LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Le Roy, IL

Photo of Julie Ann Peloza, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Julie Ann Peloza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum.
I have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use different ways to support you, like talking about thoughts and behaviors (CBT), understanding emotions (DBT), exploring through play and art, focusing on personal growth (humanistic psychology), and sharing helpful information (psychoeducation). I adapt my approach to fit you!
My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum.
I have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use different ways to support you, like talking about thoughts and behaviors (CBT), understanding emotions (DBT), exploring through play and art, focusing on personal growth (humanistic psychology), and sharing helpful information (psychoeducation). I adapt my approach to fit you!
(309) 245-0460 View (309) 245-0460
Photo of Hailey Ramseyer, Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Hailey Ramseyer
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Hailey, dedicated to helping teenagers and young adults facing ADHD, Autism, trauma, and anxiety. I create a warm, professional space where you can feel safe, understood, and supported. Together, we’ll address your unique needs with personalized, evidence-based strategies, empowering you to overcome challenges and achieve your mental health goals. Let’s work hand-in-hand on a path of self-discovery, resilience, and growth—so you can thrive in every aspect of your life. Your journey towards a more empowered and balanced self starts here.
Hi, I’m Hailey, dedicated to helping teenagers and young adults facing ADHD, Autism, trauma, and anxiety. I create a warm, professional space where you can feel safe, understood, and supported. Together, we’ll address your unique needs with personalized, evidence-based strategies, empowering you to overcome challenges and achieve your mental health goals. Let’s work hand-in-hand on a path of self-discovery, resilience, and growth—so you can thrive in every aspect of your life. Your journey towards a more empowered and balanced self starts here.
(309) 822-9004 View (309) 822-9004

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tom Payne-Brewer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Tom Payne-Brewer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have worked for several years with college students/young adults and the LGBTQ+ community, which I am a part of.
I love working with clients who are going through the difficult parts of life and need some help figuring out how to handle it all. Whether that difficult experience is figuring out college and careers, navigating relationships, or just simply the stress that comes from the day-to-day, I approach my clients' problems without judgment. My clients tend to get the best outcomes when they can work with me to figure out what they would like to achieve in therapy and commit to enacting change, whether big or small, outside of sessions.
I have worked for several years with college students/young adults and the LGBTQ+ community, which I am a part of.
I love working with clients who are going through the difficult parts of life and need some help figuring out how to handle it all. Whether that difficult experience is figuring out college and careers, navigating relationships, or just simply the stress that comes from the day-to-day, I approach my clients' problems without judgment. My clients tend to get the best outcomes when they can work with me to figure out what they would like to achieve in therapy and commit to enacting change, whether big or small, outside of sessions.
(309) 248-6044 View (309) 248-6044
Photo of Bryan Hinman - Bryan Hinman Counseling PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Couselor, MA, LCPC
Bryan Hinman Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Couselor, MA, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Many, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, learn to mask their true selves out of necessity, fearing that revealing their identity will disrupt their lives.
Imagine being able to breathe freely without masks or a double life—exploring your concerns at your own pace and knowing your options. As an openly gay man myself, I offer both expertise and personal insight into many of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community at large. Whatever the source of your fear or shame, let us confront it together.
Many, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, learn to mask their true selves out of necessity, fearing that revealing their identity will disrupt their lives.
Imagine being able to breathe freely without masks or a double life—exploring your concerns at your own pace and knowing your options. As an openly gay man myself, I offer both expertise and personal insight into many of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community at large. Whatever the source of your fear or shame, let us confront it together.
(309) 446-8829 View (309) 446-8829
Photo of Kaitlin Grant McGirr, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSMFT
Kaitlin Grant McGirr
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSMFT
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61822
As a queer individual, I know the challenge myself.
I prioritize building safe and strong relationships with all of my clients so that therapy can feel like a comfortable and collaborative space to be your authentic self. I work from a social justice, anti-racist, queer, feminist approach that welcomes people from all walks of life, cultures, and identities.
