Therapists in Chicago, IL
Steven Nakisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
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.
Crystal Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I am also fundamentally a Queer therapist, and I believe that any problem can be understood by analyzing power dynamics and differentials, whether in an individual person, a family, a community, or a society.
As we grow and develop as humans, we often find ourselves confronted by issues from the past – issues we may have thought long-resolved. These issues can manifest in our relationship dynamics, our perceptions about ourselves, and our means of coping with our environment. My role is to join you in confronting these things so that you can integrate and learn the lessons these past experiences are meant to teach you. In our work together, you are the expert. You decide what your experiences mean and how they impact the person you are.
I am also fundamentally a Queer therapist, and I believe that any problem can be understood by analyzing power dynamics and differentials, whether in an individual person, a family, a community, or a society.
As we grow and develop as humans, we often find ourselves confronted by issues from the past – issues we may have thought long-resolved. These issues can manifest in our relationship dynamics, our perceptions about ourselves, and our means of coping with our environment. My role is to join you in confronting these things so that you can integrate and learn the lessons these past experiences are meant to teach you. In our work together, you are the expert. You decide what your experiences mean and how they impact the person you are.
Paul Fressola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, substance use and abuse, grief and loss, LGBT, mid-life issues, health issues including HIV/AIDS, creation of meaning and purpose.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and a Certified Addictions Counselor
(CADC).
I see therapy as a collaborative process of growth and change. My approach is flexible, warm and empathic. I have over 10 years of experience with individuals, couples and groups and utilize psychodynamics, CBT, Motivational Interviewing,
family systems, relational, and relapse prevention strategies.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, substance use and abuse, grief and loss, LGBT, mid-life issues, health issues including HIV/AIDS, creation of meaning and purpose.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and a Certified Addictions Counselor
(CADC).
I see therapy as a collaborative process of growth and change. My approach is flexible, warm and empathic. I have over 10 years of experience with individuals, couples and groups and utilize psychodynamics, CBT, Motivational Interviewing,
family systems, relational, and relapse prevention strategies.
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
I am allied with and passionate about serving the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized groups including immigrant populations.
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
I am allied with and passionate about serving the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized groups including immigrant populations.
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
Dr. Devin Bercaw
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 counseling and 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 counseling and 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.
Christopher Manvel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I work with individuals and couples (straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans) who are dealing with a range of issues in their lives. A meaningful, authentic client-therapist relationship is of utmost importance to me, and I strive to create safe and welcoming spaces for all by fostering an environment of empathy, openness and honesty. Clients who see me receive compassionate care without negative judgment, creating opportunities to make meaning of the events of their lives.
I work with individuals and couples (straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans) who are dealing with a range of issues in their lives. A meaningful, authentic client-therapist relationship is of utmost importance to me, and I strive to create safe and welcoming spaces for all by fostering an environment of empathy, openness and honesty. Clients who see me receive compassionate care without negative judgment, creating opportunities to make meaning of the events of their lives.
Heads Held High Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
Lisa D Tarr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
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 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.
Cree Noble
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60641 (Online Only)
If you are someone interested in talking about cultural-related issues, cultural and historical trauma, cultural acceptance, and LGBTQ+-related topics, I am here to support you through collaboration, acceptance, and resiliency.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, and/or stressed in your life? Are you looking to find inner peace and strength within yourself? If this sounds like you, I would like to help guide you on that journey of relieving your worries and making positive changes in your life.
If you are someone interested in talking about cultural-related issues, cultural and historical trauma, cultural acceptance, and LGBTQ+-related topics, I am here to support you through collaboration, acceptance, and resiliency.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, and/or stressed in your life? Are you looking to find inner peace and strength within yourself? If this sounds like you, I would like to help guide you on that journey of relieving your worries and making positive changes in your life.
Franki Catinella
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
I work from a sex-positive, body-positive, kink-positive, gender affirming lens with individuals within the LGBTQ+ and Queer communities.
I work with individuals who present with a variety of issues including navigating/exploring gender and sexuality, anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, substance use, relationship issues within monogamous and multiple partner relationships (polyamory, consensual non-monogamy), and life-stage adjustment. I trust in the importance of therapeutic rapport and creating safe, trusting, non-judgmental environments. Working together in a safe environment, I aid you in restoring hope and facilitate healing by helping you discover how to cope with day-to-day stressors, including environmental strains and life transitions.
I work from a sex-positive, body-positive, kink-positive, gender affirming lens with individuals within the LGBTQ+ and Queer communities.
I work with individuals who present with a variety of issues including navigating/exploring gender and sexuality, anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, substance use, relationship issues within monogamous and multiple partner relationships (polyamory, consensual non-monogamy), and life-stage adjustment. I trust in the importance of therapeutic rapport and creating safe, trusting, non-judgmental environments. Working together in a safe environment, I aid you in restoring hope and facilitate healing by helping you discover how to cope with day-to-day stressors, including environmental strains and life transitions.
Lotus Wellness Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
I am compassionate and understanding psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping you through your daily struggles that might be interfering with your life. I'm able to support individuals (youth, adults, and elderly) while utilizing an integrative and collaborative approach. Being able to work with the individual to identify skills and values that they each hold to help them to the fullest. I have experience working with the LGBTQIA++ community. I am a trauma informed therapist, who utilizes active listening. Feeling alone when you are struggling is not ideal; I am here to help you identify coping skills to help you.
I am compassionate and understanding psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping you through your daily struggles that might be interfering with your life. I'm able to support individuals (youth, adults, and elderly) while utilizing an integrative and collaborative approach. Being able to work with the individual to identify skills and values that they each hold to help them to the fullest. I have experience working with the LGBTQIA++ community. I am a trauma informed therapist, who utilizes active listening. Feeling alone when you are struggling is not ideal; I am here to help you identify coping skills to help you.
