LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Chicago Ridge, IL
She also has expertise in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and the care of LGBTQ+ folks.
Kathryn recognizes that you are the expert on yourself and works with you to create treatment goals tailored to what you want to gain from therapy. She also acknowledges that starting therapy can be scary and a big step. Kathryn will always meet you where you are at and provide a non-judgmental, therapeutic environment.
She also has expertise in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and the care of LGBTQ+ folks.
Kathryn recognizes that you are the expert on yourself and works with you to create treatment goals tailored to what you want to gain from therapy. She also acknowledges that starting therapy can be scary and a big step. Kathryn will always meet you where you are at and provide a non-judgmental, therapeutic environment.
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.
The Center for Psychological Services is dedicated to assisting adults, adolescents, and children to achieve their goals and thrive at each stage of life. We view problems as opportunities for change. Our treatment approach is grounded in our respect for the strong link between mind and body, and proven therapeutic methodologies tailored to each person's unique needs, circumstances, and goals. We assist you in making desired changes in practical ways that will have lasting results. Due to the wide variety of therapists at our center, we cover about 90% of the specialties below.
The Center for Psychological Services is dedicated to assisting adults, adolescents, and children to achieve their goals and thrive at each stage of life. We view problems as opportunities for change. Our treatment approach is grounded in our respect for the strong link between mind and body, and proven therapeutic methodologies tailored to each person's unique needs, circumstances, and goals. We assist you in making desired changes in practical ways that will have lasting results. Due to the wide variety of therapists at our center, we cover about 90% of the specialties below.
LGBTQ friendly.
Life asks a lot of us and most people in this world are doing the best they can with the tools they have. Maybe you are feeling sad, on-edge, angry, grief-stricken, burnt out, or just like things have been really heavy lately? I want to help get you back to feeling like yourself. You deserve to feel better.
Sometimes, we just need a few more tools in the toolbox, and to work with someone who accepts us, challenges us, and walks with us through the stuff we are facing.
I really enjoy working with folks who: want to get to know themselves more; may struggle with boundaries or people-pleasing; and/or who "grew up too fast" as a kid.
LGBTQ friendly.
Life asks a lot of us and most people in this world are doing the best they can with the tools they have. Maybe you are feeling sad, on-edge, angry, grief-stricken, burnt out, or just like things have been really heavy lately? I want to help get you back to feeling like yourself. You deserve to feel better.
Sometimes, we just need a few more tools in the toolbox, and to work with someone who accepts us, challenges us, and walks with us through the stuff we are facing.
I really enjoy working with folks who: want to get to know themselves more; may struggle with boundaries or people-pleasing; and/or who "grew up too fast" as a kid.
More Therapists Nearby
I work with individuals and couples seeking understanding and healing around trauma, PTSD, intergenerational stress, inner child healing, identity exploration, life transitions, shame, anxiety, depression, and the pressures of growing up in diaspora and queer/trans experiences.
I use a trauma-responsive, relational approach that centers you as the expert on your own life. My work is interactive and integrates psychodynamic methods, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, and DBT to support insight, emotional regulation, and mind-body connection. I offer therapy in English and Macedonian.
I work with individuals and couples seeking understanding and healing around trauma, PTSD, intergenerational stress, inner child healing, identity exploration, life transitions, shame, anxiety, depression, and the pressures of growing up in diaspora and queer/trans experiences.
I use a trauma-responsive, relational approach that centers you as the expert on your own life. My work is interactive and integrates psychodynamic methods, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, and DBT to support insight, emotional regulation, and mind-body connection. I offer therapy in English and Macedonian.
I am a white, trans, queer, neurodivergent (ADHDer) woman living with chronic pain who believes in harm reduction & abolition.
If you’re looking for a specific modality, I primarily gravitate towards Mindfulness imagery, guided meditation, and breathing techniques, Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Parts Work, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(I am only in-network w/ BCBS & Aetna PPO plans and BCBS & Aetna Medicaid plans. No HMO)
I am a white, trans, queer, neurodivergent (ADHDer) woman living with chronic pain who believes in harm reduction & abolition.
If you’re looking for a specific modality, I primarily gravitate towards Mindfulness imagery, guided meditation, and breathing techniques, Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Parts Work, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(I am only in-network w/ BCBS & Aetna PPO plans and BCBS & Aetna Medicaid plans. No HMO)
I further specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender and nonbinary clients.
My goal is to create a space for my clients to harness their inner strengths, increase self-awareness, and cultivate self-compassion. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them navigate difficult thoughts and emotions while at the same time pivoting towards a life of meaning, purpose, values, and connection.
I further specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender and nonbinary clients.
My goal is to create a space for my clients to harness their inner strengths, increase self-awareness, and cultivate self-compassion. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them navigate difficult thoughts and emotions while at the same time pivoting towards a life of meaning, purpose, values, and connection.
