Therapists in Chicago, IL
Cree Noble
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60641 (Online Only)
If you are someone interested in talking about cultural-related issues, cultural and historical trauma, cultural acceptance, and LGBTQ+-related topics, I am here to support you through collaboration, acceptance, and resiliency.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, and/or stressed in your life? Are you looking to find inner peace and strength within yourself? If this sounds like you, I would like to help guide you on that journey of relieving your worries and making positive changes in your life.
If you are someone interested in talking about cultural-related issues, cultural and historical trauma, cultural acceptance, and LGBTQ+-related topics, I am here to support you through collaboration, acceptance, and resiliency.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, and/or stressed in your life? Are you looking to find inner peace and strength within yourself? If this sounds like you, I would like to help guide you on that journey of relieving your worries and making positive changes in your life.
Ariel Fleenary
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654
I specialize in working with children and adults who have faced systemic harm and societal stigma, including LGBTQ and TGNC individuals, women, and those from other marginalized communities. I have extensive experience working with young people who have endured complex trauma, and I believe in the power of a strengths-based relational therapy model. I am committed to celebrating diversity and I hold an affirming stance on all genders, sexualities, careers, reproductive choices, and alternative relationship structures.
I specialize in working with children and adults who have faced systemic harm and societal stigma, including LGBTQ and TGNC individuals, women, and those from other marginalized communities. I have extensive experience working with young people who have endured complex trauma, and I believe in the power of a strengths-based relational therapy model. I am committed to celebrating diversity and I hold an affirming stance on all genders, sexualities, careers, reproductive choices, and alternative relationship structures.
Micah Holst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
As a queer, polyamorous, trans masculine person, I recognize the importance of identity exploration, intersectionality, and how history holds a person’s narrative of resilience.
My core belief that people are resilient and are capable of growth. The first step to making change in your life or to get “unstuck” can be difficult. With warmth, encouragement, acceptance and a little laughter, we will work together to find new ways of coping, identify patterns that no longer suit your needs, build and repair relationships, and create a positive therapeutic relationship while you explore your desires, goals, and motivations. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, affirming, and client-centered. Through a social justice lens, I recognize the multiple systems that affect your experiences and relationships.
As a queer, polyamorous, trans masculine person, I recognize the importance of identity exploration, intersectionality, and how history holds a person’s narrative of resilience.
My core belief that people are resilient and are capable of growth. The first step to making change in your life or to get “unstuck” can be difficult. With warmth, encouragement, acceptance and a little laughter, we will work together to find new ways of coping, identify patterns that no longer suit your needs, build and repair relationships, and create a positive therapeutic relationship while you explore your desires, goals, and motivations. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, affirming, and client-centered. Through a social justice lens, I recognize the multiple systems that affect your experiences and relationships.
Julie E Key
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
It can be difficult to ask for help in today's society, and even more difficult to find the best fit in a therapist. As a trauma-informed queer biracial therapist, I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental. My clinical background includes work with individuals managing co-occurring disorders, difficulties related to identity (e.g. racial, cultural, gender, spirituality), Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, Autism, Trauma, PTSD, and grief. I work with individuals and couples at any point in their lifespan, though my background has primarily focused on young adults and families.
It can be difficult to ask for help in today's society, and even more difficult to find the best fit in a therapist. As a trauma-informed queer biracial therapist, I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental. My clinical background includes work with individuals managing co-occurring disorders, difficulties related to identity (e.g. racial, cultural, gender, spirituality), Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, Autism, Trauma, PTSD, and grief. I work with individuals and couples at any point in their lifespan, though my background has primarily focused on young adults and families.
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Be Carter
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
IntraSpectrum Counseling is Chicago’s leading therapy practice dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community with in person & online sessions.
In my therapy work, I strive to create a non-hierarchical space that allows for the full expression of every individual I work with. The principles of anti-racism, existentialism, and intersectionality are of central importance in my clinical work. I have learned of the important role that humbleness and flexibility play in providing quality care. Everyone’s journey through life is unique, and as such, your therapy should tailored to meet your needs.
IntraSpectrum Counseling is Chicago’s leading therapy practice dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community with in person & online sessions.