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Nicholas McCarley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
My areas of special interest include processing emotion, multicultural identity, relational conflict, depression, self-compassion, and LGBTQ concerns.
Therapy is a rich opportunity for gaining invaluable insights regarding the ways in which fears, disavowed wishes, and injustices from the past can motivate current behavior, and how individuals, often resiliently, continue to live above a rubble of neglected wounds. I believe the success of treatment is dependent upon the establishment of a solid therapeutic relationship and that the therapeutic alliance is a reciprocal "we-relationship" where healing and growth can occur. I also may incorporate more direct mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral approaches in therapy when effective to promote symptomatic change.
My areas of special interest include processing emotion, multicultural identity, relational conflict, depression, self-compassion, and LGBTQ concerns.
Therapy is a rich opportunity for gaining invaluable insights regarding the ways in which fears, disavowed wishes, and injustices from the past can motivate current behavior, and how individuals, often resiliently, continue to live above a rubble of neglected wounds. I believe the success of treatment is dependent upon the establishment of a solid therapeutic relationship and that the therapeutic alliance is a reciprocal "we-relationship" where healing and growth can occur. I also may incorporate more direct mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral approaches in therapy when effective to promote symptomatic change.
Nakisher Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
Nakisher's creative style helps him work well with people struggling with various issues including addictions, eating disorders, work and relationship problems as well as gay/lesbian issues.
Dr. 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. 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.
Nakisher's creative style helps him work well with people struggling with various issues including addictions, eating disorders, work and relationship problems as well as gay/lesbian issues.
Dr. 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. 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.
Marcus Leaks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and particularly enjoy working with Black, Brown, Indigenous, and POC clients.
Searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, even more so when you are going through life challenges and have limited energy to spare. Therapy can provide a space for healing, clarity, and growth, and the relationship between therapist and client has been found to be the most important ingredient in that process. I approach my work with flexibility, compassion, and a deep respect for self-determination. I firmly believe you are the expert in your experience.
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and particularly enjoy working with Black, Brown, Indigenous, and POC clients.
Searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, even more so when you are going through life challenges and have limited energy to spare. Therapy can provide a space for healing, clarity, and growth, and the relationship between therapist and client has been found to be the most important ingredient in that process. I approach my work with flexibility, compassion, and a deep respect for self-determination. I firmly believe you are the expert in your experience.
Nancy Milam
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
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.
Kyra Keuben
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
As a queer, person, my work is rooted in anti-racism and social justice with an intersectional feminist lens.
"Be what you are becoming, without clinging to what you might have been, what you might yet be." Our relationship is an opportunity for you to take up space and fill concert halls. It is easy for us to view our lives like a piece of sheet music and get caught up in the theory. As a result, we end up missing the beautiful symphony all around up. I want to create a space with you where you don't have to worry about being too much. Our space will be warm, protected, and healing. I want us to create a space where you get to live your life on your own terms.
As a queer, person, my work is rooted in anti-racism and social justice with an intersectional feminist lens.
"Be what you are becoming, without clinging to what you might have been, what you might yet be." Our relationship is an opportunity for you to take up space and fill concert halls. It is easy for us to view our lives like a piece of sheet music and get caught up in the theory. As a result, we end up missing the beautiful symphony all around up. I want to create a space with you where you don't have to worry about being too much. Our space will be warm, protected, and healing. I want us to create a space where you get to live your life on your own terms.
Paula Gonzalez
Counselor, MA, LPC, CIMHP, ADHD-SP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
I provide individual counseling to adults of all cultural backgrounds and the LGBTQ community.
I'm currently accepting new clients! Are you having difficulty focusing or concentrating? Do you have racing thoughts, feel anxious or difficulty sleeping? Are you having trouble managing your emotions? Do you feel fatigued and depressed? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a ADHD-Certified Clinical Service Provider. I provide individual therapy for adults experiencing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder social anxiety, life transitions and stress.
I provide individual counseling to adults of all cultural backgrounds and the LGBTQ community.
I'm currently accepting new clients! Are you having difficulty focusing or concentrating? Do you have racing thoughts, feel anxious or difficulty sleeping? Are you having trouble managing your emotions? Do you feel fatigued and depressed? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a ADHD-Certified Clinical Service Provider. I provide individual therapy for adults experiencing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder social anxiety, life transitions and stress.
Mason L Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CSOTS, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
I also love working with LGBT individuals and understand the unique challenges people face due to prejudice and discrimination.
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
I also love working with LGBT individuals and understand the unique challenges people face due to prejudice and discrimination.
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
Manya Treece
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
I have worked with many clients, including those who struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, sexual and physical abuse, workplace issues, LGBTQ issues and issues surrounding chronic illness.
My name is Manya, and I am trained in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic psychotherapy. My approach is to form a relationship with each person I see, taking special care to note any patterns in a person's history or present that may be holding them back or causing unnecessary pain or conflict. I take great care to notice how the past is informing the present and to provide the insight needed to develop and maintain healthy relationships, behaviors and feelings.
I have worked with many clients, including those who struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, sexual and physical abuse, workplace issues, LGBTQ issues and issues surrounding chronic illness.
My name is Manya, and I am trained in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic psychotherapy. My approach is to form a relationship with each person I see, taking special care to note any patterns in a person's history or present that may be holding them back or causing unnecessary pain or conflict. I take great care to notice how the past is informing the present and to provide the insight needed to develop and maintain healthy relationships, behaviors and feelings.
Kathleen M Pendergast
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647 (Online Only)
My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
See more therapy options for 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.