LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Chicago Heights, IL

Migdalia Santos
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! My name is Migdalia. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, and I provide therapy for individuals, families, and people in romantic relationships. I view the role of therapist not as someone who gives advice or tells you what to do, but as someone who helps guide you in getting more connected to yourself, feeling more confident in your decisions, and making sense of how your relationships, patterns, and past experiences shape what you’re dealing with today. I hold this role with deep honor, reverence, and a healthy serving of humor and authenticity.
Hi! My name is Migdalia. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, and I provide therapy for individuals, families, and people in romantic relationships. I view the role of therapist not as someone who gives advice or tells you what to do, but as someone who helps guide you in getting more connected to yourself, feeling more confident in your decisions, and making sense of how your relationships, patterns, and past experiences shape what you’re dealing with today. I hold this role with deep honor, reverence, and a healthy serving of humor and authenticity.
(815) 554-5083 View (815) 554-5083
Hollie Campbell
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCC
Online Only
As a therapist, I believe in the power of healing through understanding and self-discovery. My goal is to support you on your journey towards mental well-being and inner peace. With over a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate complexities with empathy and skill. My approach to therapy is rooted in respect, collaboration, and a commitment to evidence-based practices tailored to each client’s unique needs.​
As a therapist, I believe in the power of healing through understanding and self-discovery. My goal is to support you on your journey towards mental well-being and inner peace. With over a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate complexities with empathy and skill. My approach to therapy is rooted in respect, collaboration, and a commitment to evidence-based practices tailored to each client’s unique needs.​
(708) 726-5420 View (708) 726-5420
Leslie (Kar) Howard
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those impacted by the criminal justice system.
Hello and welcome! First of all, you’re not too much! You’re not too broken. And you’re definitely not alone. I work with people navigating anxiety, identity, trauma, and the messy middle of life. Whether you're unpacking the weight of societal expectations, healing from past wounds, or simply figuring out what comes next, this space is yours—no masks, no judgment.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those impacted by the criminal justice system.
Hello and welcome! First of all, you’re not too much! You’re not too broken. And you’re definitely not alone. I work with people navigating anxiety, identity, trauma, and the messy middle of life. Whether you're unpacking the weight of societal expectations, healing from past wounds, or simply figuring out what comes next, this space is yours—no masks, no judgment.
(708) 726-9282 View (708) 726-9282
Elevation Individual and Family Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Even "superwoman" or "the strong one" of the family needs someone to lean on or talk to. At Elevation Individual and Family Therapy (EIFT), we are here to support you and help you reach your goals as you navigate through life's journey. We have a team of therapists are experts in addressing a variety of issues, such as family communication, emotional challenges, women-related issues, depression, anxiety, and youth counseling. No matter what difficulties or challenges you or your child might be facing, there are solutions and we are here to help! Visit our website www.elevationtherapy.org to see each of our therapists' specialties.
Even "superwoman" or "the strong one" of the family needs someone to lean on or talk to. At Elevation Individual and Family Therapy (EIFT), we are here to support you and help you reach your goals as you navigate through life's journey. We have a team of therapists are experts in addressing a variety of issues, such as family communication, emotional challenges, women-related issues, depression, anxiety, and youth counseling. No matter what difficulties or challenges you or your child might be facing, there are solutions and we are here to help! Visit our website www.elevationtherapy.org to see each of our therapists' specialties.
(708) 578-8425 View (708) 578-8425
Priscilla Huley
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Priscilla! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Highland, Indiana, working with clients statewide via telehealth. Using trauma-focused, person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and sex-positive approaches, I will help you analyze your life experiences and develop skills that will allow you to cope and better address life's challenges. My style and approach are a good fit for adults struggling with life's challenges and social pressures. I work to help my clients increase skills to better navigate through life's challenges, feel better overall, and develop a more positive outlook on life.
Hi there, I'm Priscilla! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Highland, Indiana, working with clients statewide via telehealth. Using trauma-focused, person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and sex-positive approaches, I will help you analyze your life experiences and develop skills that will allow you to cope and better address life's challenges. My style and approach are a good fit for adults struggling with life's challenges and social pressures. I work to help my clients increase skills to better navigate through life's challenges, feel better overall, and develop a more positive outlook on life.
(708) 853-6368 View (708) 853-6368
Melissa Shanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
My name is Melissa Shanley and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University where I studied to earn my Master of Science in Clinical Counseling. I have years of experience working in and supervising community mental health centers, college settings, hospital settings, and as an outpatient therapist to all ages and populations. My professional interests include working with people who have experienced complex trauma/PTSD, family systems issues, and supporting people with attachment, anxiety, and mood disorders.
My name is Melissa Shanley and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University where I studied to earn my Master of Science in Clinical Counseling. I have years of experience working in and supervising community mental health centers, college settings, hospital settings, and as an outpatient therapist to all ages and populations. My professional interests include working with people who have experienced complex trauma/PTSD, family systems issues, and supporting people with attachment, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(773) 537-4437 View (773) 537-4437
Comprehensive Services of Illinois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP, CADC, CPLC, CWLC
Serves Area
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
(708) 318-1401 View (708) 318-1401
Danielle Crockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC-S, NCC, RPT™
5 Endorsed
Online Only
You're the person everyone depends on—but lately, you're tired of holding everything together. Maybe you're successful at work but overwhelmed at home, questioning a relationship, navigating a major life change, struggling with anxiety, or realizing you've spent so much time taking care of everyone else that you've lost yourself. I work with adults who are ready for more than just "getting through it." Therapy can help you understand what's keeping you stuck, communicate what you need, create healthier boundaries, and feel more confident in the decisions you're making about your life, relationships, and future.
You're the person everyone depends on—but lately, you're tired of holding everything together. Maybe you're successful at work but overwhelmed at home, questioning a relationship, navigating a major life change, struggling with anxiety, or realizing you've spent so much time taking care of everyone else that you've lost yourself. I work with adults who are ready for more than just "getting through it." Therapy can help you understand what's keeping you stuck, communicate what you need, create healthier boundaries, and feel more confident in the decisions you're making about your life, relationships, and future.
