Secular and Non-Religious Therapists in Chicago, IL
Accepting NEW Clients!
Hi there! I’m Edith, but please, call me Edie. As an out and proud transgender woman, I am excited to work with the LGBT community through sexuality- and gender-affirming treatment. Are you struggling with your gender and/or sexuality? I would love to walk with you as we collaboratively work to find answers, solutions, and resilience.
Accepting NEW Clients!
Hi there! I’m Edith, but please, call me Edie. As an out and proud transgender woman, I am excited to work with the LGBT community through sexuality- and gender-affirming treatment. Are you struggling with your gender and/or sexuality? I would love to walk with you as we collaboratively work to find answers, solutions, and resilience.
I am a relational psychotherapist who works alongside clients to help them feel more at home in themselves. My work centers somatic awareness and draws from a range of modalities grounded in acceptance, curiosity, and support for navigating intense emotions.
I am a relational psychotherapist who works alongside clients to help them feel more at home in themselves. My work centers somatic awareness and draws from a range of modalities grounded in acceptance, curiosity, and support for navigating intense emotions.
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
Life isn’t easy, and lately, it can feel especially overwhelming. Whether we're navigating anxiety, depression, identity, or the stressors of daily life, we're not meant to do it alone. I offer a compassionate, grounded space where you can show up exactly as you are.
Life isn’t easy, and lately, it can feel especially overwhelming. Whether we're navigating anxiety, depression, identity, or the stressors of daily life, we're not meant to do it alone. I offer a compassionate, grounded space where you can show up exactly as you are.
I am a queer-affirming, trauma-informed therapist who practices from a feminist multicultural lens. I care deeply about creating a safe, comfortable space for my clients, and I believe we heal through connection with others. My approach is gentle but honest, always going at the client’s pace. I bring my whole self, humor, and authenticity to the work. I love to venture into deeper work with clients, whether it's processing past trauma or exploring existential wishes for themselves.
I am a queer-affirming, trauma-informed therapist who practices from a feminist multicultural lens. I care deeply about creating a safe, comfortable space for my clients, and I believe we heal through connection with others. My approach is gentle but honest, always going at the client’s pace. I bring my whole self, humor, and authenticity to the work. I love to venture into deeper work with clients, whether it's processing past trauma or exploring existential wishes for themselves.
If you can't survive another school year like this one, there's a spot on my couch for you. I specialize in providing therapy to tweens, teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ocd and neurodivergency . I also often work with clients struggling in their relationship with their parents, partner or friends. I provide therapy with a warm nonjudgmental approach to help you take action towards the life you want to live.
If you can't survive another school year like this one, there's a spot on my couch for you. I specialize in providing therapy to tweens, teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ocd and neurodivergency . I also often work with clients struggling in their relationship with their parents, partner or friends. I provide therapy with a warm nonjudgmental approach to help you take action towards the life you want to live.
My approach is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I value real conversation, gentle humor, and building a space where you can feel seen and heard, as well as challenged and supported. I work with individuals navigating a wide range of experiences and challenges, including relationship difficulties, anxiety, life transitions, and the lingering effects of trauma. My therapeutic stance is one of compassionate curiosity and my integrative approach draws from psychodynamic, humanistic, and attachment theories and is grounded in a trauma informed and social justice informed perspective.
My approach is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I value real conversation, gentle humor, and building a space where you can feel seen and heard, as well as challenged and supported. I work with individuals navigating a wide range of experiences and challenges, including relationship difficulties, anxiety, life transitions, and the lingering effects of trauma. My therapeutic stance is one of compassionate curiosity and my integrative approach draws from psychodynamic, humanistic, and attachment theories and is grounded in a trauma informed and social justice informed perspective.
Everyone deserves rest, healing, + joy. However, it can be difficult for us to sustain these things amidst oppressive systems that often leave marginalized folks in the dust. I want to foster an identity-affirming space built on patience, conflict resolution, + human connection. As a trans, disabled, neurodivergent, + BIPOC therapist, I strive towards a collaborative space where folks can show up as their most authentic selves. I am excited to work with people from all walks of life, particularly those who identify as trans/gender nonconforming, disabled, BIPOC, autistic adults, and survivors of relational trauma.
