LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Chicago, IL
Arthur Avalos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
I work with behavioral issues, mood impairment, anxiety, life transitions, work/life balance, self-esteem, substance abuse, chronic medical issues, crisis management and issues unique to the LGBTQ population.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
I work with behavioral issues, mood impairment, anxiety, life transitions, work/life balance, self-esteem, substance abuse, chronic medical issues, crisis management and issues unique to the LGBTQ population.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
Jacob Penrod
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is working with LGBTQ+, kinky, and/or poly clients.
I believe therapy serves two main functions: change and healing. Therapeutic change occurs when we take control of our lives and our stories. In therapy, I encourage you to incorporate your strengths into a larger conversation about who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there. Where change comes from transformation; healing comes from liberation. Therapy provides liberation from individual wounds; however, therapy must also be a space for healing and liberation from the effects of systemic oppression.
My specialty is working with LGBTQ+, kinky, and/or poly clients.
I believe therapy serves two main functions: change and healing. Therapeutic change occurs when we take control of our lives and our stories. In therapy, I encourage you to incorporate your strengths into a larger conversation about who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there. Where change comes from transformation; healing comes from liberation. Therapy provides liberation from individual wounds; however, therapy must also be a space for healing and liberation from the effects of systemic oppression.
Joshua Won
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer, Asian-American who was raised in a religious immigrant home, I empathize with the struggles of reconciling cultural conflicts and diverging identities. My therapeutic space offers safety and support for exploring your inner self, thoughts, feelings, and relationships. I'll guide you to a deeper self-awareness, helping you understand how your identities and values shape your realities. My role is to create a secure environment for you to navigate your discomforts, challenge negative thoughts, and reshape old narratives. I want you to walk away feeling empowered to overcome life's challenges with strength and resilience.
As a queer, Asian-American who was raised in a religious immigrant home, I empathize with the struggles of reconciling cultural conflicts and diverging identities. My therapeutic space offers safety and support for exploring your inner self, thoughts, feelings, and relationships. I'll guide you to a deeper self-awareness, helping you understand how your identities and values shape your realities. My role is to create a secure environment for you to navigate your discomforts, challenge negative thoughts, and reshape old narratives. I want you to walk away feeling empowered to overcome life's challenges with strength and resilience.
Joie Wiener
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Joie is a North Side resident with personal experience in coping with childhood and medical trauma, and nurturing chronically ill/disabled, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ identities in an able-focused, neurotypical, and cis-heteronormative world. Joie is a former social emotional and sexual health educator with a background working as a therapist in the schools, and over telehealth with children, adolescents, and adults, with a particular focus on trauma and gender/sexuality identity development.
Joie is a North Side resident with personal experience in coping with childhood and medical trauma, and nurturing chronically ill/disabled, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ identities in an able-focused, neurotypical, and cis-heteronormative world. Joie is a former social emotional and sexual health educator with a background working as a therapist in the schools, and over telehealth with children, adolescents, and adults, with a particular focus on trauma and gender/sexuality identity development.
Mallory Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience providing affirming therapy to the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals impacted by HIV+/AIDS.
I strive to develop a collaborative environment with each client so they can feel safe and comfortable discussing what brought them to therapy, identify their goals, and take steps to building a meaningful and rich life. I am interactive in the therapy process and support clients with practical tools and strategies to challenge old patterns, while incorporating new skills that aim to improve the client's ability to live more intentionally and authentically. I employ elements of ACT, DBT, and CBT to respond to the unique needs of the individual.
I have experience providing affirming therapy to the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals impacted by HIV+/AIDS.
I strive to develop a collaborative environment with each client so they can feel safe and comfortable discussing what brought them to therapy, identify their goals, and take steps to building a meaningful and rich life. I am interactive in the therapy process and support clients with practical tools and strategies to challenge old patterns, while incorporating new skills that aim to improve the client's ability to live more intentionally and authentically. I employ elements of ACT, DBT, and CBT to respond to the unique needs of the individual.
