Therapists in Chicago, IL
Anthony Paul Verdino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I mainly work with Queer, kink, and poly folx on transitions, sex/relationships, decision-making, connection, and joy/pleasure.
You are the one that lives your worries, fears, shame, and desires. You are the expert or emerging expert on your own life. Sure, it may not feel that way because this world is confusing and overwhelming (and a bit devastating). My aim is to help you become more aware of your emotions, relationship patterns, and unhelpful thoughts, and become more responsive to your needs, desires, and values in authentic ways. My hope is that we can help you begin to feel more comfortable and confidant with who you are, who you want to be, and how to get there.
I mainly work with Queer, kink, and poly folx on transitions, sex/relationships, decision-making, connection, and joy/pleasure.
You are the one that lives your worries, fears, shame, and desires. You are the expert or emerging expert on your own life. Sure, it may not feel that way because this world is confusing and overwhelming (and a bit devastating). My aim is to help you become more aware of your emotions, relationship patterns, and unhelpful thoughts, and become more responsive to your needs, desires, and values in authentic ways. My hope is that we can help you begin to feel more comfortable and confidant with who you are, who you want to be, and how to get there.
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.
Matthew Amador
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a queer, Mexican-American, therapist who believes you are inherently awesome, and that sometimes our awesomeness needs to be recalibrated from time to time. Whether meeting individually, or as a part of a relationship/polycule, I value working towards opportunities for new growth and a better sense of self-awareness. I use an intersectional approach towards helping you reclaim agency in your life so that you can move forward courageously.
I’m a queer, Mexican-American, therapist who believes you are inherently awesome, and that sometimes our awesomeness needs to be recalibrated from time to time. Whether meeting individually, or as a part of a relationship/polycule, I value working towards opportunities for new growth and a better sense of self-awareness. I use an intersectional approach towards helping you reclaim agency in your life so that you can move forward courageously.
Nick Alder
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, EdM, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60623 (Online Only)
as a Black queer, non-binary femme psychologist, i intertwine relational, healing justice, and anti-oppression practices.
imagine you're a creative at a crossroads, desiring to express yourself fully but feeling hindered. perhaps societal norms, self-doubt, or the complexities of your identity in marginalized communities make it challenging to fully embrace your creative potential. you're seeking a therapeutic journey that not only understands but values your unique story. here, you'll find support to navigate these challenges, embracing your full self and your artistic expression. it's a path towards living authentically, where every facet of your identity and creative spirit is not just accepted but celebrated.
as a Black queer, non-binary femme psychologist, i intertwine relational, healing justice, and anti-oppression practices.
imagine you're a creative at a crossroads, desiring to express yourself fully but feeling hindered. perhaps societal norms, self-doubt, or the complexities of your identity in marginalized communities make it challenging to fully embrace your creative potential. you're seeking a therapeutic journey that not only understands but values your unique story. here, you'll find support to navigate these challenges, embracing your full self and your artistic expression. it's a path towards living authentically, where every facet of your identity and creative spirit is not just accepted but celebrated.
Devon Migues
Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
Samuel Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I work primarily with teens, and adults, with a specialty in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Thanks for visiting! It’s not easy to find a safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space, particularly for those that identify themselves as part of the LGBTQ community. I believe having a therapist that is empathetic, shows unconditional positive regard, and is authentic is crucial to therapeutic growth. These factors are an integral part of how I practice therapy. My hope is that you leave your first session feeling supported, safe, and understood. I recognize that each client is unique, and therefore, your therapy needs to be tailored to the unique individual that you are.
I work primarily with teens, and adults, with a specialty in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Thanks for visiting! It’s not easy to find a safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space, particularly for those that identify themselves as part of the LGBTQ community. I believe having a therapist that is empathetic, shows unconditional positive regard, and is authentic is crucial to therapeutic growth. These factors are an integral part of how I practice therapy. My hope is that you leave your first session feeling supported, safe, and understood. I recognize that each client is unique, and therefore, your therapy needs to be tailored to the unique individual that you are.
Louis V. Haynes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I specialize in working with diverse individuals and issues, including immigrants, LGBTQ individuals and couples, as well as transgender individuals in the midst of transitioning.
I would definitely say being a psychologist is my calling. I am very passionate about helping others and making humanity and the world a better place, both personally and professionally. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space in order to help you examine yourself and your path to a meaningful life. I help you identify and build off of your strengths and values and help you with the parts of your personality that may be getting in the way of your having a more fulfilling life and feeling deeply connected in your relationships.
