Therapists in Chicago, IL
Patrick Gehrlich LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a strong believer that with the aid of a trusting, warm, skillful and open minded therapist people can bring about real, positive changes to their lives. I work with my clients in an empathetic and open dialogue to not only find the root causes of current behaviors and thinking patterns but also to help change them. I do so understanding that each individual is the expert on themselves so the entire process is collaborative.
I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a strong believer that with the aid of a trusting, warm, skillful and open minded therapist people can bring about real, positive changes to their lives. I work with my clients in an empathetic and open dialogue to not only find the root causes of current behaviors and thinking patterns but also to help change them. I do so understanding that each individual is the expert on themselves so the entire process is collaborative.
Devon Migues
Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
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.
E Ardron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I am committed to creating an affirming, non-judgemental environment for LGBTQ+ folx to feel empowered and supported.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
I am committed to creating an affirming, non-judgemental environment for LGBTQ+ folx to feel empowered and supported.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
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.
Behavioral Health at Center on Halsted
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
For more than 35 years, Center on Halsted has helped Chicago's LGBTQ community and caring allies meet their behavioral health needs. Our team of therapists offer individual therapy, group therapy, and letters of support for gender affirming surgeries. Our Behavioral Health phone line operates as a bank of information about our services (including scheduling an initial screening), community resources, and possible referrals. These services are offered both in English and Spanish.
For more than 35 years, Center on Halsted has helped Chicago's LGBTQ community and caring allies meet their behavioral health needs. Our team of therapists offer individual therapy, group therapy, and letters of support for gender affirming surgeries. Our Behavioral Health phone line operates as a bank of information about our services (including scheduling an initial screening), community resources, and possible referrals. These services are offered both in English and Spanish.
Alexi Peters
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ASDCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Alexi Peters MA, LCPC is a sex-positive, fat positive, queer therapist. They take a warm yet honest approach to therapy strategically supporting clients in achieving their personal and interpersonal goals through actionable work. Alexi primarily utilizes narrative therapy, DBT, and RODBT to work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQIA+ and sexual health, including gender identity and gender affirming needs.
Alexi Peters MA, LCPC is a sex-positive, fat positive, queer therapist. They take a warm yet honest approach to therapy strategically supporting clients in achieving their personal and interpersonal goals through actionable work. Alexi primarily utilizes narrative therapy, DBT, and RODBT to work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQIA+ and sexual health, including gender identity and gender affirming needs.
Betsey Zemke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
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.
Rebecca Swanney
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
While I work with children and adults of all ages, my areas of focus and interest are in multiracial/ multicultural issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, neurodiversity (e.
I hope to give clients an opportunity to feel empowered and in control of their treatment. I believe that many mental health issues stem from or are exacerbated by the current cultural climate we live in. In addition, many of the beliefs we have about ourselves are learned from our families, friends, and societal influences, and those in turn affect our emotions and behaviors. In therapy, we can work together to untangle what beliefs are helping you and which ones are not.
While I work with children and adults of all ages, my areas of focus and interest are in multiracial/ multicultural issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, neurodiversity (e.
I hope to give clients an opportunity to feel empowered and in control of their treatment. I believe that many mental health issues stem from or are exacerbated by the current cultural climate we live in. In addition, many of the beliefs we have about ourselves are learned from our families, friends, and societal influences, and those in turn affect our emotions and behaviors. In therapy, we can work together to untangle what beliefs are helping you and which ones are not.
Kat Jones
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with marginalized communities, specifically folks who identify as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as BIPOC individuals.
If you are struggling with feelings of self-worth, identity formation and feeling understood, then it makes sense why it can be hard to ask for help. Reaching out is a scary step, and you have already made a brave move by being here. So, take a moment to celebrate yourself, maybe take a deep breath, and recognize the strength it took to show up. You deserve a space to process emotional challenges and connect with a happy and empowered version of yourself.
I am dedicated to working with marginalized communities, specifically folks who identify as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as BIPOC individuals.
