Transgender Therapists in Bloomington, IL
Too often life hits us with stress, conflict, loss annd other challenges that seem beyond our ability to manage. There can be internal challenges like self-criticism, depression, anxiety, and trauma. There can be interpersonal challenges like relationship conflicts, work stress, and family difficulties. As a clinical psychologist and professor my life’s work has focused on helping people overcome these challenges and training the next generation of therapists and counselors.
Too often life hits us with stress, conflict, loss annd other challenges that seem beyond our ability to manage. There can be internal challenges like self-criticism, depression, anxiety, and trauma. There can be interpersonal challenges like relationship conflicts, work stress, and family difficulties. As a clinical psychologist and professor my life’s work has focused on helping people overcome these challenges and training the next generation of therapists and counselors.
I'm a witty transgender EMDRIA-Certified Therapist and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist who works with LGBTQ+ adults navigating complex trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, and OCD.
I begin with a thorough assessment so we can custom-fit your treatment plan. Think of it as therapy couture! Both EMDR and ERP are structured and evidence-based treatment protocols for addressing mental health concerns in a way talk therapy cannot. Every intervention is chosen intentionally, based on your unique history, symptoms, and goals.
I'm a witty transgender EMDRIA-Certified Therapist and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist who works with LGBTQ+ adults navigating complex trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, and OCD.
I begin with a thorough assessment so we can custom-fit your treatment plan. Think of it as therapy couture! Both EMDR and ERP are structured and evidence-based treatment protocols for addressing mental health concerns in a way talk therapy cannot. Every intervention is chosen intentionally, based on your unique history, symptoms, and goals.
I work with individuals and couples who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, either from themselves or from each other. Many are dealing with relationship conflict, communication struggles, desire or libido differences, or uncertainty while navigating queer, trans, or consensually non-monogamous relationships. I aim to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can make sense of patterns, learn practical tools, and move toward more honest, connected, and sustainable ways of living and relating.
I work with individuals and couples who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, either from themselves or from each other. Many are dealing with relationship conflict, communication struggles, desire or libido differences, or uncertainty while navigating queer, trans, or consensually non-monogamous relationships. I aim to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can make sense of patterns, learn practical tools, and move toward more honest, connected, and sustainable ways of living and relating.
Denise Goff is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in helping to facilitate positive change in clients who have mental health concerns and/or addiction problems. She received her Masters Degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology from Illinois State University in Normal, IL. Denise believes in an individualized treatment approach, and she utilizes a variety of evidence-based approaches to match the person's needs. She provides therapy in a safe, supportive environment, and works with clients to develop effective coping strategies.
Denise Goff is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in helping to facilitate positive change in clients who have mental health concerns and/or addiction problems. She received her Masters Degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology from Illinois State University in Normal, IL. Denise believes in an individualized treatment approach, and she utilizes a variety of evidence-based approaches to match the person's needs. She provides therapy in a safe, supportive environment, and works with clients to develop effective coping strategies.
Whether you're feeling stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by emotion, navigating challenges in your relationships or sexuality, or exploring your gender identity, you deserve a space where you can be heard, supported, and accepted exactly as you are.
Specialties include: Personality Disorders, Gender-affirming care for transgender/gender-diverse individuals, and Sex Therapy for both individuals and couples of all genders, sexual orientations, and relationship structures.
My approach blends practical tools from evidence-based methods such as DBT, CBT, ERP, and SFBT.
Whether you're feeling stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by emotion, navigating challenges in your relationships or sexuality, or exploring your gender identity, you deserve a space where you can be heard, supported, and accepted exactly as you are.
Specialties include: Personality Disorders, Gender-affirming care for transgender/gender-diverse individuals, and Sex Therapy for both individuals and couples of all genders, sexual orientations, and relationship structures.
My approach blends practical tools from evidence-based methods such as DBT, CBT, ERP, and SFBT.
Jacki’s approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques. She also incorporates creative modalities including art, music, and movement to tailor sessions to each client’s unique needs. Her professional background includes extensive work with children and families affected by trauma, as well as serving as a school social worker in both public schools and therapeutic day treatment settings. Jacki is committed to meeting clients where they are and partnering with them to envision and build a brighter future.
Jacki’s approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques. She also incorporates creative modalities including art, music, and movement to tailor sessions to each client’s unique needs. Her professional background includes extensive work with children and families affected by trauma, as well as serving as a school social worker in both public schools and therapeutic day treatment settings. Jacki is committed to meeting clients where they are and partnering with them to envision and build a brighter future.
You’re worth the work. I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll strengthen your connection to your truest self—the part of you that has carried you this far, and the part of you that holds the wisdom to guide you forward. Whether you know exactly what you want from therapy or are unsure where to start, my goal is to help you succeed.