I specialize in working with diverse individuals and issues, including immigrants, LGBTQ individuals and couples, as well as transgender individuals in the midst of transitioning.
I would definitely say being a psychologist is my calling. I am very passionate about helping others and making humanity and the world a better place, both personally and professionally. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space in order to help you examine yourself and your path to a meaningful life. I help you identify and build off of your strengths and values and help you with the parts of your personality that may be getting in the way of your having a more fulfilling life and feeling deeply connected in your relationships.
Randall O'Neill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MAT, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand how important it is to find a therapist with whom one can identify and feel comfortable sharing the very personal reasons that bring individuals to counseling. As such, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore the needs of my clients. For me, finding meaning and purpose is paramount to maintaining one's mental health. As such I work in collaboration with my clients to help find those things that make one feel whole and connected.
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand how important it is to find a therapist with whom one can identify and feel comfortable sharing the very personal reasons that bring individuals to counseling. As such, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore the needs of my clients. For me, finding meaning and purpose is paramount to maintaining one's mental health. As such I work in collaboration with my clients to help find those things that make one feel whole and connected.
Dr. Casey Gamboni
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
As a gay man myself, I am passionate about all the ways sexuality, gender, culture, relationships, and systems influence one another.
I work with individuals, couples, and families. I integrate multiple therapeutic models to fit his clients’ needs—exploring the significant relationships in their lives and emphasizing the role that their individual strengths play in achieving their goals.
As a gay man myself, I am passionate about all the ways sexuality, gender, culture, relationships, and systems influence one another.
I work with individuals, couples, and families. I integrate multiple therapeutic models to fit his clients’ needs—exploring the significant relationships in their lives and emphasizing the role that their individual strengths play in achieving their goals.
Barry Shaeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
My life’s work is strengthening the LGBTQ community from the inside out. I do this by working with gay and queer men to live the lives they desire. What often holds us back are layers of expectations and belief systems that we take on from society, our families, and others. When these systemic messages conflict with our authentic selves, this creates a dissonance that often results in anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. This isn’t something that is broken or bad in us. Quite the opposite, it’s our authentic selves yearning to be expressed!
My life’s work is strengthening the LGBTQ community from the inside out. I do this by working with gay and queer men to live the lives they desire. What often holds us back are layers of expectations and belief systems that we take on from society, our families, and others. When these systemic messages conflict with our authentic selves, this creates a dissonance that often results in anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. This isn’t something that is broken or bad in us. Quite the opposite, it’s our authentic selves yearning to be expressed!
Ness Crambell
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
As a TGNC queer-identified clinician, I value social justice and the diverse experiences that each client brings into the therapeutic endeavor. I value showing up authentically, believing that it is foundational to a positive therapeutic alliance. With compassion and vulnerability, I center an integrated and trauma-informed approach to therapy.
As a TGNC queer-identified clinician, I value social justice and the diverse experiences that each client brings into the therapeutic endeavor. I value showing up authentically, believing that it is foundational to a positive therapeutic alliance. With compassion and vulnerability, I center an integrated and trauma-informed approach to therapy.
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Ian Bonner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I'm Dr. Ian Bonner, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, serving LGBTQ+ clients, substance use, and relationships. I also enjoy working with the kink community and supporting clients in open/poly relationships. As a counselor, I am challenging, collaborative, and compassionate in my approach to treatment. Clients who work with me understand from our first session that I work with more than just symptoms and problems; I treat the whole person. In sessions, I take great care to ensure that you feel understood, valued, and known and eagerly utilize your feedback about our work. I welcome you to contact me with any questions.
I'm Dr. Ian Bonner, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, serving LGBTQ+ clients, substance use, and relationships. I also enjoy working with the kink community and supporting clients in open/poly relationships. As a counselor, I am challenging, collaborative, and compassionate in my approach to treatment. Clients who work with me understand from our first session that I work with more than just symptoms and problems; I treat the whole person. In sessions, I take great care to ensure that you feel understood, valued, and known and eagerly utilize your feedback about our work. I welcome you to contact me with any questions.
Eric Geweniger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I work with individuals and relationships of all identities with specialization in developmental/attachment trauma, queer folx, kinksters and leather folx, and young adults.
