Meet Samreen

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! My name is Samreen Ahmed. I know how much strength and willpower it takes to take this first step toward therapy. I want you to know I’m incredibly proud of you for being here! I am looking forward to getting to know you, caring for you and growing with you. We are in this together every step of the way.

WHO I WORK WITH

I understand how mental health challenges can turn your world upside down. You might feel alone, as if no one truly understands what you’re going through. Even as you read this, you may wonder if my care is genuine. I want to assure you that when we work together, you will have my full focus and care. I am especially passionate about helping adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life transitions.

If you feel stuck, burdened, or uncertain about your next steps, I’m here to help you rediscover hope, purpose, and connection in your life.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THERAPY

When mental health challenges weigh you down, it’s easy to feel like a burden to those around you. This is often the moment most people seek therapy. My approach is strengths-based and person-centered, meaning we’ll focus on your unique strengths while creating a path forward that feels right for you.

Together, we’ll reflect on and strengthen your relationships—with yourself and with others. Whether it’s family, friends, coworkers, or leaders in your life, we’ll work to ensure you have the support you need for meaningful healing.

MY APPROACH

My counseling approach is strengths-based and person-centered. I began my journey working in the vibrant and diverse communities of Chicago’s South and West Sides. During my graduate studies at the University of Chicago, I gained valuable experience as a school social work intern and a trauma therapy intern at UofC Comer Children’s Hospital. I have 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. In my current position at Mindful Healing Counseling, I am a telehealth therapist under the supervision of Dr. Aretha Steele as I work on obtaining my LCSW.

FUN FACTS

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.

LET’S WORK TOGETHER

My goal is to help you create a kinder, more peaceful world—inside and out. 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!

If you have more questions or want to talk with us first, feel free to reach out.