LGBTQ+ Therapists in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Dr. Devin Bercaw
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with both heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ issues and have extensive experience working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, relationship issues, and vocational concerns.
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy and provide full-spectrum and client-specific treatment in a warm and non-judgmental setting. Most of us lead complicated and stressful lives and often find ourselves unable to cope with the many challenges facing us on a daily basis. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy and draw from various therapeutic approaches to address the unique needs of each client. I also incorporate mindfulness, breathing, and meditation into sessions when it is appropriate for dealing with stress, anxiety, and related issues.
I specialize in working with both heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ issues and have extensive experience working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, relationship issues, and vocational concerns.
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy and provide full-spectrum and client-specific treatment in a warm and non-judgmental setting. Most of us lead complicated and stressful lives and often find ourselves unable to cope with the many challenges facing us on a daily basis. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy and draw from various therapeutic approaches to address the unique needs of each client. I also incorporate mindfulness, breathing, and meditation into sessions when it is appropriate for dealing with stress, anxiety, and related issues.
I specialize in working with diverse individuals and issues, including immigrants, LGBTQ individuals and couples, as well as transgender individuals in the midst of transitioning.
I would definitely say being a psychologist is my calling. I am very passionate about helping others and making humanity and the world a better place, both personally and professionally. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space in order to help you examine yourself and your path to a meaningful life. I help you identify and build off of your strengths and values and help you with the parts of your personality that may be getting in the way of your having a more fulfilling life and feeling deeply connected in your relationships.
I specialize in working with diverse individuals and issues, including immigrants, LGBTQ individuals and couples, as well as transgender individuals in the midst of transitioning.
I would definitely say being a psychologist is my calling. I am very passionate about helping others and making humanity and the world a better place, both personally and professionally. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space in order to help you examine yourself and your path to a meaningful life. I help you identify and build off of your strengths and values and help you with the parts of your personality that may be getting in the way of your having a more fulfilling life and feeling deeply connected in your relationships.
Aleksandra Gorman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60630
My specialty areas, however, include adolescent and coming of age issues, youth involved in the juvenile justice system, LGBTQ+ populations, and identity issues.
My name is Aleksandra (she/her) and first and foremost, I want to take a moment to commend you for finding your way to this page and taking this step towards improving your mental wellness. Wherever you may be in your journey, I am committed to fostering a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can take the time to process and work through whatever challenges you may be facing. There are many obstacles that life can throw our way, and I am passionate about supporting individuals as they overcome those difficult times.
My specialty areas, however, include adolescent and coming of age issues, youth involved in the juvenile justice system, LGBTQ+ populations, and identity issues.
My name is Aleksandra (she/her) and first and foremost, I want to take a moment to commend you for finding your way to this page and taking this step towards improving your mental wellness. Wherever you may be in your journey, I am committed to fostering a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can take the time to process and work through whatever challenges you may be facing. There are many obstacles that life can throw our way, and I am passionate about supporting individuals as they overcome those difficult times.
With more than 6 years of professional education and experience in mental health care, Lucretia has continued showcasing a commitment to helping a diverse range of clients, including those from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those dealing with relationship issues.
Lucretia Mayer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2015. Lucretia is uniquely skilled in working with professionals like caregivers, medical professionals, social workers, and counselors, focusing on managing career and emotional burnout, which is increasingly relevant in today's high-stress work/living environments. Her approach is characterized by a deep sense of empathy, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and understanding therapeutic relationship.
With more than 6 years of professional education and experience in mental health care, Lucretia has continued showcasing a commitment to helping a diverse range of clients, including those from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those dealing with relationship issues.
Lucretia Mayer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2015. Lucretia is uniquely skilled in working with professionals like caregivers, medical professionals, social workers, and counselors, focusing on managing career and emotional burnout, which is increasingly relevant in today's high-stress work/living environments. Her approach is characterized by a deep sense of empathy, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and understanding therapeutic relationship.
He also has experience working with LGBTQ+ community, people on the autism spectrum, extending a hand to those who are seeking direction in life or simply want a place to help figure things out during life transition.
Jay Butterfield, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Illinois since 2019, brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to his practice. Armed with an MS from Mercer University, Jay is dedicated to employing research-based techniques and practices to enhance the well-being of his clients. His methodology is eclectic but has strong roots in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), among others. His style is typically navigational, with a focus on finding realistic goals and actionable solutions.
