Get to Know Your Therapist

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

Hi! I’m Samreen (she/her), a licensed social worker, and I help teens, young adults, and adults navigate life’s challenges through online therapy in Chicago and throughout Illinois.

Life can feel overwhelming—whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past trauma, or a major life change. Maybe you feel stuck, like no one truly sees what you’re going through. You might even believe you’re a burden

Let me reassure you: you are not broken, and you don’t have to carry this alone. You deserve a space where you feel heard, supported, and understood—and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Watch the Video: Learn More About My Approach and How I Can Help You

Why I Do This Work

As an American Indian Muslim who grew up post-9/11, I understand how life experiences shape how we see ourselves and the world. I’m passionate about breaking down stereotypes and creating safe spaces for BIPOC and minority communities to heal. Everyone deserves kindness, dignity, and understanding—no matter their story.

Who I Work With

Taking the first step toward therapy isn’t easy, and I want you to know I see you, and I’m proud of you for considering it.

I specialize in working with teens (13+), young adults, and adults who are dealing with:

  • Anxiety & Overthinking – Feeling on edge, stuck in your thoughts, or overwhelmed by worries

  • Depression & Hopelessness – Struggling to find motivation, feeling numb, or exhausted by sadness

  • Grief & Loss – Coping with the loss of a loved one or a major life change

  • Trauma & Past Pain – Working through painful experiences that still affect you today

  • Cultural Identity Concerns – Navigating the complexities of identity, belonging, and self-acceptance

  • Relationships & Life Transitions – Dealing with changes, family dynamics, or difficult breakups

I offer virtual therapy for clients in Chicago and throughout Illinois, making it easier for you to access support from the comfort of your home.

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

How I Help

Therapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about helping you feel more confident, calm, and in control of your life.

  • A Safe, Supportive Space – You’ll have 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 is tailored to fit your needs, culture, and life experiences. My experience with trauma-informed care allows me to provide effective treatment for clients dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma.

My Experience and 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.

I earned my Master of Arts in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago, where I focused on trauma-informed care, and my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from DePaul University, which sparked my passion for mental health support.

My hands-on training included internships at UofC Comer Children’s Hospital, providing trauma therapy to children and families, and working as a school social worker and chaplain intern at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where I supported individuals coping with grief and loss. These experiences strengthened my approach to trauma-informed care and grief counseling.

With ongoing training in trauma-informed CBT and talk therapy, I am dedicated to helping clients build resilience and find peace. I am a licensed social worker (LSW) in Illinois and Maryland, and I am currently working towards my LCSW licensure under the supervision of Dr. Aretha Steele.

German Shepherd nuzzling a tabby cat indoors

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 this out alone. If you’re ready to feel less overwhelmed and more in control, I’m here to help.

Book a free consultation today and take the first step toward healing.

  • Insurance Accepted: BCBS PPO, Blue Choice PPO, Aetna

  • Virtual Therapy Available in: Chicago & Illinois


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