LGBTQ+ Therapists in Chicago, IL

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Not accepting new clients
Photo of Emily Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Emily Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified
Verified
As a white queer woman, I am committed to challenging systems of oppression and rejecting internalized white supremacy; both in my own life and as part of my work with clients.
As a psychotherapist, I recognize the intersectionality of the identities that we hold and its impact on how we move through the world. My work is rooted in affirming the experiences of individuals who identify as queer , transgender /GNC, sex workers, non-monogamous/polyamorous, and disabled. Body neutrality, Health At Every Size (HAES), and sex positivity are core values of my clinical practice. I specialize in working with folks who have experienced trauma, depression, and anxiety, with a focus on religious and sexual trauma; as well as individuals exploring their gender identity and sexuality.
(630) 407-1678
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Chicago, IL 60604
Not accepting new clients
Photo of William Heard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
William Heard
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I primarily specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, change of life difficulties, and have strong experience working with LGBTQIA individuals. I find it really rewarding when we can chisel away at some of the automatic thoughts that may be clouding your experience or worsening your symptoms. I think it is important that the patient take the lead in therapy and utilize the time we have together in a way that makes sense to them based off of the difficulties they are experiencing. As such, I take a collaborative approach with my patients and welcome feedback that may make our work together more effective and enjoyable.
(773) 341-2292
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Chicago, IL 60640
& Online
Photo of Daria M Hoey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Daria M Hoey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I work primarily with trans /gender-expansive and LGBTQIA + individuals, and have extensive experience in sexual violence/assault survivor treatment.
Whether you're exploring your identity, looking for support in stressful times, or recovering from trauma in your past, my priority is to help you develop long-lasting, effective skills to get you there. Your existing strengths, resilience, and creativity are the most effective tools you have, and I want to help you access them to build an individualized plan that provides lifelong results you can feel proud of!
(312) 345-6298
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Chicago, IL 60642
& Online
Photo of Kurt Kiswaled in Chicago, IL
Kurt Kiswaled
LSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I approach therapy with an immigrant, LGBTQIA +, poly, and kink inclusive scope.
Identity can be confusing and that’s ok. You don’t need to have everything figured out in order to live as your authentic self. I am an immigrant trans man and I understand the nuance of negotiating culture and queerness. I will gladly help you celebrate all of your identities in a way that feels correct to you. I know how important it is to create a safe, validating, and affirming environment for my clients and I strive to do so, taking into account the unique needs of every individual I work with.
(773) 839-9473
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Chicago, IL 60647
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Jason Hoffmann, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Jason Hoffmann
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
The ideal client is seeking out reassurance and support in times of calm as well as crisis. The goal is to help clients with the issues facing them every day to treat the entire person, not just the pinpointed issue. A therapist is only as strong as the relationship with each client. Each client is unique, as such, together we find an approach to therapy that fits to your specific goals and needs. Whether it be LGBTQIA + issues, sex/intimacy, relationships, depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, kink and/or other issues, you aren't alone. Together we can get you where you want to go.
(872) 204-0513
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Chicago, IL 60613
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Bea Gatchell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Bea Gatchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, LICSW
Verified
Verified
My areas of specialization are working with individuals/couples/relationships who are in the LGBTQ + community who have experienced violence, such as sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, family system-based violence, spiritual abuse, and community-based violence. I work with many different relationship structures from cisgender heterosexual monogamous couples and folx with more expansive relationship structures. My areas of specialization in working with relationship clients are high-conflict relationships, sexual dysfunction/dysregulation, infidelity, trust, safety, and stability.
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Chicago, IL 60605
& Online
Photo of Ross Mondschain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ross Mondschain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
Additionally, I have a passion for counseling LGBTQ + clients and celebrate diverse and expansive expressions of sexuality, affection, gender, and intimate relationships.
Our quality of life improves dramatically as we learn to show up more authentically in our personal relationships. We can always cultivate more meaningful connections, whether in an intimate partnership, biological or chosen family, or friendships. I understand how creating change can feel daunting or overwhelming and is best navigated with intentionality and solid support. Actively collaborating with my clients, I ensure that together, we set clear and attainable goals and that each session moves you closer to achieving your vision. Change is Possible!
(773) 207-4037
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Chicago, IL 60642
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Jenn Bealer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jenn Bealer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I am a queer -identified, licensed clinical social worker with over ten years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups of all ages and genders in a variety of therapeutic settings. I believe that our relationships and connections with others are at the heart of our well-being. Utilizing empathetic validation and reflection, I collaborate with clients to strengthen their connection to themselves and others. “One of my primary goals is to hold a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to explore and express their feelings, and to also embrace the power of sitting together in silence.”
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Chicago, IL 60647
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Eric Aprill, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Eric Aprill
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA +, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
(312) 262-4947
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Chicago, IL 60640
& Online
Photo of Paige Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Paige Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
(773) 673-9843
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Chicago, IL 60647
& Online
Photo of Bespoke Healing, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Bespoke Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
