LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Dolton, IL
I am passionate about helping clients to actualize there strengths by creating a safe and affirming space where you can explore who you are without judgement. My ideal client may be navigating life transitions, relationship issues, questions about identity, or even trauma, and is seeking healing, clarity, and growth. I am growth minded and I bring that to my practice daily.
I am passionate about helping clients to actualize there strengths by creating a safe and affirming space where you can explore who you are without judgement. My ideal client may be navigating life transitions, relationship issues, questions about identity, or even trauma, and is seeking healing, clarity, and growth. I am growth minded and I bring that to my practice daily.
I enjoy working with folks of diverse backgrounds like LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and families.
I like to create an environment for clients to feel heard and understood, first and foremost. I like to take time to build rapport with clients to determine what they need from a therapist. Some people prefer a challenge, while others need more grace. I am able to take on whatever tone feels most comfortable for you at that time in your life.
I enjoy working with folks of diverse backgrounds like LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and families.
I like to create an environment for clients to feel heard and understood, first and foremost. I like to take time to build rapport with clients to determine what they need from a therapist. Some people prefer a challenge, while others need more grace. I am able to take on whatever tone feels most comfortable for you at that time in your life.
I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
I use a variety of interventions that meet the specific needs of my clients in a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental way. I often use a cognitive-behavioral approach (CBT) in psychotherapy as I help my clients adjust and overcome maladaptive thinking patterns and behaviors. The goal is to help you develop healthy ways of thinking and living your life.
I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
I use a variety of interventions that meet the specific needs of my clients in a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental way. I often use a cognitive-behavioral approach (CBT) in psychotherapy as I help my clients adjust and overcome maladaptive thinking patterns and behaviors. The goal is to help you develop healthy ways of thinking and living your life.
More Therapists Nearby
Fortman is experienced in helping people who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, low self esteem, LGBT related issues, grief, abuse & neglect, and trauma.
Collaborative relationships are at the core of Dr. Fortman's practice. He believes that the partnership between you - the expert on your wellbeing - and him - a trained and experienced clinician - will produce the discovery of fresh understandings.
Fortman is experienced in helping people who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, low self esteem, LGBT related issues, grief, abuse & neglect, and trauma.
Collaborative relationships are at the core of Dr. Fortman's practice. He believes that the partnership between you - the expert on your wellbeing - and him - a trained and experienced clinician - will produce the discovery of fresh understandings.
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.
I also provide support for individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, including gender and sexuality exploration.
As a relational and trauma-informed therapist, cultivating trust, safety and comfort is a top priority. My communication style is compassionate and candid, with a bit of humor. I best work with folks who are curious and open-minded about exploring themselves.
I also provide support for individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, including gender and sexuality exploration.
As a relational and trauma-informed therapist, cultivating trust, safety and comfort is a top priority. My communication style is compassionate and candid, with a bit of humor. I best work with folks who are curious and open-minded about exploring themselves.
My psychotherapeutic approach begins with developing a trusting and collaborative relationship and is rooted in the principles of harm reduction and autonomy. It acknowledges the impacts of social inequity, generational trauma, and each individual’s unique experience. Through your speech and my listening, together we will explore the stories and patterns that you have collected over the years as well as your present-day struggles. My hope is to help you begin to listen to yourself differently, with more curiosity and a sense of wonder, offering you more freedom and flexibility as you continue along your life's journey.
My psychotherapeutic approach begins with developing a trusting and collaborative relationship and is rooted in the principles of harm reduction and autonomy. It acknowledges the impacts of social inequity, generational trauma, and each individual’s unique experience. Through your speech and my listening, together we will explore the stories and patterns that you have collected over the years as well as your present-day struggles. My hope is to help you begin to listen to yourself differently, with more curiosity and a sense of wonder, offering you more freedom and flexibility as you continue along your life's journey.
I specialize in working with diverse populations from a humanistic and integrative approach, particularly with LGBTQIA+ folx.
In therapy, my ideal client seeks a safe haven for authentic, nonjudgmental, open dialogue. Together, we co-create an an environment of trust, warmth, and compassion where you can freely share your struggles, experiences, and personality. I believe that a counselor's greatest contribution is to see you as the expert of your own life and to companion you as you navigate it. My aim is to empower you on that journey, offering guidance to overcome obstacles hindering your path to fulfillment, uncovering the tools necessary to achieve your goals. and navigating life's challenges as they arise.
I specialize in working with diverse populations from a humanistic and integrative approach, particularly with LGBTQIA+ folx.
In therapy, my ideal client seeks a safe haven for authentic, nonjudgmental, open dialogue. Together, we co-create an an environment of trust, warmth, and compassion where you can freely share your struggles, experiences, and personality. I believe that a counselor's greatest contribution is to see you as the expert of your own life and to companion you as you navigate it. My aim is to empower you on that journey, offering guidance to overcome obstacles hindering your path to fulfillment, uncovering the tools necessary to achieve your goals. and navigating life's challenges as they arise.
