Therapists in 60601
Sara Groth
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have experience working with individual adults and partnerships in areas such as anxiety, depression, sex & intimate wellness, relationship conflict, sexual assault, life transitions, and self esteem. One of my primary areas of expertise is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas of positive sexual and/ or gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and sexual health. However, I work with people of all identities and backgrounds. I foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, and polyamorous- and kink-affirming.
I have experience working with individual adults and partnerships in areas such as anxiety, depression, sex & intimate wellness, relationship conflict, sexual assault, life transitions, and self esteem. One of my primary areas of expertise is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas of positive sexual and/ or gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and sexual health. However, I work with people of all identities and backgrounds. I foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, and polyamorous- and kink-affirming.
Barry Shaeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
My life’s work is strengthening the LGBTQ community from the inside out. I do this by working with gay and queer men to live the lives they desire. What often holds us back are layers of expectations and belief systems that we take on from society, our families, and others. When these systemic messages conflict with our authentic selves, this creates a dissonance that often results in anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. This isn’t something that is broken or bad in us. Quite the opposite, it’s our authentic selves yearning to be expressed!
My life’s work is strengthening the LGBTQ community from the inside out. I do this by working with gay and queer men to live the lives they desire. What often holds us back are layers of expectations and belief systems that we take on from society, our families, and others. When these systemic messages conflict with our authentic selves, this creates a dissonance that often results in anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. This isn’t something that is broken or bad in us. Quite the opposite, it’s our authentic selves yearning to be expressed!
Charles Pasternak
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
As a gay therapist, I am also devoted to serving the LGBTQ+ community, and I have a passion for supporting these individuals dealing with challenges in their relationships, family of origin, and careers.
It can be overwhelming and exhausting trying to cope with the pressures and expectations from life that does not allow much room for our own unique selves and needs. This can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, and even hopeless. From my professional and personal experiences, I believe healing and becoming our authentic, best selves comes from relationships where we feel heard and understood. When you and I work together, it is important to me that I provide you with this therapeutic space, so we can collaboratively work on how to cope with these stressors, develop fulfilling relationships, and live life to your fullest potential.
As a gay therapist, I am also devoted to serving the LGBTQ+ community, and I have a passion for supporting these individuals dealing with challenges in their relationships, family of origin, and careers.
It can be overwhelming and exhausting trying to cope with the pressures and expectations from life that does not allow much room for our own unique selves and needs. This can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, and even hopeless. From my professional and personal experiences, I believe healing and becoming our authentic, best selves comes from relationships where we feel heard and understood. When you and I work together, it is important to me that I provide you with this therapeutic space, so we can collaboratively work on how to cope with these stressors, develop fulfilling relationships, and live life to your fullest potential.
Ian Bonner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I'm Dr. Ian Bonner, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, serving LGBTQ+ clients, substance use, and relationships. I also enjoy working with the kink community and supporting clients in open/poly relationships. As a counselor, I am challenging, collaborative, and compassionate in my approach to treatment. Clients who work with me understand from our first session that I work with more than just symptoms and problems; I treat the whole person. In sessions, I take great care to ensure that you feel understood, valued, and known and eagerly utilize your feedback about our work. I welcome you to contact me with any questions.
I'm Dr. Ian Bonner, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, serving LGBTQ+ clients, substance use, and relationships. I also enjoy working with the kink community and supporting clients in open/poly relationships. As a counselor, I am challenging, collaborative, and compassionate in my approach to treatment. Clients who work with me understand from our first session that I work with more than just symptoms and problems; I treat the whole person. In sessions, I take great care to ensure that you feel understood, valued, and known and eagerly utilize your feedback about our work. I welcome you to contact me with any questions.
Laura Tatgenhorst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
I identify as a queer, neurodivergent, artist and therapist.
The urge to not just exist, but to thrive is universally one of the toughest challenges that one can learn to navigate. It can be even harder when you may not feel equipped with the tools to prepare yourself for this massive endeavor. You may feel the need to mask, or hide your truest self in order to ‘get by’ and make things easier on yourself and others around you. I try to tell clients that they deserve to allow themselves to be the truest version of yourself, no matter what that may look like or what society may think. I am here to help guide you through the veil of uncertainty so that I can help you be your most authentic self.