He also has experience working with LGBTQ+ community, people on the autism spectrum, extending a hand to those who are seeking direction in life or simply want a place to help figure things out during life transition.
Jay Butterfield, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Illinois since 2019, brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to his practice. Armed with an MS from Mercer University, Jay is dedicated to employing research-based techniques and practices to enhance the well-being of his clients. His methodology is eclectic but has strong roots in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), among others. His style is typically navigational, with a focus on finding realistic goals and actionable solutions.
Mary M Clarke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Waitlist for new clients
I connect with the LGBTQ+, Trans, and Non Binary communities.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
I connect with the LGBTQ+, Trans, and Non Binary communities.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
Nancy Milam
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641 (Online Only)
I specialize with providing therapy to the Elderly, Latinx & LGBTQIA+ Communities among others.
I would love to work with someone who wants help handling something in their life whether internal, external, or both and is committed to working on their mental health.
I specialize with providing therapy to the Elderly, Latinx & LGBTQIA+ Communities among others.
I would love to work with someone who wants help handling something in their life whether internal, external, or both and is committed to working on their mental health.
Javier Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I specialize in Latine/, BIPOC and LGBTQIA areas of counseling.
I am a bilingual, Spanish speaking therapist that seeks to provide a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I primarily specialize in adolescents to young adults who have experienced any type of mood disorder (depression, anxiety, trauma) and I have experience in counseling families as well. I specialize in men's issues regarding healthy relationships and vulnerability as well as overcoming the stigma around mental health. I am passionate and curious to learn about the unique challenges my clients face, in order to better equip each client to advocate for their needs and build confidence to strive for the life they want!
I specialize in Latine/, BIPOC and LGBTQIA areas of counseling.
I am a bilingual, Spanish speaking therapist that seeks to provide a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I primarily specialize in adolescents to young adults who have experienced any type of mood disorder (depression, anxiety, trauma) and I have experience in counseling families as well. I specialize in men's issues regarding healthy relationships and vulnerability as well as overcoming the stigma around mental health. I am passionate and curious to learn about the unique challenges my clients face, in order to better equip each client to advocate for their needs and build confidence to strive for the life they want!
Matthew Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have conducted meaningful work around intimacy, sexual identity, relationship dynamics, and have supported LGBTQIA identified individuals.
The therapeutic environment offers a unique opportunity to share, confront, and enhance parts of ourselves while exploring and discovering deeper traits and skills that we may possess. As a therapist, I believe in empowering the individual through therapeutic experiences that foster a lasting change outside of the therapy setting. I cherish the opportunity to engage in this relationship and commit myself to doing the work with you and supporting your exploration. I value modeling transparency, care, boundaries, and healthy support systems. I believe that challenging dialogue in a safe environment leads to internal growth.
I have conducted meaningful work around intimacy, sexual identity, relationship dynamics, and have supported LGBTQIA identified individuals.
The therapeutic environment offers a unique opportunity to share, confront, and enhance parts of ourselves while exploring and discovering deeper traits and skills that we may possess. As a therapist, I believe in empowering the individual through therapeutic experiences that foster a lasting change outside of the therapy setting. I cherish the opportunity to engage in this relationship and commit myself to doing the work with you and supporting your exploration. I value modeling transparency, care, boundaries, and healthy support systems. I believe that challenging dialogue in a safe environment leads to internal growth.
I am experienced with relationship issues, LGBTQ concerns, CBT, DBT, self empathy, and specialize in treatment of identity and relationship discernment, depression, anxiety, and mood issues.
Parts of life are heartbreaking, challenging, and anxiety producing. Working together, we can find a way to enhance your ability to provide yourself empathy, discern life's most difficult choices, and heal painful wounds. Recognizing and utilizing our greatest strengths can enhance our ability to face life's toughest challenges. I look forward to being a supportive and compassionate therapist as you resiliently and thoughtfully examine your self, relationships, and mood or emotions. I work primarily with adults and couples.
I am experienced with relationship issues, LGBTQ concerns, CBT, DBT, self empathy, and specialize in treatment of identity and relationship discernment, depression, anxiety, and mood issues.
Parts of life are heartbreaking, challenging, and anxiety producing. Working together, we can find a way to enhance your ability to provide yourself empathy, discern life's most difficult choices, and heal painful wounds. Recognizing and utilizing our greatest strengths can enhance our ability to face life's toughest challenges. I look forward to being a supportive and compassionate therapist as you resiliently and thoughtfully examine your self, relationships, and mood or emotions. I work primarily with adults and couples.