As a queer, bicultural, liberation-focused therapist, I firmly believe that our problems do not exist in a vacuum.
I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, identity changes, LGBTQIA+ concerns, relationship challenges, self-worth issues, and trauma (racial, sexual, gender-based, socio-political, etc). My therapy approach is grounded in culturally informed practices that integrate Relational-Cultural and Psychodynamic theory with CBT and trauma-informed.
As a queer, bicultural, liberation-focused therapist, I firmly believe that our problems do not exist in a vacuum.
I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, identity changes, LGBTQIA+ concerns, relationship challenges, self-worth issues, and trauma (racial, sexual, gender-based, socio-political, etc). My therapy approach is grounded in culturally informed practices that integrate Relational-Cultural and Psychodynamic theory with CBT and trauma-informed.
If you aren’t sure how to begin figuring out who your authentic self is, you may feel like you’re alone, confused, or overwhelmed. You may think that because of past experiences that you are broken, undeserving, less than, not enough, or you can’t have access to an authentic and satisfying life. Working with me will help us unlock and challenge some of these beliefs so you can lean into new pathways to access pleasure, authenticity, and satisfaction.
If you aren’t sure how to begin figuring out who your authentic self is, you may feel like you’re alone, confused, or overwhelmed. You may think that because of past experiences that you are broken, undeserving, less than, not enough, or you can’t have access to an authentic and satisfying life. Working with me will help us unlock and challenge some of these beliefs so you can lean into new pathways to access pleasure, authenticity, and satisfaction.
We may often feel overwhelmed, out of control, or caught in patterns we can’t seem to escape. Many of us move around the world carrying secret struggles with negative thoughts, emotions, or urges, which disturb our day-to-day life and make waves in our relationships. Clients who seek my support are resourceful, and have typically tried all of the tools in their existing toolbox. We are searching collaboratively for new pathways to positive change.
We may often feel overwhelmed, out of control, or caught in patterns we can’t seem to escape. Many of us move around the world carrying secret struggles with negative thoughts, emotions, or urges, which disturb our day-to-day life and make waves in our relationships. Clients who seek my support are resourceful, and have typically tried all of the tools in their existing toolbox. We are searching collaboratively for new pathways to positive change.
Are you seeking therapy to stop making lists of why you should be happy & learn how to go after the things that do? Are you here because you don’t want to repeat your family’s trauma history? Have you done some inner healing work on yourself, but still feel like you need more guidance? I understand. Imagine getting to experience feelings, of authentic self-love & getting to achieve what you really desire. What happens is that you start to trust your emotional intuition & feel safe to share & allow them to be a reality. You create healthy boundaries at work & with your loved ones so that you can spend that time for yourself.
Are you seeking therapy to stop making lists of why you should be happy & learn how to go after the things that do? Are you here because you don’t want to repeat your family’s trauma history? Have you done some inner healing work on yourself, but still feel like you need more guidance? I understand. Imagine getting to experience feelings, of authentic self-love & getting to achieve what you really desire. What happens is that you start to trust your emotional intuition & feel safe to share & allow them to be a reality. You create healthy boundaries at work & with your loved ones so that you can spend that time for yourself.
I also work often with LGBTQ individuals, autistic folks, and other diverse neurotypes.
I am a trauma therapist working with adults who are ready to process painful pasts or difficult experiences in childhood, in relationships, or with a controlling religion. I work best with those wanting to be challenged to dig deeper, feel their emotions, and understand themselves, and I use an overall psychodynamic therapy approach. I believe in the power of integration- that ALL parts of you deserve love and compassion. Together, we will address your feelings, needs, and beliefs, while also seeing issues in the context of larger systems. I also work with relationships in couple's therapy.
I also work often with LGBTQ individuals, autistic folks, and other diverse neurotypes.
I am a trauma therapist working with adults who are ready to process painful pasts or difficult experiences in childhood, in relationships, or with a controlling religion. I work best with those wanting to be challenged to dig deeper, feel their emotions, and understand themselves, and I use an overall psychodynamic therapy approach. I believe in the power of integration- that ALL parts of you deserve love and compassion. Together, we will address your feelings, needs, and beliefs, while also seeing issues in the context of larger systems. I also work with relationships in couple's therapy.
I focus on providing affirming therapy to LGBTQIA+ communities.
I am an interactive therapist committed to providing a supportive environment where clients can explore their authentic selves and work toward building a more intentional and fulfilling life. Drawing from evidence-based therapies such as ACT, DBT, and CBT, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. Through fostering mindfulness and psychological flexibility, I guide clients in making meaningful, albeit sometimes challenging and uncomfortable changes that align with their goals. I balance compassion and humor, and help clients identify what gets in the way of living a meaningful life so they can make changes.
