LGBTQ+ Therapists in Sauganash, Chicago, IL

Photo of Kaitlyn Folkes, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaitlyn Folkes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
I help people struggling with issues with relationships, anxiety, mood, grief, trauma, and neurodivergence. I believe healing comes from mutually empowering relationships and connection to one’s identities. As a queer and neurodivergent clinician, I enjoy working with folks exploring their intersecting identities. My approach to therapy is relational and collaborative. In our work together, I will emphasize transparency and authenticity as we bring awareness to the different aspects of your experiences and struggles. My practice is guided by curiosity and nonjudgment and my style is deeply introspective with a sense of playfulness.
I help people struggling with issues with relationships, anxiety, mood, grief, trauma, and neurodivergence. I believe healing comes from mutually empowering relationships and connection to one’s identities. As a queer and neurodivergent clinician, I enjoy working with folks exploring their intersecting identities. My approach to therapy is relational and collaborative. In our work together, I will emphasize transparency and authenticity as we bring awareness to the different aspects of your experiences and struggles. My practice is guided by curiosity and nonjudgment and my style is deeply introspective with a sense of playfulness.
(773) 569-3582 View (773) 569-3582
Photo of Jenna K Feldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna K Feldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
In this work, I approach therapy with a strengths-based, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed lens and depending on your needs, I may pull from a variety of Psychodynamic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing (SE) and other body-centered approaches.
Many of the individuals and couples I work with experience anxiety, professional/work-related stress, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and unresolved trauma. Often, clients are looking to reflect on their personal and family history, build self-awareness, process everyday stressors, and/or develop coping skills. In my work with clients, I seek to establish a supportive, empathetic, and consistent relationship that will be the foundation for deep introspection and growth.
In this work, I approach therapy with a strengths-based, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed lens and depending on your needs, I may pull from a variety of Psychodynamic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing (SE) and other body-centered approaches.
Many of the individuals and couples I work with experience anxiety, professional/work-related stress, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and unresolved trauma. Often, clients are looking to reflect on their personal and family history, build self-awareness, process everyday stressors, and/or develop coping skills. In my work with clients, I seek to establish a supportive, empathetic, and consistent relationship that will be the foundation for deep introspection and growth.
(312) 766-7142 View (312) 766-7142
Photo of Jennifer Larson, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Jennifer Larson
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
Are you or your family facing obstacles to feeling happier? I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with 25+ years in the mental health field. I provide therapy to individual adults, young adults, and couples who are experiencing barriers to personal, relational, and professional fulfillment. I enjoy working with adults struggling with self-defeating thoughts, anxiety, dating, relationship issues, family-of-origin struggles, & varying degrees of trauma. My goal is to help people to feel more connected, centered, authentic, and happier.
Are you or your family facing obstacles to feeling happier? I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with 25+ years in the mental health field. I provide therapy to individual adults, young adults, and couples who are experiencing barriers to personal, relational, and professional fulfillment. I enjoy working with adults struggling with self-defeating thoughts, anxiety, dating, relationship issues, family-of-origin struggles, & varying degrees of trauma. My goal is to help people to feel more connected, centered, authentic, and happier.
(773) 985-6163 View (773) 985-6163
Photo of Jacques Gourguechon - Whole Hearted Psychotherapy, LCPC, Counselor
Whole Hearted Psychotherapy
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer individual, couples counseling and career counseling for people of all ages. As a professional businessman and now a psychotherapist, I bring life experience to therapy that gives me practical and insightful perspective on the challenges people face at home, the workplace and in their relationships. I enjoy working with couples and have extended training in the Gottman Therapy method. Couples issues can rack relationships especially those struggling fidelity and trauma issues. I am keenly aware of each of these and have worked with these tough issues as a therapist and husband.
I offer individual, couples counseling and career counseling for people of all ages. As a professional businessman and now a psychotherapist, I bring life experience to therapy that gives me practical and insightful perspective on the challenges people face at home, the workplace and in their relationships. I enjoy working with couples and have extended training in the Gottman Therapy method. Couples issues can rack relationships especially those struggling fidelity and trauma issues. I am keenly aware of each of these and have worked with these tough issues as a therapist and husband.
