Therapists in Chicago, IL
He also specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
He also specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
We work with folks of all identities, but we specialize in offering queer, kink, poly, and gender-affirming therapy for LGBTQ+ folks and their loved ones.
Therapy is a place to sort through big feelings and tough calls, all while laughing at ourselves when we can. We like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. At Bespoke Healing, we know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways and take risks to develop deeper bonds. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
We work with folks of all identities, but we specialize in offering queer, kink, poly, and gender-affirming therapy for LGBTQ+ folks and their loved ones.
Therapy is a place to sort through big feelings and tough calls, all while laughing at ourselves when we can. We like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. At Bespoke Healing, we know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways and take risks to develop deeper bonds. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
Dipesh J Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60634 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents across a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, self-confidence/self-esteem, career challenges, coping with life changes, and LGBTQ-related issues.
My mantra is that therapy, good therapy, should create some sort of movement. Whether it’s helping you create actual, tangible change in your life or helping move along an internal conversation that you can’t seem to make progress in, my job is to help you get wherever you're trying to go.
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents across a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, self-confidence/self-esteem, career challenges, coping with life changes, and LGBTQ-related issues.
My mantra is that therapy, good therapy, should create some sort of movement. Whether it’s helping you create actual, tangible change in your life or helping move along an internal conversation that you can’t seem to make progress in, my job is to help you get wherever you're trying to go.
I also enjoy working with clients trying to navigtate different challenges unique to the LGBTQ+ population.
Therapy is a unique opportunity to find peace within ourselves. While it may be difficult to find the right therapist to work with, I find my warm, empathetic, friendly, straight-forward approach help my clients work through issues to find transformation and purpose in their life, as we collaboratively work to find the right approach that fits for you. I have expertise working with clients in Perinatal Mental Health, infertility challenges, all phases of pregnancy, including pre and post, and the loss of identity while in new parenting roles and different parenting challenges, which I have completed certification training.
I also enjoy working with clients trying to navigtate different challenges unique to the LGBTQ+ population.
Therapy is a unique opportunity to find peace within ourselves. While it may be difficult to find the right therapist to work with, I find my warm, empathetic, friendly, straight-forward approach help my clients work through issues to find transformation and purpose in their life, as we collaboratively work to find the right approach that fits for you. I have expertise working with clients in Perinatal Mental Health, infertility challenges, all phases of pregnancy, including pre and post, and the loss of identity while in new parenting roles and different parenting challenges, which I have completed certification training.
I personally know how much stress can come from seeking counseling, so I will ensure to create a safe and holding environment that will allow for you to feel as stress-free as possible. I have experience working with couples, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and the LGBTQIA+ Community. I am currently accepting requests for therapy in-person and via secure video sessions on VSee. I utilize psychodynamic skills, narrative, CBT, solution-focused, multicultural, and client-centered techniques to help you overcome challenges you come to therapy with and to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible sharing them.
I personally know how much stress can come from seeking counseling, so I will ensure to create a safe and holding environment that will allow for you to feel as stress-free as possible. I have experience working with couples, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and the LGBTQIA+ Community. I am currently accepting requests for therapy in-person and via secure video sessions on VSee. I utilize psychodynamic skills, narrative, CBT, solution-focused, multicultural, and client-centered techniques to help you overcome challenges you come to therapy with and to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible sharing them.
As a queer, creative, and trauma informed therapist, I am passionate about nurturing an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ adults and youth, artists, and cnm clients where you can experience therapy as a brave space to continue exploring identity, sex, imagination, relationships, and everyday life.
I believe trusting relationships, creativity, and community are at the heart of inner peace. I offer you a compassionate, empathetic, playful, and non-judgmental space. Trauma influences the body, and brain in complex ways and therefore sometimes in therapy we need to talk, and sometimes we need to pause, move, or create. I am informed by attachment theory, psychodynamic approach, and embrace the relational elements of healing. As a musician, and with music therapy training, I understand the regulatory power of art and invite you to integrate expressive elements. I also offer music-centered and songwriting focused sessions.
As a queer, creative, and trauma informed therapist, I am passionate about nurturing an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ adults and youth, artists, and cnm clients where you can experience therapy as a brave space to continue exploring identity, sex, imagination, relationships, and everyday life.
