LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Chicago, IL
Luke Lusk
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I’m committed to helping adults in the LGBTQIA+ community. As a member of this community myself, I understand how important it is to find an affirming provider. I work hard to provide an experience that is comfortable and relatable from the first session. Whether you’re dealing with a difficult life transition, searching for clarity in a relationship, or having mood problems, I’m here to help with a compassionate approach. Let's work together to build the life you want!
In my practice, I’m committed to helping adults in the LGBTQIA+ community. As a member of this community myself, I understand how important it is to find an affirming provider. I work hard to provide an experience that is comfortable and relatable from the first session. Whether you’re dealing with a difficult life transition, searching for clarity in a relationship, or having mood problems, I’m here to help with a compassionate approach. Let's work together to build the life you want!
Drake Schoeppl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
Sometimes life becomes unmanageable on our own and we have to reach out for help. I am here to help normalize therapy and the discomfort that comes along with it. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from chronic anxiety, depression, complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and everyday life stressors that can be difficult to manage.
Sometimes life becomes unmanageable on our own and we have to reach out for help. I am here to help normalize therapy and the discomfort that comes along with it. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from chronic anxiety, depression, complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and everyday life stressors that can be difficult to manage.
Arthur Avalos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
I work with behavioral issues, mood impairment, anxiety, life transitions, work/life balance, self-esteem, substance abuse, chronic medical issues, crisis management and issues unique to the LGBTQ population.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
I work with behavioral issues, mood impairment, anxiety, life transitions, work/life balance, self-esteem, substance abuse, chronic medical issues, crisis management and issues unique to the LGBTQ population.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
Seth Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I am a relationship and sex therapist, and I believe that living authentically for self and community brings healing and joy. Such authenticity requires an exploration of sexual needs amidst robust boundary-making. I am a part of and love to work with folx in the LGBTQIA+ community. My clinical interests include out-of-control sexual behavior, men's sexual health, and exploring the intersection of religion, spirituality, and sex. I also have a growing specialization in working with kink, BDSM, polyamory, and consensual non-monogamy.
I am a relationship and sex therapist, and I believe that living authentically for self and community brings healing and joy. Such authenticity requires an exploration of sexual needs amidst robust boundary-making. I am a part of and love to work with folx in the LGBTQIA+ community. My clinical interests include out-of-control sexual behavior, men's sexual health, and exploring the intersection of religion, spirituality, and sex. I also have a growing specialization in working with kink, BDSM, polyamory, and consensual non-monogamy.
Marty Kezon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I have experience working with adults of all ages, especially queer and trans clients, and my approach is sex-positive and inclusive of those who are monogamous and non-monogamous.
My work with you is guided by respect, care, and authenticity. I aim to provide a supportive space where you can speak openly and explore what is important to you. Whether you are coming to therapy with a specific goal or with uncertainty about what is possible, we can come together to better understand what it is you want and need – and then move forward from that place.
I have experience working with adults of all ages, especially queer and trans clients, and my approach is sex-positive and inclusive of those who are monogamous and non-monogamous.
My work with you is guided by respect, care, and authenticity. I aim to provide a supportive space where you can speak openly and explore what is important to you. Whether you are coming to therapy with a specific goal or with uncertainty about what is possible, we can come together to better understand what it is you want and need – and then move forward from that place.
Lauren Engelhard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I'm a queer therapist who often works with LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Latine children, adults, couples/partners, families, and polycules, while being mindful of my white identity. My areas of interest include identity exploration and intersectionality, difficulties related to sex and intimacy, challenges in communication between partners, and non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships. I work across the lifespan and have experience with children as young as three years old through adulthood. I often pull from frameworks like psychodynamic theory, person-centered therapy, and attachment theory.
I'm a queer therapist who often works with LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Latine children, adults, couples/partners, families, and polycules, while being mindful of my white identity. My areas of interest include identity exploration and intersectionality, difficulties related to sex and intimacy, challenges in communication between partners, and non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships. I work across the lifespan and have experience with children as young as three years old through adulthood. I often pull from frameworks like psychodynamic theory, person-centered therapy, and attachment theory.
