Therapists in Chicago, IL
Brock Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
IntraSpectrum Counseling is Chicago’s leading therapy practice dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community with in person & online sessions.
My philosophy of therapy is humanist, believing that every person is worthy of dignity, love, and fulfillment in their life. Therapy provides an affirming, compassionate relationship for clients to learn more about themselves, explore choices, and better understand how they relate to the world around them. Through acceptance, curiosity, and discussion, I join with clients to support them in discovering their own potential, explore areas of growth, and identify the strengths and wisdoms they already carry with them. I believe therapy should be flexible and dynamic enough to support clients who are facing particular struggles.
IntraSpectrum Counseling is Chicago’s leading therapy practice dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community with in person & online sessions.
My philosophy of therapy is humanist, believing that every person is worthy of dignity, love, and fulfillment in their life. Therapy provides an affirming, compassionate relationship for clients to learn more about themselves, explore choices, and better understand how they relate to the world around them. Through acceptance, curiosity, and discussion, I join with clients to support them in discovering their own potential, explore areas of growth, and identify the strengths and wisdoms they already carry with them. I believe therapy should be flexible and dynamic enough to support clients who are facing particular struggles.
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!
Ash Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60645
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and as a member of the queer community, I especially enjoy working with folks who identify as trans, non-binary, queer, or LGBTQIA+ more broadly.
To me, therapy is a team sport. I'm there to help create a space and relationship where you feel safe exploring the things that are happening in your life. Maybe that thing is identity exploration, depression or anxiety that just won't quit, or figuring out how survive and then thrive after a big trauma. All of this is big stuff. I'm here to help you hold it and find a way through it. I have plenty of tools that I can bring to bear (questions, coping skills training, identifying patterns, and reframing situations), but ultimately, my approach centers around you and what you need to be successful, however you define success.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and as a member of the queer community, I especially enjoy working with folks who identify as trans, non-binary, queer, or LGBTQIA+ more broadly.
To me, therapy is a team sport. I'm there to help create a space and relationship where you feel safe exploring the things that are happening in your life. Maybe that thing is identity exploration, depression or anxiety that just won't quit, or figuring out how survive and then thrive after a big trauma. All of this is big stuff. I'm here to help you hold it and find a way through it. I have plenty of tools that I can bring to bear (questions, coping skills training, identifying patterns, and reframing situations), but ultimately, my approach centers around you and what you need to be successful, however you define success.
Katrina Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612
Healing can be a journey. Engaging in a space where your authentic self can shine can make that journey a bit less difficult. I try to create a space that is welcoming to your thoughts, feelings, and self-energy. I mostly work with people of marginalized communities (i.e. BIPoC, LGBTQ+, First-Gen/Immigrants), trauma survivors, and creatives. My past experiences including working with people with psychosis, sexual violence trauma, and gender affirming/supportive care.
Healing can be a journey. Engaging in a space where your authentic self can shine can make that journey a bit less difficult. I try to create a space that is welcoming to your thoughts, feelings, and self-energy. I mostly work with people of marginalized communities (i.e. BIPoC, LGBTQ+, First-Gen/Immigrants), trauma survivors, and creatives. My past experiences including working with people with psychosis, sexual violence trauma, and gender affirming/supportive care.
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.
E Ardron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I am committed to creating an affirming, non-judgemental environment for LGBTQ+ folx to feel empowered and supported.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
I am committed to creating an affirming, non-judgemental environment for LGBTQ+ folx to feel empowered and supported.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
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.
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.
Benjamin Gronich
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with teens/adults within the LGBTQ+ communities.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
I have extensive experience working with teens/adults within the LGBTQ+ communities.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
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.
Jake Stone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I work with many types of clients, but specialize in working with queer and trans people, couples, and other forms of relationships (triads, polycules, open, polygamous, etc.). I deal primarily with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief and loss, transitions, stress management, trauma, sex-related issues and traumas, kink and BDSM, behavioral and substance addictions, and chronic pain and chronic illness. I tend to work with adults. I love working with clients that bring their whole self to therapy as I do too. I always encourage feedback to ensure the therapeutic process feels affirming and healing.
I work with many types of clients, but specialize in working with queer and trans people, couples, and other forms of relationships (triads, polycules, open, polygamous, etc.). I deal primarily with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief and loss, transitions, stress management, trauma, sex-related issues and traumas, kink and BDSM, behavioral and substance addictions, and chronic pain and chronic illness. I tend to work with adults. I love working with clients that bring their whole self to therapy as I do too. I always encourage feedback to ensure the therapeutic process feels affirming and healing.
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Dj Crosby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
As a queer clinician, I strive to create and maintain a judgment free zone.
Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you doesn't mean you can, should or need to do it alone. - Lisa Olivera. Together we can build a safe and collaborative space that fosters growth. Life can be messy, even demanding; we will have hard days; and that’s okay. I approach therapy with authenticity, compassion, and humor. Each individual requires a personalized therapeutic approach and I aim to cultivate that early on in our time together. I use an integrative approach to therapy with a focus on Acceptance and Commitment therapy, decolonizing and anti-oppressive therapy modalities.
As a queer clinician, I strive to create and maintain a judgment free zone.
Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you doesn't mean you can, should or need to do it alone. - Lisa Olivera. Together we can build a safe and collaborative space that fosters growth. Life can be messy, even demanding; we will have hard days; and that’s okay. I approach therapy with authenticity, compassion, and humor. Each individual requires a personalized therapeutic approach and I aim to cultivate that early on in our time together. I use an integrative approach to therapy with a focus on Acceptance and Commitment therapy, decolonizing and anti-oppressive therapy modalities.
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.
Erin Shea Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
The majority of my work centers on trauma and recovery, which can look like a lot of things. I work primarily (but not exclusively!) with LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent folks, and those who have experienced addiction. My practice is strongly aligned with fat liberation and HAES (Health at Every Size). I love working with creative folks or those aiming to pursue something hard/worthwhile. I'm also available to work with other white folks who are looking to engage in anti-racist work.
The majority of my work centers on trauma and recovery, which can look like a lot of things. I work primarily (but not exclusively!) with LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent folks, and those who have experienced addiction. My practice is strongly aligned with fat liberation and HAES (Health at Every Size). I love working with creative folks or those aiming to pursue something hard/worthwhile. I'm also available to work with other white folks who are looking to engage in anti-racist work.
Paige Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I am currently interning at Flourishing Affinity as a part of Roosevelt University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program with the intention of graduating in Spring 2022. A large focus of my graduate studies has been LGBTQIA+ issues. As a member of the queer community, I understand the importance of compassionate healthcare and I am passionate about providing identity affirming treatment. I also specialize in anxiety disorders, and depressive and mood disorders.
I am currently interning at Flourishing Affinity as a part of Roosevelt University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program with the intention of graduating in Spring 2022. A large focus of my graduate studies has been LGBTQIA+ issues. As a member of the queer community, I understand the importance of compassionate healthcare and I am passionate about providing identity affirming treatment. I also specialize in anxiety disorders, and depressive and mood disorders.
Freddy Reyes
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
I’ve offered therapeutic support for 8 years to BIPOC & LGBTQ adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma-related challenges.
Life and the universe have a way of demonstrating to us what we’re made of, what we’re capable of, and who we may want to be. Making sense of it all, what it may mean, and how to best navigate choppy waters is where I can help. Having a clearer understanding of your identities, values, and beliefs is so influential to your experiences and journey as a human. If you have a desire to explore identity-related experiences and challenges, the current impact of past experiences, and have an openness to learn how to best manage the unknown of the future, you are human, and taking the right first step in seeking support.
I’ve offered therapeutic support for 8 years to BIPOC & LGBTQ adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma-related challenges.
Life and the universe have a way of demonstrating to us what we’re made of, what we’re capable of, and who we may want to be. Making sense of it all, what it may mean, and how to best navigate choppy waters is where I can help. Having a clearer understanding of your identities, values, and beliefs is so influential to your experiences and journey as a human. If you have a desire to explore identity-related experiences and challenges, the current impact of past experiences, and have an openness to learn how to best manage the unknown of the future, you are human, and taking the right first step in seeking support.
Keeton Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in gender and sexuality exploration, depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship issues, queer issues, and trauma.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and haven't found a therapist who sees, understands, or meets you where you currently are in life? As a psychotherapist I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to help you process, explore, and cope with the trauma and challenges you endure. I believe our best work together is achieved when you feel supported, encouraged, and empowered. Through humor, compassion, and support I meet you where you are, so that we can collaboratively work together to process and overcome the challenges and trauma that are a part of your story, help you achieve your goals, and be an authentic you.
I specialize in gender and sexuality exploration, depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship issues, queer issues, and trauma.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and haven't found a therapist who sees, understands, or meets you where you currently are in life? As a psychotherapist I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to help you process, explore, and cope with the trauma and challenges you endure. I believe our best work together is achieved when you feel supported, encouraged, and empowered. Through humor, compassion, and support I meet you where you are, so that we can collaboratively work together to process and overcome the challenges and trauma that are a part of your story, help you achieve your goals, and be an authentic you.
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!
Divya Daripalli
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I understand that systemic issues and stigmatization make reaching out for support a daunting task. I understand how difficult talking about emotions and past experiences can be. You may be yearning for someone to recognize the experience of being in your skin. My goal is to work with you to develop strategies that align with your unique strengths and challenges. As your therapist, I intend to foster a sense of safety and trust in our sessions, nurturing you into your most authentic self. I am passionate about exploring how our experiences and backgrounds shape our identities.
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I understand that systemic issues and stigmatization make reaching out for support a daunting task. I understand how difficult talking about emotions and past experiences can be. You may be yearning for someone to recognize the experience of being in your skin. My goal is to work with you to develop strategies that align with your unique strengths and challenges. As your therapist, I intend to foster a sense of safety and trust in our sessions, nurturing you into your most authentic self. I am passionate about exploring how our experiences and backgrounds shape our identities.
Matthew English (Taking Clients)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
Matthew English LCSW, RYT (Registered yoga teacher) is dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Matthew brings an expertise to his practice, with a strong background in cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion focused therapy, and mindfulness practices. He specializes in areas such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, school challenges, and trauma. Primarily working with people of color, the lgbtqia+ community, and men.
Matthew English LCSW, RYT (Registered yoga teacher) is dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Matthew brings an expertise to his practice, with a strong background in cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion focused therapy, and mindfulness practices. He specializes in areas such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, school challenges, and trauma. Primarily working with people of color, the lgbtqia+ community, and men.
See more therapy options for Chicago
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.