I have extensive experience working with neurodivergent, queer/trans, and BiPOC clients looking for a therapist who will examine their intricate and intersecting identities with care and humility.
I use a person-centered approach to collaborate in identifying barriers to fulfillment, whether they be big, small, or somewhere in between. My approach to treatment is based in feminist, anti-racist, and sex positive frameworks. I utilize treatments such as CBT, DBT, and ACT to ground sessions in evidence-based practice.
I have extensive experience working with neurodivergent, queer/trans, and BiPOC clients looking for a therapist who will examine their intricate and intersecting identities with care and humility.
I use a person-centered approach to collaborate in identifying barriers to fulfillment, whether they be big, small, or somewhere in between. My approach to treatment is based in feminist, anti-racist, and sex positive frameworks. I utilize treatments such as CBT, DBT, and ACT to ground sessions in evidence-based practice.
I've seen, heard and personally experienced the difficulty of finding a therapist when you hold marginalized identities. It's an honor for me to be able to provide a unique space for folks like us! I believe that understanding how our culture, gender, society, family, etc. inform our identities allows people to ditch the concepts or social expectations that don’t fit and pursue the ones that feel truly authentic. Let's show up as we are and get some solid work done!
I've seen, heard and personally experienced the difficulty of finding a therapist when you hold marginalized identities. It's an honor for me to be able to provide a unique space for folks like us! I believe that understanding how our culture, gender, society, family, etc. inform our identities allows people to ditch the concepts or social expectations that don’t fit and pursue the ones that feel truly authentic. Let's show up as we are and get some solid work done!
I have an interest working with clients dealing with trauma, clients from the LGBTQ population (in particular the transgender and transgender non-binary experience) and couples.
As a recent graduate I pull from a variety approaches including CBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, person-centered and existential therapies. Finding out what works best for your goals will be a collaborative and ongoing process where we can find out what works and what is ineffective.
I have an interest working with clients dealing with trauma, clients from the LGBTQ population (in particular the transgender and transgender non-binary experience) and couples.
As a recent graduate I pull from a variety approaches including CBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, person-centered and existential therapies. Finding out what works best for your goals will be a collaborative and ongoing process where we can find out what works and what is ineffective.
Jasper (he/him) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience in providing mental health services. He specializes in working with children and adolescents ages 5 to 18. He takes a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to mental health therapy and is also neurodiverse-affirming and LGBTQIA+ affirming in his practice. Jasper is working towards becoming a registered play therapist, and he is passionate about connecting with children and teens in play such as video and board games, movies and tv shows, pop culture, and anything nerdy.
Jasper (he/him) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience in providing mental health services. He specializes in working with children and adolescents ages 5 to 18. He takes a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to mental health therapy and is also neurodiverse-affirming and LGBTQIA+ affirming in his practice. Jasper is working towards becoming a registered play therapist, and he is passionate about connecting with children and teens in play such as video and board games, movies and tv shows, pop culture, and anything nerdy.
Coaching clients work with me on topics related to narcissistic abuse recovery, surviving high conflict divorce, supporting their gender expansive child, adjusting to an open relationship or polyamory, working as a traveling artist/musician/production crew, or navigating a major life transition. Coaching clients are looking for time limited support with specific goals and either already have a therapist or don't have mental health needs that lead to mental health crisis. Coaching clients are motivated and ready to engage with a plan, resources, etc.
Coaching clients work with me on topics related to narcissistic abuse recovery, surviving high conflict divorce, supporting their gender expansive child, adjusting to an open relationship or polyamory, working as a traveling artist/musician/production crew, or navigating a major life transition. Coaching clients are looking for time limited support with specific goals and either already have a therapist or don't have mental health needs that lead to mental health crisis. Coaching clients are motivated and ready to engage with a plan, resources, etc.
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.
I also support LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse clients.
I specialize in: PTSD, complex trauma, Autism, anxiety, depression, grief, identity exploration, LGBTQ+ concerns, immigrant/refugee mental health, displacement, belonging, shame, and relationship patterns.
My style is: collaborative, relational, feminist, anti-oppressive, and grounded in helping clients feel understood while creating meaningful change.
I also support LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse clients.
I specialize in: PTSD, complex trauma, Autism, anxiety, depression, grief, identity exploration, LGBTQ+ concerns, immigrant/refugee mental health, displacement, belonging, shame, and relationship patterns.
My style is: collaborative, relational, feminist, anti-oppressive, and grounded in helping clients feel understood while creating meaningful change.
I believe therapy is a collaborative space for folks to explore their biographies and learn to hold deeper relationships with their own self and others. Change happens when we feel safe to be curious and understanding of our patterns and choices. I invite clients to explore the intersections of their identities with me as we create a space that is brave and trusting. I see the connection between the external world and our internal experience as central to the therapy process. I'm mindful to social identities, dynamics in family systems, and the larger cultural landscape that impact a person's sense of self.
