Thomas Ivey, LCSW(He/Him/His)

Thomas W. Ivey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Mental Health & Sports Therapist who works with children, teens, college students, adults, and athletes navigating stress, anxiety, life transitions, burnout, and performance pressure. He is especially passionate about supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, student-athletes, and young adults who may feel overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or disconnected from themselves and others. Thomas also helps clients strengthen confidence, improve emotional awareness, and build healthier ways to respond to life’s challenges.

Thomas believes therapy should feel honest, supportive, and practical. His approach focuses on helping clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and patterns while developing tools they can apply in everyday life. Sessions often center around emotional regulation, mindfulness, self-awareness, communication, and building resilience during difficult moments. He also incorporates EMDR-informed techniques to help clients process difficult experiences, reduce emotional distress, and move forward with greater confidence and clarity.

Clients often describe Thomas as calm, engaging, relatable, and direct in a supportive way. As a former Division I and professional athlete, he understands the pressures that can come with expectations, competition, injury, and balancing personal well-being with performance. He values creating a space where clients feel heard without judgment while also being encouraged to grow.

Thomas has worked in schools, community settings, and private practice for more than 20 years. He is the founder of Up Your Game Counseling and provides virtual and in-person therapy services in the Chicago area.