a strong grounding in theory, neurobiology and current research. Dr. Langley practices a psychodynamic, relational approach to therapy. We can make long lasting change only when we are able to explore our own narratives that have lead us to where we are.
Dr. Langley is a compassionate therapist, dedicated to understanding and supporting her clients in times of need. She has helped children, adolescents, adults, couples and families overcome the challenges they face. Working with at-risk teens or adults battling depression, helping children with autism or counseling couples; Dr. Langley focuses on each individual's unique journey, while maintaining a strong grounding in theory, neurobiology and current research. Dr. Langley practices a psychodynamic, relational approach to therapy. We can make long lasting change only when we are able to explore our own narratives that have lead us to where we are.
(312) 548-0078 View (312) 548-0078
Photo of Yanet Vanegas, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Yanet Vanegas
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Dr. Yanet Vanegas, and I understand that seeking support for mental well-being can be a challenging journey. I'm a child and adolescent psychologist and a perinatal mental health certified provider. My approach goes beyond merely treating symptoms. It’s about sparking lasting change and fostering personal growth. I create personalized treatment plans using the latest therapeutic techniques, including CBT, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD, and DBT.
Hello, I'm Dr. Yanet Vanegas, and I understand that seeking support for mental well-being can be a challenging journey. I'm a child and adolescent psychologist and a perinatal mental health certified provider. My approach goes beyond merely treating symptoms. It’s about sparking lasting change and fostering personal growth. I create personalized treatment plans using the latest therapeutic techniques, including CBT, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD, and DBT.
(815) 339-8858 View (815) 339-8858
Photo of Anna Minkov, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Minkov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I’m happy to meet with you and your child or adolescent to evaluate whether psychotherapy can help with their social, emotional or behavioral difficulties.
Life can be challenging even under the best of circumstances... You may be feeling stuck, worried, anxious or depressed in ways that affect your social, school or professional relationships, color social interactions, or deter you from reaching goals or being the person you want to be. These difficulties may derive from ways of coping that were essential in dealing with important figures or circumstances earlier in your life. Therapy can be a powerful way of using another relationship to identify these coping strategies and their reasons for being, developing a more effective way of being yourself and relating to others.
I’m happy to meet with you and your child or adolescent to evaluate whether psychotherapy can help with their social, emotional or behavioral difficulties.
Life can be challenging even under the best of circumstances... You may be feeling stuck, worried, anxious or depressed in ways that affect your social, school or professional relationships, color social interactions, or deter you from reaching goals or being the person you want to be. These difficulties may derive from ways of coping that were essential in dealing with important figures or circumstances earlier in your life. Therapy can be a powerful way of using another relationship to identify these coping strategies and their reasons for being, developing a more effective way of being yourself and relating to others.
(773) 997-2481 View (773) 997-2481
Photo of Sam Shabsin, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Shabsin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I have experience working both with clients of all ages. While I am happy to work with everyone, I am passionate about helping children, teens and young adults through the joys and challenges that those years bring. I incorporate empathy, humor, authenticity and respect into my work in order to build a warm, caring environment for my clients. I have clinical experience working with and treating anxiety, depression, the stress that comes from having ADHD, low self-esteem, body image issues, family challenges, relational issues, grief and loss, trauma and life transitions of all kinds.
I have experience working both with clients of all ages. While I am happy to work with everyone, I am passionate about helping children, teens and young adults through the joys and challenges that those years bring. I incorporate empathy, humor, authenticity and respect into my work in order to build a warm, caring environment for my clients. I have clinical experience working with and treating anxiety, depression, the stress that comes from having ADHD, low self-esteem, body image issues, family challenges, relational issues, grief and loss, trauma and life transitions of all kinds.
(872) 206-9631 View (872) 206-9631
Photo of Caleb D Collins, LCPC, Counselor
Caleb D Collins
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I work with children and adolescents who struggle with social/emotional problems as well as issues surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity.
I approach my work with an understanding that each client's experience is unique and I appreciate the courage it takes to engage in therapy. I work to help my client's feel heard and understood while exploring the sources of their difficulty. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is collaborative and I believe that you are the best expert on yourself and what you want for treatment. Sessions typically focus on building insight into how past experiences affect us today as well as developing communication and coping skills.
