LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 60608
E Ardron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
I am committed to creating an affirming, non-judgemental environment for LGBTQ+ folx to feel empowered and supported.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
I am committed to creating an affirming, non-judgemental environment for LGBTQ+ folx to feel empowered and supported.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
Drake Schoeppl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
Sometimes life becomes unmanageable on our own and we have to reach out for help. I am here to help normalize therapy and the discomfort that comes along with it. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from chronic anxiety, depression, complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and everyday life stressors that can be difficult to manage.
Sometimes life becomes unmanageable on our own and we have to reach out for help. I am here to help normalize therapy and the discomfort that comes along with it. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from chronic anxiety, depression, complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and everyday life stressors that can be difficult to manage.
Joie Wiener
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
Joie is a North Side resident, and a proud member of the Queer, Neurodiverse, and Chronically Ill/ Disabled communities. They believe in nurturing and cherishing these identities (as well as all others!), and challenging social norms with the radical act of being yourself. Joie is a former social emotional and sexual health educator, and has worked with young people in various capacities for over 10 years. They’ve worked both in the schools and via Telehealth to provide therapy to children, adolescents, and emerging adults, focusing primarily on acute and complex trauma, neurodivergence, and gender/sexuality identity development.
Joie is a North Side resident, and a proud member of the Queer, Neurodiverse, and Chronically Ill/ Disabled communities. They believe in nurturing and cherishing these identities (as well as all others!), and challenging social norms with the radical act of being yourself. Joie is a former social emotional and sexual health educator, and has worked with young people in various capacities for over 10 years. They’ve worked both in the schools and via Telehealth to provide therapy to children, adolescents, and emerging adults, focusing primarily on acute and complex trauma, neurodivergence, and gender/sexuality identity development.
Arthur Avalos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
I work with behavioral issues, mood impairment, anxiety, life transitions, work/life balance, self-esteem, substance abuse, chronic medical issues, crisis management and issues unique to the LGBTQ population.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
I work with behavioral issues, mood impairment, anxiety, life transitions, work/life balance, self-esteem, substance abuse, chronic medical issues, crisis management and issues unique to the LGBTQ population.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
Phoebe Caplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
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.
Roger Hartline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
I have history working with older adults, adults, and the LGBTQ+ population in a group therapy setting as well as an individual setting.
My name is Roger Hartline and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with several years of experience working with adults with a variety of behavioral health concerns.
I have history working with older adults, adults, and the LGBTQ+ population in a group therapy setting as well as an individual setting.
My name is Roger Hartline and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with several years of experience working with adults with a variety of behavioral health concerns.
Tessa Courtney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with young people with anxiety and depression, with a special focus on LGBTQ+ identifying folks.
Hi there, I'm Tessa! I work primarily with adolescents and young adults to help them identify roadblocks on their path to success. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, anxiety over school performance, challenging family dynamics, or cycles of intrusive thoughts, I am here to help.
I specialize in working with young people with anxiety and depression, with a special focus on LGBTQ+ identifying folks.
Hi there, I'm Tessa! I work primarily with adolescents and young adults to help them identify roadblocks on their path to success. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, anxiety over school performance, challenging family dynamics, or cycles of intrusive thoughts, I am here to help.
Albe Gutierrez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, BFA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
I am especially dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals in their gender and sexual identity exploration and formation, destigmatizing mental health care and treatment among marginalized and immigrant communities, and am deeply committed to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journey.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
I am especially dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals in their gender and sexual identity exploration and formation, destigmatizing mental health care and treatment among marginalized and immigrant communities, and am deeply committed to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journey.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
Jess Muir
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
In addition to providing treatment for a variety of different disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders (among others), I also have a passion for providing services to the LGBTQ+ community to make sure they have access to the support and care they deserve/need.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist based in Illinois. I received my Master's Degree from Lewis University and have been practicing for five years.
In addition to providing treatment for a variety of different disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders (among others), I also have a passion for providing services to the LGBTQ+ community to make sure they have access to the support and care they deserve/need.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist based in Illinois. I received my Master's Degree from Lewis University and have been practicing for five years.
June Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
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.
