Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) therapists in Chicago, Illinois IL
We are proud to feature top rated Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) therapists in Chicago. We encourage you to review each profile to find your best match.
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Mary Mesiha
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LICSW
I’m Mary Mesiha, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate life’s challenges. Since beginning my career in 1999, I’ve had the privilege of working with people from many different backgrounds across a range of settings-which shaped my approach to therapy.
I work with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and issues related to adoption. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you make sense of what you are going through in a meaningful and manageable way.
I am licensed to practice in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Florida, and Illinois.
27 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Dr. Aretha Steele (Mindful Healing Counseling)
Psychologist, PsyD
Taking the step to seek support is a courageous move, and I want to applaud you for it. I know everyone has a different story, and I'm here to honor and respect yours. As your therapist, my focus is on creating a collaborative and caring space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions. In our sessions, we can delve into your experiences, tackle obstacles, discover fresh perspectives, and uncover the strengths within you. Being a black woman, I recognize the significance of your identity and am dedicated to honoring each person’s story.
17 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Allyson Stephens
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, MSW, LCSW
I’m glad you are here. There is a reason you are here, and I understand how vulnerable this can be. It is so brave that you are here and ready to start your healing journey. My name is Allyson Stephens and I specialize in trauma informed care. I have personally healed from generational trauma and done my work in order to better understand myself and how trauma impacts the body and mind.
I am trained in trauma interventions and in the process of getting EMDR certified. I can help you explore what your body is telling you and help explore how to heal from past experiences. I can offer support through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trouble having emotions, and many more.
When you come into my office, I want you to be able to be your true self and not have to mask your authenticity. I want you to feel heard, safe, and understood. I look forward to starting this journey with you.
8 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Jaylan Abd Elrahman
Psychologist, PhD
What an honor it is to be a supportive companion on your path to deeper wellness! I see therapy as a process wherein people can grow a more honest connection with themselves, learn and practice hope-generating perspectives and skills into their day to day and stretch their imaginations for how to lovingly create a future that feels liberating, life-affirming, and meaningful.
My goal is to offer a space that feels collaborative, creative and deeply human- a space where your story is met with curiosity, compassion and trust. My work is guided by Humanistic and Relational Cultural approaches, shining light on and engaging the unique wisdom you already come with and paying close attention to the cultural, racial and systemic forces that shape all our lived experiences. Our sessions might integrate story sharing, trauma processing, skill building, mindfulness and somatic practices, and expressive arts, depending on what feels most supportive to you week to week. I hope that clients experience therapy as venues for personal transformation that offer relief, clarity, levity and empowerment.
Alongside my clinical practice, I teach at several Chicago-area universities and have spent over a decade developing healing-centered programs for migrant youth and women of color in community-based settings. These experiences continue to inform my deep respect for various cultural and ancestral modalities of healing, as well as an appreciation for the many ways people continue to dream new lives into reality!
If you’re seeking a therapist who approaches this process with humility, warmth, humor and a sincere commitment in your growth, I would be eager to connect with you!
6 Years Experience
In-Person in Chicago, IL 60608
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Emem Itiat
Counselor/Therapist, LCPC
I believe in the power of healing through promoting self-awareness, autonomy and empowerment, and also in people's strength to move towards change. Though suffering is a part of life, something that all humans share, working to manifest helpful and sustainable coping mechanisms, and skills that will work to serve you long term makes a difference in the quality of life a person experiences. I work from a Health at Every Size (HAES) and humanist framework, observing individuals as a whole, and when it comes to the war against body discrimination and terrorism, I believe in working to enhance radical acceptance through promoting self-contentment, end weight discrimination by identifying the underlying and overlying systems of oppression, dismantling those systems, and working against the cultural obsession with diet culture, and the pursuit of thinness and perfection. I believe in concepts such as radical self-love, self-trust, self-awareness, radical-acceptance, freedom, agency, self-compassion, and self-actualization to help guide individuals to fulfill their potential and maximize their wellbeing.