I believe therapy is a collaborative space for folks to explore their biographies and learn to hold deeper relationships with their own self and others. Change happens when we feel safe to be curious and understanding of our patterns and choices. I invite clients to explore the intersections of their identities with me as we create a space that is brave and trusting. I see the connection between the external world and our internal experience as central to the therapy process. I'm mindful to social identities, dynamics in family systems, and the larger cultural landscape that impact a person's sense of self.
I love working with people who are a part of my community - trans, queer and BIPOC folks!
Words that come to mind when I think about healing are: witnessing, nurturing and integrating.
I love working with people who are a part of my community - trans, queer and BIPOC folks!
Words that come to mind when I think about healing are: witnessing, nurturing and integrating.
Are you interested in exploring how you can live more authentically? Whether you are exploring your gender and/or identity as a cis, gender non-conforming, or trans person, I can understand the anxiety and confusion that surrounds such a journey. Working together, we will ease your fears, address your questions, and help you to find peace in yourself and your identity. Through lived experience, professional experience, and my education in art therapy and counseling, I aim to help you through this process of self discovery. I like to approach our work together with creativity in mind.
Are you interested in exploring how you can live more authentically? Whether you are exploring your gender and/or identity as a cis, gender non-conforming, or trans person, I can understand the anxiety and confusion that surrounds such a journey. Working together, we will ease your fears, address your questions, and help you to find peace in yourself and your identity. Through lived experience, professional experience, and my education in art therapy and counseling, I aim to help you through this process of self discovery. I like to approach our work together with creativity in mind.
I work with trans, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people navigating a wide range of experiences: identity exploration at any stage of life, gender dysphoria and euphoria, social and medical transition, minority stress, internalized transphobia, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and the particular challenges that come with being visibly queer or gender-diverse in the world.
If you're trans, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming, you already know what it's like to walk into a room and wonder whether you'll have to do the work of educating your provider before you can even get to the reason you came. That exhaustion is real and it's not yours to carry in therapy.
I'm Edith, a trans woman and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago. I provide gender-affirming therapy for trans and gender nonconforming people. This is a space where your identity is not a presenting problem. It's the starting point for the rest of your work.
I am currently accepting new clients for online sessions.
I work with trans, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people navigating a wide range of experiences: identity exploration at any stage of life, gender dysphoria and euphoria, social and medical transition, minority stress, internalized transphobia, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and the particular challenges that come with being visibly queer or gender-diverse in the world.
If you're trans, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming, you already know what it's like to walk into a room and wonder whether you'll have to do the work of educating your provider before you can even get to the reason you came. That exhaustion is real and it's not yours to carry in therapy.
I'm Edith, a trans woman and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago. I provide gender-affirming therapy for trans and gender nonconforming people. This is a space where your identity is not a presenting problem. It's the starting point for the rest of your work.
I am currently accepting new clients for online sessions.
As a queer trans therapist, I'm passionate about working with trans and queer clients.
Individuals and relationships are dynamic; you may have received messages from people in the world that have you questioning parts of yourself. Integrating authentic, complex parts of yourself can help you feel more full and move you towards meaning and vitality. I provide a warm grounded environment to help you explore your unique experiences and identities with self-compassion and curiosity, even if what you are feeling is overwhelming or hard to talk about.
As a queer trans therapist, I'm passionate about working with trans and queer clients.
Individuals and relationships are dynamic; you may have received messages from people in the world that have you questioning parts of yourself. Integrating authentic, complex parts of yourself can help you feel more full and move you towards meaning and vitality. I provide a warm grounded environment to help you explore your unique experiences and identities with self-compassion and curiosity, even if what you are feeling is overwhelming or hard to talk about.
As a trans therapist, I specialize in working with my community of queer and trans folks, and performing artists.
Sex is a foundational part of the human experience, and for many, it's also a complicated one. Our connection to both gender and sexuality are shaped by many influences that can teach us negative narratives about certain bodies, identities, and relationship structures. You might be looking for someone who can help you explore your relationship to your gender or sexuality without sex-negative biases. You might be interested in addressing past sexual traumas or barriers to intimacy that show up in your current sexual relationships.
As a trans therapist, I specialize in working with my community of queer and trans folks, and performing artists.
Sex is a foundational part of the human experience, and for many, it's also a complicated one. Our connection to both gender and sexuality are shaped by many influences that can teach us negative narratives about certain bodies, identities, and relationship structures. You might be looking for someone who can help you explore your relationship to your gender or sexuality without sex-negative biases. You might be interested in addressing past sexual traumas or barriers to intimacy that show up in your current sexual relationships.
See more therapy options for Chicago Ridge
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Chicago Ridge
- Alsip
- Blue Island
- Bridgeview
- Burbank
- Evergreen Park
- Midlothian
- Oak Lawn
- Orland Park
- Palos Heights
- Palos Hills
- Palos Park
- Willow Springs
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.