I identify as a queer, neurodivergent, artist and therapist.
The urge to not just exist, but to thrive is universally one of the toughest challenges that one can learn to navigate. It can be even harder when you may not feel equipped with the tools to prepare yourself for this massive endeavor. You may feel the need to mask, or hide your truest self in order to ‘get by’ and make things easier on yourself and others around you. I try to tell clients that they deserve to allow themselves to be the truest version of yourself, no matter what that may look like or what society may think. I am here to help guide you through the veil of uncertainty so that I can help you be your most authentic self.
Kaitlin Grant McGirr
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
It's challenging to deal with changes in your life, finding your identity, and managing relationships no matter what, but it's extra challenging if you don't take the "traditional" route. As a queer individual, I know the challenge myself. Whether you want to explore your gender or sexuality, receive support throughout a major transition, work through relational difficulties, heal from trauma, or simply expand your feeling of self-love, I can help. I work with folx of all ages to heal from personal and systemic traumas, through the means of deconstructing old narratives and building new meanings of the events in your life.
It's challenging to deal with changes in your life, finding your identity, and managing relationships no matter what, but it's extra challenging if you don't take the "traditional" route. As a queer individual, I know the challenge myself. Whether you want to explore your gender or sexuality, receive support throughout a major transition, work through relational difficulties, heal from trauma, or simply expand your feeling of self-love, I can help. I work with folx of all ages to heal from personal and systemic traumas, through the means of deconstructing old narratives and building new meanings of the events in your life.
Devon Migues
Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
Victoria Borland
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I also particularly enjoy working with emerging adults and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The world we live in can feel scary. Things are constantly changing, and global, societal, and personal events happen outside our control that can make it feel hard to find a place where we truly belong. At other times, life’s unpredictability brings delightful surprises and new opportunities. My goal as your therapist is to create space for contradictions: to help you experience both the challenge and the joy, so that you can move away from feeling as though you are just surviving life and towards fully, authentically living it.
I also particularly enjoy working with emerging adults and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The world we live in can feel scary. Things are constantly changing, and global, societal, and personal events happen outside our control that can make it feel hard to find a place where we truly belong. At other times, life’s unpredictability brings delightful surprises and new opportunities. My goal as your therapist is to create space for contradictions: to help you experience both the challenge and the joy, so that you can move away from feeling as though you are just surviving life and towards fully, authentically living it.
Phoebe Caplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with a range of individuals including adults, teens, and children. I have worked with clients with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, and gender dysphoria. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, folks with diagnosed or self-identified Autism/ADHD, and those navigating pregnancy/postpartum. Therapy with me is an affirming space for those in the kink and poly communities. I enjoy working with individuals who wish to deepen their understanding of their identity, are undergoing a life transition, or who want to understand how their past informs their present.
I work with a range of individuals including adults, teens, and children. I have worked with clients with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, and gender dysphoria. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, folks with diagnosed or self-identified Autism/ADHD, and those navigating pregnancy/postpartum. Therapy with me is an affirming space for those in the kink and poly communities. I enjoy working with individuals who wish to deepen their understanding of their identity, are undergoing a life transition, or who want to understand how their past informs their present.
Zayn Singh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My identity as a South Asian, queer, and trans person means I understand being in a world where systems impact us.
Being a therapist is a privilege and an honor. I care deeply about your reality and experience of the world. I have a Master's degree in Counseling, focusing on psychodynamic and feminist theory. My psychodynamic training means I have experience listening in a specific way that invites us, together, to discover and make meaning out of the experiences in life. I believe that gaining insight means learning to be open to learning about ourselves curiously and compassionately. All parts of you, including the ones deemed shameful or bad, are accepted into this space.
My identity as a South Asian, queer, and trans person means I understand being in a world where systems impact us.
Being a therapist is a privilege and an honor. I care deeply about your reality and experience of the world. I have a Master's degree in Counseling, focusing on psychodynamic and feminist theory. My psychodynamic training means I have experience listening in a specific way that invites us, together, to discover and make meaning out of the experiences in life. I believe that gaining insight means learning to be open to learning about ourselves curiously and compassionately. All parts of you, including the ones deemed shameful or bad, are accepted into this space.