In my therapy work, I strive to create a non-hierarchical space that allows for the full expression of every individual I work with. The principles of anti-racism, existentialism, and intersectionality are of central importance in my clinical work. I have learned of the important role that humbleness and flexibility play in providing quality care. Everyone’s journey through life is unique, and as such, your therapy should tailored to meet your needs.
Elizabeth Savage Psychotherapy
Counselor, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
My approach is tailored to the individual needs of each person and is LGBTQ+ affirming, anti-racist and trauma informed.
Therapy has the capacity to help us grow and change in ways we didn't know we were capable of. I believe that this change occurs in the trust and safety that is established in the therapeutic relationship. In my practice, I work to provide a space that is welcoming and non-judgmental as I allow people to share their experiences and losses, feel listened to and cared for. I believe that the creative process can provide a source of non-verbal expression and insight that can help guide you on this journey of self-discovery when desired.
My approach is tailored to the individual needs of each person and is LGBTQ+ affirming, anti-racist and trauma informed.
Therapy has the capacity to help us grow and change in ways we didn't know we were capable of. I believe that this change occurs in the trust and safety that is established in the therapeutic relationship. In my practice, I work to provide a space that is welcoming and non-judgmental as I allow people to share their experiences and losses, feel listened to and cared for. I believe that the creative process can provide a source of non-verbal expression and insight that can help guide you on this journey of self-discovery when desired.
Brendan Yukins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Thank you for taking the first step towards a happier, healthier life - you are making the important decision to support yourself. Brendan’s background is in sexual and domestic violence. He believes trauma affects us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. By establishing safety, remembering, and grieving, we are able to reconnect with our current lives. Our mental health has physical effects; Brendan focuses on the damage chronic stress has on the body as well as the mind. Our nervous system cannot absorb the impact of trauma alone. We find healing through our relationships and communities. Together, we find a path forward.
Thank you for taking the first step towards a happier, healthier life - you are making the important decision to support yourself. Brendan’s background is in sexual and domestic violence. He believes trauma affects us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. By establishing safety, remembering, and grieving, we are able to reconnect with our current lives. Our mental health has physical effects; Brendan focuses on the damage chronic stress has on the body as well as the mind. Our nervous system cannot absorb the impact of trauma alone. We find healing through our relationships and communities. Together, we find a path forward.
Michael Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
There is so much in the power of therapy as a process that invites curiosity, creativity and play. I prioritize the innate ability to express vulnerabilities and needs through non-verbal, auditory, kinesthetic, and visual ways which I process with dance/movement therapy and other creative therapies. I strongly believe in the transformative power of art, especially for those who haven't found the language or words to express themselves yet. I honor the creative process and how it can initiate our own journey towards care and healing.
There is so much in the power of therapy as a process that invites curiosity, creativity and play. I prioritize the innate ability to express vulnerabilities and needs through non-verbal, auditory, kinesthetic, and visual ways which I process with dance/movement therapy and other creative therapies. I strongly believe in the transformative power of art, especially for those who haven't found the language or words to express themselves yet. I honor the creative process and how it can initiate our own journey towards care and healing.
Five One Five Fitness
Counselor, LCPC, PT, RYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610
Are you the kind of person who has a hard time putting yourself first, but you know the value of it? Then 515 is the place for you. We make taking care of yourself, both mentally and physically, convenient and fun. We do both at the same time in one session, for you and/or your family, so you don’t have to run around to so many different places to get the expertise you need. Even better, most insurances cover the cost of a session, so you don’t have to feel guilty about spending money and/or taking the time for yourself and/or your family. 515 puts together a personalized plan for you, for both your mental and physical health goal
Are you the kind of person who has a hard time putting yourself first, but you know the value of it? Then 515 is the place for you. We make taking care of yourself, both mentally and physically, convenient and fun. We do both at the same time in one session, for you and/or your family, so you don’t have to run around to so many different places to get the expertise you need. Even better, most insurances cover the cost of a session, so you don’t have to feel guilty about spending money and/or taking the time for yourself and/or your family. 515 puts together a personalized plan for you, for both your mental and physical health goal
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.