(312) 985-9222 View (312) 985-9222
Photo of Kaye Ferreria-Fong, LCPC, Counselor
Kaye Ferreria-Fong
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
As a first generation Filipinx immigrant, I have experienced the struggles & challenges of growing up between cultures. I am passionate about and have years of experience working with BIPOC and AAPI communities. I work with folks who have experienced intergenerational trauma, religious/spiritual abuse, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, & complicated grief. I have the ability to challenge folks to effect positive changes, increase insight, and to be active participants in their journey towards wellness & healing. My goal is to help you unveil your potential & help you develop practical coping skills to manage life's stressors.
As a first generation Filipinx immigrant, I have experienced the struggles & challenges of growing up between cultures. I am passionate about and have years of experience working with BIPOC and AAPI communities. I work with folks who have experienced intergenerational trauma, religious/spiritual abuse, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, & complicated grief. I have the ability to challenge folks to effect positive changes, increase insight, and to be active participants in their journey towards wellness & healing. My goal is to help you unveil your potential & help you develop practical coping skills to manage life's stressors.
(773) 364-6038 View (773) 364-6038
Photo of Jessie M. Duncan, MA, LPC, NCC
Jessie M. Duncan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
As a therapist I help clients who are struggling to find their way in the world at any stage in life. This can be a life transition, trauma, grief, medical condition, anxiety, depression, ADHD, family, or relationship issues. All these factors, and more, affect us in different ways that can lead to feelings of isolation as we struggle to reconnect with ourselves. Each person's journey through healing is different and I utilize different tools and therapeutic approaches based on these unique needs.
As a therapist I help clients who are struggling to find their way in the world at any stage in life. This can be a life transition, trauma, grief, medical condition, anxiety, depression, ADHD, family, or relationship issues. All these factors, and more, affect us in different ways that can lead to feelings of isolation as we struggle to reconnect with ourselves. Each person's journey through healing is different and I utilize different tools and therapeutic approaches based on these unique needs.
(773) 207-4238 View (773) 207-4238
Photo of Alan P Childs - Dr. Alan P. Childs and Associates, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alan P. Childs and Associates
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in assisting children, adults, and families in overcoming personal and environmental challenges. My approach to counseling is interactive and respectful, aimed at helping you discover the best solutions in a safe and trusting environment. With expertise in individual and marital therapy, divorce, and child custody hearings, I frequently serve as an expert witness in divorce proceedings concerning the well-being of the child. Our commitment to providing exceptional, empathetic, and compassionate care is at the core of our practice's success and client well-being.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in assisting children, adults, and families in overcoming personal and environmental challenges. My approach to counseling is interactive and respectful, aimed at helping you discover the best solutions in a safe and trusting environment. With expertise in individual and marital therapy, divorce, and child custody hearings, I frequently serve as an expert witness in divorce proceedings concerning the well-being of the child. Our commitment to providing exceptional, empathetic, and compassionate care is at the core of our practice's success and client well-being.
(708) 501-7075 View (708) 501-7075
Photo of Elliott Lugo, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elliott Lugo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
My background is in working with teens and adults that struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, parenting difficulties, building healthy relationships, and life transitions such as the loss of a job.
It's a tough time out there these days. Between the economy, managing school or work, relationship issues, not knowing where you fit in or what your purpose might be, or just having an even harder time than usual dealing with mental health issues, so many of us are feeling burned out and not sure how to cope. You might have fallen into ways of dealing with life that aren't working out so great for you, like drinking too much, self-harming, isolating from others, or forming unhealthy relationships. It can be easy to think that you're alone in struggling this way, that the confidence, joy, and connection you need is unreachable.
My background is in working with teens and adults that struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, parenting difficulties, building healthy relationships, and life transitions such as the loss of a job.
It's a tough time out there these days. Between the economy, managing school or work, relationship issues, not knowing where you fit in or what your purpose might be, or just having an even harder time than usual dealing with mental health issues, so many of us are feeling burned out and not sure how to cope. You might have fallen into ways of dealing with life that aren't working out so great for you, like drinking too much, self-harming, isolating from others, or forming unhealthy relationships. It can be easy to think that you're alone in struggling this way, that the confidence, joy, and connection you need is unreachable.