I also specialize in working with victims of domestic and sexual abuse of all ages (3 - 60+), transgender folks, adoption, multi-cultural families and relationships, and more.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
I also specialize in working with victims of domestic and sexual abuse of all ages (3 - 60+), transgender folks, adoption, multi-cultural families and relationships, and more.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
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Thomas Bateman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Specifically, I work with communication issues in relationships, pre-marital counseling, intercultural relationships, LGBTQ issues, Non-monogamy, polyamory, and open relationships.
Therapy, from my perspective, is all about balance and curiosity. High hopes and occasional tough love balanced with gentleness and compassion for yourself and your loved ones. Embracing and working toward change while also accepting oneself and loving our immutable parts. Curiosity about why we are the way we are and where we might go from here, and the openness and vulnerability to get there. I view therapy as very much a collaboration -- I bring my expertise in therapeutic methods, you bring your expertise in your own life, and together we work to build the best future for you.
Specifically, I work with communication issues in relationships, pre-marital counseling, intercultural relationships, LGBTQ issues, Non-monogamy, polyamory, and open relationships.
Therapy, from my perspective, is all about balance and curiosity. High hopes and occasional tough love balanced with gentleness and compassion for yourself and your loved ones. Embracing and working toward change while also accepting oneself and loving our immutable parts. Curiosity about why we are the way we are and where we might go from here, and the openness and vulnerability to get there. I view therapy as very much a collaboration -- I bring my expertise in therapeutic methods, you bring your expertise in your own life, and together we work to build the best future for you.
Hillary Douin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I have a background in a variety of community settings, primarily specializing in work related to traumatic stress, family systems, and community mental health. I have individual and group therapy experience working with adult, adolescent, and child survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other forms of interpersonal violence. I am passionate about providing affirming services to the LGBTQIA+ community. Specialties: trauma and attachment, victim advocacy, anger management, relationship issues, transitions, parent-child work, nonprofit work, clinical supervision
I have a background in a variety of community settings, primarily specializing in work related to traumatic stress, family systems, and community mental health. I have individual and group therapy experience working with adult, adolescent, and child survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other forms of interpersonal violence. I am passionate about providing affirming services to the LGBTQIA+ community. Specialties: trauma and attachment, victim advocacy, anger management, relationship issues, transitions, parent-child work, nonprofit work, clinical supervision
Amy McNew, LLC - Luminations Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
In addition to my therapeutic orientation, I believe that the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is also essential for healing and transformation.
Welcome to my practice. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and bodyworker. I take a holistic, collaborative approach to helping clients heal by using a combination of psychotherapy, biofeedback, and craniosacral therapy to help clients move toward a sense of peace and balance in their lives. For many, this means that we will work together to heal from past traumas, overcome symptoms of depression and anxiety, learn to be more self-accepting, cultivate more fulfilling relationships, and find deeper meaning in life.
In addition to my therapeutic orientation, I believe that the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is also essential for healing and transformation.
Welcome to my practice. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and bodyworker. I take a holistic, collaborative approach to helping clients heal by using a combination of psychotherapy, biofeedback, and craniosacral therapy to help clients move toward a sense of peace and balance in their lives. For many, this means that we will work together to heal from past traumas, overcome symptoms of depression and anxiety, learn to be more self-accepting, cultivate more fulfilling relationships, and find deeper meaning in life.
Sammy Peachey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Embracing diversity and celebrating queerness, Sammy is dedicated to helping clients build fulfilling connections and lead authentic lives.
Meet Sammy, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to fostering positive and affirming relationships. With a passion for relational work, Sammy sees people in the context of their relationships and specializes in providing support for individuals and couples exploring non-monogamous and polyamorous dynamics, as well as monogamous relationships. In their practice, Sammy embraces a sex-positive and inclusive approach, recognizing the unique needs and experiences within the queer community. As a sex therapist, they are committed to creating a safe space for clients to explore and navigate their sexual well-being.
Embracing diversity and celebrating queerness, Sammy is dedicated to helping clients build fulfilling connections and lead authentic lives.
Meet Sammy, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to fostering positive and affirming relationships. With a passion for relational work, Sammy sees people in the context of their relationships and specializes in providing support for individuals and couples exploring non-monogamous and polyamorous dynamics, as well as monogamous relationships. In their practice, Sammy embraces a sex-positive and inclusive approach, recognizing the unique needs and experiences within the queer community. As a sex therapist, they are committed to creating a safe space for clients to explore and navigate their sexual well-being.