(225) 307-8118 View (225) 307-8118
Katrina Stoddard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in the states of Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being in private practice, I teach a graduate course at the University of Kansas as well as provide guidance and therapy skills to graduate level students at Friends University. I specialize in couples therapy and maternal mental health. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I use with my in my trauma work.
I am Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in the states of Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being in private practice, I teach a graduate course at the University of Kansas as well as provide guidance and therapy skills to graduate level students at Friends University. I specialize in couples therapy and maternal mental health. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I use with my in my trauma work.
(816) 656-3947 View (816) 656-3947
Corry Eisenberg
Counselor, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a queer and creative therapist, Corry has many inroads to supporting clients from diverse backgrounds including artists, trauma survivors, and the poly, kink and LGBTQIA communities.
Corry works with her clients to help them identify what is truly important to them and live as their authentic selves. Her clients are often surprised that she can be both grounded and hilarious, direct and whimsical. She has a rare gift for helping clients open up to topics they are scared to talk about. She has helped many who struggle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD recover their lives, set boundaries, and cultivate relationships full of delight and empathy.
As a queer and creative therapist, Corry has many inroads to supporting clients from diverse backgrounds including artists, trauma survivors, and the poly, kink and LGBTQIA communities.
Corry works with her clients to help them identify what is truly important to them and live as their authentic selves. Her clients are often surprised that she can be both grounded and hilarious, direct and whimsical. She has a rare gift for helping clients open up to topics they are scared to talk about. She has helped many who struggle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD recover their lives, set boundaries, and cultivate relationships full of delight and empathy.
(331) 320-4626 View (331) 320-4626
Jessica Contreras
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CCTP
Online Only
With such a fast pace of life, you may feel like you're standing still while everything seems to be zooming around and past you. You could be getting frustrated, going through the motions or drowning within a never ending list of “to-do’s”. This frustration could leave you feeling like everything is spinning out of control and it’s hard to make decisions. You might even find yourself questioning what you’ve done wrong, wondering how things got this way and why this is happening to you. You can calm the internal noise and build the confidence you need to feel in control of your own life. I know what it's like to overthink and doubt.
With such a fast pace of life, you may feel like you're standing still while everything seems to be zooming around and past you. You could be getting frustrated, going through the motions or drowning within a never ending list of “to-do’s”. This frustration could leave you feeling like everything is spinning out of control and it’s hard to make decisions. You might even find yourself questioning what you’ve done wrong, wondering how things got this way and why this is happening to you. You can calm the internal noise and build the confidence you need to feel in control of your own life. I know what it's like to overthink and doubt.
(312) 564-5482 View (312) 564-5482
Kyle R Miller
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCTP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You feel lost. Entirely alone in your struggles, like no one can understand what you’re going through. You desperately wish you had a better handle on things and feel like a failure for your shortcomings. But this problem isn’t unique. The experience is so common that there are memes about it. Everyone struggles; it’s perfectly normal. Of course, knowing that doesn’t make those thoughts and feelings go away. But that’s where we come in.
You feel lost. Entirely alone in your struggles, like no one can understand what you’re going through. You desperately wish you had a better handle on things and feel like a failure for your shortcomings. But this problem isn’t unique. The experience is so common that there are memes about it. Everyone struggles; it’s perfectly normal. Of course, knowing that doesn’t make those thoughts and feelings go away. But that’s where we come in.
(773) 570-1266 View (773) 570-1266
Fanai Croff
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Serves Area
Are you standing in your own way? Perhaps you second-guess yourself, keep repeating old patterns or feel stuck in a cycle or way of functioning that doesn’t serve you. Or want peace, healthy connection or confidence to live your potential: these are conversations I have with clients every day. I work with thoughtful adults looking to understand themselves more deeply and create lasting change. Many seem "together" on the outside but quietly wrestle with self-doubt, anxiety, burnout, loss, or past traumas that shape how they see themselves. Others simply want to heal, grow or make change for better, but feel stuck. I'm here to help.
Are you standing in your own way? Perhaps you second-guess yourself, keep repeating old patterns or feel stuck in a cycle or way of functioning that doesn’t serve you. Or want peace, healthy connection or confidence to live your potential: these are conversations I have with clients every day. I work with thoughtful adults looking to understand themselves more deeply and create lasting change. Many seem "together" on the outside but quietly wrestle with self-doubt, anxiety, burnout, loss, or past traumas that shape how they see themselves. Others simply want to heal, grow or make change for better, but feel stuck. I'm here to help.
(872) 204-1589 View (872) 204-1589
Mya Barth
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Serves Area
My ideal clients are youth, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families who are ready to navigate challenges and create meaningful change. They often come to me struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, family challenges, parenting concerns, life transitions, or systemic issues. What I value about my work is creating a space where therapy is dynamic, engaging, and never passive or boring. I view myself as one puzzle piece in your journey, helping you break challenges down and rebuild them into a clearer, stronger version of yourself.
My ideal clients are youth, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families who are ready to navigate challenges and create meaningful change. They often come to me struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, family challenges, parenting concerns, life transitions, or systemic issues. What I value about my work is creating a space where therapy is dynamic, engaging, and never passive or boring. I view myself as one puzzle piece in your journey, helping you break challenges down and rebuild them into a clearer, stronger version of yourself.
(224) 445-1798 View (224) 445-1798
Sierra Abel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Sierra! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who graduated with my Master’s Degree from Aurora University. I have experience working with both teen and adult clients with struggles ranging from anxiety and relationship conflict, to depression, grief and trauma. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns. I am also a certified yoga instructor who aims to help clients reconnect to their body through mindful and somatic experiences such as yoga and breath work.
Hello, my name is Sierra! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who graduated with my Master’s Degree from Aurora University. I have experience working with both teen and adult clients with struggles ranging from anxiety and relationship conflict, to depression, grief and trauma. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns. I am also a certified yoga instructor who aims to help clients reconnect to their body through mindful and somatic experiences such as yoga and breath work.
(708) 742-8802 View (708) 742-8802
Krista Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
(708) 669-0730 View (708) 669-0730