16 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Dr. Adam Shafer (Chicago, IL)
Psychologist, Psy. D., M.A.
I do my best to listen in the service of understanding and provide thoughtful responsiveness, which I have found helps my clients connect to their inner life and with others. Using gentle honesty and compassion, I value autonomy and collaboration to help people feel less alone while finding a sense of purpose within their lives and in the world.
17 Years Experience
In-Person in Chicago, IL 60607
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Roxy Zarrabi
Psychologist, Psy.D.
You may deeply desire to feel safe and connected with yourself and others but find yourself stuck in the same dating or relationship patterns that leave you feeling disconnected and unsatisfied. As a result, you may struggle to feel fully present in your life. Feelings of anxiety, insecurities, and past dating or relationship challenges can interfere with creating or maintaining the meaningful relationships you desire. You know you’re ready to make a change and feel more confident about yourself but have no idea how to get there.
I specialize in helping women struggling with relationship or dating challenges, low self-worth, and/or anxiety to create the life they desire. Our work together can help you learn to manage your anxiety, overcome longstanding patterns that are holding you back, and develop tools to improve your relationship with yourself as well as others.
11 Years Experience
In-Person in Chicago, IL 60602
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Sarah Farris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
I am trained in evidence-based practices for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, panic and phobias, trichotillomania and skin picking (BFRBs), and athlete mental health. I offer a client-focused, non-judgmental environment where you can address feelings of uncertainty, learn and implement new skills, and make meaningful changes in your life. Together, we will examine the challenges you are facing, set clear goals, and develop a plan to minimize the impact of stress and anxiety on your daily functioning. Building trust is fundamental to the therapeutic relationship, and I strive to meet individuals where they are at the start of therapy. My approach is goal-oriented, supportive, and collaborative.
14 Years Experience
In-Person in Chicago, IL 60613
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
TriWellness
Counselor/Therapist, LCPC, LCSW, LPC, BCN, CIT, CYYT, QEEG-C, AAT-I
Triwellness Therapy is a holistic, neuroscience-informed mental health practice dedicated to empowering mind, body, and soul. We believe lasting healing happens when emotional health, physical well-being, and meaningful connection are addressed together.
Our clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, burnout, and life transitions. We specialize in chronic illness and medical trauma, supporting individuals and families coping with the emotional impact of ongoing health conditions, complex diagnoses, and difficult medical experiences.
At Triwellness, therapy is collaborative, personalized, and evidence-based. We integrate practical tools for nervous system regulation with deeper therapeutic exploration to create sustainable, meaningful change. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your child, or your relationship, our goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you feel seen, understood, and empowered.
Through in-person and telehealth services, we are committed to helping our clients build resilience, restore balance, and reconnect with their strength and wholeness.
8 Years Experience
In-Person in Chicago, IL 60646
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Michael Keigher
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, MSW, LCSW
You don’t need to have it all figured out before you reach out. In my practice, therapy is a space where the messy chaos is welcome — where you can explore your stress, identity, relationships, or life transitions without judgment. I specialize in supporting college students and young adults who feel overwhelmed, burnt out, or unsure of what’s next. Together, we’ll process the chaos, find clarity, and create a version of healing that actually feels human.
2 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Joanna Vergoth
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, NCPsyA
I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 27 years of experience providing trauma-focused, psychodynamic psychotherapy to adults with complex trauma histories. I am particularly attuned to issues of relational trauma, attachment disturbances, abuse recovery, psychosexual health, anxiety disorders, and binge eating. My practice is culturally responsive and grounded in respect for each client’s lived experience and identity. Therapy with me is collaborative, paced with care, and grounded in deep attunement. I believe symptoms are adaptations to overwhelming experiences. I help clients understand how past experiences shape present patterns, transform trauma-shaped beliefs, and reconnect with their inner strength and authenticity. If you are ready for profound healing, I would be honored to work with you
27 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Mindful Healing Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD
We know life can be really tough at times, and it’s hard to figure out where to start when you feel stuck. Stress, anxiety, sadness, or relationship struggles can make everything seem harder, especially if you’re also dealing with past trauma or big life changes.