Lindsey Szeszol
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Hi there, I'm Lindsey. I work with folks ages 12 and up on goals related to depression, anxiety, trauma, complex trauma, body liberation, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ identities. My work is centered around creating a warm, accepting space that promotes safety and connection to my clients. I believe healing happens through a collaborative relationship between you and myself, while emphasizing your autonomy and self-knowledge. Together we will work toward your current goals while also acknowledging the impact your past and the world around you has on your journey.
Hi there, I'm Lindsey. I work with folks ages 12 and up on goals related to depression, anxiety, trauma, complex trauma, body liberation, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ identities. My work is centered around creating a warm, accepting space that promotes safety and connection to my clients. I believe healing happens through a collaborative relationship between you and myself, while emphasizing your autonomy and self-knowledge. Together we will work toward your current goals while also acknowledging the impact your past and the world around you has on your journey.
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Chris Montiel
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have experience and highly value working with Queer (LGBTQIA+), Latinx/First-Generation, poor, BIPOC, and other marginalized folx from adolescence through adulthood. I have worked with survivors of complex and acute trauma, and with clients experiencing - among others - symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, obsessive thoughts, relationship challenges, perfectionism, people pleasing, and isolation.
I have experience and highly value working with Queer (LGBTQIA+), Latinx/First-Generation, poor, BIPOC, and other marginalized folx from adolescence through adulthood. I have worked with survivors of complex and acute trauma, and with clients experiencing - among others - symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, obsessive thoughts, relationship challenges, perfectionism, people pleasing, and isolation.
June Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in providing therapy to adolescents and young adults from a wide range of backgrounds, with a particular focus on supporting BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ clients. My practice includes working with individuals facing a variety of challenges, such as ADHD, autism, anger management, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, boundary issues, and relationship difficulties. I am especially passionate about helping individuals who have experienced trauma, and I seek to approach each client with cultural sensitivity, empathy, and a genuine desire to understand and support their unique experiences.
I specialize in providing therapy to adolescents and young adults from a wide range of backgrounds, with a particular focus on supporting BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ clients. My practice includes working with individuals facing a variety of challenges, such as ADHD, autism, anger management, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, boundary issues, and relationship difficulties. I am especially passionate about helping individuals who have experienced trauma, and I seek to approach each client with cultural sensitivity, empathy, and a genuine desire to understand and support their unique experiences.
Amanda Peclat-Begin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
Utilizing social-justice-focused, narrative, queer, feminist, trauma-informed, strengths-based, & person-centered theories in practice, I strive to create a collaborative relationship to help you learn skills to cope, process stresses, & empower you on this stop of your path to healing.
I am delighted you are taking these first steps on your healing & wellness journey. I know firsthand how nerve-wracking & challenging the process of seeking the best therapist to meet your needs can be. I believe in the power of the therapeutic process & I strive to create a safe space for you to be present with your emotions & any struggles you have found challenging to manage alone. Having a non-judgmental space to explore feelings, experiences, & behaviors with someone who can witness & hold space for the full spectrum of the human condition & meeting you where you are is so transformative & healing.
Utilizing social-justice-focused, narrative, queer, feminist, trauma-informed, strengths-based, & person-centered theories in practice, I strive to create a collaborative relationship to help you learn skills to cope, process stresses, & empower you on this stop of your path to healing.
I am delighted you are taking these first steps on your healing & wellness journey. I know firsthand how nerve-wracking & challenging the process of seeking the best therapist to meet your needs can be. I believe in the power of the therapeutic process & I strive to create a safe space for you to be present with your emotions & any struggles you have found challenging to manage alone. Having a non-judgmental space to explore feelings, experiences, & behaviors with someone who can witness & hold space for the full spectrum of the human condition & meeting you where you are is so transformative & healing.
Ara Lucia Ashburne
MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
Many adults face anxiety and trauma and seek a life free from the limitations these challenges bring. These are my specialty! I also work with persons in the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member. I also teach a contemplative writing technique that can be used as a spiritual or mindfulness practice in support of the healing process. Though I have an M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Illinois Institute of Technology, I am also a visual artist and received my undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Art. I primarily use Internal Family Systems Therapy as the modality for treating clients.