I believe trusting relationships, creativity, and community are at the heart of inner peace. I offer you a compassionate, empathetic, playful, and non-judgmental space. Trauma influences the body, and brain in complex ways and therefore sometimes in therapy we need to talk, and sometimes we need to pause, move, or create. I am informed by attachment theory, psychodynamic approach, and embrace the relational elements of healing. As a musician, and with music therapy training, I understand the regulatory power of art and invite you to integrate expressive elements. I also offer music-centered and songwriting focused sessions.
Julia Crisman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Everyone deserves to feel heard, empowered and respected. Therapy is a safe space for this to occur and I would be delighted to take part in your journey towards healing and self-empowerment. I am a collaborative and non-judgemental therapist whose aim is to ensure that we work together to find the best healing process for you. My therapeutic approach is informed by my experiences as a queer woman and my own mental health journey as well as the mindset that we are all capable of growth. I have had the opportunity to work with clients of all ages through some of life’s most difficult challenges.
Everyone deserves to feel heard, empowered and respected. Therapy is a safe space for this to occur and I would be delighted to take part in your journey towards healing and self-empowerment. I am a collaborative and non-judgemental therapist whose aim is to ensure that we work together to find the best healing process for you. My therapeutic approach is informed by my experiences as a queer woman and my own mental health journey as well as the mindset that we are all capable of growth. I have had the opportunity to work with clients of all ages through some of life’s most difficult challenges.
I have received extensive training in the areas of care giving, chronic illness, infertility, trauma, couples/relationship concerns, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues, compulsive overeating/binge eating, and third party reproduction.
As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and help you find ways to be your best self. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can use them to better understand and resolve the current challenges in your life. By working collaboratively, we will work to adjust behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I have received extensive training in the areas of care giving, chronic illness, infertility, trauma, couples/relationship concerns, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues, compulsive overeating/binge eating, and third party reproduction.
As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and help you find ways to be your best self. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can use them to better understand and resolve the current challenges in your life. By working collaboratively, we will work to adjust behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I help clients connect to their deeper nature and inner wisdom through compassionate self-exploration. As a queer-identified therapist, I work to offer an affirming space that holds my clients’ varied and marginalized identities, experiences in the world, and their own personal strengths and struggles. My focus is working with queer and trans relationships and individuals, as well as folks in the non-monogamy and kink communities. I work collaboratively with clients to examine trans-generational patterns, heal the effects of past trauma, create more meaningful relationships, and enrich their relationships to themselves.
I help clients connect to their deeper nature and inner wisdom through compassionate self-exploration. As a queer-identified therapist, I work to offer an affirming space that holds my clients’ varied and marginalized identities, experiences in the world, and their own personal strengths and struggles. My focus is working with queer and trans relationships and individuals, as well as folks in the non-monogamy and kink communities. I work collaboratively with clients to examine trans-generational patterns, heal the effects of past trauma, create more meaningful relationships, and enrich their relationships to themselves.
Lgbtqia+ Relationship Therapist Nicole Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
As a queer woman of color, I have a passion for working with relationships that lie outside of what society would deem “traditional”.
Are you and your partner struggling to communicate and looking for a space to learn how to better understand each other? Or, maybe you're an individual looking to improve your self-esteem and build a stronger relationship with yourself. As a couple and family therapist, I strive to provide a safe and encouraging space for intimate relationships, families, and individuals to process, heal, challenge patterns, explore different ways of thinking… and even enjoy some fun and laughs along the way!
As a queer woman of color, I have a passion for working with relationships that lie outside of what society would deem “traditional”.
Are you and your partner struggling to communicate and looking for a space to learn how to better understand each other? Or, maybe you're an individual looking to improve your self-esteem and build a stronger relationship with yourself. As a couple and family therapist, I strive to provide a safe and encouraging space for intimate relationships, families, and individuals to process, heal, challenge patterns, explore different ways of thinking… and even enjoy some fun and laughs along the way!
Lisa D Tarr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
I want you to know that you are not alone! I specialize in treating anxiety, women's issues, and marginalized communities including LGBTQ+.
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, addiction issues (substance abuse), troubled teens, school failure, LGBTQ+, and trauma and identity issues. As a lifelong allied and friend to the LGBTQ+ community, I work very hard to remain current to concerns that are specific to marginalized communities. I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I will work with you to think outside of the box and build strength through our therapeutic relationship.
I want you to know that you are not alone! I specialize in treating anxiety, women's issues, and marginalized communities including LGBTQ+.