(779) 204-4809 View (779) 204-4809
Photo of Anna Perna, ALMFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anna Perna
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
As an individual, family and couple therapist I work with clients who struggle with a range of symptoms that impact their daily functioning in relationships with themselves and others. I value a relational perspective and understand that the human experience is not meant for isolation. Maladaptive coping can leave us feeling disconnected and lonely. We are a part of many systems in our lives and struggling in one area can bleed into others. I work with clients to create connection and meaning in the human experience in order to show up in their relationships as the most authentic version of themselves.
As an individual, family and couple therapist I work with clients who struggle with a range of symptoms that impact their daily functioning in relationships with themselves and others. I value a relational perspective and understand that the human experience is not meant for isolation. Maladaptive coping can leave us feeling disconnected and lonely. We are a part of many systems in our lives and struggling in one area can bleed into others. I work with clients to create connection and meaning in the human experience in order to show up in their relationships as the most authentic version of themselves.
(773) 825-5761 View (773) 825-5761
Photo of Mollie Ryan, LCPC, BC-DMT, Counselor
Mollie Ryan
Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
Areas of specialty include: Trauma/PTSD, mood/anxiety disorders, OCD, addiction, self-esteem, grief, relationship issues, life transitions and sexuality.
If you or someone you love are feeling overwhelmed with life, relationships, school or work, I can help. I have over 25 years' of helping people achieve the results they want. Another set of eyes focused on your difficulty is instrumental in finding lasting solutions. I work with adults. Therapy occurs in a safe, caring and confidential relationship. My approach is uniquely tailored to you and your needs. If you are looking for a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your difficulties without fear or judgement then reach out and improve your situation right away.
Areas of specialty include: Trauma/PTSD, mood/anxiety disorders, OCD, addiction, self-esteem, grief, relationship issues, life transitions and sexuality.
If you or someone you love are feeling overwhelmed with life, relationships, school or work, I can help. I have over 25 years' of helping people achieve the results they want. Another set of eyes focused on your difficulty is instrumental in finding lasting solutions. I work with adults. Therapy occurs in a safe, caring and confidential relationship. My approach is uniquely tailored to you and your needs. If you are looking for a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your difficulties without fear or judgement then reach out and improve your situation right away.
(708) 498-3565 View (708) 498-3565
Photo of Aarti S. Felder, MA, LCPC, BCN, CIT, Counselor
Aarti S. Felder
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BCN, CIT
Verified Verified
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
Are you or a loved one facing the challenges of living with a chronic illness? Between managing appointments, navigating the medical system, understanding your condition and your medications, recovering from hospital stays, and many more... it can become overwhelming. The mind and the body influence each other, and it's important to actively manage mental health when living with chronic illness. My speciality is in navigating mental health in chronic illness. I can support you in finding the balance and living a life of value.
Are you or a loved one facing the challenges of living with a chronic illness? Between managing appointments, navigating the medical system, understanding your condition and your medications, recovering from hospital stays, and many more... it can become overwhelming. The mind and the body influence each other, and it's important to actively manage mental health when living with chronic illness. My speciality is in navigating mental health in chronic illness. I can support you in finding the balance and living a life of value.
(847) 243-6572 View (847) 243-6572
Photo of Michelle Terese Mannino Purkey, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Terese Mannino Purkey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646  (Online Only)
Clients I work with will present with a wide array of challenges, some of which include anxiety, depression, relational issues, and life transitions. While each client is unique, all clients are looking for change in some capacity. My job is to help my client(s) identify what is not working for them and instead explore what life looks like in absence of the problem(s).
Clients I work with will present with a wide array of challenges, some of which include anxiety, depression, relational issues, and life transitions. While each client is unique, all clients are looking for change in some capacity. My job is to help my client(s) identify what is not working for them and instead explore what life looks like in absence of the problem(s).
(312) 725-3093 View (312) 725-3093
Photo of Dori Geil, MBA, LCPC, Counselor
Dori Geil
Counselor, MBA, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
I offer coffee, tea, bottled water and talk therapy in a comfortable environment. I offer a place to share your problems, concerns and life issues with a caring therapist who will hold your confidences in a safe space. We can work together in a collaborative environment to resolve personal, professional, emotional, transitional concerns, grief and fears. I am present with you and we'll have an interactive relationship. In addition to talk therapy, I offer EMDR which is a highly effective trauma resolution therapy, for both large and small traumas. Phone, Skype, Home and office appointments available.