Everyone deserves rest, healing, + joy. However, it can be difficult for us to sustain these things amidst oppressive systems that often leave marginalized folks in the dust. I want to foster an identity-affirming space built on patience, conflict resolution, + human connection. As a trans, disabled, neurodivergent, + BIPOC therapist, I strive towards a collaborative space where folks can show up as their most authentic selves. I am excited to work with people from all walks of life, particularly those who identify as trans/gender nonconforming, disabled, BIPOC, autistic adults, and survivors of relational trauma.
Hello! My name is Sam (he/him), and I have been a Professional Counselor since 2018. I am a Korean-American, Cisgender, Gay man, and I am very passionate about working with clients at the intersection of BIPOC and Queer Identities. I am familiar with issues that impact College Students, Cancer Patients, Caregivers, and people with Eating Disorders. I enjoy working with adults 18+ who are struggling Grief, Anxiety, and Trauma. While therapy can be vulnerable, humor is a big part of my therapeutic style and personality.
Hello! My name is Sam (he/him), and I have been a Professional Counselor since 2018. I am a Korean-American, Cisgender, Gay man, and I am very passionate about working with clients at the intersection of BIPOC and Queer Identities. I am familiar with issues that impact College Students, Cancer Patients, Caregivers, and people with Eating Disorders. I enjoy working with adults 18+ who are struggling Grief, Anxiety, and Trauma. While therapy can be vulnerable, humor is a big part of my therapeutic style and personality.
Therapy with me is rooted in the belief that healing happens in relationships, including with ourselves and others. I provide a warm and affirming space where you can bring your full self, your lived experiences, and your strengths. Together, we’ll work to detangle personal difficulties and relational struggles, while nurturing the kind of growth that feels authentic and empowering. I care about supporting clients experiencing a variety of symptoms, including relationship difficulties, shame, anxiety/depression, women's issues, religious trauma, life transitions, and political anxiety.
Therapy with me is rooted in the belief that healing happens in relationships, including with ourselves and others. I provide a warm and affirming space where you can bring your full self, your lived experiences, and your strengths. Together, we’ll work to detangle personal difficulties and relational struggles, while nurturing the kind of growth that feels authentic and empowering. I care about supporting clients experiencing a variety of symptoms, including relationship difficulties, shame, anxiety/depression, women's issues, religious trauma, life transitions, and political anxiety.
Andrew Venell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that with greater understanding and acceptance of our experiences, we can find a more fulfilling life, enriched by more authentic relationships with ourself and others. Being vulnerable can be a scary prospect, but the willingness to reach out to others for help is a strength. Having experienced the benefits of therapy myself, I want to honor your strength by providing a safe, non-judgmental and affirming space to explore your life's challenges and joys.
I believe that with greater understanding and acceptance of our experiences, we can find a more fulfilling life, enriched by more authentic relationships with ourself and others. Being vulnerable can be a scary prospect, but the willingness to reach out to others for help is a strength. Having experienced the benefits of therapy myself, I want to honor your strength by providing a safe, non-judgmental and affirming space to explore your life's challenges and joys.
Our work combines years of professional training, a diverse set of work experiences, and multiple clinical interests with a philosophy of supporting clients through the power of the therapeutic relationship. We don't believe in a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. Instead, we cherish the identity of each unique individual and believe in collaborating with clients to find the approach that best suits their needs. At City Counseling Center you will find a confidential space to be heard, supported, and to find change within yourself.
Our work combines years of professional training, a diverse set of work experiences, and multiple clinical interests with a philosophy of supporting clients through the power of the therapeutic relationship. We don't believe in a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. Instead, we cherish the identity of each unique individual and believe in collaborating with clients to find the approach that best suits their needs. At City Counseling Center you will find a confidential space to be heard, supported, and to find change within yourself.
