Meet Samreen

Image of muslim american therapist. Therapist near me for anxiety, stress, grief, and life changes. Therapy in Orland Park, Tinley Park and Illinois

Samreen Ahmed, LSW

(she/her)

  • Areas of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, Life Changes, Cultural Identity Concerns

  • Young Adults and Adults (18+)

  • Accepts BCBS PPO, Blue Choice PPO, and Aetna PPO

  • Available in Illinois only

Hi there! I’m Samreen. Taking the first step toward therapy isn’t easy, but I want you to know it’s a big deal, and I’m really proud of you for making it. I totally understand how overwhelming it can be when you’re carrying stress, anxiety, or grief. It can shake up your world and leave everything feeling uncertain and out of control. You might be feeling alone or wondering if anyone truly gets what you're going through. I want you to know: I’m here for you.

I’m genuinely honored to offer you a safe, caring space where we can work together to heal, find clarity, and get through life’s toughest moments. I’m excited to get to know you, support you, and be by your side through every step of this journey.

WHO I WORK WITH

I’m a therapist who’s passionate about helping adults and teens through anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life changes. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what comes next, I’m here to help you rediscover hope, purpose, and connection. In our work together, you’ll have my full attention and care every step of the way.

I offer virtual therapy to clients in Chicago and throughout Illinois, and I’m excited to be part of your journey toward healing.

Image of diverse women smiling up at camera. Therapist for anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. Counseling services in Chicago and Illinois. Virtual therapist. Online therapy

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THERAPY

In therapy, we’ll work together to explore what’s going on in your life and figure out how to make things better. I’ll help you understand your emotions, and we’ll talk through the things that are bothering you. We’ll focus on strengthening your relationship with yourself and the important people in your life—whether that’s family, friends, coworkers, or anyone else.

You can expect a space where you’re heard and supported, and we’ll work together to help you feel more confident, more at peace, and more in control of your life. Therapy is about more than just talking; it’s about learning how to handle your emotions, cope with challenges, and move forward with a stronger sense of who you are. I’m here to walk with you through this process, step by step.

MY APPROACH

My counseling approach is strengths-based and person-centered. I focus on your unique strengths and guide you toward solutions that make sense for you.

My work began in the vibrant and diverse communities of Chicago’s South and West Sides. During my graduate studies at the University of Chicago, I gained invaluable experience as a school social work intern and a trauma therapy intern at UofC Comer Children’s Hospital. I’ve supported individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, suicidal thoughts, and grief.

My expertise in trauma-informed counseling and clinical case management was shaped through my internships at UofC and my time as a chaplain intern at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where I worked closely with individuals navigating loss and grief. In my role as a telehealth therapist in Maryland, I continued to grow my skills, utilizing trauma-informed CBT and talk therapy to support clients of all ages and backgrounds through a wide range of life challenges.

I am a licensed social worker in both Illinois and Maryland. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from DePaul University and a Master of Arts in Social Service Administration from The University of Chicago. Currently, I offer virtual therapy in Chicago and Illinois under the supervision of Dr. Aretha Steele, as I work on obtaining my LCSW.

MORE ABOUT ME

Outside of therapy, I’m a wife, sister, daughter, and a proud pet parent to two Siberian kittens, Sultan and Shams, and a German Shepherd Aria. My pets often make appearances during sessions—something many clients find comforting!

My husband and I are both from Chicago (ethnically Indian and Palestinian) and have lived in Maryland, Alabama, and Arizona over the past 4 years. I love traveling and getting to know different people from all walks of life.

For fun, I like to play with my pets, play video games with my husband, and work on my fitness journey. I believe the mind and body are deeply connected so in therapy we may also utilize exercise, even something as simple as a 10 minute walk, to help you get your mind back in order.

Growing up as an American Indian Muslim post-9/11, I faced challenges that shaped my commitment to advocacy. I am deeply passionate about breaking stereotypes about Muslims and supporting BIPOC and minority communities. I believe everyone deserves dignity and respect, regardless of privilege, and I work to promote peace and understanding in all areas of my life.

Through therapy and writing, I aim to contribute to a brighter, more inclusive world—one step at a time.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

If you’re ready to take the next step, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Peace be upon you, and I look forward to starting this journey with you.

Reach out today!