I focus on providing affirming therapy to LGBTQIA+ communities.
I am an interactive therapist committed to providing a supportive environment where clients can explore their authentic selves and work toward building a more intentional and fulfilling life. Drawing from evidence-based therapies such as ACT, DBT, and CBT, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. Through fostering mindfulness and psychological flexibility, I guide clients in making meaningful, albeit sometimes challenging and uncomfortable changes that align with their goals. I balance compassion and humor, and help clients identify what gets in the way of living a meaningful life so they can make changes.
Welcome! I am a board-certified clinical, health, and sport psychologist who works with clients from diverse identities and lived experiences. If you are seeking support to better understand your gender, sexuality, or relationship identity, process past trauma, manage alcohol or drug use, or improve your sex or relationship functioning, I’m here to help. I also offer sport/mental performance consultation, support for healthcare workers, executive coaching, and guidance for individuals looking to explore their sociopolitical identity and place in society.
Welcome! I am a board-certified clinical, health, and sport psychologist who works with clients from diverse identities and lived experiences. If you are seeking support to better understand your gender, sexuality, or relationship identity, process past trauma, manage alcohol or drug use, or improve your sex or relationship functioning, I’m here to help. I also offer sport/mental performance consultation, support for healthcare workers, executive coaching, and guidance for individuals looking to explore their sociopolitical identity and place in society.
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.
I provide therapy that is culturally humble, trauma informed, and strengths-based. As a creative person, I am keen on customizing counseling to you and your passions in life. My integrative counseling approach combines humanistic/person-centered principles with techniques including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), creativity, and mindfulness.
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.
I provide therapy that is culturally humble, trauma informed, and strengths-based. As a creative person, I am keen on customizing counseling to you and your passions in life. My integrative counseling approach combines humanistic/person-centered principles with techniques including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), creativity, and mindfulness.
Our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world, formed by past experiences, often have an unwanted impact on our our present behavior, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Taking steps toward profound healing and self-discovery is a brave task, complicated by the difficulty of finding someone who will walk alongside you during your journey. I am passionate about working with people who are wanting to go deeper as we explore and befriend parts of self which were previously hidden. I aim to create and maintain a supportive environment in which transformation is possible.
Our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world, formed by past experiences, often have an unwanted impact on our our present behavior, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Taking steps toward profound healing and self-discovery is a brave task, complicated by the difficulty of finding someone who will walk alongside you during your journey. I am passionate about working with people who are wanting to go deeper as we explore and befriend parts of self which were previously hidden. I aim to create and maintain a supportive environment in which transformation is possible.
Dr.Waseberg is therapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals struggle with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, agoraphobia, bipolar/borderline, alcohol/drugs, addiction,etc.He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy.The drive of his clinical experience comes not only from longtime practicing counseling in private practice and inpatient residential's, but also from his experience as a former clinical director of Partial Hospitalization-PHP and Intensive Outpatient-IOP.
Dr.Waseberg is therapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals struggle with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, agoraphobia, bipolar/borderline, alcohol/drugs, addiction,etc.He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy.The drive of his clinical experience comes not only from longtime practicing counseling in private practice and inpatient residential's, but also from his experience as a former clinical director of Partial Hospitalization-PHP and Intensive Outpatient-IOP.
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.
My Core Approach: Anti-oppressive, trauma informed framework; Psycho-dynamic, attachment, and relational cultural theories; Diverse modalities of expression and healing, including mindfulness techniques, art, music, and pop culture. My Training: Comprehensive & Lifespan Sexuality Education; Queer/Trans affirming therapy; Poly/Non-Monogamous Relationships.
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.
My Core Approach: Anti-oppressive, trauma informed framework; Psycho-dynamic, attachment, and relational cultural theories; Diverse modalities of expression and healing, including mindfulness techniques, art, music, and pop culture. My Training: Comprehensive & Lifespan Sexuality Education; Queer/Trans affirming therapy; Poly/Non-Monogamous Relationships.
You might appear “put together” on the outside but feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck internally. You may be navigating burnout, relationship stress, major life transitions, or concerns about focus, mood, or emotional regulation, for yourself or your child. You’re not looking for quick fixes or vague advice. You want clarity, insight, and real tools that help you move forward. Most of all, you want care that is thoughtful and built around your mental wellness needs so life can feel manageable, balanced, and meaningful again.
You might appear “put together” on the outside but feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck internally. You may be navigating burnout, relationship stress, major life transitions, or concerns about focus, mood, or emotional regulation, for yourself or your child. You’re not looking for quick fixes or vague advice. You want clarity, insight, and real tools that help you move forward. Most of all, you want care that is thoughtful and built around your mental wellness needs so life can feel manageable, balanced, and meaningful again.
See more therapy options for Dolton
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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.