More Therapists Nearby

Rae Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CSTS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Queer, trans, and/or neurodivergent?
I specialize in trauma/shame recovery and self-discovery work. We’ll blend nervous-system skills with a trauma informed approach to stop intellectualizing everything, challenge faulty core beliefs, reduce avoidance patterns, and practice real-life boundaries. Expect tangible skill development, a collaborative pace, and steady, affirming accountability.
Queer, trans, and/or neurodivergent?
I specialize in trauma/shame recovery and self-discovery work. We’ll blend nervous-system skills with a trauma informed approach to stop intellectualizing everything, challenge faulty core beliefs, reduce avoidance patterns, and practice real-life boundaries. Expect tangible skill development, a collaborative pace, and steady, affirming accountability.
(314) 343-0981 View (314) 343-0981
Shannon Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
As a transgender therapist, I have personal and professional experience addressing the needs of the LGBTQ+ community as well as folks who are beginning to navigate and explore their gender.
My approach is relational and collaborative. I provide a warm, gentle (though direct), trauma-informed, person-centered approach to therapy and healing. I believe that approaching oneself with curiosity and compassion can open the doors of new truths about oneself that leads to acceptance and freedom.
As a transgender therapist, I have personal and professional experience addressing the needs of the LGBTQ+ community as well as folks who are beginning to navigate and explore their gender.
My approach is relational and collaborative. I provide a warm, gentle (though direct), trauma-informed, person-centered approach to therapy and healing. I believe that approaching oneself with curiosity and compassion can open the doors of new truths about oneself that leads to acceptance and freedom.
(630) 216-7829 View (630) 216-7829
Jx Heithmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, TF-CBT
Chicago, IL 60611
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community.
I am certified in trauma-CBT and trained in Internal Family Systems and sex therapy. I specialize in working with folks with complex trauma.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community.
I am certified in trauma-CBT and trained in Internal Family Systems and sex therapy. I specialize in working with folks with complex trauma.
(773) 819-6894 View (773) 819-6894
Olly Sladek
Pre-Licensed Professional, M. Ed
Chicago, IL 60655
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ and trans community as a LGBTQ+ therapist.
I have experience with PTSD, anxiety disorders, grief, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ clients, clients on the autism spectrum, depression, and self esteem issues. I would love to use my skills, experience, and personal approach to help you begin the exciting process of therapy.
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ and trans community as a LGBTQ+ therapist.
I have experience with PTSD, anxiety disorders, grief, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ clients, clients on the autism spectrum, depression, and self esteem issues. I would love to use my skills, experience, and personal approach to help you begin the exciting process of therapy.
(708) 523-7773 View (708) 523-7773

See more therapy options for Chicago Heights

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.