Kendall Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
I'm proud to provide safe, affirming, and non-judgmental space for all people, but especially for LGBTQIA persons, non-monogamous and poly- folks, members of kink & fetish communities, and persons living with HIV.
I'm proud to provide safe, affirming, and non-judgmental space for all people, but especially for LGBTQIA persons, non-monogamous and poly- folks, members of kink & fetish communities, and persons living with HIV.
John Charles Zibert
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I collaborate with adults in individual and relationship counseling. Typical issues we work on together are depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, ACOA issues, stress, men's issues, and if it a specific client request - spirituality concerns. I offer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday appointments by telehealth exclusively. Due to the convenience and popularity of telehealth, I hold all sessions via telehealth and no longer offer in-person office sessions.
I collaborate with adults in individual and relationship counseling. Typical issues we work on together are depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, ACOA issues, stress, men's issues, and if it a specific client request - spirituality concerns. I offer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday appointments by telehealth exclusively. Due to the convenience and popularity of telehealth, I hold all sessions via telehealth and no longer offer in-person office sessions.
Dr. Colin Ennis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
In addition to the specialties listed below, I focus on all members of the LGBTQ+ communities and all of the issues they face in striving for pride, relationships, and fulfillment while navigating the world.
We’re born with innate needs to grow, connect, and find purpose. Our lives shapes how we go about getting these needs met. If we're successful in this, we often feel content and fulfilled. However, sometimes life intervenes in ways that prevent us from successfully getting these needs met and leaves us stuck and suffering. Often, we need help from a supportive professional to help us focus productively on our problems, ease our immediate distress with direction solutions, and help us develop the insights and skills needed for long term growth and fulfillment. I'll work closely with you to help you achieve your specific goals.
In addition to the specialties listed below, I focus on all members of the LGBTQ+ communities and all of the issues they face in striving for pride, relationships, and fulfillment while navigating the world.
We’re born with innate needs to grow, connect, and find purpose. Our lives shapes how we go about getting these needs met. If we're successful in this, we often feel content and fulfilled. However, sometimes life intervenes in ways that prevent us from successfully getting these needs met and leaves us stuck and suffering. Often, we need help from a supportive professional to help us focus productively on our problems, ease our immediate distress with direction solutions, and help us develop the insights and skills needed for long term growth and fulfillment. I'll work closely with you to help you achieve your specific goals.
Brian Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
As someone that is queer-identified, I have a passion for working with clients holding marginalized identities and supporting your journey, acknowledging the impacts society, family, and culture have in shaping the world around you.
So you’re becoming more independent and feel like conversations with family, friends, or co-workers are strained. You want to set boundaries and air frustrations with those you’re close to, but struggle with how to do this as your relationships shift. Questioning beliefs and values you’ve long held onto isn’t easy, and can be even harder when voicing them to others. Whether watching parents divorce as an adult, coming out to family, or settling into a new job, my goal is to increase your understanding of yourself both in the past and present so advocating for your needs feels less like a burden.
As someone that is queer-identified, I have a passion for working with clients holding marginalized identities and supporting your journey, acknowledging the impacts society, family, and culture have in shaping the world around you.
So you’re becoming more independent and feel like conversations with family, friends, or co-workers are strained. You want to set boundaries and air frustrations with those you’re close to, but struggle with how to do this as your relationships shift. Questioning beliefs and values you’ve long held onto isn’t easy, and can be even harder when voicing them to others. Whether watching parents divorce as an adult, coming out to family, or settling into a new job, my goal is to increase your understanding of yourself both in the past and present so advocating for your needs feels less like a burden.
Jared Day
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
Are you LGBTQIA+ and struggling with a difficult time in life? Does anxiety and depression challenge you daily? If you want someone to collaboratively work with, i'm your person. Lets dig in and find how to best support your desired change with developing coping skills for the present and mending the past for a better future. Sometimes finding support can be a critical part of healing or becoming who you want to be. I want to connect with you to find your strengths to navigate through this time in your life and live as the authentic person you want to be.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and struggling with a difficult time in life? Does anxiety and depression challenge you daily? If you want someone to collaboratively work with, i'm your person. Lets dig in and find how to best support your desired change with developing coping skills for the present and mending the past for a better future. Sometimes finding support can be a critical part of healing or becoming who you want to be. I want to connect with you to find your strengths to navigate through this time in your life and live as the authentic person you want to be.