The path back to groundedness and rejuvenation is a little different for each of us. We've been through a difficult past few years, and so many of us are burnt out or disillusioned by the state of the world and the challenges of finding genuine connection - especially for those of us who are marginalized for being our authentic selves. Having a space to process our feelings and offload stress can be a turning point for many of us toward meaningful change and deeper awareness of ourselves as we navigate life's challenges. Together, we can find your path and walk it together.
I work with individuals and relationships of all identities with specialization in developmental/attachment trauma, queer folx, kinksters and leather folx, and young adults.
The path back to groundedness and rejuvenation is a little different for each of us. We've been through a difficult past few years, and so many of us are burnt out or disillusioned by the state of the world and the challenges of finding genuine connection - especially for those of us who are marginalized for being our authentic selves. Having a space to process our feelings and offload stress can be a turning point for many of us toward meaningful change and deeper awareness of ourselves as we navigate life's challenges. Together, we can find your path and walk it together.
Janaya Crevier
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
Change is constant. Whether it’s the tumult of growing up, or the twists and turns of adulthood, life is constantly shifting and rearranging under our feet. In this context, getting to know yourself—your emotions, your grief, your needs and your gifts—may be overwhelming. I honor the part of you that is seeking therapy for your particular journey. In my practice, I work with adults, teenagers, and children, specializing in therapy for queer and LGBTQIA+ youth and adults.
Change is constant. Whether it’s the tumult of growing up, or the twists and turns of adulthood, life is constantly shifting and rearranging under our feet. In this context, getting to know yourself—your emotions, your grief, your needs and your gifts—may be overwhelming. I honor the part of you that is seeking therapy for your particular journey. In my practice, I work with adults, teenagers, and children, specializing in therapy for queer and LGBTQIA+ youth and adults.
Zaraar Zahid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
You're finally ready to look for a therapist. You wish to find someone who really understands you and your multifaceted identity. The right fit is integral to a healthy and collaborative therapeutic journey. I work with depression; stress; trauma; life transitions; social & generalized anxiety; neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD & Autism); family stressors; grief; relationship & intimacy issues; LGBTQIA+ individuals; and navigating life as an immigrant and/or person of color. I meet you where you are at. If you would like to know more about what this could mean for you, I encourage you to reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation.
You're finally ready to look for a therapist. You wish to find someone who really understands you and your multifaceted identity. The right fit is integral to a healthy and collaborative therapeutic journey. I work with depression; stress; trauma; life transitions; social & generalized anxiety; neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD & Autism); family stressors; grief; relationship & intimacy issues; LGBTQIA+ individuals; and navigating life as an immigrant and/or person of color. I meet you where you are at. If you would like to know more about what this could mean for you, I encourage you to reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation.
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!
Liz Poltoratsky
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I focus on working with LGBTQ and neurodivergent individuals.
You deserve care, support, and compassion! Our sessions can be guided by you or more structured based on your preference. I help my clients explore themselves, heal their relationships, and tap into joy and pleasure. My therapeutic approach is rooted in holistic and integrative care and shaped by feminist, humanistic, and intersectionality theories.
I focus on working with LGBTQ and neurodivergent individuals.
You deserve care, support, and compassion! Our sessions can be guided by you or more structured based on your preference. I help my clients explore themselves, heal their relationships, and tap into joy and pleasure. My therapeutic approach is rooted in holistic and integrative care and shaped by feminist, humanistic, and intersectionality theories.
Eric Aprill
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA+, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA+, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
Center for Effective Artistry
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Our therapists hold diverse queer, neurodivergent, religious, and racial identities.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed in a world that's not designed for you? Stop designing your life around the world. Design your life around you. The Center for Effective Artistry specializes in working with clients exploring neurodivergence, ADHD, ASD, AuDHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, queerness, gender, race, religion, climate grief, and substance use. Our clients are tired of having therapists give them an "answer" that doesn't work. We offer an approach that is unique to each of our fantastic clients. As leaders in the neurodiversity movement, we think outside of the box, and aim to improve the field of mental health.
Our therapists hold diverse queer, neurodivergent, religious, and racial identities.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed in a world that's not designed for you? Stop designing your life around the world. Design your life around you. The Center for Effective Artistry specializes in working with clients exploring neurodivergence, ADHD, ASD, AuDHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, queerness, gender, race, religion, climate grief, and substance use. Our clients are tired of having therapists give them an "answer" that doesn't work. We offer an approach that is unique to each of our fantastic clients. As leaders in the neurodiversity movement, we think outside of the box, and aim to improve the field of mental health.
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!
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Chicago
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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.