Many adults face anxiety and trauma and seek a life free from the limitations these challenges bring. These are my specialty! I also work with persons in the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member. I also teach a contemplative writing technique that can be used as a spiritual or mindfulness practice in support of the healing process. Though I have an M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Illinois Institute of Technology, I am also a visual artist and received my undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Art. I primarily use Internal Family Systems Therapy as the modality for treating clients.
Sara Boyd
Counselor, LCPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Finding a therapist can be really hard work, so I applaud you for looking at this page right now! I'm quirky and humorous and I'd love to help with whatever you're bringing to therapy. I specialize in OCD and anxiety, and enjoy working with all letters of the LGBT+ community. I strive to provide trans-affirming care. My goal is to give you a safe and nonjudgmental space to bring whatever you've got going on, help you make sense of it, and learn how to cope.
Finding a therapist can be really hard work, so I applaud you for looking at this page right now! I'm quirky and humorous and I'd love to help with whatever you're bringing to therapy. I specialize in OCD and anxiety, and enjoy working with all letters of the LGBT+ community. I strive to provide trans-affirming care. My goal is to give you a safe and nonjudgmental space to bring whatever you've got going on, help you make sense of it, and learn how to cope.
Caitlyn Rhorer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I am a holistic and inclusive therapist focusing on trauma, anxiety, sex and relationships. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folx and non-traditional relationship dynamics (polyamory/CNM). I approach issues from a holistic lens, which includes all aspects of your life experience. My work is strengths based and client centered, meaning I believe you are the expert on your life and you possess unique strengths to help you on your journey. Together we will foster and build your strengths as we embark on the path towards self-discovery and healing.
I am a holistic and inclusive therapist focusing on trauma, anxiety, sex and relationships. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folx and non-traditional relationship dynamics (polyamory/CNM). I approach issues from a holistic lens, which includes all aspects of your life experience. My work is strengths based and client centered, meaning I believe you are the expert on your life and you possess unique strengths to help you on your journey. Together we will foster and build your strengths as we embark on the path towards self-discovery and healing.
Philip Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
He is highly experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, personality disorders, LGBT challenges, relationship difficulties, and a variety of social challenges facing African American males in the community.
Philip Montgomery, LPC, PhD, has a track record of delivering high-quality services to individuals with a variety of emotional difficulties. He believes each client's voice needs to be heard and their stories validated to allow them to feel safe so the work can begin. Philip earned an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University and a PhD from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
He is highly experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, personality disorders, LGBT challenges, relationship difficulties, and a variety of social challenges facing African American males in the community.
Philip Montgomery, LPC, PhD, has a track record of delivering high-quality services to individuals with a variety of emotional difficulties. He believes each client's voice needs to be heard and their stories validated to allow them to feel safe so the work can begin. Philip earned an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University and a PhD from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I deliver care and treatment primarily to Black, queer, and BIPOC individuals seeking to improve their mental health and life experience. I have extensive experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, sexuality, racial impacts, stress management, and neurodiversity. As a black queer individual, I recognize how difficult the experience can be to find a culturally competent therapist that can understand the nuances of intersectionality and develop strategies to address such issues in a personalized manner. I want to meet my client where they are and assist them in this journey forward.
I deliver care and treatment primarily to Black, queer, and BIPOC individuals seeking to improve their mental health and life experience. I have extensive experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, sexuality, racial impacts, stress management, and neurodiversity. As a black queer individual, I recognize how difficult the experience can be to find a culturally competent therapist that can understand the nuances of intersectionality and develop strategies to address such issues in a personalized manner. I want to meet my client where they are and assist them in this journey forward.
Jeremy Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ identity, as well as grad/professional students, early career professionals, and college mental health.
I like to work with people to address problems that are causing them distress and to help them understand what is keeping them stuck in certain patterns in their lives. I tailor my approach to each unique individual by attending to their identities, experiences, and environment. Therapy can be such a meaningful opportunity to increase insight and to explore and implement change in our lives, and I look forward to joining you in that process.
I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ identity, as well as grad/professional students, early career professionals, and college mental health.
I like to work with people to address problems that are causing them distress and to help them understand what is keeping them stuck in certain patterns in their lives. I tailor my approach to each unique individual by attending to their identities, experiences, and environment. Therapy can be such a meaningful opportunity to increase insight and to explore and implement change in our lives, and I look forward to joining you in that process.
See more therapy options for 60601
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.