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, addiction issues (substance abuse), troubled teens, school failure, LGBTQ+, and trauma and identity issues. As a lifelong allied and friend to the LGBTQ+ community, I work very hard to remain current to concerns that are specific to marginalized communities. I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I will work with you to think outside of the box and build strength through our therapeutic relationship.
15 Second Videos
Steven Nakisher
Bespoke Healing
Adam Kessler
Jay Butterfield
Ana C Chávez
Michelle Robinson
Lynette Collins
Sherraine Miller
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Mariel F Gardiner
Ewelina K Beardmore
Bria Patterson
Sabrina Washington
Moe A Brown
Joshua Della Villa
Amy Springer Robinson
Elizabeth Schaefer
Framework Associates
Suzie Thomas
Rebecca Ellis
Sarah Khazoum
Olivia DeLeon-Yi
Kim Vander Griend
Errie Counseling and Therapy Inc
Stephanie Willis
Kristina Fyrwald
Calvin Young
Elizabeth Miller
Katherine M. Hayes
Tia Cochran
Sarah Bedell
Hilary Fingerman
Aubrey Ryan
Flourish Counseling & Wellness
Wendy Malcolm
Samantha McGlumphy
Stephanie Haugen
Rachel Berg
Cynthia Bassuk
Astute Counseling & Wellness Services
Julia Howard
SpringSource Psychological Center
Riley Gramza
Sierra Waller
Beverly Therapists
Jo Flannery
Erin Johnston
Thrive for Life Counseling
Catharine M Devlin
Maria Fakhouri
Meg McDuffie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
I utilize various therapeutic practices and frameworks, such as decolonized mental healthcare, queer affirming care, narrative therapy, mindfulness, harm reduction, and client-centered practice.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker who honors and celebrates the uniqueness of your life experiences, stories, and identity. My specialization includes providing support to the queer population, individuals aged 60 and above, those experiencing job burnout, parents/guardians, PLWH, adult children of substance users, and creatives.
I utilize various therapeutic practices and frameworks, such as decolonized mental healthcare, queer affirming care, narrative therapy, mindfulness, harm reduction, and client-centered practice.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker who honors and celebrates the uniqueness of your life experiences, stories, and identity. My specialization includes providing support to the queer population, individuals aged 60 and above, those experiencing job burnout, parents/guardians, PLWH, adult children of substance users, and creatives.
I understand the inextricable links between sex, sexuality, and mental health—and this has led to my passion for working with queer and gender expansive populations.
As a therapist, I understand that the decision to pursue therapy can be a difficult one. In my practice, I take a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to therapy rooted in feminist and decolonial values. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership, and I prioritize clients’ right to self-determination. My clinical approach is LGBTQIA+ affirming, harm reductive, and informed by disability justice. We will work at a pace that feels safest to you because I understand that experiencing painful emotions or revisiting difficult experiences can be overwhelming.
I understand the inextricable links between sex, sexuality, and mental health—and this has led to my passion for working with queer and gender expansive populations.
As a therapist, I understand that the decision to pursue therapy can be a difficult one. In my practice, I take a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to therapy rooted in feminist and decolonial values. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership, and I prioritize clients’ right to self-determination. My clinical approach is LGBTQIA+ affirming, harm reductive, and informed by disability justice. We will work at a pace that feels safest to you because I understand that experiencing painful emotions or revisiting difficult experiences can be overwhelming.
All of my services are inclusive to the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent communities.
No one's mental health exists in a vacuum. We receive messaging from the people around us about who we "should" be. Relationships suffer when we tell ourselves stories that aren't true. Our relationships improve only when we come to learn and know ourselves, and our mental health thrives when we connect with others. My practice bridges the gap between the self and others. Got an annoying coworker? A mom without boundaries? A friendship on the fritz? Let's explore how you show up as to these relationships. Together, we will work on your relational and mental health to create your most meaningful and rewarding life.
All of my services are inclusive to the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent communities.
No one's mental health exists in a vacuum. We receive messaging from the people around us about who we "should" be. Relationships suffer when we tell ourselves stories that aren't true. Our relationships improve only when we come to learn and know ourselves, and our mental health thrives when we connect with others. My practice bridges the gap between the self and others. Got an annoying coworker? A mom without boundaries? A friendship on the fritz? Let's explore how you show up as to these relationships. Together, we will work on your relational and mental health to create your most meaningful and rewarding life.