As a queer individual, I know the challenge myself.
I prioritize building safe and strong relationships with all of my clients so that therapy can feel like a comfortable and collaborative space to be your authentic self. I work from a social justice, anti-racist, queer, feminist approach that welcomes people from all walks of life, cultures, and identities.
(773) 537-4650 View (773) 537-4650
Photo of Lisa Mala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lisa Mala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
I enjoy working with clients navigating the unique challenges to the LGBTQ+ community and couple's work.
Therapy offers a unique opportunity to cultivate inner peace and self-understanding. Finding the right therapist can be challenging, but I bring a warm, empathetic, and direct approach that helps clients foster meaningful change and rediscover purpose in their lives. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and the everyday challenges these bring - whether that's feeling "not good enough," experiencing relationship or career difficulties, or seeking a better sense of balance within the family. Together, we'll identify an approach that feels right for you and support your goals.
I enjoy working with clients navigating the unique challenges to the LGBTQ+ community and couple's work.
Therapy offers a unique opportunity to cultivate inner peace and self-understanding. Finding the right therapist can be challenging, but I bring a warm, empathetic, and direct approach that helps clients foster meaningful change and rediscover purpose in their lives. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and the everyday challenges these bring - whether that's feeling "not good enough," experiencing relationship or career difficulties, or seeking a better sense of balance within the family. Together, we'll identify an approach that feels right for you and support your goals.
(773) 830-3414 View (773) 830-3414
Photo of Carrie White, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, LCPC
Carrie White
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Although I enjoy working with all kinds of problems, my specialty is working with ADHD/Autism and the LGBTQ+ community.
I pull from multiple therapy modalities depending on what feels like the best fit but my clinical work is always trauma-informed. I commonly utilize a person centered approach as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and some elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a healthy dose of humor on the side.
Although I enjoy working with all kinds of problems, my specialty is working with ADHD/Autism and the LGBTQ+ community.
I pull from multiple therapy modalities depending on what feels like the best fit but my clinical work is always trauma-informed. I commonly utilize a person centered approach as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and some elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a healthy dose of humor on the side.
(615) 437-3005 View (615) 437-3005
Photo of Tara Valentine, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Tara Valentine
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
I am affirming of LGBTQIA+ identities.
In therapy, I utilize an integrative person-centered approach to meet clients where they’re at. I draw on additional foundations from cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy. Sometimes we may play games, make art, complete worksheets, or simply talk, depending on what works best for you.
I am affirming of LGBTQIA+ identities.
In therapy, I utilize an integrative person-centered approach to meet clients where they’re at. I draw on additional foundations from cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy. Sometimes we may play games, make art, complete worksheets, or simply talk, depending on what works best for you.
(309) 928-0654 View (309) 928-0654
Photo of Laura Deffley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Laura Deffley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in college/graduate students and adults who are feeling overwhelmed or experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ identity issues.
My goal is to empower you to grow in awareness, overcome obstacles, and live in alignment with your values (not what your family or society tells you to do or be). I’ll incorporate various tools and techniques from mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT), and Narrative Therapy.
I specialize in college/graduate students and adults who are feeling overwhelmed or experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ identity issues.
My goal is to empower you to grow in awareness, overcome obstacles, and live in alignment with your values (not what your family or society tells you to do or be). I’ll incorporate various tools and techniques from mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT), and Narrative Therapy.
(309) 326-5506 View (309) 326-5506
Photo of Niki T Colon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Niki T Colon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling to navigate life as a Queer, TGNC, Polyam, or Kinky human?
My practice is dedicated to the chronically ill/disabled & LGBTQIA+ communities. My approach is trauma-informed, compassion-focused, and collaborative. I draw from mindfulness, acceptance, & somatic practices to support clients in reconnecting with themselves and their bodies, navigating complex emotions, and living more embodied, values-aligned lives.
Struggling to navigate life as a Queer, TGNC, Polyam, or Kinky human?