If you are struggling with feelings of self-worth, identity formation and feeling understood, then it makes sense why it can be hard to ask for help. Reaching out is a scary step, and you have already made a brave move by being here. So, take a moment to celebrate yourself, maybe take a deep breath, and recognize the strength it took to show up. You deserve a space to process emotional challenges and connect with a happy and empowered version of yourself.
Richard Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I am a graduate of Hunter College of The City University of New York and The Institute for Human Identity, the first LGBT treatment facility in the U.
Thank you for your interest in my services. Choosing an appropriate therapist is often experienced as a daunting task. I appreciate how difficult initiating the psychotherapy process can be. I am committed to establishing an open and collaborative therapeutic relationship with you, and offer a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive environment for growth and change. I work with individuals and couples to find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and to change the pattern that no longer works. As a psychotherapist, I recognize that each course of treatment is subjective and unique.
I am a graduate of Hunter College of The City University of New York and The Institute for Human Identity, the first LGBT treatment facility in the U.
Thank you for your interest in my services. Choosing an appropriate therapist is often experienced as a daunting task. I appreciate how difficult initiating the psychotherapy process can be. I am committed to establishing an open and collaborative therapeutic relationship with you, and offer a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive environment for growth and change. I work with individuals and couples to find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and to change the pattern that no longer works. As a psychotherapist, I recognize that each course of treatment is subjective and unique.
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Beth Holzhauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
As a member of the LGBTQIA community, I am privileged to work with those who identify on the LGBTQIA sexuality and gender spectrum.
As a culturally affirming trauma therapist, my highest intention is to restore dignity to those who have been marginalized or exiled from our human community because of their traumatic experiences. I see therapy as a journey we embark on together, where I am invited not only to tread the well-worn paths of our shared humanity, but also to walk reverently into the sacred spaces of my clients' life stories. I approach this work with humility, deep respect, and a fierce commitment to my clients' well-being. I am known to hang in there when things get tough, and I enjoy a healthy dose of playfulness and humor in every relationship.
As a member of the LGBTQIA community, I am privileged to work with those who identify on the LGBTQIA sexuality and gender spectrum.
As a culturally affirming trauma therapist, my highest intention is to restore dignity to those who have been marginalized or exiled from our human community because of their traumatic experiences. I see therapy as a journey we embark on together, where I am invited not only to tread the well-worn paths of our shared humanity, but also to walk reverently into the sacred spaces of my clients' life stories. I approach this work with humility, deep respect, and a fierce commitment to my clients' well-being. I am known to hang in there when things get tough, and I enjoy a healthy dose of playfulness and humor in every relationship.
Terry Ann Dornak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626
Some of the common issues I help my clients address include chronic pain, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
Some of the common issues I help my clients address include chronic pain, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
Jena Catania
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and as a queer-identified therapist, I can uniquely understand the complexities of questioning one’s sexual identity.
I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership, and find the relational aspect of therapy to be an integral piece in making strides towards meeting the clients needs and goals. Confronting the difficulties and pain in life is often challenging and uncomfortable—as such I strive to create a safe space for my clients to process authentically. I know each client is unique and work to meet the client where they are, with empathy, humor, support, challenge, and encouragement throughout our journey together. I offer services for clients ages 12+, and have experience working with a wide range of clients and in various settings.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and as a queer-identified therapist, I can uniquely understand the complexities of questioning one’s sexual identity.
I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership, and find the relational aspect of therapy to be an integral piece in making strides towards meeting the clients needs and goals. Confronting the difficulties and pain in life is often challenging and uncomfortable—as such I strive to create a safe space for my clients to process authentically. I know each client is unique and work to meet the client where they are, with empathy, humor, support, challenge, and encouragement throughout our journey together. I offer services for clients ages 12+, and have experience working with a wide range of clients and in various settings.
James Searing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
I work well with creatives, LGBTQ+ folx, neurodivergent thinks, geeks, and gamers.