I work with children and adolescents who struggle with social/emotional problems as well as issues surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity.
I approach my work with an understanding that each client's experience is unique and I appreciate the courage it takes to engage in therapy. I work to help my client's feel heard and understood while exploring the sources of their difficulty. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is collaborative and I believe that you are the best expert on yourself and what you want for treatment. Sessions typically focus on building insight into how past experiences affect us today as well as developing communication and coping skills.
(312) 548-3608 View (312) 548-3608
Photo of John Frampton, PsyD, Psychologist
John Frampton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a lifelong mission of helping children and adults improve their social and emotional well-being. I am the co-founder of Formative Psychological Services, a family-run practice in Chicago. I have over 15 years of experience working in the schools and in private practice, and provide individual therapy, assessments, school consultation, and presentations.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a lifelong mission of helping children and adults improve their social and emotional well-being. I am the co-founder of Formative Psychological Services, a family-run practice in Chicago. I have over 15 years of experience working in the schools and in private practice, and provide individual therapy, assessments, school consultation, and presentations.
(872) 814-6122 View (872) 814-6122
Photo of Karli Bigler, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karli Bigler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I am in the process of completing an extensive Child Centered Play Therapy certificate program and enjoy working with young children.
Starting therapy can feel scary and intimidating. You are looking for someone to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with that will not judge you. I am here to help make that process easier. You deserve to have a space that is safe and supportive with a therapist that you know will fully accept you. I want to work with you to create a space infused with empathy, unconditional acceptance, and genuineness. You are welcome to show up just as you are and that is more than enough.
I am in the process of completing an extensive Child Centered Play Therapy certificate program and enjoy working with young children.
Starting therapy can feel scary and intimidating. You are looking for someone to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with that will not judge you. I am here to help make that process easier. You deserve to have a space that is safe and supportive with a therapist that you know will fully accept you. I want to work with you to create a space infused with empathy, unconditional acceptance, and genuineness. You are welcome to show up just as you are and that is more than enough.
(773) 839-9260 x515 View (773) 839-9260 x515
Photo of Erica Malveaux Malena - Touch of Wholeness Psychological Services LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Touch of Wholeness Psychological Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
There are times when life becomes extremely overwhelming. During these times, I believe having a supportive and engaging ear promotes healing. I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have devoted years to helping individuals who are experiencing difficulty managing life stressors. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults across multiple settings including community mental health agencies, private practice, residential homes, and schools. My areas of interest include treating young adults clients dealing with life-stage transition difficulties, parents experiencing difficulties with their children, couples and families, as well as individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
There are times when life becomes extremely overwhelming. During these times, I believe having a supportive and engaging ear promotes healing. I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have devoted years to helping individuals who are experiencing difficulty managing life stressors. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults across multiple settings including community mental health agencies, private practice, residential homes, and schools. My areas of interest include treating young adults clients dealing with life-stage transition difficulties, parents experiencing difficulties with their children, couples and families, as well as individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
(773) 364-6620 View (773) 364-6620
Photo of Carroll A Cradock, PhD, Psychologist
Carroll A Cradock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
People seek out a counselor who can guide them--or their child--past their struggles to a better life. They want to get better sooner and stay better longer. For over 20 years, I have had the privilege of helping hundreds of adults, children and adolescents move past problems and achieve their goals --and to make those improvements stick. Some clients face coping with frustration, depression, anxiety, or relationship and family problems. For others, it's dealing with transitions such as divorce, loss and grief, school or relationship challenges, medical problems or job loss. And clients deserve great service.
People seek out a counselor who can guide them--or their child--past their struggles to a better life. They want to get better sooner and stay better longer. For over 20 years, I have had the privilege of helping hundreds of adults, children and adolescents move past problems and achieve their goals --and to make those improvements stick. Some clients face coping with frustration, depression, anxiety, or relationship and family problems. For others, it's dealing with transitions such as divorce, loss and grief, school or relationship challenges, medical problems or job loss. And clients deserve great service.