Tania Sepulveda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
My specialties revolve around survivors of domestic violence, LGBTQ+ individuals, and first/second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences in their family systems.
Often times our small wins and progress gets overshadowed by life’s stressors and chaos. In the space I provide for clients, we will always acknowledge and identify all wins and strengths in hopes to build up self-esteem, confidence, and motivation to move towards goals you may have, as well as developing a healthier thought process. If you’re looking for a space free of judgment, a space to make sense of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (all while sharing some good laughs!), I encourage you to take the first step towards investing into your mental health. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it.
My specialties revolve around survivors of domestic violence, LGBTQ+ individuals, and first/second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences in their family systems.
Often times our small wins and progress gets overshadowed by life’s stressors and chaos. In the space I provide for clients, we will always acknowledge and identify all wins and strengths in hopes to build up self-esteem, confidence, and motivation to move towards goals you may have, as well as developing a healthier thought process. If you’re looking for a space free of judgment, a space to make sense of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (all while sharing some good laughs!), I encourage you to take the first step towards investing into your mental health. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it.
Jessica Hoyos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing relationally focused therapy to individuals, couples, children, and families from diverse backgrounds and identities. As a bilingual clinician with Ecuadorian and Colombian heritage, I am particularly committed to serving BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and migrant communities who may face unique challenges in understanding and accessing mental health resources. By working alongside clients, my goal is to help break down societal beliefs surrounding therapy and identify a better understanding of yourself, and/or your family that is holistically informed by identity, culture, and past experiences.
I specialize in providing relationally focused therapy to individuals, couples, children, and families from diverse backgrounds and identities. As a bilingual clinician with Ecuadorian and Colombian heritage, I am particularly committed to serving BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and migrant communities who may face unique challenges in understanding and accessing mental health resources. By working alongside clients, my goal is to help break down societal beliefs surrounding therapy and identify a better understanding of yourself, and/or your family that is holistically informed by identity, culture, and past experiences.
Kimberly Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Kim Curtis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has been practicing since 2020. Her main areas of focus include anxiety, depression, women’s health issues, and addiction/dependency. Kim has specialized training and experience in substance and process addictions, including opioid, stimulant, alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, inhalant, sedatives, hallucinogens, anxiolytics, gambling, sex, gaming, food, and exercise addiction. Kim is currently exploring more trainings on women’s health, including attentive deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and premenstrual exacerbation (PME).
Kim Curtis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has been practicing since 2020. Her main areas of focus include anxiety, depression, women’s health issues, and addiction/dependency. Kim has specialized training and experience in substance and process addictions, including opioid, stimulant, alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, inhalant, sedatives, hallucinogens, anxiolytics, gambling, sex, gaming, food, and exercise addiction. Kim is currently exploring more trainings on women’s health, including attentive deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and premenstrual exacerbation (PME).
Hana Crnovrsanin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Hana Crnovrsanin is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. She has a MA in Social Work from The University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work and a BA in Sociology and Criminal Justice from North Park University. Hana has personally experienced a variety of difficult life circumstances and conditions that placed her in a position to understand, validate, and create a safe space for individuals to not only express their current life stressors but to also have them understood.
Hana Crnovrsanin is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. She has a MA in Social Work from The University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work and a BA in Sociology and Criminal Justice from North Park University. Hana has personally experienced a variety of difficult life circumstances and conditions that placed her in a position to understand, validate, and create a safe space for individuals to not only express their current life stressors but to also have them understood.
Elizabeth Mengar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Note that prior to the first session taking place with the provider, LifeStance will require a credit card on file. LifeStance providers do not accept Medicare or Medicaid insurance. If booking with these, you will be unable to be seen. The most important aspect to therapy in my eyes is the relationship that I am able to build with a client. It is not possible for growth to happen when there isn't a trusting and safe relationship between both client and therapist.
Note that prior to the first session taking place with the provider, LifeStance will require a credit card on file. LifeStance providers do not accept Medicare or Medicaid insurance. If booking with these, you will be unable to be seen. The most important aspect to therapy in my eyes is the relationship that I am able to build with a client. It is not possible for growth to happen when there isn't a trusting and safe relationship between both client and therapist.
See more therapy options for Portage Park, Chicago
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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.