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Pedro Segura-Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult; however, you are here, and that's your first step. Do you struggle with sexual issues, gender identity, depression, or anxiety? I want to be able to help you go through that. My job is to provide a safe environment where we may learn and grow while promoting empowerment. I work with individuals and couples. I am sex worker affirming and kink/BDSM aware. I am an Afro-Cuban/Dominican male-identified therapist working with the BIPOC transgender and LGBTQ community, helping with racial trauma, religious trauma, sex therapy, and LGBTQ Couples. My goal is to provide a healing space.
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult; however, you are here, and that's your first step. Do you struggle with sexual issues, gender identity, depression, or anxiety? I want to be able to help you go through that. My job is to provide a safe environment where we may learn and grow while promoting empowerment. I work with individuals and couples. I am sex worker affirming and kink/BDSM aware. I am an Afro-Cuban/Dominican male-identified therapist working with the BIPOC transgender and LGBTQ community, helping with racial trauma, religious trauma, sex therapy, and LGBTQ Couples. My goal is to provide a healing space.
Ross Mondschain
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
Additionally, I have a passion for counseling LGBTQ+ clients and celebrate diverse and expansive expressions of sexuality, affection, gender, and intimate relationships.
Our quality of life improves dramatically as we learn to show up more authentically in our personal relationships. We can always cultivate more meaningful connections, whether in an intimate partnership, biological or chosen family, or friendships. I understand how creating change can feel daunting or overwhelming and is best navigated with intentionality and solid support. Actively collaborating with my clients, I ensure that together, we set clear and attainable goals and that each session moves you closer to achieving your vision. Change is Possible!
Additionally, I have a passion for counseling LGBTQ+ clients and celebrate diverse and expansive expressions of sexuality, affection, gender, and intimate relationships.
Our quality of life improves dramatically as we learn to show up more authentically in our personal relationships. We can always cultivate more meaningful connections, whether in an intimate partnership, biological or chosen family, or friendships. I understand how creating change can feel daunting or overwhelming and is best navigated with intentionality and solid support. Actively collaborating with my clients, I ensure that together, we set clear and attainable goals and that each session moves you closer to achieving your vision. Change is Possible!
Cristen Brossok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
I am a queer therapist with lived experience as a trauma survivor. I aim to build space where we can relate, explore, process, challenge, and heal in brave and thoughtful ways; a place to tend to yourself with compassion and build your capacity for handling difficult emotions. I strive for an inclusive therapy space that embodies anti-diet, anti-racist, anti-sexist, and other anti-oppressive lenses. I work well with people who are reflective and open. My approach is validating, curious, and relational.
I am a queer therapist with lived experience as a trauma survivor. I aim to build space where we can relate, explore, process, challenge, and heal in brave and thoughtful ways; a place to tend to yourself with compassion and build your capacity for handling difficult emotions. I strive for an inclusive therapy space that embodies anti-diet, anti-racist, anti-sexist, and other anti-oppressive lenses. I work well with people who are reflective and open. My approach is validating, curious, and relational.
Christopher Manvel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I work with individuals and couples (straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans) who are dealing with a range of issues in their lives. A meaningful, authentic client-therapist relationship is of utmost importance to me, and I strive to create safe and welcoming spaces for all by fostering an environment of empathy, openness and honesty. Clients who see me receive compassionate care without negative judgment, creating opportunities to make meaning of the events of their lives.
I work with individuals and couples (straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans) who are dealing with a range of issues in their lives. A meaningful, authentic client-therapist relationship is of utmost importance to me, and I strive to create safe and welcoming spaces for all by fostering an environment of empathy, openness and honesty. Clients who see me receive compassionate care without negative judgment, creating opportunities to make meaning of the events of their lives.