Scott J Hunter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
As a gay, cisgender male psychotherapist, who is feminist in my orientation, and experienced in the integration of contemporary therapeutic approaches that promote change and self-efficacy, I will meet you where you are, and with necessary humility and skilled, engaged support and guidance, we will work together collaboratively to foster change and growth.
I am an experienced (25+ years) clinical psychologist working with individuals seeking to improve their lives, and their capacity to meet daily demands, goals, choices, and opportunities with regard to their relationships, education, career, and identity. I specialize in individual psychotherapy with late adolescents and adults, from an integrative, trauma and multiculturally informed, empirically supported approach - engaging cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, and developmental interventions to help identify and then understand challenges and resilience, and to support desired mood, behavior, and cognitive change.
As a gay, cisgender male psychotherapist, who is feminist in my orientation, and experienced in the integration of contemporary therapeutic approaches that promote change and self-efficacy, I will meet you where you are, and with necessary humility and skilled, engaged support and guidance, we will work together collaboratively to foster change and growth.
I am an experienced (25+ years) clinical psychologist working with individuals seeking to improve their lives, and their capacity to meet daily demands, goals, choices, and opportunities with regard to their relationships, education, career, and identity. I specialize in individual psychotherapy with late adolescents and adults, from an integrative, trauma and multiculturally informed, empirically supported approach - engaging cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, and developmental interventions to help identify and then understand challenges and resilience, and to support desired mood, behavior, and cognitive change.
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Natasha Rabinovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
As a person of color, queer, and gender non-conforming individual, I understand the unique challenges that can come with navigating intersecting identities.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, but I understand the bravery and vulnerability it takes to seek help. As your therapist, I'll meet you where you're at, without judgment, and guide you through the process with patience and compassion. Together, we'll explore your concerns and emotions, empowering you to advocate for yourself and connect with your personal truth.
As a person of color, queer, and gender non-conforming individual, I understand the unique challenges that can come with navigating intersecting identities.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, but I understand the bravery and vulnerability it takes to seek help. As your therapist, I'll meet you where you're at, without judgment, and guide you through the process with patience and compassion. Together, we'll explore your concerns and emotions, empowering you to advocate for yourself and connect with your personal truth.
Lynette Collins
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Chicago IL. I have 14 years of experience providing therapy to an array of clients such as caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease, as well as women, people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and caregiver stress.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Chicago IL. I have 14 years of experience providing therapy to an array of clients such as caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease, as well as women, people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and caregiver stress.
Novella Blackmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
It’s about growth, acceptance, & embracing your truths as you face the obstacles of life! Growing up as a Black queer woman, I know how it feels to scream an unheard cry.
Hi there! Are you struggling with a silent war of anxiety, depression, & PTSD? Are you unsure on how to build your self-esteem? Life has just been life-ing & you feel like you're at a standstill? Lets work together to find the root of it all and work past it. I have a strong love for implementing mindfulness techniques, a focus on self-love, journaling, and a focus on the mind-body connection, adding a holistic approach to my psychodynamic technique for a little razzle dazzle.
It’s about growth, acceptance, & embracing your truths as you face the obstacles of life! Growing up as a Black queer woman, I know how it feels to scream an unheard cry.
Hi there! Are you struggling with a silent war of anxiety, depression, & PTSD? Are you unsure on how to build your self-esteem? Life has just been life-ing & you feel like you're at a standstill? Lets work together to find the root of it all and work past it. I have a strong love for implementing mindfulness techniques, a focus on self-love, journaling, and a focus on the mind-body connection, adding a holistic approach to my psychodynamic technique for a little razzle dazzle.
Carolina Kuhl
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
The thought of starting therapy can be overwhelming, but I appreciate you for making the effort to figure out what's best for you! It's never late to start watering the wilted parts of yourself you've forgotten about. Sometimes you may need more guidance, a fresh perspective, or a chisme break. Whatever it is, we can sort through life's uncertainties together. As a multicultural queer Latina, I believe access and representation in therapy for the Latine community is crucial in eliminating mental health stigma. Aquí puedes tomar su tiempo, you can take your time here and find the pilas or batteries our people keep asking us to get.