Cardenas Institute
Counselor, LCPC, MA, EMDR, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612
We love our work and we are very committed to be a part of the global community that strives to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, and action to the counseling process in order to provide genuine healing and wholeness to children, young adults, adults, marriages, and families. Over the last eighteen years or so we have learned wonderful therapy approaches such as EMDR, somatic work, CBT, Sandtray, Theraplay, ACT, and others. We understand that each person needs to receive an individualized approach and this involves going beyond Western approaches... Our family legacies, our ancestors, our history matter....
We love our work and we are very committed to be a part of the global community that strives to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, and action to the counseling process in order to provide genuine healing and wholeness to children, young adults, adults, marriages, and families. Over the last eighteen years or so we have learned wonderful therapy approaches such as EMDR, somatic work, CBT, Sandtray, Theraplay, ACT, and others. We understand that each person needs to receive an individualized approach and this involves going beyond Western approaches... Our family legacies, our ancestors, our history matter....
Maria Alejandra Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is to fosters a space where the past, present, and future intersect in a way that healing, empowerment, and clear direction can flourish. I understand that life can at times be challenging, change can be destabilizing, and loss will cause pain. Through these life transitions one may at times need a safe space to cultivate hope and grow. I employ evidence based practices, cultural sensitivity and awareness to assist you in achieving your therapeutic goals.
My therapeutic approach is to fosters a space where the past, present, and future intersect in a way that healing, empowerment, and clear direction can flourish. I understand that life can at times be challenging, change can be destabilizing, and loss will cause pain. Through these life transitions one may at times need a safe space to cultivate hope and grow. I employ evidence based practices, cultural sensitivity and awareness to assist you in achieving your therapeutic goals.
Rachel Sharp
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Rachel. I graduated from Northwestern University in 2014 with a Masters in Counseling Psychology specializing in Child and Adolescent Psychology. I have been trained in EMDR, worked with trauma in the inner-city of Chicago and am very well versed in this department. I am LGBTQI affirming. My clients have said I have a warm presence. My therapeutic approach is client-centered- I use expressive/art therapy techniques, focus on internal family systems and parts work (essentially looking at oneself through a lens of functional parts, some more at the forefront than others). I offer free 15 min consultations.
Hi! I'm Rachel. I graduated from Northwestern University in 2014 with a Masters in Counseling Psychology specializing in Child and Adolescent Psychology. I have been trained in EMDR, worked with trauma in the inner-city of Chicago and am very well versed in this department. I am LGBTQI affirming. My clients have said I have a warm presence. My therapeutic approach is client-centered- I use expressive/art therapy techniques, focus on internal family systems and parts work (essentially looking at oneself through a lens of functional parts, some more at the forefront than others). I offer free 15 min consultations.
Michelle Ahmed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
Your voice is stronger and louder than you believe, and I believe that every being has an untold story waiting to be heard, understood, and held with honor. We are often given the systemic message that our voices do not matter, that our stories will be outlived, or that our mental health (a.k.a. our feels) are not as important as our physical health. That is not your truth, or mine. Therapy can help you find your voice (or whatever medium works for you) so that you may continue to grow stronger, louder, and be more unapologetically YOU.
Your voice is stronger and louder than you believe, and I believe that every being has an untold story waiting to be heard, understood, and held with honor. We are often given the systemic message that our voices do not matter, that our stories will be outlived, or that our mental health (a.k.a. our feels) are not as important as our physical health. That is not your truth, or mine. Therapy can help you find your voice (or whatever medium works for you) so that you may continue to grow stronger, louder, and be more unapologetically YOU.
Christina Hoffstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Waitlist for new clients
Christina is a passionate advocate for children, teens, and adolescents in need. By using techniques like Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, Christina helps clients develop a diverse tool kit to achieve their goals. Christina creates unique treatment plans for each client, providing therapy specific to their personal concerns such as anxiety, depression, school struggles, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts. Clients working with Christina find her to be warm, easy to connect with and flexible. Christina also takes a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy, allowing clients to feel safe to explore and grow.
