Alissa Levy Chung
As a developmentalist, I believe that our past shapes our present, but that every person has the potential for change. I use a variety of therapeutic methods that include gaining insight into the meaning of behavior. I know that something as simple as difficulty with social relationships can have a variety of meanings and origins. For one person, it could be difficulty reading social cues, whereas for another it could be due to social anxiety. The same behavior could also be due to past trauma or a history of relationships problems in the family of origin. Therefore, one size does not fit all for therapy. Each person needs to be matched with the interventions that target his/her specific problem and, more importantly, that call upon his/her areas of strength.
I work flexibly with my clients, seeing both individual and families, depending on the needs of each person who comes to see me. Sometimes our time together is brief, focused on consultation and empowering the clients or family to be able to meet their own needs. Other times we may work together for an extended period of time, particularly when unexpected life stresses arise.
I am also a parent of three daughters who attended schools in Evanston. Two of my children have disabilities, and I have been active in the community, schools, and PTA.
Education and Experience
1999 Ph.D. in Clinical and Developmental Psychology
University of Minnesota
Advisor: L.Alan Sroufe, Ph.D.
2018 to present
Northwestern University
Associate Professor of Instruction in Psychology
2023 to present
Northwestern University
Associate Director of Clinical Training
Zach Anderson
As a therapist, I specialize in evidence-based treatments that are both structured and deeply
compassionate. I work with adults, teens, and children navigating a wide range of
challenges—from depression, anxiety, and trauma to substance use, mood dysregulation, and
intense negative thoughts. If you're carrying the weight of past trauma, you don’t have to do it
alone. I specialize in working with adults who are navigating the lasting impact of traumatic
experiences—whether that means anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or feeling stuck in
patterns that no longer serve you. Drawing from evidence-based approaches like Cognitive
Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy,
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I work
collaboratively to help you make sense of what’s happened, reconnect with your values, and
build a greater sense of safety and self-trust. For me, therapy is an opportunity to reclaim your
life and to do it on your own terms. I’m excited to take part in whatever journey you’re on.
Education and Experience
2025 Ph.D in Clinical Psychology
Northwestern University
Advisor: Robin Nusslock, Ph.D.
2025-present
Northwestern University
Postdoc with Vijay Mittal, Ph.D., conducting research on risk for the onset of psychosis
2024-2025
Predoctoral Internship
University of Illinois at Chicago
Research and clinical work related to mood disorders and
psychosis risk