

Chicago residents managing ADHD can connect with compassionate providers specializing in attention, concentration, and time management training. Headway offers mindfulness-based interventions and practical tools through affordable sessions, many covered by insurance with copays as low as $0.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, I bring a compassionate, understanding and results-driven approach to therapy. My education began at Chicago State University where I received bachelor's degree and Jane Addams College of Social Work where I received my masters. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, mood, and personality disorders with clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll build practical tools and deeper insight so you can feel more in control and live your best life.
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and mom of four with a passion for helping people feel balanced, understood, and supported. I earned my nursing degree from Chamberlain University in Chicago and completed my psychiatric graduate training at the University of Kentucky. I’ve been proudly serving patients as a PMHNP since 2022.
I provide care for children (6+), teens, and adults, including parents, professionals, students, and anyone navigating life transitions or emotional challenges. My focus areas include: ADHD, anxiety & panic, depression, bipolar disorders, trauma & PTSD, emotional dysregulation and impulsivity, sleep issues, and mood and behavior concerns in children/teens.
I am accepting new clients. Please message me to set up a consultation phone call so we can discuss fit and scheduling.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and ADHD specialist, I help individuals and couples improve their relationships and manage challenges related to communication, ADHD, parenting, and daily stress. Relationships play a big role in our well-being—they can bring closeness and joy, but also tension and disconnection. In therapy, I’ll help you notice patterns that may be keeping you stuck, let go of what isn’t working, and build healthier, more fulfilling connections. I also support individuals in handling the demands of work, parenting, and relationships with more balance and confidence.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but my goal is to create a safe, collaborative, and supportive space from our very first session—whether you come as an individual or as a couple.
My client-centered, trauma-informed approach means your stories, values, and goals shape the work we do together. I help teens, adults, and couples heal from past trauma, grief, addiction, navigate anxiety and depression, and build stronger, healthier relationships.
As a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish), I’m sensitive to the cultural and relational contexts that shape who you are and how you connect with others.
For clients who desire it, I can also integrate spiritual reflection into therapy, always honoring your level of comfort.
If you're feeling stretched thin—anxious, exhausted, or stuck in patterns you can't quite name—you don't have to keep pushing through it alone. I'm Risa, an LCSW with over 10 years of experience helping adults move from overwhelmed to grounded.
I work with people navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and PTSD, grief, anger, relationship strain, identity questions, and difficult life transitions. Many of my clients look high-functioning on the outside while struggling underneath—racing thoughts, disrupted sleep, burnout, or a quiet sense that something needs to change.
Over my career I've supported clients in community mental health, geriatric care, veterans' health, and corrections—settings that taught me to meet people across very different circumstances without judgment. I earned my Master's in 2012 and have practiced ever since, with particular experience supporting women and the LGBTQIA+ and transgender community around identity, relationships, and self-worth.
Whatever brought you here, my aim is for you to feel understood from our very first conversation.
When stress starts to build, it can affect more than just your day-to-day life. It can impact your mood, your energy, and your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are navigating anxiety, depression, workplace stress, and burnout. Many of my clients are used to juggling responsibilities, caring for others, and pushing through difficult seasons until they realize they're no longer feeling like themselves. You might feel constantly overwhelmed, mentally exhausted, or like you can’t fully “turn off” your mind. At the same time, stress can begin to show up in your relationships through miscommunication, distance, or frustration, making it harder to feel connected and supported.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years experience in leadership and direct care positions in behavioral health and substance abuse facilities, I remain dedicated to helping individuals respond to and cope with the challenges of life. These include living with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, parenting, or other life's stressors, as well as, the challenges of alcohol or drug abuse disorders. I have frequently witnessed, and believe, recovery is possible and I appreciate the opportuity to assist you in finding the hope, joy and happiness you deserve.
Often, struggles can become gateways to transformation. Many of the clients I work with are navigating low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, chronic stress, trauma, grief, or major life transitions that leave them feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. You may be experiencing racing thoughts, emotional exhaustion, relationship difficulties, loss, or uncertainty about your direction in life. When we begin to explore these experiences with compassion and curiosity, new perspectives and meaningful change can emerge.
I believe telling your story in a safe, supportive space can be deeply healing. I want to hear about your hopes, dreams, challenges, and losses. My goal is to help you better understand your experiences, develop emotional resilience, and move toward greater clarity and self-acceptance. You are not alone, and I am here to walk alongside you as you move forward on your journey toward healing and growth.
Vanessa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Dallas, TX. Licensed in Texas, Virginia and Florida. As a bilingual therapist she has experience working with the Latin community as well as adults of all backgrounds. She enjoys partnering with individuals who are working on managing their anxiety, self-esteem and navigating life transitions.


Headway helps you stay on track with expert-guided support for ADHD — from finding the right therapist or psychiatrist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
Finding ADHD therapists in Chicago starts with knowing what kind of support you want. Therapy can help with executive function skills, organization, emotional regulation, focus, and daily structure. Some people look for adult ADHD therapy or ADHD counseling, while others need support for a child or teen. Medication management is a separate type of care offered by psychiatrists and other qualified prescribers, and some people work with both a therapist and a prescriber. As you compare options, look for a therapist whose bio mentions ADHD, cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD, skills-based support, or experience with adult or pediatric ADHD.
Chicago has many mental health professionals across neighborhoods like the Loop, Lakeview, Logan Square, Hyde Park, and the South Side, which can make it harder to narrow your search. Consider whether you want in-person sessions near home, work, school, or transit, or virtual appointments that fit around your schedule. ADHD often overlaps with concerns like anxiety, depression, stress, or sleep challenges, so it can help to choose a therapist with experience across more than one area. Before booking, read the therapist’s profile to understand their approach, communication style, availability, and whether they offer a free phone consultation.
ADHD therapy in Chicago can be expensive without insurance, and using in-network coverage is one of the most reliable ways to lower session costs. Headway helps you find therapists who accept insurance, are accepting new patients, and match your preferences. You can enter your insurance details to see estimated out-of-pocket costs before you book. From there, you can compare therapists, review bios, and book directly when you’re ready.
If you're already taking psychiatric medication and considering switching providers, talk to your current prescriber before changing or stopping any medication — most psychiatric medications shouldn't be stopped abruptly. Anyone experiencing thoughts of self-harm or in acute crisis should call 988 or go to the nearest emergency department rather than wait for an outpatient appointment.
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