Benjamin Gronich
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with teens/adults within the LGBTQ+ communities.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
I have extensive experience working with teens/adults within the LGBTQ+ communities.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
Anthony Oltean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
For many of us, living an emotionally and physically healthy lifestyle, while working, trying to build friendships, finding companionship, are at times difficult and disheartening. I offer therapeutic support aimed at enhancing your natural strengths, introduce new coping abilities, challenge unproductive thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, as well as providing you the opportunity to try on a new perspective toward your life. I have worked predominately with the LGBTQ+ population, as well as variety of communities located in the Lakeview area.
For many of us, living an emotionally and physically healthy lifestyle, while working, trying to build friendships, finding companionship, are at times difficult and disheartening. I offer therapeutic support aimed at enhancing your natural strengths, introduce new coping abilities, challenge unproductive thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, as well as providing you the opportunity to try on a new perspective toward your life. I have worked predominately with the LGBTQ+ population, as well as variety of communities located in the Lakeview area.
Eric Geweniger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I work with individuals and relationships of all identities with specialization in developmental/attachment trauma, queer folx, kinksters and leather folx, and young adults.
The path back to groundedness and rejuvenation is a little different for each of us. We've been through a difficult past few years, and so many of us are burnt out or disillusioned by the state of the world and the challenges of finding genuine connection - especially for those of us who are marginalized for being our authentic selves. Having a space to process our feelings and offload stress can be a turning point for many of us toward meaningful change and deeper awareness of ourselves as we navigate life's challenges. Together, we can find your path and walk it together.
I work with individuals and relationships of all identities with specialization in developmental/attachment trauma, queer folx, kinksters and leather folx, and young adults.
The path back to groundedness and rejuvenation is a little different for each of us. We've been through a difficult past few years, and so many of us are burnt out or disillusioned by the state of the world and the challenges of finding genuine connection - especially for those of us who are marginalized for being our authentic selves. Having a space to process our feelings and offload stress can be a turning point for many of us toward meaningful change and deeper awareness of ourselves as we navigate life's challenges. Together, we can find your path and walk it together.
Alex Ragsdale
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Waitlist for new clients
I am queer, sex-positive, fat-positive, and trauma-informed.
As a relational therapist, I focus on supporting and witnessing clients in finding healing, connection, conflict resolution, and repair to ultimately build a life and relationships that honor their values and imagination. Therapy is an opportunity for liberation from dominant social narratives that don’t work for us as individuals or in our relationships, and I recognize the intergenerational and ongoing trauma of struggling against those dominant narratives. All relationships can benefit from this lens – whether they're romantic, platonic, brand new, long-term, with others, or with parts of yourself.
I am queer, sex-positive, fat-positive, and trauma-informed.
As a relational therapist, I focus on supporting and witnessing clients in finding healing, connection, conflict resolution, and repair to ultimately build a life and relationships that honor their values and imagination. Therapy is an opportunity for liberation from dominant social narratives that don’t work for us as individuals or in our relationships, and I recognize the intergenerational and ongoing trauma of struggling against those dominant narratives. All relationships can benefit from this lens – whether they're romantic, platonic, brand new, long-term, with others, or with parts of yourself.
Aaron Testard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have several years of experience specializing in the areas of sexuality, gender, LGBT issues, addiction, and chronic illness, with both adults and adolescents.
Do you feel lost, questioning who you are or where you're going with no easy answers? Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, we hit a bottom, or we just realize that something in us is different...or something must change. Such times of confusion and crisis are often the meeting point for our work together. They are also openings to self-discovery and real change. I listen deeply for what you want, develop a relationship of trust, and work WITH you to establish the clarity and direction you need.
I have several years of experience specializing in the areas of sexuality, gender, LGBT issues, addiction, and chronic illness, with both adults and adolescents.
Do you feel lost, questioning who you are or where you're going with no easy answers? Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, we hit a bottom, or we just realize that something in us is different...or something must change. Such times of confusion and crisis are often the meeting point for our work together. They are also openings to self-discovery and real change. I listen deeply for what you want, develop a relationship of trust, and work WITH you to establish the clarity and direction you need.
Anthony Paul Verdino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I mainly work with Queer, kink, and poly folx on transitions, sex/relationships, decision-making, connection, and joy/pleasure.