Prem K Pahwa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Mental Health Clinician with over 20yrs experience, and also a Certified Sex Therapist. I work with LGBTQ+ and heterosexual people on a variety of relational and mental health issues, as well as sexual and intimacy concerns. I approach my work from a sexual health model and values driven perspective. I work with clients on consensual non-monogamy/polyam, kink, BDSM, as well as sexual health challenges such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, desire discrepancies, etc. I continue to work with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as navigating life!
I'm a Mental Health Clinician with over 20yrs experience, and also a Certified Sex Therapist. I work with LGBTQ+ and heterosexual people on a variety of relational and mental health issues, as well as sexual and intimacy concerns. I approach my work from a sexual health model and values driven perspective. I work with clients on consensual non-monogamy/polyam, kink, BDSM, as well as sexual health challenges such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, desire discrepancies, etc. I continue to work with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as navigating life!
Casey VanderStel
Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Additionally, I have specific training in EMDR, ERP, ACT, supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, and expansive relationship structures.
I believe in the power of integration- that ALL parts of you deserve love and compassion. Together, we will address feelings, needs, beliefs, and the body's own wisdom, while also seeing issues in the context of the systems in which you exist. I work best with those wanting to be challenged through outside insight, and who want to learn how to feel and process their emotions. I do my best to help clients experience safety in the therapeutic relationship to begin to access their whole selves. I love being a therapist, and I love the work I do! It is a deep honor to build relationships of healing with my clients.
Additionally, I have specific training in EMDR, ERP, ACT, supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, and expansive relationship structures.
I believe in the power of integration- that ALL parts of you deserve love and compassion. Together, we will address feelings, needs, beliefs, and the body's own wisdom, while also seeing issues in the context of the systems in which you exist. I work best with those wanting to be challenged through outside insight, and who want to learn how to feel and process their emotions. I do my best to help clients experience safety in the therapeutic relationship to begin to access their whole selves. I love being a therapist, and I love the work I do! It is a deep honor to build relationships of healing with my clients.
Patrick Prewit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
As a therapist, I work from a relational model that considers both individual and systematic aspects of life to create a better understanding of what is brought into session. In collaboration, I'm a firm believer in showing up authentically as a queer/neurodiverse therapist and welcome clients to do the same as we work together. Therapy is work, but it's not something you have to do alone.
As a therapist, I work from a relational model that considers both individual and systematic aspects of life to create a better understanding of what is brought into session. In collaboration, I'm a firm believer in showing up authentically as a queer/neurodiverse therapist and welcome clients to do the same as we work together. Therapy is work, but it's not something you have to do alone.
Sara Groth
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have experience working with individual adults and partnerships in areas such as anxiety, depression, sex & intimate wellness, relationship conflict, sexual assault, life transitions, and self esteem. One of my primary areas of expertise is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas of positive sexual and/ or gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and sexual health. However, I work with people of all identities and backgrounds. I foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, and polyamorous- and kink-affirming.
I have experience working with individual adults and partnerships in areas such as anxiety, depression, sex & intimate wellness, relationship conflict, sexual assault, life transitions, and self esteem. One of my primary areas of expertise is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas of positive sexual and/ or gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and sexual health. However, I work with people of all identities and backgrounds. I foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, and polyamorous- and kink-affirming.
Frank Floski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in working with the queer and neurodivergent populations with a focus on and sexual issues from performance to intimacy, sexual trauma, sexual/gender identity exploration, neurodiversity adjustment (diagnosed or not), executive functioning and sexual/gender identity. My goal is for my clients to gain an understanding of their lived experience and present circumstance and learn to synthesize these two parts of themselves. Healing past trauma wounds will provide my clients with a healthier outlook and framework to their current circumstances.
I specialize in working with the queer and neurodivergent populations with a focus on and sexual issues from performance to intimacy, sexual trauma, sexual/gender identity exploration, neurodiversity adjustment (diagnosed or not), executive functioning and sexual/gender identity. My goal is for my clients to gain an understanding of their lived experience and present circumstance and learn to synthesize these two parts of themselves. Healing past trauma wounds will provide my clients with a healthier outlook and framework to their current circumstances.
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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.