At Mindful Healing, we’re here to support you every step of the way. We believe that with the right support, you have the strength to heal and grow. Our goal is not just to listen, but to help lighten your burden and provide the tools you need to face life’s challenges. We are an inclusive practice, celebrating people of all identities and backgrounds. Our commitment is to create a safe space where you can feel seen, valued, and empowered to recognize your own strengths.
16 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Merrisa Dawn Santos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTMHP, CCTP
In the intricate tapestry of our lives, the pursuit of happiness, safety, and love is a universal quest. Yet, for many, the journey toward emotional wellness is fraught with challenges beyond their control. Trauma, familial history, and the burdens of life can cast shadows that obscure life's inherent beauty. I believe that each individual deserves to uncover, rediscover, and reclaim life's joy and purpose.
As a compassionate and dedicated psychoanalytical therapist, I aim to guide you through this transformative process with warmth and understanding. Through welcoming and conversational counseling services, I aim to create a space where you can explore the intricate connections between your mind, body, and spirit. This holistic approach seeks to assist you in reconnecting with your higher purpose, allowing you to navigate life unburdened by emotional pain.
5 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Faye Williams
Marriage and Family Therapist, ALMFT
The therapeutic relationship should result in strengthening your relationship with yourself. Meeting with individuals of all ages as well as families and partners, we will get to the heart of what's bothering you so you can get back to feeling like yourself.
4 Years Experience
In-Person in Chicago, IL 60611
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Wolf Pack Therapy
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW
Wolf Pack is a team of therapists dedicated to helping you feel seen, supported, and understood. We work collaboratively to provide trauma-responsive, compassionate care for anxiety, depression, grief, neurodiversity, identity, and life transitions, supporting you in taking meaningful steps toward wellness
19 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Empowered Wellbeing, Trauma/Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Dissociation and Addiction Recovery Care
Life Coach, view my credentials online at: www.recoveringfromwithin.com/credentialslongform
We started our practice supporting Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse to recover from the effects of their abuse and complex grief, and continue to center that care. Our practice includes support for trauma, complex trauma, dissociation, associated and co-occurring health and chronic health needs, anxiety, depression, addiction, personality disorders. We also offer integrative mental health care for mold toxin and some other environmental toxin exposure, and some TBI and PCS symptoms, as well as support for folks with chronic health related mental health needs that intersect with the above traumas. We offer intersectional care that is decolonizing, supports those impacted by systemic abuse, and supports affirming neurodiversity. We integrate TIST-- Trauma Informed Stabilization Therapy, DBR -- Deep Brain Reorienting to recover from Shock, IFS-- Internal Family Systems Work, PVT-- Polyvagal Theory, AT -- Attachment Theory, Nonviolent Communication, Inner Child Work, IPNB -- Interpersonal Neurobiology, Bonnie Badenoch's IPNB and dyad work, Memory Reconsolidation, Coherence/Existential Level of Care, BrainSpotting, DARE Attachment Model, CranioSacral (for mind, gut, and acute trauma recovery), Mediation/Relational/Partners/Couples Support, Functional Mental Health Care via Psychiatry Redefined Training and BioIndividual Nutrition, Integrative and CAM Health Care (herbalism, homeopathy, remote Traditional Chinese Medicine and other CAM Care), Student-Directed Learning Pedagogies (from Education), compassionate Parenting and inner Re-parenting, ... and a strong Intersectional and Social Justice Framework to support clients to recover from the debilitating effects of traumas and myriad effects of traumas, facilitate clients being centered in their own sense of self, develop healthier boundaries, cultivate self awareness (mindfulness), understand and parse power structures for healthy discernment ... and move towards more fulfilling self actualization that is compassionate, inclusive and also eco-relationally congruent.