You are the one that lives your worries, fears, shame, and desires. You are the expert or emerging expert on your own life. Sure, it may not feel that way because this world is confusing and overwhelming (and a bit devastating). My aim is to help you become more aware of your emotions, relationship patterns, and unhelpful thoughts, and become more responsive to your needs, desires, and values in authentic ways. My hope is that we can help you begin to feel more comfortable and confidant with who you are, who you want to be, and how to get there.
I mainly work with Queer, kink, and poly folx on transitions, sex/relationships, decision-making, connection, and joy/pleasure.
You are the one that lives your worries, fears, shame, and desires. You are the expert or emerging expert on your own life. Sure, it may not feel that way because this world is confusing and overwhelming (and a bit devastating). My aim is to help you become more aware of your emotions, relationship patterns, and unhelpful thoughts, and become more responsive to your needs, desires, and values in authentic ways. My hope is that we can help you begin to feel more comfortable and confidant with who you are, who you want to be, and how to get there.
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Lauren Engelhard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I'm a queer therapist who often works with LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Latine children, adults, couples/partners, families, and polycules, while being mindful of my white identity. My areas of interest include identity exploration and intersectionality, difficulties related to sex and intimacy, challenges in communication between partners, and non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships. I work across the lifespan and have experience with children as young as three years old through adulthood. I often pull from frameworks like psychodynamic theory, person-centered therapy, and attachment theory.
I'm a queer therapist who often works with LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Latine children, adults, couples/partners, families, and polycules, while being mindful of my white identity. My areas of interest include identity exploration and intersectionality, difficulties related to sex and intimacy, challenges in communication between partners, and non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships. I work across the lifespan and have experience with children as young as three years old through adulthood. I often pull from frameworks like psychodynamic theory, person-centered therapy, and attachment theory.
Ryan Coventry
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
With 10+ years of LGBTQ community-oriented work, including graduation from the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) at the Center on Halsted, I am uniquely qualified to support members of the LGBTQ community in reaching their goals.
As a therapist, I work from a relational perspective that believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to help clients achieve their goals. You can receive therapy from (almost) anyone, but the sense of trust, warmth, and comfort (or sometimes discomfort) you experience with a therapist can be the deciding factor between significant change and desired positive growth. To benefit those under my care, I am devoted to creating an affirmative, empathic, and understanding relationship that balances what my clients often refer to as my "challenging" feedback and "bluntness" in therapy.
With 10+ years of LGBTQ community-oriented work, including graduation from the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) at the Center on Halsted, I am uniquely qualified to support members of the LGBTQ community in reaching their goals.
As a therapist, I work from a relational perspective that believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to help clients achieve their goals. You can receive therapy from (almost) anyone, but the sense of trust, warmth, and comfort (or sometimes discomfort) you experience with a therapist can be the deciding factor between significant change and desired positive growth. To benefit those under my care, I am devoted to creating an affirmative, empathic, and understanding relationship that balances what my clients often refer to as my "challenging" feedback and "bluntness" in therapy.
Kai Korpak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a queer transgender therapist, I believe there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to living our lives. The same goes for therapy - there isn't a "right way" to do it. In my practice, I am committed to helping individuals tap into their personal strengths and uncover a path that is meaningful and fulfilling. I trust that my clients are the experts on their own lives and have the skills and tools they need to navigate their problems. However, I'm here to provide support and guidance when they need it.
As a queer transgender therapist, I believe there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to living our lives. The same goes for therapy - there isn't a "right way" to do it. In my practice, I am committed to helping individuals tap into their personal strengths and uncover a path that is meaningful and fulfilling. I trust that my clients are the experts on their own lives and have the skills and tools they need to navigate their problems. However, I'm here to provide support and guidance when they need it.
Adam Ouanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
As a white passing bi-racial gay man, I understand people are complex and my experiences allow me to humbly understand and embrace the inner life of my clients.
Finding a new therapist is daunting. If you’re here, then life is probably getting in the way. The ways you used to cope may have stopped working. You might feel stuck and unsure where you are going. My job is to guide you towards change and help you unbelieve false narratives about yourself that are holding you back. Much of my work is focused on working with LGBTQ people, self esteem and managing relationship issues. I also specialize in working with gay men in recovery from addiction. Additionally, I work with co-occurring mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
As a white passing bi-racial gay man, I understand people are complex and my experiences allow me to humbly understand and embrace the inner life of my clients.
