About Samreen Ahmed, LSW
Online Therapy for Teens, Young Adults & Adults in Chicago and Across Illinois
“You are not broken. You are healing. And healing takes time, patience, and support.”
Who Am I?
Hi, I’m Samreen (she/her), a licensed social worker providing online therapy for teens, young adults, and adults across Chicago and Illinois.
Life can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or the weight of past trauma. Maybe you feel stuck, disconnected, or like no one really sees you.
Let me reassure you: you are not broken, and you don’t have to do this alone. You deserve a space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal. That’s what I’m here to offer.
Meet Samreen
I Love Working With:
Young adults, and adults navigating life’s transitions
Individuals struggling with anxiety, overthinking, and self-doubt
Those dealing with depression and feelings of hopelessness
People coping with grief, loss, or major life changes
Clients working through trauma and past pain
BIPOC and first-generation individuals processing cultural identity, belonging, and self-acceptance
Those navigating relationship challenges, breakups, or family dynamics
I offer virtual therapy in Chicago and throughout Illinois to support clients through all of life’s transitions—whether you're navigating identity, grief, relationships, or emotional overwhelm.
What to Expect in Therapy
Therapy with me feels like a grounded, honest conversation. We’ll check in like old friends, then dive into what’s been on your mind. I’ll offer curiosity, compassion, and questions to help you reflect and grow.
You don’t need to come in with all the answers—just a willingness to show up. I’ll meet you where you are with compassion.
A Safe, Supportive Space – A judgment-free place to express your thoughts and emotions
Practical Coping Tools – Learn how to manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions
Healing Through Understanding – Work through what’s holding you back and gain clarity
A Personalized Approach – Therapy that fits your needs, identity, and life experiences
My Approach to Healing
My style is collaborative and deeply personal. I tailor therapy to your identity, needs, and lived experiences.
My trauma-informed approach includes:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Shift harmful thought patterns
Mindfulness-Based Strategies: Manage stress + emotional overwhelm
Strengths-Based Therapy: Build on your inner resilience
Relational Therapy: Explore how past relationships shape the present
Trauma-Informed Care: Heal at your pace in a safe, affirming space
Together, we’ll uncover patterns, build insight, and help you move toward peace, clarity, and growth.
Why I’m Passionate About Supporting BIPOC and First-Gen Clients
As an Indian Muslim woman who grew up post-9/11, I know firsthand how cultural pressure, identity conflict, and intergenerational stress can shape your mental health. These life experiences shape how we see ourselves and the world.
I’m passionate to breaking down stigma and offering a space where you don’t have to explain or shrink who you are. You deserve to feel safe in your story—and proud of it. Everyone deserves kindness, dignity, and understanding—no matter their story.
You don’t have to do it alone—I’m here to support you.
My Experience & Training
My journey as a therapist began in Chicago’s South and West Sides, where I had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. During this time, I supported people navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and life transitions.
These experiences deepened my understanding of resilience and the importance of creating a safe, compassionate space for healing.
✔ Master of Arts in Social Service Administration – University of Chicago, specializing in trauma-informed care
✔ Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – DePaul University, where my passion for mental health began
Clinical Training & Internships:
UofC Comer Children’s Hospital – Providing trauma therapy to children and families
Northwestern Memorial Hospital – Supporting individuals coping with grief and loss
School Social Work & Chaplain Internships – Helping young people navigate emotional and mental health challenges
I am a licensed social worker (LSW) in Illinois and Maryland, and I am currently working toward my LCSW licensure under the supervision of Dr. Aretha Steele.
With ongoing training in trauma-informed CBT and grief counseling, I am dedicated to helping my clients build resilience and find peace.
More About Me
Outside of therapy, I’m a wife, sister, daughter, and proud pet mom to a Siberian kitten and a German Shepherd (who might make surprise appearances in sessions!). Many clients find their presence comforting—it's always nice to have a little extra warmth in the room!
My husband and I both grew up in Chicago—he’s Palestinian, and I’m Indian. Over the years, we've called places like Maryland, Alabama, and Arizona home. Traveling is something I absolutely love, and I enjoy connecting with people from all different walks of life, hearing their stories, and learning from their experiences.
Outside of work, you'll find me with my pets, playing video games with my husband, or focusing on my fitness. I believe the mind and body are connected, so I sometimes suggest simple exercises, like a quick 10-minute walk, to help you reset.
I'm passionate about therapy and writing, and I strive to contribute to a more inclusive, positive world—one step at a time.
Let’s Get Started!
You don’t have to figure everything out alone. If you're ready to feel less overwhelmed and more in control, I’m here to support you—every step of the way.
Book a free consultation today and take the first step toward healing.
Insurance Accepted:
BCBS PPO, Blue Choice PPO, Aetna
Clients Seen:
Teens (13+), Young Adults and Adults
Specialties:
Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Stress, Grief/Loss, Relationships, Life Changes