We work with folks of all identities, but we specialize in offering queer , kink, poly, and gender-affirming therapy for LGBTQ + folks and their loved ones.
Therapy is a space for big feelings, hard conversations, and laughing at ourselves when we can. We like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. At Bespoke Healing, we know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways and take risks to develop deeper bonds. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
(773) 902-0512
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Chicago, IL 60640
& Online
Photo of Jacob Penrod, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jacob Penrod
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified
Verified
My specialty is working with LGBTQ +, kinky, and/or poly clients.
I believe therapy serves two main functions: change and healing. Therapeutic change occurs when we take control of our lives and our stories. In therapy, I encourage you to incorporate your strengths into a larger conversation about who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there. Where change comes from transformation; healing comes from liberation. Therapy provides liberation from individual wounds; however, therapy must also be a space for healing and liberation from the effects of systemic oppression.
(872) 266-8161 x7635
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Chicago, IL 60657
& Online
Photo of Ryan Dykes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Ryan Dykes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I help LGBT introverts manage anxiety and develop self-compassion so that they can feel more in tune with themselves and others.
You're frustrated with yourself because you can't stop overthinking. "What if I do something awkward? What if I say the wrong thing?" All this thinking leaves you exhausted, overwhelmed, and on a treadmill of just doing what others expect of you. You've heard the advice to "just be yourself," but you have no idea how to do that. And even though you're a good friend, it often feels like a one-way street, leaving you feeling invisible and lonely. Maybe you wonder if you can have the life you want, or maybe it's even hard to know what that is. You are just tired of being afraid to do something different.
(872) 240-5613
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Chicago, IL 60613
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Ryan Coventry, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ryan Coventry
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-TMH
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
With 9+ years of LGBTQ community-oriented work, including graduation from the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) at the Center on Halsted, I am uniquely qualified to support members of the LGBTQ community in reaching their goals.
As a therapist, I work from a relational perspective that believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to help clients achieve their goals. You can receive therapy from (almost) anyone, but the sense of trust, warmth, and comfort (or sometimes discomfort) you experience with a therapist can be the deciding factor between significant change and desired positive growth. To benefit those under my care, I am devoted to creating an affirmative, empathic, and understanding relationship that balances what my clients often refer to as my "challenging" feedback and "bluntness" in therapy.
(312) 284-3282
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Chicago, IL 60613
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Steff Du Bois, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Steff Du Bois
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified
Verified
I identify as a gender-nonconforming queer male. My work with all clients is informed by frameworks like antiracism, social justice, feminism, and anti-imperialism. I bring authenticity and genuine empathy to each client, pairing these with effective and approachable therapeutic interventions that research says work. I can help with micro-level goals like improving mood and reducing anxiety, on macro-level goals like recovering from trauma and coping with systemic oppression, and on relational goals like building intimacy. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are my personal and professional values. I believe that Black Lives Matter.
(312) 883-9639
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Chicago, IL 60602
& Online
Photo of Julleon Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified
Verified
I am allied with and passionate about serving the needs of the LGBTQIA + community and other marginalized groups including immigrant populations.
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
(312) 262-2473
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Chicago, IL 60602
& Online
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Cristen Brossok, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Cristen Brossok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I am a queer therapist with lived experience as a trauma survivor. I aim to build space where we can relate, explore, process, challenge, and heal in brave and thoughtful ways; a place to tend to yourself with compassion and build your capacity for handling difficult emotions. I strive for a radically inclusive therapy space, one that embodies anti-diet, anti-racist, anti-sexist, and other anti-oppressive lenses. I work well with people who are looking for a bidirectional relationship with their therapist, and are ready to face challenging emotions & truths with my support. My approach is validating, curious, and relational.
(312) 625-1660
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Chicago, IL 60616
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Seth Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Seth Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified
Verified
I am a relationship and sex therapist, and I believe that living authentically for self and community brings healing and joy. Such authenticity requires an exploration of sexual needs amidst robust boundary-making. I am a part of and love to work with folx in the LGBTQIA + community. My clinical interests include out-of-control sexual behavior, men's sexual health, and exploring the intersection of religion, spirituality, and sex. I also have a growing specialization in working with kink, BDSM, polyamory, and consensual non-monogamy.
(312) 467-7553
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Chicago, IL 60613
& Online
Francesca Williamson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS
Verified
Verified
Francesca specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. They utilize a holistic approach when working with clients, with a focus on the mind-body connection. Francesca uses a cognitive behavioral perspective to help clients and families understand how our thoughts influence our emotions and behaviors. She has a passion for working with clients throughout the lifespan, families, and members of the LGBTQIA + community.
(312) 475-0212
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Chicago, IL 60615
& Online
Photo of Andrae Laws, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Andrae Laws
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. As a Black and queer person, I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
(312) 728-7966
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Chicago, IL 60605
& Online

How can I find a therapist in Chicago?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

What type of therapist is right for me?

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist, psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors. Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.