You’re worth the work. I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll strengthen your connection to your truest self—the part of you that has carried you this far, and the part of you that holds the wisdom to guide you forward. Whether you know exactly what you want from therapy or are unsure where to start, my goal is to help you succeed.
Whether addressing young adult life transitions, midlife adjustments, or challenges related to gender identity, she provides a safe and affirming environment where clients can explore their experiences without judgment
Lacey Lowers is a compassionate and experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individualized therapy and case management services to adults across Illinois. She specializes in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, PTSD, and life transitions, offering a supportive space where clients can gain insight, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), she tailors treatment to meet each client’s unique needs.Lacey Lowers is a compassionate and ex
Whether addressing young adult life transitions, midlife adjustments, or challenges related to gender identity, she provides a safe and affirming environment where clients can explore their experiences without judgment
Lacey Lowers is a compassionate and experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individualized therapy and case management services to adults across Illinois. She specializes in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, PTSD, and life transitions, offering a supportive space where clients can gain insight, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), she tailors treatment to meet each client’s unique needs.Lacey Lowers is a compassionate and ex
Sehar Reshamwala is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She received her master's in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bradley University in 2018. Sehar has received extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, and employs a mix of these approaches in her practice. In her spare time, Sehar enjoys catching up on the latest movies and TV shows, taking walks or spending time outdoors, reading, and finding new ways to entertain her toddler.
Sehar Reshamwala is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She received her master's in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bradley University in 2018. Sehar has received extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, and employs a mix of these approaches in her practice. In her spare time, Sehar enjoys catching up on the latest movies and TV shows, taking walks or spending time outdoors, reading, and finding new ways to entertain her toddler.
In her therapeutic space, Sophia Gawron, a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, is dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards self-discovery, empowerment, and healing. Since 2022, she has had the privilege of supporting clients in their pursuit of positive change and personal transformation. Sophia earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, specializing in Advanced Clinical Practice of Mental Health.
In her therapeutic space, Sophia Gawron, a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, is dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards self-discovery, empowerment, and healing. Since 2022, she has had the privilege of supporting clients in their pursuit of positive change and personal transformation. Sophia earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, specializing in Advanced Clinical Practice of Mental Health.
Dr. Ara Lambert, PsyD, creates an individual experience for each client. Her overall goal is for clients to feel heard, seen, and know they have support. She is flexible, easygoing, straightforward, and enjoys utilizing humor to help process the hard stuff. Dr. Lambert earned an undergraduate degree from Illinois Wesleyan University and a PsyD in clinical psychology from Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She's worked as a licensed clinical psychologist at various health systems serving clients in both individual and group settings. In therapy, Dr. Lambert integrates many modalities to help clients accomplish their goals.
Dr. Ara Lambert, PsyD, creates an individual experience for each client. Her overall goal is for clients to feel heard, seen, and know they have support. She is flexible, easygoing, straightforward, and enjoys utilizing humor to help process the hard stuff. Dr. Lambert earned an undergraduate degree from Illinois Wesleyan University and a PsyD in clinical psychology from Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She's worked as a licensed clinical psychologist at various health systems serving clients in both individual and group settings. In therapy, Dr. Lambert integrates many modalities to help clients accomplish their goals.
Deanne Bajaj
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like life is just too hard? Are you looking for a safe, nonjudgmental space to share? I would love to help you! I believe in meeting people where they are at and working with them to take small steps or huge leaps in the directions they’d like to go! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked with individuals with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, relationship issues, addictions, chronic medical conditions, and financial difficulties. I love helping people, and I feel it is a gift to journey through triumphs and challenges with the individuals I counsel!
Do you feel like life is just too hard? Are you looking for a safe, nonjudgmental space to share? I would love to help you! I believe in meeting people where they are at and working with them to take small steps or huge leaps in the directions they’d like to go! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked with individuals with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, relationship issues, addictions, chronic medical conditions, and financial difficulties. I love helping people, and I feel it is a gift to journey through triumphs and challenges with the individuals I counsel!
It takes courage to invite someone into your life to be a partner on your journey to healing. I view your willingness to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with me as a privilege. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or you are returning to therapy, building a new therapeutic relationship takes time and honest conversation. I use a variety of approaches and in my role, I will work with you to find what is the best fit for you. I have experience working with LGBTQ and BIPOC individuals, and individuals who experience depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship challenges.
It takes courage to invite someone into your life to be a partner on your journey to healing. I view your willingness to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with me as a privilege. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or you are returning to therapy, building a new therapeutic relationship takes time and honest conversation. I use a variety of approaches and in my role, I will work with you to find what is the best fit for you. I have experience working with LGBTQ and BIPOC individuals, and individuals who experience depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship challenges.
Kathleen Backus is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with over 25 years of experience. She has a Master’s degree from Bradley University in Peoria. Kathleen believes in being client centered and trauma informed. She is also strength based and believes in the worth of every human being. In her spare time, Kathleen enjoys spending time with family, exercising, and being outdoors.