We are a POC/GM Practice with a decolonizing orientation and Intersectional framework. Red lines are red lines -- we don't support abuses of power systemically and culturally. We are supportive of indigenous peoples and other systemically marginalized peoples, and their rights to safety, parity, sovereignty and dignity. If you are interested in support, we'd love to work with you!
Our focus has been on supporting adult survivors of childhood sexual trauma and torture, folks recovering from narcissistic trauma, folks recovering from oppressive hegemonic systemic trauma and/or folks recovering from these traumas along with recovering from toxic mold exposure.
We do work with individuals with other needs who are active and engaged bystanders and activists advocating alongside the most systemically oppressed for systemic change for the greater good of the whole global community, prioritizing care for the most marginalized. We also support those who are actively stopping and recovering from committing moral injury and boundary transgressions and willingly doing the work to repair and become bystanders with their privilege rather than violent enactors. This is a no mass media and state propaganda zone.
If you are interested in support, please ask! We'd love to work with you.
Keywords: Sexual Abuse Survivors Care, DV Care, Trafficking Trauma Care, Colonial Oppression Care, Torture Care, Complex Trauma Care, Dissociation Care, DID, DDNOS, CPTSD, BPD, Narcissistic Abuse and Bullying Trauma Care, Workplace Trauma Care, Mold Recovery Care, Chronic Health Related Care, Integrative, Functional, CAM Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Homeopathy, Flower Essences, Herbalism, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Intersectional, Intersectional Feminism, Progressive Internationalism, Anti-Racist, Anti-Oppression, Inclusive, Mediation, Repair, Attachment, Transformative Justice, Human and Civil Rights Affirming, Honoring International Law; DBR, IFS, TIST, SPI, PVT, SSP, IPNB, RLT, CI, BSP, Inner Child Work, Psychiatry Redefined Fellow, CranioSacral, Zero Balancing, Somatics Lab, Ethno-Traditional, Eco-relational
15 Years Experience
Online in Chicago, IL Illinois (Online Only)
Chicago's size and diversity mean therapists here cover an exceptionally wide range of specialties, with strong representation in trauma, anxiety, depression, and cultural identity work across the city's distinct neighborhoods. The South and West Sides experience community-level trauma tied to violence and systemic inequity, driving particular demand for therapists who specialize in PTSD, grief, and resilience-focused work. The city is home to Rush University Medical Center, Northwestern Medicine, and the University of Chicago Medicine, with a large independent practice community concentrated in Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Wicker Park, and the Loop. Chicago also has robust bilingual therapy communities serving its large Spanish-speaking, Polish, and Mandarin-speaking populations.
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) therapists in Chicago, Illinois Statistics
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) therapists in Chicago, Illinois average 16 years of experience and charge around $197 per session. 100% offer online sessions. The most commonly treated issues are Anxiety or Fears (90%), Depression (75%), and Stress (66%).
Average years in practice
16 Years Experience
Average cost per session
$197
Accept insurance
45%
Offer sliding scale
49%
Gender ID
| 74% |
Female |
|
| 20% |
Male |
|
| 4% |
Non-Binary |
|
| 2% |
Gender Fluid |
|
Session Type
| 52% |
In Person and Online |
|
| 48% |
Online Only |
|
Top Specialties
| 90% | Anxiety or Fears |
| 75% | Depression |
| 66% | Stress |
| 59% | Self Esteem |
| 56% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 53% | Women's Issues |
| 47% | Social Anxiety |
Ages Served
| 99% | Adult |
| 74% | Young Adult |
| 41% | Senior |
| 40% | Teen |
| 16% | Children |
Client Focus
| 67% | Women |
| 47% | LGBTQ+ |
| 40% | Men |
| 23% | Military / Veterans |
| 23% | Persons with Disabilities |