My own healing journey has taught me that life gets hard and healing is messy. You don’t have to go through this alone. Sometimes the journey leaves us in many pieces, scattered thoughts, overwhelming tasks, grief, and broken dreams. It can feel like looking at a whole mountain before you. The view from higher up is worth every step. I'm here to travel with you-challenging, cheering, and celebrating your wins along the way. Little by little, you can turn your dreams into reality. The world is now full of new problems from endless tabs, too much scrolling, and coping with collective existential stress.
I work well with creatives, LGBTQ+ folx, neurodivergent thinks, geeks, and gamers.
My own healing journey has taught me that life gets hard and healing is messy. You don’t have to go through this alone. Sometimes the journey leaves us in many pieces, scattered thoughts, overwhelming tasks, grief, and broken dreams. It can feel like looking at a whole mountain before you. The view from higher up is worth every step. I'm here to travel with you-challenging, cheering, and celebrating your wins along the way. Little by little, you can turn your dreams into reality. The world is now full of new problems from endless tabs, too much scrolling, and coping with collective existential stress.
Shelby Caudill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
My practice is informed by trans liberation theory, pleasure activism, decolonization, and intersectionality.
If you aren’t sure how to begin figuring out who your authentic self is; you may be feeling like you’re alone, confused, or overwhelmed. You may think that because of your past experiences that you are broken, undeserving, less than, not enough, or you can’t have access to an authentic and satisfying life. Working with me will help us unlock and challenge some of these beliefs so you can lean into new pathways to access pleasure, authenticity, and satisfaction.
My practice is informed by trans liberation theory, pleasure activism, decolonization, and intersectionality.
If you aren’t sure how to begin figuring out who your authentic self is; you may be feeling like you’re alone, confused, or overwhelmed. You may think that because of your past experiences that you are broken, undeserving, less than, not enough, or you can’t have access to an authentic and satisfying life. Working with me will help us unlock and challenge some of these beliefs so you can lean into new pathways to access pleasure, authenticity, and satisfaction.
José Arroyo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
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.
Elizabeth Cerven
Counselor, PhD(c), LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I am a queer, feminist therapist.
You are here and you are ready to explore all the parts of you, perhaps more than ever, those which have been dismissed and shamed. You are ready to deepen the relationship with yourself and to feel emotions fully without guilt or shame, on your own or perhaps with your partner. You desire a space to explore the parts of you that feel unknown, “unacceptable,” "too much," or taboo. You are ready to show up and be completely you while someone holds space for you in your bravery and vulnerability. You are craving at least one space in your life where you can work toward being genuinely you. You long to be seen as who you are.
I am a queer, feminist therapist.
You are here and you are ready to explore all the parts of you, perhaps more than ever, those which have been dismissed and shamed. You are ready to deepen the relationship with yourself and to feel emotions fully without guilt or shame, on your own or perhaps with your partner. You desire a space to explore the parts of you that feel unknown, “unacceptable,” "too much," or taboo. You are ready to show up and be completely you while someone holds space for you in your bravery and vulnerability. You are craving at least one space in your life where you can work toward being genuinely you. You long to be seen as who you are.
Jennifer Black
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LBS1, MSEd
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603 (Online Only)
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Elizabeth Maranto
Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with individuals who have experienced or are experiencing any traumas, anxiety, life transitions, relationship concerns, and grief. In particular, I enjoy working with young adults and adolescents who want to work through trauma, anxiety, and/or are questioning their sexuality. I have experience in working with youth, adolescents, and adults of all ages; specifically targeting LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, and various life transitions. I also enjoy working with couples and families to feel connected, gain perspective and work on communication skills.
I work with individuals who have experienced or are experiencing any traumas, anxiety, life transitions, relationship concerns, and grief. In particular, I enjoy working with young adults and adolescents who want to work through trauma, anxiety, and/or are questioning their sexuality. I have experience in working with youth, adolescents, and adults of all ages; specifically targeting LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, and various life transitions. I also enjoy working with couples and families to feel connected, gain perspective and work on communication skills.
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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.