Looking for LGBTQ+ specific care? Growing up as a gay man in the Bible Belt was challenging, but it shaped the clinician I am today. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folks across a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma, and issues unique to our communities. Many of my clients initially enter therapy feeling "stuck," numb, or overwhelmed. Depression and anxiety can feel suffocating, and trauma from the past can feel like it overshadows the present. My work is about helping you better understand yourself, which, in turn, helps you feel in control.
Looking for LGBTQ+ specific care? Growing up as a gay man in the Bible Belt was challenging, but it shaped the clinician I am today. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folks across a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma, and issues unique to our communities. Many of my clients initially enter therapy feeling "stuck," numb, or overwhelmed. Depression and anxiety can feel suffocating, and trauma from the past can feel like it overshadows the present. My work is about helping you better understand yourself, which, in turn, helps you feel in control.
Life transitions can be difficult, complex, and at times very isolating. I believe that navigating these transitions with support can be instrumental in helping people move through these changes with decreased distress and the potential for meaning-making. I am deeply aware that life circumstances and systems can cause pain and suffering and many people do not have healthy outlets for their anger and rage. I work to hold and honor people’s anger in order to help them move through it without shame.
Life transitions can be difficult, complex, and at times very isolating. I believe that navigating these transitions with support can be instrumental in helping people move through these changes with decreased distress and the potential for meaning-making. I am deeply aware that life circumstances and systems can cause pain and suffering and many people do not have healthy outlets for their anger and rage. I work to hold and honor people’s anger in order to help them move through it without shame.
I identify as a Black, queer therapist and use feminine and non-binary pronouns. I have 8 years of experience working with young adults, adults, and older adults for individual and couple’s therapy. Some of my specialty areas are anxiety, depression, complex trauma (racial, sexual, medical, developmental/childhood, intergenerational, and religious), life transitions, work stress, ADHD, postpartum and perinatal concerns, sexual functioning, kink/BDSM/poly, interpersonal relationships, grief, LGBTQIA+, and substance use.
I identify as a Black, queer therapist and use feminine and non-binary pronouns. I have 8 years of experience working with young adults, adults, and older adults for individual and couple’s therapy. Some of my specialty areas are anxiety, depression, complex trauma (racial, sexual, medical, developmental/childhood, intergenerational, and religious), life transitions, work stress, ADHD, postpartum and perinatal concerns, sexual functioning, kink/BDSM/poly, interpersonal relationships, grief, LGBTQIA+, and substance use.
The world we live in can feel scary. Things are constantly changing, and global, societal, and personal events happen outside our control that can make it feel hard to find a place where we truly belong. At other times, life’s unpredictability brings delightful surprises and new opportunities. My goal as your therapist is to create space for contradictions: to help you experience both the challenge and the joy, so that you can move away from feeling as though you are just surviving life and towards fully, authentically living it.
The world we live in can feel scary. Things are constantly changing, and global, societal, and personal events happen outside our control that can make it feel hard to find a place where we truly belong. At other times, life’s unpredictability brings delightful surprises and new opportunities. My goal as your therapist is to create space for contradictions: to help you experience both the challenge and the joy, so that you can move away from feeling as though you are just surviving life and towards fully, authentically living it.
I believe that everyone is inherently worthy of belonging and connection to themselves, others, and the world around them. We are inextricably connected and we are hard wired to do so! I value exploring the intersections of identity and I support those impacted by systemic violence. I center my practice on supporting queer and trans folks, people of color, and women navigating anxiety, life transitions, identity exploration, self-image, and trauma. Clients who often come to me are those who intellectualize their emotions or are seeking inner child healing to disrupt generational patterns and to end cycles that no longer serve them.
I believe that everyone is inherently worthy of belonging and connection to themselves, others, and the world around them. We are inextricably connected and we are hard wired to do so! I value exploring the intersections of identity and I support those impacted by systemic violence. I center my practice on supporting queer and trans folks, people of color, and women navigating anxiety, life transitions, identity exploration, self-image, and trauma. Clients who often come to me are those who intellectualize their emotions or are seeking inner child healing to disrupt generational patterns and to end cycles that no longer serve them.