Kathleen Backus is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with over 25 years of experience. She has a Master’s degree from Bradley University in Peoria. Kathleen believes in being client centered and trauma informed. She is also strength based and believes in the worth of every human being. In her spare time, Kathleen enjoys spending time with family, exercising, and being outdoors.
Victoria Fetter is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Illinois State University with a Masters in Clinical-Counseling Psychology. Victoria has significant training in dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy. Sessions are focused on figuring out how to make the present function and then find the causes in the past, because we live each day in the real world. Her main areas of focus include ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
Victoria Fetter is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Illinois State University with a Masters in Clinical-Counseling Psychology. Victoria has significant training in dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy. Sessions are focused on figuring out how to make the present function and then find the causes in the past, because we live each day in the real world. Her main areas of focus include ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
Amy Mueller is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 1997. She graduated from Bradley University with a degree in Clinical Psychology. Amy believes in a supportive, strength-based, individual growth focused approach to care. Her main areas of focus include anxiety and mood disturbances, trauma and abuse, and adjustment disorders and life transition issues. In her spare time, Amy enjoys spending time with family and friends, learning new things and crafting.
Amy Mueller is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 1997. She graduated from Bradley University with a degree in Clinical Psychology. Amy believes in a supportive, strength-based, individual growth focused approach to care. Her main areas of focus include anxiety and mood disturbances, trauma and abuse, and adjustment disorders and life transition issues. In her spare time, Amy enjoys spending time with family and friends, learning new things and crafting.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired of thinking and feeling the way you do? If you are ready for a change, let’s talk. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important part of successful therapy. I view our relationship as collaborative. You will always be the expert on you while I bring my background, training, and 20+ years of experience to help you approach life in a different way.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired of thinking and feeling the way you do? If you are ready for a change, let’s talk. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important part of successful therapy. I view our relationship as collaborative. You will always be the expert on you while I bring my background, training, and 20+ years of experience to help you approach life in a different way.
Dr. Brown earned her doctoral degree from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, IL, and completed her internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Streamwood Behavioral Health Hospital. There, she received specialized training in play therapy, collaborative problem-solving, dialectical behavioral therapy, crisis management, and applied behavior analysis, while simultaneously completing a fellowship in psychoanalysis. With experience in outpatient, inpatient, school, community, leadership, and camp settings, she brings a comprehensive and dynamic approach to clinical care. Dr.
Dr. Brown earned her doctoral degree from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, IL, and completed her internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Streamwood Behavioral Health Hospital. There, she received specialized training in play therapy, collaborative problem-solving, dialectical behavioral therapy, crisis management, and applied behavior analysis, while simultaneously completing a fellowship in psychoanalysis. With experience in outpatient, inpatient, school, community, leadership, and camp settings, she brings a comprehensive and dynamic approach to clinical care. Dr.
"I am a firm believer in finding balance between feelings, thoughts, beliefs, and actions. Sometimes what we are dealing with is simply present day stress, needing a safe environment to process and get feedback. Other times events from our past dictate our reactions to today's experiences. This leads to giving our power away and continuing to suffer. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as other approaches when indicated, always focusing on the client's goals. I am focused on respectful approaches to teaching tools that allow each client's efforts to result in positive impacts throughout their lives."
"I am a firm believer in finding balance between feelings, thoughts, beliefs, and actions. Sometimes what we are dealing with is simply present day stress, needing a safe environment to process and get feedback. Other times events from our past dictate our reactions to today's experiences. This leads to giving our power away and continuing to suffer. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as other approaches when indicated, always focusing on the client's goals. I am focused on respectful approaches to teaching tools that allow each client's efforts to result in positive impacts throughout their lives."
Dr. Seth Hatlelid is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and is certified in general biofeedback by the Biofeedback Certification Institute of America. Healthcare professionals who achieve BCIA Certification demonstrate Commitment to professionalism by completing basic degree and education requirements, learning to apply clinical biofeedback skills during mentorship, and passing a written examination. Dr. Hatlelid received his master’s and doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology. He completed his post-doctoral training at Twin Cities Behavioral Health. Dr.Dr. Seth Hatlelid is a Lice
Dr. Seth Hatlelid is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and is certified in general biofeedback by the Biofeedback Certification Institute of America. Healthcare professionals who achieve BCIA Certification demonstrate Commitment to professionalism by completing basic degree and education requirements, learning to apply clinical biofeedback skills during mentorship, and passing a written examination. Dr. Hatlelid received his master’s and doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology. He completed his post-doctoral training at Twin Cities Behavioral Health. Dr.Dr. Seth Hatlelid is a Lice
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Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Bloomington
See More Transgender TherapistsNearby Searches for Bloomington
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Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.