(312) 470-6923 View (312) 470-6923
Photo of Linda Brown-Jackson, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Linda Brown-Jackson
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60619
I enjoy the opportunity of working with children, adolescent and teens.
My ideal client is the person that knows they need help. They do not have to know what kind of help, but open to talk therapy and exploring possible forms of relief. I have worked with children and adults with issues such as; anger, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Behavior Modification, depression and anxiety. It is most comforting to help someone find relief from discomfort. I provide individual, group and family therapy. The counseling scope includes parent coaching, anger management, trauma, and school guidance.
I enjoy the opportunity of working with children, adolescent and teens.
My ideal client is the person that knows they need help. They do not have to know what kind of help, but open to talk therapy and exploring possible forms of relief. I have worked with children and adults with issues such as; anger, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Behavior Modification, depression and anxiety. It is most comforting to help someone find relief from discomfort. I provide individual, group and family therapy. The counseling scope includes parent coaching, anger management, trauma, and school guidance.
(773) 669-5935 View (773) 669-5935
Photo of Mara Handler, ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mara Handler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Her clinical interests include expanding personal and emotional awareness, repairing strained relationships, helping children and families navigate life transitions, and developing effective communication skills.
Mara utilizes her warmth and curiosity to foster a safe space for clients to explore themselves and grow. From a young age, she has been deeply attuned to the emotions of others. She feels that this allows her to thoughtfully approach her clients in a way that aligns with their unique outlook on life. Mara understands the vulnerabilities that come with seeking professional help, and is honored to have the opportunity to be a part of her client’s lives. She hopes that her empathy, humor, and kindness will bring comfort to her clients and encourage honest communication.
Her clinical interests include expanding personal and emotional awareness, repairing strained relationships, helping children and families navigate life transitions, and developing effective communication skills.
Mara utilizes her warmth and curiosity to foster a safe space for clients to explore themselves and grow. From a young age, she has been deeply attuned to the emotions of others. She feels that this allows her to thoughtfully approach her clients in a way that aligns with their unique outlook on life. Mara understands the vulnerabilities that come with seeking professional help, and is honored to have the opportunity to be a part of her client’s lives. She hopes that her empathy, humor, and kindness will bring comfort to her clients and encourage honest communication.
(872) 259-7015 View (872) 259-7015
Photo of Kristin Praznowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Praznowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60646
I am a licensed social worker with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families. In addition to office-based settings, I have worked in intensive in-home treatment and as a school counselor. Many years of my career were spent as a clinical consultant for a research-based, family-focused treatment model, Multisystemic Therapy (MST). Through my work, I have gained advanced knowledge in family and couples therapy, behavioral modification, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My approach is strength-based and solution-focused. I believe that all individuals have assets that can be leveraged to foster change, and that my role is to support clients in living a full and rewarding life. In my approach with children and adolescents, I view parents/caregivers as the experts on their children, and essential partners in ensuring successful treatment. Understanding family dynamics and promoting healthier patterns are special areas of interest, and utilized in my therapeutic approach. I commend you for taking the first step in researching a therapist for yourself or loved one!
I am a licensed social worker with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families. In addition to office-based settings, I have worked in intensive in-home treatment and as a school counselor. Many years of my career were spent as a clinical consultant for a research-based, family-focused treatment model, Multisystemic Therapy (MST). Through my work, I have gained advanced knowledge in family and couples therapy, behavioral modification, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My approach is strength-based and solution-focused. I believe that all individuals have assets that can be leveraged to foster change, and that my role is to support clients in living a full and rewarding life. In my approach with children and adolescents, I view parents/caregivers as the experts on their children, and essential partners in ensuring successful treatment. Understanding family dynamics and promoting healthier patterns are special areas of interest, and utilized in my therapeutic approach. I commend you for taking the first step in researching a therapist for yourself or loved one!