The thought of starting therapy can be overwhelming, but I appreciate you for making the effort to figure out what's best for you! It's never late to start watering the wilted parts of yourself you've forgotten about. Sometimes you may need more guidance, a fresh perspective, or a chisme break. Whatever it is, we can sort through life's uncertainties together. As a multicultural queer Latina, I believe access and representation in therapy for the Latine community is crucial in eliminating mental health stigma. Aquí puedes tomar su tiempo, you can take your time here and find the pilas or batteries our people keep asking us to get.
Diamond Tucker
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
As a black, queer therapist, I am committed to helping my clients navigate issues related to identity and race that directly affect BIPOC and other marginalized communities.
Beginning therapy can feel like an intimidating step for many people. My primary goal as a therapist is to create a safe, supportive space where you can address issues that may be preventing you from living life to its fullest potential. I want to facilitate an environment for healing and growth, and help you ask the hard questions that lead to lasting change.
As a black, queer therapist, I am committed to helping my clients navigate issues related to identity and race that directly affect BIPOC and other marginalized communities.
Beginning therapy can feel like an intimidating step for many people. My primary goal as a therapist is to create a safe, supportive space where you can address issues that may be preventing you from living life to its fullest potential. I want to facilitate an environment for healing and growth, and help you ask the hard questions that lead to lasting change.
Diana Cazares
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
My experience with diverse populations, including young people, adults, and LGBTQ+ youth, ensures an inclusive and affirming environment where all are welcome.
Welcome! I'm Diana, a first-generation Latina therapist dedicated to guiding individuals on their unique journey to self-discovery and growth. With a culturally informed and trauma-sensitive approach, I empower clients to reclaim their voices and navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
My experience with diverse populations, including young people, adults, and LGBTQ+ youth, ensures an inclusive and affirming environment where all are welcome.
Welcome! I'm Diana, a first-generation Latina therapist dedicated to guiding individuals on their unique journey to self-discovery and growth. With a culturally informed and trauma-sensitive approach, I empower clients to reclaim their voices and navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
Molly Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, born and raised in rural Illinois. I have been working in the mental health field for over 5 years. I have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, born and raised in rural Illinois. I have been working in the mental health field for over 5 years. I have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Ann Surber
Licensed Social Worker, AM, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with young adults, the LGBTQIA+ community, and BIPOC.
I believe therapy is a process of cultivating a relationship where we can collaborate to create meaningful change in your life. My practice provides a nonjudgmental space where you are invited to freely express what’s happening in your inner world- to better understand areas of distress in your life, get to know the unique ways you feel and think, and help you find your way towards living more fully and authentically. Through this exploration we may contextualize present challenges or questions you are facing by connecting them to past experiences. My hope is that in our work you discover new ways of relating to yourself and others.
I have extensive experience working with young adults, the LGBTQIA+ community, and BIPOC.
I believe therapy is a process of cultivating a relationship where we can collaborate to create meaningful change in your life. My practice provides a nonjudgmental space where you are invited to freely express what’s happening in your inner world- to better understand areas of distress in your life, get to know the unique ways you feel and think, and help you find your way towards living more fully and authentically. Through this exploration we may contextualize present challenges or questions you are facing by connecting them to past experiences. My hope is that in our work you discover new ways of relating to yourself and others.
Nikki Malazarte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
I enjoy working with individuals navigating their anxiety, feelings of walking between two cultural worlds, complex grief & loss, depression, family dynamics, forced displacement, gender identity, intergenerational trauma, all life stage transitions, spirituality, & relationship with a breast cancer diagnosis. With a trauma-focused & intersectional lens, I primarily work with adolescents, young adults & elderly people from AAPI, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, immigrant & refugee communities. I focus on 1.5 and 2nd generation Filipino/a/x & South Asian American Immigrants, young adults with breast cancer & older adults chronic comorbidities.
I enjoy working with individuals navigating their anxiety, feelings of walking between two cultural worlds, complex grief & loss, depression, family dynamics, forced displacement, gender identity, intergenerational trauma, all life stage transitions, spirituality, & relationship with a breast cancer diagnosis. With a trauma-focused & intersectional lens, I primarily work with adolescents, young adults & elderly people from AAPI, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, immigrant & refugee communities. I focus on 1.5 and 2nd generation Filipino/a/x & South Asian American Immigrants, young adults with breast cancer & older adults chronic comorbidities.
See more therapy options for 60608
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.