I offer coffee, tea, bottled water and talk therapy in a comfortable environment. I offer a place to share your problems, concerns and life issues with a caring therapist who will hold your confidences in a safe space. We can work together in a collaborative environment to resolve personal, professional, emotional, transitional concerns, grief and fears. I am present with you and we'll have an interactive relationship. In addition to talk therapy, I offer EMDR which is a highly effective trauma resolution therapy, for both large and small traumas. Phone, Skype, Home and office appointments available.
(773) 250-6383 View (773) 250-6383
Photo of Kelsey Lamm Rottmuller, LCPC, NCC
Kelsey Lamm Rottmuller
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646  (Online Only)
Depending on your needs, I integrate trauma-informed, LGBTQI affirming, sex-positive, and mindfulness perspectives into our work.
Do you find yourself struggling to live authentically and fully? I am honored to provide services to adults, young adults, and adolescents who are facing obstacles to living a life of balance and fulfillment. My approach to therapy is guided by warmth, empathic understanding, genuineness, and the belief in clients’ inherent capacity for positive growth. I provide a safe and affirming space for clients to come as they are, openly and honestly. I am invested in supporting your journey towards self-discovery and a greater sense of connection to that which brings your life meaning.
Depending on your needs, I integrate trauma-informed, LGBTQI affirming, sex-positive, and mindfulness perspectives into our work.
Do you find yourself struggling to live authentically and fully? I am honored to provide services to adults, young adults, and adolescents who are facing obstacles to living a life of balance and fulfillment. My approach to therapy is guided by warmth, empathic understanding, genuineness, and the belief in clients’ inherent capacity for positive growth. I provide a safe and affirming space for clients to come as they are, openly and honestly. I am invested in supporting your journey towards self-discovery and a greater sense of connection to that which brings your life meaning.
(312) 586-9470 View (312) 586-9470
Photo of Linzi Diaz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linzi Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
Many of the individuals and couples I work with are experiencing anxiety, depression, major life changes, difficulties managing everyday stressors and interpersonal relationship issues. They come to therapy to explore their histories, increase self-awareness, identify patterns, improve communication, process feelings/emotions and gain coping skills and tools to better manage their circumstances. I recognize that every client comes to therapy with unique experiences and needs, which is why we will take time to build a therapeutic relationship and work together to identify your goals.
Many of the individuals and couples I work with are experiencing anxiety, depression, major life changes, difficulties managing everyday stressors and interpersonal relationship issues. They come to therapy to explore their histories, increase self-awareness, identify patterns, improve communication, process feelings/emotions and gain coping skills and tools to better manage their circumstances. I recognize that every client comes to therapy with unique experiences and needs, which is why we will take time to build a therapeutic relationship and work together to identify your goals.
(312) 629-4741 View (312) 629-4741
Photo of Jose Rodrigo Nino, MA, LCPC, CBL, Counselor
Jose Rodrigo Nino
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CBL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sauganash, Chicago, IL 60646
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with a diverse population on a variety of issues related to child, adolescent, and adult mental health, as well as transitions, interpersonal relationships, and behavioral health conditions.
Do you ever stand back and take a look at the big picture of your life and wonder how things ended up this way? Do you feel unhappy with your choices or situation, but unsure about how to start unraveling barriers and start moving in the direction that you want? I can help you examine your choices and behaviors, big and small, understand how they might be keeping you stuck or unfulfilled, and collaboratively find your power to make changes that bring you more in line with the kind of life you want and deserve to have.
I specialize in working with a diverse population on a variety of issues related to child, adolescent, and adult mental health, as well as transitions, interpersonal relationships, and behavioral health conditions.
Do you ever stand back and take a look at the big picture of your life and wonder how things ended up this way? Do you feel unhappy with your choices or situation, but unsure about how to start unraveling barriers and start moving in the direction that you want? I can help you examine your choices and behaviors, big and small, understand how they might be keeping you stuck or unfulfilled, and collaboratively find your power to make changes that bring you more in line with the kind of life you want and deserve to have.