(708) 832-6223 View (708) 832-6223
Photo of Adam Mills, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adam Mills
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and adults, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral acting out, life transition struggles, family conflict, self-esteem, social concerns, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and trauma related issues. My vast experiences working in therapeutic day school settings has afforded me the opportunity to work with a diverse array of clients, as well as ignited my passion for working with those who are misunderstood and labeled in a negative way for their struggles.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and adults, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral acting out, life transition struggles, family conflict, self-esteem, social concerns, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and trauma related issues. My vast experiences working in therapeutic day school settings has afforded me the opportunity to work with a diverse array of clients, as well as ignited my passion for working with those who are misunderstood and labeled in a negative way for their struggles.
(872) 245-0143 View (872) 245-0143
Photo of Ariel Fleenary, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ariel Fleenary
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654
I specialize in working with children and adults who have faced systemic harm and societal stigma, including LGBTQ and TGNC individuals, women, and those from other marginalized communities. I have extensive experience working with young people who have endured complex trauma, and I believe in the power of a strengths-based relational therapy model. I am committed to celebrating diversity and I hold an affirming stance on all genders, sexualities, careers, reproductive choices, and alternative relationship structures.
I specialize in working with children and adults who have faced systemic harm and societal stigma, including LGBTQ and TGNC individuals, women, and those from other marginalized communities. I have extensive experience working with young people who have endured complex trauma, and I believe in the power of a strengths-based relational therapy model. I am committed to celebrating diversity and I hold an affirming stance on all genders, sexualities, careers, reproductive choices, and alternative relationship structures.
(312) 667-1415 View (312) 667-1415
Photo of Kin Kong, PhD, Psychologist
Kin Kong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
I have specialized training and extensive experience with children and families.
I believe that everyone has the right and the ability to achieve an engaged, balanced, satisfying life. I enjoy working with clients of all ages. In my work I am continuously impressed by my clients’ ability to grow and change, and by their courage, creativity, strength, and capacity for love and connection. I encourage you to take the first step today to restore the balance and health in yourself, your child, your family, and your relationships.
I have specialized training and extensive experience with children and families.
I believe that everyone has the right and the ability to achieve an engaged, balanced, satisfying life. I enjoy working with clients of all ages. In my work I am continuously impressed by my clients’ ability to grow and change, and by their courage, creativity, strength, and capacity for love and connection. I encourage you to take the first step today to restore the balance and health in yourself, your child, your family, and your relationships.
(773) 312-4998 View (773) 312-4998
Photo of Madison Schieber, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Schieber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
My background includes working with neurodivergent children in an outpatient setting and clients, from adolescent to geriatric, in a hospital with a range of different mental health disorders, trauma history, and life experiences.
I make sure your concerns are heard, your strengths are celebrated, and your journey to wellness is guided with compassion and expertise. I believe that by understanding and empathizing with my clients I can create a strong therapeutic relationship that promotes growth & transformation. I understand that everyone has their own unique story and I am committed to listening with compassion and without judgment. With a compassionate and collaborative approach I strive to help my clients overcome their challenges, feel more empowered, and achieve their goals. I believe in using evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT and mindfulness.
My background includes working with neurodivergent children in an outpatient setting and clients, from adolescent to geriatric, in a hospital with a range of different mental health disorders, trauma history, and life experiences.
I make sure your concerns are heard, your strengths are celebrated, and your journey to wellness is guided with compassion and expertise. I believe that by understanding and empathizing with my clients I can create a strong therapeutic relationship that promotes growth & transformation. I understand that everyone has their own unique story and I am committed to listening with compassion and without judgment. With a compassionate and collaborative approach I strive to help my clients overcome their challenges, feel more empowered, and achieve their goals. I believe in using evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT and mindfulness.
(872) 246-8322 View (872) 246-8322
Child Therapists
Child psychologists in Chicago, IL provide mental health therapy to children and are experts in child development.

Every comprehensive review of therapy with children shows that all credible approaches, when performed by a competent mental health clinician, produce almost the same results. About half of all kids will get better. Of those that improve, 80% will show progress in a relatively short time, while the remaining 20% will need longer-term support.

The best child therapists in Chicago build great relationships with the child and the parent. They also see the child's strengths and are open to hearing the child's possible solutions to the challenges the child faces. Finally, a good therapist appreciates the child's culture and is sensitive to the values of the child's community.