Christina is a passionate advocate for children, teens, and adolescents in need. By using techniques like Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, Christina helps clients develop a diverse tool kit to achieve their goals. Christina creates unique treatment plans for each client, providing therapy specific to their personal concerns such as anxiety, depression, school struggles, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts. Clients working with Christina find her to be warm, easy to connect with and flexible. Christina also takes a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy, allowing clients to feel safe to explore and grow.
Errie Counseling and Therapy Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
I am Dr. Sylvia Kobe, and I am a Licensed Clinical psychologist. My associate Dr. Mary-Zitta Muabe and I collaborate to cover a broad counseling spectrum. Together Dr. Muabe and I specialize in marriage, family therapy, and spiritual maturity. We also work with teens, young adults, and individuals battling anxiety, depression, or struggles to cope with every-life issues. We believe in empowering our clients, encouraging them to see that life is all about second chances, and with the right kind of intervention, the best is yet to come.
I am Dr. Sylvia Kobe, and I am a Licensed Clinical psychologist. My associate Dr. Mary-Zitta Muabe and I collaborate to cover a broad counseling spectrum. Together Dr. Muabe and I specialize in marriage, family therapy, and spiritual maturity. We also work with teens, young adults, and individuals battling anxiety, depression, or struggles to cope with every-life issues. We believe in empowering our clients, encouraging them to see that life is all about second chances, and with the right kind of intervention, the best is yet to come.
Ciera Shimkus
Counselor, MA, LCPC, REAT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641
As a biracial human, I understand the juggling process between developing identity while also finding a sense of belonging within communities. Doing this on top of just simply learning how to be an adult and manage emotions can be a difficult juggling process! I prioritize the awareness of various factors like multiculturalism, oppression, trauma, and neurodiversity when working on deepening your understanding of yourself and reintegrating the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Due to these factors, I bring my genuine personality to help build trust in the therapeutic relationship.
As a biracial human, I understand the juggling process between developing identity while also finding a sense of belonging within communities. Doing this on top of just simply learning how to be an adult and manage emotions can be a difficult juggling process! I prioritize the awareness of various factors like multiculturalism, oppression, trauma, and neurodiversity when working on deepening your understanding of yourself and reintegrating the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Due to these factors, I bring my genuine personality to help build trust in the therapeutic relationship.
Anixter Center - Community Mental Health Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CCTP, CGCS, CYMHS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Our goal is to serve as your guide and walk with you on your life journey. We aim to help you overcome obstacles that may be holding you back from reaching your dreams, while providing you with healthy strategies to implement in your life outside of therapy. Whether exploring the past, present, or future; discussing coping strategies; processing stressful events; building resiliency; healing from trauma; creative problem-solving, or enhancing communication within your relationship. We serve an array of culturally diverse clients, including: children, adolescents, teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families.
Our goal is to serve as your guide and walk with you on your life journey. We aim to help you overcome obstacles that may be holding you back from reaching your dreams, while providing you with healthy strategies to implement in your life outside of therapy. Whether exploring the past, present, or future; discussing coping strategies; processing stressful events; building resiliency; healing from trauma; creative problem-solving, or enhancing communication within your relationship. We serve an array of culturally diverse clients, including: children, adolescents, teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families.
Insight Therapeutics, Inc.
Counselor, MS, Ed, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I utilize a combination of somatically-focused, cognitive, and psychodynamic approaches to assist you in understanding your concerns. I'd love to help you address current changes you'd like to make, but also address underlying concerns so that current struggles are less likely to resurface. I specialize in tailoring treatments in developmentally attuned ways. With adults I assist clients in understanding how their life journeys have led them to their present concerns, and work on uncovering and undoing patterns you may find less effective.
I utilize a combination of somatically-focused, cognitive, and psychodynamic approaches to assist you in understanding your concerns. I'd love to help you address current changes you'd like to make, but also address underlying concerns so that current struggles are less likely to resurface. I specialize in tailoring treatments in developmentally attuned ways. With adults I assist clients in understanding how their life journeys have led them to their present concerns, and work on uncovering and undoing patterns you may find less effective.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Norridge
- North Riverside
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Riverside
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.