Photo of Justin Sato, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Justin Sato
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MBA, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Populations of focus are LGBTQ+, immigrant/first generation, (interracial) couples, & non-monogamous relationships.
All of us yearn for a sense of belonging, and it is human to feel lonely due to issues we may be facing in life. Feeling alone can have a detrimental impact not only to our mental/emotional health, but also physical health. I'm here to support you in your mental health journey and working towards a better quality of life. I strive for social justice and am attuned to the impacts and influences of society and culture. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and harm reduction lens, meaning I’m sensitive to the past experiences that have shaped you into who you are today while working in a collaborative approach.
Populations of focus are LGBTQ+, immigrant/first generation, (interracial) couples, & non-monogamous relationships.
All of us yearn for a sense of belonging, and it is human to feel lonely due to issues we may be facing in life. Feeling alone can have a detrimental impact not only to our mental/emotional health, but also physical health. I'm here to support you in your mental health journey and working towards a better quality of life. I strive for social justice and am attuned to the impacts and influences of society and culture. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and harm reduction lens, meaning I’m sensitive to the past experiences that have shaped you into who you are today while working in a collaborative approach.
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Photo of Julleon Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
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."
(312) 262-2473 View (312) 262-2473
Photo of Paul Fressola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
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.
(773) 639-2768 View (773) 639-2768
Photo of Howard Gelb LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Howard Gelb LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I specialize in working with people experiencing addictions/substance abuse, anxietypanic, cultural and religious issues, depression, anger, LGBTQ, gender identity, sexual identity & coming out, grief & loss, dating and relationships, those newly diagnosed with HIV as well as long term survivors, and process addictions such as sexual, internet and gambling.
I'm here to help and support you in a safe and welcoming environment to achieve the goals that you're seeking and create change in your life. It is my goal to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive atmosphere in which together we can gain a better understanding of your past and present day difficulties. We'll work together to help you find the best way to live the successful and happy life you deserve. Individual therapy can be beneficial for everybody and can facilitate personal growth.
I specialize in working with people experiencing addictions/substance abuse, anxietypanic, cultural and religious issues, depression, anger, LGBTQ, gender identity, sexual identity & coming out, grief & loss, dating and relationships, those newly diagnosed with HIV as well as long term survivors, and process addictions such as sexual, internet and gambling.
I'm here to help and support you in a safe and welcoming environment to achieve the goals that you're seeking and create change in your life. It is my goal to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive atmosphere in which together we can gain a better understanding of your past and present day difficulties. We'll work together to help you find the best way to live the successful and happy life you deserve. Individual therapy can be beneficial for everybody and can facilitate personal growth.
(773) 938-0612 View (773) 938-0612
Photo of Rebecca Swanney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
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.
(872) 259-4947 View (872) 259-4947
Photo of Lotus Wellness Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(847) 416-8227 View (847) 416-8227
Photo of Rich Jentzen LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Rich Jentzen LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Who you are… straight, transgender, bisexual, lesbian, gay, queer, genderqueer, questioning… is an essential part of our work together. I welcome your whole self, supporting traditional and non-traditional families: blended, multiracial, multigenerational, foster, poly, leather, and members of kink communities. Therapy promotes healing, growth, and change. We'll focus together to understand your thoughts and behaviors. Our work together will help you develop new coping skills. Growth happens by reinforcing your strengths and values, increasing your self-awareness, and help you build a tolerance for distress and ambiguity.
Who you are… straight, transgender, bisexual, lesbian, gay, queer, genderqueer, questioning… is an essential part of our work together. I welcome your whole self, supporting traditional and non-traditional families: blended, multiracial, multigenerational, foster, poly, leather, and members of kink communities. Therapy promotes healing, growth, and change. We'll focus together to understand your thoughts and behaviors. Our work together will help you develop new coping skills. Growth happens by reinforcing your strengths and values, increasing your self-awareness, and help you build a tolerance for distress and ambiguity.
(847) 943-9894 View (847) 943-9894
Photo of Next Step Counseling, Inc, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Next Step Counseling, Inc
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Life can be hard and having a counselor who truly hears you is life changing. You deserve to feel amazing and we're experts at making that a reality. As a niche based practice we have counselors that can help you navigate challenges in life & love. We have expertise in break-ups/divorce recovery, anxiety/stress, grief & loss, post-college transitions, trauma, relational discord, self-esteem, ADHD, non-traditional relationships and LGBTQ+. Our strength lies in walking with you through difficult transitions quicker and with more ease, insight and coping. We love supporting our clients because our life's work is to improve yours.
