Therapists 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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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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.
Sabrina Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
Elizabeth Salmo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
Hi! I'm Beth Salmo, licensed in MO, IL, and FL as a professional counselor. My work is focused on helping people who are struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and moral injury. I've also helped clients with personality disorders and who are on the autism spectrum. I have many years of experience helping people with mood and anxiety disorders; those who are neurodivergent; and relational issues to include members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I approach therapy from a CBT and Reality-Choice lens and often infuse therapeutic humor into my sessions.
Hi! I'm Beth Salmo, licensed in MO, IL, and FL as a professional counselor. My work is focused on helping people who are struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and moral injury. I've also helped clients with personality disorders and who are on the autism spectrum. I have many years of experience helping people with mood and anxiety disorders; those who are neurodivergent; and relational issues to include members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I approach therapy from a CBT and Reality-Choice lens and often infuse therapeutic humor into my sessions.
Jeff Zacharias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
There are numerous reasons why an individual makes a decision to seek therapy. From my perspective, the key factor in being able to examine your individual reasons is based upon the relationship between yourself and your therapist. I offer a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment in order to explore your individual needs with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. My clinical experience has included working not only with individuals but couples, families and groups.
There are numerous reasons why an individual makes a decision to seek therapy. From my perspective, the key factor in being able to examine your individual reasons is based upon the relationship between yourself and your therapist. I offer a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment in order to explore your individual needs with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. My clinical experience has included working not only with individuals but couples, families and groups.
Quincey F. Kyles Counseling Services, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." Ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tzu. Let's face it: asking for help isn't always easy, but you've taken the courage to do so. Therapy is an exciting experience of self-discovery! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, individually or as couples. I use a bilateral approach, incorporating a Strength-based practice with a focus on the mind/body connection, in particular Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). I assist clients in noticing, when automatic processes are occurring & to alter their reaction to be more of a reflection.
"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." Ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tzu. Let's face it: asking for help isn't always easy, but you've taken the courage to do so. Therapy is an exciting experience of self-discovery! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, individually or as couples. I use a bilateral approach, incorporating a Strength-based practice with a focus on the mind/body connection, in particular Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). I assist clients in noticing, when automatic processes are occurring & to alter their reaction to be more of a reflection.
David Kovach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I view concerns that bring people to therapy as part of the larger system that is being a human - my core therapeutic modality is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, because our thoughts truly influence how we feel and what we do. I am more direct in what I bring to the session and specialize in Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Anxiety, and Depression and use Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Exposure Therapy for Anxiety, and Behavioral Activation for Depression. I incorporate a Person-Centered Approach into every session.
I view concerns that bring people to therapy as part of the larger system that is being a human - my core therapeutic modality is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, because our thoughts truly influence how we feel and what we do. I am more direct in what I bring to the session and specialize in Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Anxiety, and Depression and use Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Exposure Therapy for Anxiety, and Behavioral Activation for Depression. I incorporate a Person-Centered Approach into every session.
Dr. Angelo Pezzote
Counselor, DPharm, MA, BCPP, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646 (Online Only)
SOMETHING MISSING? HELP FINDING IT. You don't have to suffer alone. Secrets and isolation are not the answer. I can be there for you, wherever you are. I provide safe, discreet, personalized care via video chat. My goal is to deliver the results you want. Benefits are more: health, happiness, love, confidence, peace & success. I work with all people, including affirmation of diversity: LGBTQ2IA+, Hispanics, Latinos, Blacks, Native Americans, Asians, other People of Color, and Multiculturalism. Triumph over your challenges: Relationships, Trauma, Depression, Panic/Anxiety, Addictions, Sexuality, Gender, Men's Issues, Peyronie's.
SOMETHING MISSING? HELP FINDING IT. You don't have to suffer alone. Secrets and isolation are not the answer. I can be there for you, wherever you are. I provide safe, discreet, personalized care via video chat. My goal is to deliver the results you want. Benefits are more: health, happiness, love, confidence, peace & success. I work with all people, including affirmation of diversity: LGBTQ2IA+, Hispanics, Latinos, Blacks, Native Americans, Asians, other People of Color, and Multiculturalism. Triumph over your challenges: Relationships, Trauma, Depression, Panic/Anxiety, Addictions, Sexuality, Gender, Men's Issues, Peyronie's.
DeVona Alleyne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Clients come to me and receive compassionate care without negative judgment as a means to make meaning of the events of their lives. That new understanding, gained in a supportive coaching relationship with the therapist, becomes the foundation for positive change. Open and self-aware clients tend to want validation of their thoughts and challenges to what hasn't worked. Skeptical clients tend to desire safety and assurance that someone is on their side. Regardless of the category, clients tend to get what they need from one session to the next.
Clients come to me and receive compassionate care without negative judgment as a means to make meaning of the events of their lives. That new understanding, gained in a supportive coaching relationship with the therapist, becomes the foundation for positive change. Open and self-aware clients tend to want validation of their thoughts and challenges to what hasn't worked. Skeptical clients tend to desire safety and assurance that someone is on their side. Regardless of the category, clients tend to get what they need from one session to the next.
Alisha R Warren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
I have experience in working with adults and adolescents that have experienced trauma and grief. Majority of the clients I have worked with are uncomfortable with their daily life and are looking to process their past and find a way to move forward.
I have experience in working with adults and adolescents that have experienced trauma and grief. Majority of the clients I have worked with are uncomfortable with their daily life and are looking to process their past and find a way to move forward.
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
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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.