(773) 598-5743 View (773) 598-5743

Online Therapists

Photo of Yi Chen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yi Chen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I work with individuals and couples of all ages, specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood adverse experiences, mood disorders, sexuality, life transitions, relationship issues, and substance use.
Hello, I’m Yi, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Life can sometimes present us with challenges that feel overwhelming, leaving us anxious, depressed, lonely, or hopeless. During these moments, it can seem as if everything is out of control. My goal is to walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey, helping you rediscover your strengths and resources during these difficult times. As a counselor, I am committed to creating a safe, genuine, and supportive environment that fosters personal growth, confidence, and resilience.
I work with individuals and couples of all ages, specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood adverse experiences, mood disorders, sexuality, life transitions, relationship issues, and substance use.
Hello, I’m Yi, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Life can sometimes present us with challenges that feel overwhelming, leaving us anxious, depressed, lonely, or hopeless. During these moments, it can seem as if everything is out of control. My goal is to walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey, helping you rediscover your strengths and resources during these difficult times. As a counselor, I am committed to creating a safe, genuine, and supportive environment that fosters personal growth, confidence, and resilience.
(773) 300-4930 View (773) 300-4930
Photo of Jose De Jesus Iniguez, PhD, LCSW, LCPC, NCC, CADC
Jose De Jesus Iniguez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCSW, LCPC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60623
I support working with the Undocumented/Immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities.
Hello/Hola! I am a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish/English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGIP), and Board Certified – Telemental Health Provider (BC-TMH). I completed my Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Counseling from Northern Illinois University (DeKalb), a Ph.D. in Community Psychology from National-Louis University, and a Master of Social Work (clinical) from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
I support working with the Undocumented/Immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities.
Hello/Hola! I am a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish/English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGIP), and Board Certified – Telemental Health Provider (BC-TMH). I completed my Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Counseling from Northern Illinois University (DeKalb), a Ph.D. in Community Psychology from National-Louis University, and a Master of Social Work (clinical) from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
(773) 232-4191 View (773) 232-4191
Photo of David Triche, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Triche
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
As a Black gay male therapist, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the isolation and challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities. My own journey and experience with clients have given me deep insights into the struggle of feeling voiceless and the impact of being misunderstood, and feeling unheard, which fuels my commitment to creating a therapeutic space where you are truly seen and valued. I have a passion in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients, I specialize in high conflict couples, trauma, grief, socio-cultural issues, identity development, and managing life transitions.
As a Black gay male therapist, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the isolation and challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities. My own journey and experience with clients have given me deep insights into the struggle of feeling voiceless and the impact of being misunderstood, and feeling unheard, which fuels my commitment to creating a therapeutic space where you are truly seen and valued. I have a passion in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients, I specialize in high conflict couples, trauma, grief, socio-cultural issues, identity development, and managing life transitions.
(217) 886-8685 View (217) 886-8685
Photo of Dr. Pablo Pagan-Rivera, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Pablo Pagan-Rivera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with the unique challenges and issues that impact individuals from diverse marginalized populations, including immigrants, veterans, and members of the LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities.
Hello and welcome! I’m Dr. Pablo Pagan-Rivera, a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Reconnect Psychotherapy. My goal is to provide culturally competent and affirming mental health services, especially for the LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities in the state of IL. As a millennial, I bring a contemporary and empathetic approach to our work together. I’m dedicated to helping you reconnect with your authentic self and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence. Through our bilingual and virtual services, I ensure that you receive accessible care that's tailored specifically to your needs.
I have extensive experience working with the unique challenges and issues that impact individuals from diverse marginalized populations, including immigrants, veterans, and members of the LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities.
Hello and welcome! I’m Dr. Pablo Pagan-Rivera, a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Reconnect Psychotherapy. My goal is to provide culturally competent and affirming mental health services, especially for the LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities in the state of IL. As a millennial, I bring a contemporary and empathetic approach to our work together. I’m dedicated to helping you reconnect with your authentic self and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence. Through our bilingual and virtual services, I ensure that you receive accessible care that's tailored specifically to your needs.
(773) 300-5330 View (773) 300-5330

See more therapy options for Sauganash, Chicago

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.