Life can be hard and having a counselor who truly hears you is life changing. You deserve to feel amazing and we're experts at making that a reality. As a niche based practice we have counselors that can help you navigate challenges in life & love. We have expertise in break-ups/divorce recovery, anxiety/stress, grief & loss, post-college transitions, trauma, relational discord, self-esteem, ADHD, non-traditional relationships and LGBTQ+. Our strength lies in walking with you through difficult transitions quicker and with more ease, insight and coping. We love supporting our clients because our life's work is to improve yours.
(773) 365-9378 View (773) 365-9378
Photo of Nakisher Psychological Services, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
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.
(773) 417-5450 View (773) 417-5450
Photo of THA Therapy Group, Inc , Counselor in Chicago, IL
THA Therapy Group, Inc
Counselor, LCPC, Crystal, Clair
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Depression Anxiety, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Anger management, Grief, All addictions and Co-dependency, Eating Disorders, Sleep problems, ADD/ADHD, OCD, Divorce recovery, LGBTQ Friendly, All things relational.
As of August 2021, Terry Hefter Associates, L.L.C. is delighted to join CFC Therapy and their family of psychotherapists. Together, we bring more than four decades of experience helping clients transform relationships, tackle roadblocks, and achieve their fullest potential. We look forward to empowering you as we embark on this exciting partnership! At THA Therapy Group, we believe in possibilities—and we empower you to realize yours. Working with our team of experienced therapists, you’ll gain the strength to navigate life’s challenges, confront what’s holding you back, and achieve your fullest potential.
Depression Anxiety, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Anger management, Grief, All addictions and Co-dependency, Eating Disorders, Sleep problems, ADD/ADHD, OCD, Divorce recovery, LGBTQ Friendly, All things relational.
As of August 2021, Terry Hefter Associates, L.L.C. is delighted to join CFC Therapy and their family of psychotherapists. Together, we bring more than four decades of experience helping clients transform relationships, tackle roadblocks, and achieve their fullest potential. We look forward to empowering you as we embark on this exciting partnership! At THA Therapy Group, we believe in possibilities—and we empower you to realize yours. Working with our team of experienced therapists, you’ll gain the strength to navigate life’s challenges, confront what’s holding you back, and achieve your fullest potential.
(872) 814-6604 View (872) 814-6604
Photo of Iggy V Ladden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Iggy V Ladden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in LGBTQIA struggles and complex trauma.
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
I specialize in LGBTQIA struggles and complex trauma.
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
(331) 442-4449 View (331) 442-4449
Photo of Clarity Clinic- Chicago, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Clarity Clinic- Chicago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CADC, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Deja specializes in Addiction/Substance Abuse Alcoholism Anger Management Anxiety Bipolar Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder DBT/CBT Depression Grief and Loss/Bereavement LGBTQ Major Depressive Disorder Mindfulness Mood Disorders Personality Disorder Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Trauma Relationship Issues Sadness Self Esteem .
Growing up on the south side of Chicago, Deja has watched mental illness and illicit drug use disrupt the lives of strangers, family and friends. She sought out a degree that will allow her to help individuals heal mentally and emotionally. Her focus is re-building individuals and families broken by mental illness and substance use. Deja’s mission is to guide individuals to their highest selves through self-awareness and therapeutic intervention. She aims to help her clients create internal stability,so they can control their external reality. She believes that it takes a collective effort for a person to grow into their best selves
Deja specializes in Addiction/Substance Abuse Alcoholism Anger Management Anxiety Bipolar Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder DBT/CBT Depression Grief and Loss/Bereavement LGBTQ Major Depressive Disorder Mindfulness Mood Disorders Personality Disorder Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Trauma Relationship Issues Sadness Self Esteem .
Growing up on the south side of Chicago, Deja has watched mental illness and illicit drug use disrupt the lives of strangers, family and friends. She sought out a degree that will allow her to help individuals heal mentally and emotionally. Her focus is re-building individuals and families broken by mental illness and substance use. Deja’s mission is to guide individuals to their highest selves through self-awareness and therapeutic intervention. She aims to help her clients create internal stability,so they can control their external reality. She believes that it takes a collective effort for a person to grow into their best selves
(312) 764-1606 View (312) 764-1606
Photo of Anna Zarovsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Anna Zarovsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
My style is collaborative: I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, LGBTQ+/non-binary and GNC populations, sexuality, alternative relationship structures, fertility/infertility, pregnancy loss, trauma, addictions, and a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, stress-management and low self-esteem.
I utilize a supportive and warm approach that is integrative of mindfulness and dialectical-behavioral principles. I work from the perspective that the client-therapist relationship is paramount to progress, and believe that it is the stepping stone to growth and change. Clients set their own pace and can process each step of their journey. I believe in gentle challenging to move through patterns that are not serving anymore and provide practical skill-use in and out of the office.