He is LGBTQIA+ affirming and has experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Adjustment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Substance Use, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia.
Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments.
He is LGBTQIA+ affirming and has experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Adjustment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Substance Use, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia.
Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments.
If you identify as LGBTQIA+, femme, and/ or a person of color you may be facing obstacles or concerns in your life that are heavy on your mind. The weight of your worries may be leaving you feeling sad, frustrated, afraid or even angry. It may feel bigger than what you have time for right now, causing you to hold back when you want to say something. It may be more and more difficult to disclose any of these feelings to anyone without falling apart. It’s okay to feel sadness, frustration or anger and it is okay to take time to talk about it. You can learn to allow room for all of your feelings.
If you identify as LGBTQIA+, femme, and/ or a person of color you may be facing obstacles or concerns in your life that are heavy on your mind. The weight of your worries may be leaving you feeling sad, frustrated, afraid or even angry. It may feel bigger than what you have time for right now, causing you to hold back when you want to say something. It may be more and more difficult to disclose any of these feelings to anyone without falling apart. It’s okay to feel sadness, frustration or anger and it is okay to take time to talk about it. You can learn to allow room for all of your feelings.
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.
Betsey Zemke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
I have a broad range of experience with individual therapy, with personal and professional experience addressing the needs of those who are queer, trans, polyamorous, or kinky. I offer knowledgeable and affirming practice to a spectrum of folks who may struggle to find the “right fit” with their therapist. I’m committed to working with individuals within LGBTQ+ communities, particularly those who are gender expansive; other areas of focus include depression and anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, intergenerational and complex trauma, mental health in the workplace, sexuality and health, and identity development.
I have a broad range of experience with individual therapy, with personal and professional experience addressing the needs of those who are queer, trans, polyamorous, or kinky. I offer knowledgeable and affirming practice to a spectrum of folks who may struggle to find the “right fit” with their therapist. I’m committed to working with individuals within LGBTQ+ communities, particularly those who are gender expansive; other areas of focus include depression and anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, intergenerational and complex trauma, mental health in the workplace, sexuality and health, and identity development.
Authentically You Counseling Services PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adolescents, adults, relationships, women's issues, PTSD/trauma, identity concerns, consensual non-monogamy, depression and anxiety.
Welcome! I am a firm believer that the therapeutic journey is deeply personal, and I value the strength of the therapeutic relationship. You are an expert in your own life, and my role is to guide you back to your own expertise through self- exploration and growth while finding greater balance overall. I recognize a wide variety of healthy human desires, spiritual practices, relationship organizations, and identities and will meet you where you are at and respect your personal identities and goals. I have over 10 years working in mental health and come from a background in non-profit management, sexuality studies, and fine art.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adolescents, adults, relationships, women's issues, PTSD/trauma, identity concerns, consensual non-monogamy, depression and anxiety.
Welcome! I am a firm believer that the therapeutic journey is deeply personal, and I value the strength of the therapeutic relationship. You are an expert in your own life, and my role is to guide you back to your own expertise through self- exploration and growth while finding greater balance overall. I recognize a wide variety of healthy human desires, spiritual practices, relationship organizations, and identities and will meet you where you are at and respect your personal identities and goals. I have over 10 years working in mental health and come from a background in non-profit management, sexuality studies, and fine art.
I work best with BIPOC and/or queer individuals who are coping with mood, trauma, and sociopolitical struggles. My primary approach focuses on empowering individuals of marginalized communities to externalize systemic and oppressive factors so that we can focus on treating any personal difficulties that are causing you pain and suffering. Whether we focus on the past or the present, healing one part of yourself can heal many other parts because you have a story to tell. And no matter how many times or how many ways that you tell it, it is your own personal story. Let's change your story to help you become the person you want to be.
I work best with BIPOC and/or queer individuals who are coping with mood, trauma, and sociopolitical struggles. My primary approach focuses on empowering individuals of marginalized communities to externalize systemic and oppressive factors so that we can focus on treating any personal difficulties that are causing you pain and suffering. Whether we focus on the past or the present, healing one part of yourself can heal many other parts because you have a story to tell. And no matter how many times or how many ways that you tell it, it is your own personal story. Let's change your story to help you become the person you want to be.
See more therapy options for 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.