Get to Know Your Therapist
About Samreen Ahmed, LSW
“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, 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.
As a therapist, I feel honored to be part of someone’s healing journey. Every day, I work with individuals who inspire me with their courage, resilience, and commitment to change. Therapy isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about giving yourself permission to heal, to grow, and to show up as your authentic self.
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 throughout Chicago and Illinois, making it easier for you to access support from the comfort of your home.
Meet Samreen
How I Help
Therapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about helping you feel more confident, calm, and in control of your life. I believe healing happens in a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported, and I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, culture, and experiences.
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
I use a trauma-informed approach that incorporates evidence-based methods such as:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helping you shift unhelpful thought patterns
Mindfulness-Based Strategies – Techniques to manage stress and improve emotional well-being
Strengths-Based Therapy – Recognizing your resilience and inner capabilities
Relational Therapy – Understanding how past relationships impact your present
Trauma-Informed Care – Providing a safe, supportive environment to process past experiences
Together, we’ll uncover patterns, build self-awareness, and help you create meaningful, lasting change.
What It’s Like In Session With Me
Therapy should feel like a conversation—one where you feel safe, supported, and free to be yourself. A session with me often starts with a check-in, like catching up with a trusted friend, before diving into what’s on your mind.
We’ll explore past experiences, identify patterns, and work on real-life tools you can use outside of therapy. Most importantly, you’ll be met with compassion.
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, affirming spaces for BIPOC and minority communities to heal. Everyone deserves kindness, dignity, and understanding—no matter their story.
I also know firsthand what it’s like to feel caught between cultures, to navigate the complexities of identity, and to work through self-doubt. 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 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
Clients Seen:
Teens (13+), Young Adults and Adults
Specialties:
Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Stress, Grief/Loss, Relationships, Life Changes