My style is collaborative: I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, LGBTQ+/non-binary and GNC populations, sexuality, alternative relationship structures, fertility/infertility, pregnancy loss, trauma, addictions, and a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, stress-management and low self-esteem.
I utilize a supportive and warm approach that is integrative of mindfulness and dialectical-behavioral principles. I work from the perspective that the client-therapist relationship is paramount to progress, and believe that it is the stepping stone to growth and change. Clients set their own pace and can process each step of their journey. I believe in gentle challenging to move through patterns that are not serving anymore and provide practical skill-use in and out of the office.
(224) 212-1452 View (224) 212-1452
Photo of Josiah Miller, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Josiah Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
, BIPOC, Queer, Low SES, etc.
Along the journey of life, some challenges and suffering are inevitable and there often are not always clear or easy answers. We want our lives to have value, meaning and purpose. Knowing these things for ourselves can be a tremendously liberating and empowering experience that gives us the hope, courage, and tenacity we need to face life's challenges. However, the process of discovering or defining these "truths" can be confusing, frustrating or even scary. We all require support and solidarity from trusted comrades during our journey. Knowing when to stop and ask for help along the way does not make us weak, it makes us strong!
, BIPOC, Queer, Low SES, etc.
Along the journey of life, some challenges and suffering are inevitable and there often are not always clear or easy answers. We want our lives to have value, meaning and purpose. Knowing these things for ourselves can be a tremendously liberating and empowering experience that gives us the hope, courage, and tenacity we need to face life's challenges. However, the process of discovering or defining these "truths" can be confusing, frustrating or even scary. We all require support and solidarity from trusted comrades during our journey. Knowing when to stop and ask for help along the way does not make us weak, it makes us strong!
(872) 219-1124 View (872) 219-1124
Photo of Lolita Drummond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lolita Drummond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself to you. My name is Li Drummond. I have worked with many different presenting issues including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, stress, loss, trauma, struggles with drugs and alcohol, family problems, child welfare, family problems, offenders, and relationship difficulties. I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself to you. My name is Li Drummond. I have worked with many different presenting issues including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, stress, loss, trauma, struggles with drugs and alcohol, family problems, child welfare, family problems, offenders, and relationship difficulties. I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
(773) 985-6279 View (773) 985-6279
Photo of Kathleen M Pendergast, Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(773) 717-5538 View (773) 717-5538
Photo of SFC Searching For Change, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
SFC Searching For Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT-S, SE-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
(917) 746-5114 View (917) 746-5114
Photo of David Kovach, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
David Kovach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor from Chicago with five years of clinical experience. I am a member of the LGBTQIA community and specialize in obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, and men's issues. I employ a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, and Person-Centered therapies, and utilize Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Exposure Therapy for Anxiety, and Behavioral Activation for Depression. As a career-changer from the medical field to working as a therapist, I get that life throws you curveballs sometimes, but we can work together to get through those curveballs.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor from Chicago with five years of clinical experience. I am a member of the LGBTQIA community and specialize in obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, and men's issues. I employ a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, and Person-Centered therapies, and utilize Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Exposure Therapy for Anxiety, and Behavioral Activation for Depression. As a career-changer from the medical field to working as a therapist, I get that life throws you curveballs sometimes, but we can work together to get through those curveballs.
(630) 884-4486 View (630) 884-4486
Photo of Lola Wang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lola Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
As a queer-identified woman of color, I understand the unique issue of identity exploration and intersectionality.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
As a queer-identified woman of color, I understand the unique issue of identity exploration and intersectionality.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
(312) 262-2487 View (312) 262-2487
Photo of Lise Schiffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lise Schiffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
I do a lot of work in the LGBTQ community.
I am a solution focused therapist with 35 years of experience. My therapy style is cognitive, interactive, compassionate, and, if need be, challenging. I believe effective therapy should produce change, not just insight. I will listen to you deeply, help conceptualize the problems, patterns, and dynamics which are causing you trouble, and give you feedback. Together, we will develop a strategy for more effective functioning and a better quality of life. I have a general practice, but specialize in addictions, depression, anxiety, and couples therapy.
I do a lot of work in the LGBTQ community.
I am a solution focused therapist with 35 years of experience. My therapy style is cognitive, interactive, compassionate, and, if need be, challenging. I believe effective therapy should produce change, not just insight. I will listen to you deeply, help conceptualize the problems, patterns, and dynamics which are causing you trouble, and give you feedback. Together, we will develop a strategy for more effective functioning and a better quality of life. I have a general practice, but specialize in addictions, depression, anxiety, and couples therapy.
(773) 701-7028 View (773) 701-7028
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.