I believe in the transformative power of therapy and the healing potential of human connection. Therapy is also about finding the right fit in a therapist. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe to show up fully & authentically themselves, free from judgment, and supported in fostering self-compassion. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in deep respect for each person’s story. I have done my own work in therapy, so I know how life-changing it can be and how vulnerable it feels to sit in the client’s chair. I integrate somatic (body-based) awareness & mindfulness practices, & am guided by curiosity and care.
I believe in the transformative power of therapy and the healing potential of human connection. Therapy is also about finding the right fit in a therapist. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe to show up fully & authentically themselves, free from judgment, and supported in fostering self-compassion. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in deep respect for each person’s story. I have done my own work in therapy, so I know how life-changing it can be and how vulnerable it feels to sit in the client’s chair. I integrate somatic (body-based) awareness & mindfulness practices, & am guided by curiosity and care.
I enjoy working with clients who are motivated for change in their lives. Individuals who may be experiencing life transitions, ending of relationships, grief, identity issues, self love challenges, family issues, self esteem, depression, anxiety and much more. Clients who are willing to be reflective and are willing to commit to the therapy process.
I enjoy working with clients who are motivated for change in their lives. Individuals who may be experiencing life transitions, ending of relationships, grief, identity issues, self love challenges, family issues, self esteem, depression, anxiety and much more. Clients who are willing to be reflective and are willing to commit to the therapy process.
Whatever challenges are impacting your life, you don't have to face them alone. That's where I come in – to help you heal, gain new insights and perspectives, and develop the tools you need to best care for yourself. At the heart of my approach is building an authentic, egalitarian therapeutic relationship where you feel safe, heard, and best able to work towards your goals in a supportive environment. My primary population focus is LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse clients, and as a queer person myself, I believe creating a safe, affirming space is key to successful counseling.
Whatever challenges are impacting your life, you don't have to face them alone. That's where I come in – to help you heal, gain new insights and perspectives, and develop the tools you need to best care for yourself. At the heart of my approach is building an authentic, egalitarian therapeutic relationship where you feel safe, heard, and best able to work towards your goals in a supportive environment. My primary population focus is LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse clients, and as a queer person myself, I believe creating a safe, affirming space is key to successful counseling.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Secular and Non-Religious Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Cicero
- Evanston
- Forest Park
- La Grange
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Skokie
- Western Springs
Secular and Non-Religious Therapists
What is a secular and non religious approach in therapy?
Secular or non-religious therapy is a theoretical orientation used by many therapists and describes a therapeutic approach that does not rely on any specific religious or faith-based beliefs in the therapeutic process. Secular counselors will often approach therapy with an emphasis on evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients, instead of relying on religious practices, such as prayer or belief in God.
Is secular therapy primarily for non-religious people?
Both religious and non-religious individuals can benefit from secular therapy. People exploring their religious or spiritual beliefs may find it especially useful to work with a secular therapist who is unbiased toward any specific religion. While religious individuals might value the connection and familiarity of seeing a counselor who shares their beliefs, secular counseling can offer them the chance to develop coping skills independent of their religious practice, which can be beneficial in various aspects of their lives.
Can a secular approach to therapy help with religious trauma?
One major reason clients may seek a secular therapist is to process previous religious experiences, including religious trauma. Secular therapists can help clients manage symptoms of the trauma through practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). They can also encourage clients through talk therapy or psychodynamic approaches to explore the roots of their religious trauma. Since secular therapists do not have any predetermined religious beliefs, they can be particularly helpful for clients looking to explore their own religious beliefs following a history of religious trauma.
What does non religious marriage and premarital counseling involve?
Marriage and premarital counseling typically involves a couple meeting with a therapist to discuss topics such as planning for marriage, navigating a new marriage, addressing relationship challenges, and developing better communication and conflict resolution skills. Non-religious therapists assist couples in achieving these goals without adhering to specific religious beliefs or frameworks, often emphasizing inclusivity and non-judgment, especially for "nontraditional" couples. However, seeking couples therapy from a non-religious counselor does not mean religious topics are off-limits. In fact, non-religious couples from different religious backgrounds may benefit from a secular therapist who remains neutral toward the beliefs of each partner.