Finding a new therapist is daunting. If you’re here, then life is probably getting in the way. The ways you used to cope may have stopped working. You might feel stuck and unsure where you are going. My job is to guide you towards change and help you unbelieve false narratives about yourself that are holding you back. Much of my work is focused on working with LGBTQ people, self esteem and managing relationship issues. I also specialize in working with gay men in recovery from addiction. Additionally, I work with co-occurring mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Jack Sweeney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
I have experience providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care to newly arrived immigrants and refugees and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I connect deeply with creating safe space and bearing witness to the unique challenges we all face.
Therapy doesn’t have to be the front-facing camera of how we see ourselves. By showing up and being honest, we can reposition the lens, adjust undesirable angles and tweak the lighting to help illuminate your happiest, most grounded self. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is YOU-centered. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in our relationship. I have an expansive view of the human spirit, relate to the pitfalls of human experience and possess a profound understanding of the disconnect which can occur between the stories we tell ourselves, and the realities we actually face.
I have experience providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care to newly arrived immigrants and refugees and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I connect deeply with creating safe space and bearing witness to the unique challenges we all face.
Therapy doesn’t have to be the front-facing camera of how we see ourselves. By showing up and being honest, we can reposition the lens, adjust undesirable angles and tweak the lighting to help illuminate your happiest, most grounded self. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is YOU-centered. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in our relationship. I have an expansive view of the human spirit, relate to the pitfalls of human experience and possess a profound understanding of the disconnect which can occur between the stories we tell ourselves, and the realities we actually face.
Bespoke Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
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 space for big feelings, hard conversations, and 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 space for big feelings, hard conversations, and 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.
Frank Floski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in working with the queer and neurodivergent populations with a focus on and sexual issues from performance to intimacy, sexual trauma, sexual/gender identity exploration, neurodiversity adjustment (diagnosed or not), executive functioning and sexual/gender identity. My goal is for my clients to gain an understanding of their lived experience and present circumstance and learn to synthesize these two parts of themselves. Healing past trauma wounds will provide my clients with a healthier outlook and framework to their current circumstances.
I specialize in working with the queer and neurodivergent populations with a focus on and sexual issues from performance to intimacy, sexual trauma, sexual/gender identity exploration, neurodiversity adjustment (diagnosed or not), executive functioning and sexual/gender identity. My goal is for my clients to gain an understanding of their lived experience and present circumstance and learn to synthesize these two parts of themselves. Healing past trauma wounds will provide my clients with a healthier outlook and framework to their current circumstances.
John Thorne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, depression, identity development, sexual issues, relationship troubles, family issues, substance use, and more.
Taking the first step into the world of therapy can feel daunting and overwhelming as it requires you to trust someone with your vulnerabilities and fears. This step also requires enormous strength. I strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where I will work with you to achieve your goals and help create positive change in your life. While your situation may not feel hopeful now, we can work together to bring that hope back into your life.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, depression, identity development, sexual issues, relationship troubles, family issues, substance use, and more.
Taking the first step into the world of therapy can feel daunting and overwhelming as it requires you to trust someone with your vulnerabilities and fears. This step also requires enormous strength. I strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where I will work with you to achieve your goals and help create positive change in your life. While your situation may not feel hopeful now, we can work together to bring that hope back into your life.
Troy Eldon Gibson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612 (Online Only)
I offer affirming therapy for Racial Identity issues and LGBTQ+ issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and not sure how to explain what you are feeling? Or do you internalize your stress because it’s hard to get the support that you need? All of that built up pressure can be a lot to carry. I want to help you untangle yourself from the heaviness of your experiences. Let’s work together to figure out how to express your unresolved emotions and reach the healing that you deserve. There is nothing wrong with getting some extra support to figure things out and get back on track. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey.
I offer affirming therapy for Racial Identity issues and LGBTQ+ issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and not sure how to explain what you are feeling? Or do you internalize your stress because it’s hard to get the support that you need? All of that built up pressure can be a lot to carry. I want to help you untangle yourself from the heaviness of your experiences. Let’s work together to figure out how to express your unresolved emotions and reach the healing that you deserve. There is nothing wrong with getting some extra support to figure things out and get back on track. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Norridge
- North Riverside
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Riverside
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.