My practice is dedicated to the chronically ill/disabled & LGBTQIA+ communities. My approach is trauma-informed, compassion-focused, and collaborative. I draw from mindfulness, acceptance, & somatic practices to support clients in reconnecting with themselves and their bodies, navigating complex emotions, and living more embodied, values-aligned lives.
(773) 364-1571 View (773) 364-1571
Photo of Jeremy Nelson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jeremy Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Do you struggle to find the right support in times of crisis, or face unique challenges as part of the LGBTQ+ community?
I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, crisis situations, and LGBTQ+ identity challenges. My compassionate, integrative approach tailors therapy to your unique needs, using various techniques to create a safe, supportive space. My focus is on ensuring you feel heard, respected, and empowered.
Do you struggle to find the right support in times of crisis, or face unique challenges as part of the LGBTQ+ community?
I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, crisis situations, and LGBTQ+ identity challenges. My compassionate, integrative approach tailors therapy to your unique needs, using various techniques to create a safe, supportive space. My focus is on ensuring you feel heard, respected, and empowered.
(872) 349-2170 View (872) 349-2170
Photo of Johanna Rayman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Johanna Rayman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I bring 42 years of clinical experience to the table and have worked with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, LGBT issues, grief and loss and substance abuse.
I am committed to working with individuals and couples who are struggling in their lives either because of a crisis, transition, relationship or long standing issue that one keeps bumping up against. By providing a safe space together we can explore your thoughts/ feelings and increase your understanding of self and others. Self-awareness leads to change and personal growth.
I bring 42 years of clinical experience to the table and have worked with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, LGBT issues, grief and loss and substance abuse.
I am committed to working with individuals and couples who are struggling in their lives either because of a crisis, transition, relationship or long standing issue that one keeps bumping up against. By providing a safe space together we can explore your thoughts/ feelings and increase your understanding of self and others. Self-awareness leads to change and personal growth.
(203) 872-5293 View (203) 872-5293
Photo of Nicole Epperson, Counselor, LCPC
Nicole Epperson
Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
Nicole is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts degree in counseling from Adler University. She has been working in the field for more than a decade providing outpatient counseling, residential treatment, and EAP services. She helps clients address a variety of concerns and specializes in LGBTQIA issues, chronic pain and chronic medical conditions, grief and loss, addiction, relationships, and family issues. She takes a client-centered approach and uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches.
Nicole is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts degree in counseling from Adler University. She has been working in the field for more than a decade providing outpatient counseling, residential treatment, and EAP services. She helps clients address a variety of concerns and specializes in LGBTQIA issues, chronic pain and chronic medical conditions, grief and loss, addiction, relationships, and family issues. She takes a client-centered approach and uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches.
(217) 600-2475 View (217) 600-2475
Photo of Alyssa Marie Aguirre, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Alyssa Marie Aguirre
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent clients as well as those in non-monogamous or otherwise non-traditional relationships.
I work from a person-centered perspective that emphasizes empathy, collaboration, autonomy, and harm reduction. I integrate a variety of approaches and strategies with varying levels of structure depending on the client. I work with each one to identify their strengths, needs, preferences, and goals on an ongoing basis to inform and evaluate treatment.
I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent clients as well as those in non-monogamous or otherwise non-traditional relationships.
I work from a person-centered perspective that emphasizes empathy, collaboration, autonomy, and harm reduction. I integrate a variety of approaches and strategies with varying levels of structure depending on the client. I work with each one to identify their strengths, needs, preferences, and goals on an ongoing basis to inform and evaluate treatment.
(217) 858-2805 View (217) 858-2805
Photo of Troy Johnson - Gender Dysphoria Assessments and Surgery Letters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gender Dysphoria Assessments and Surgery Letters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
” I offer gender dysphoria assessments and same-day letters for transgender surgery—top surgery, bottom surgery, and facial feminization.
Once we connect, I move fast. Most gender dysphoria letters are delivered the same day. I write WPATH letters and mental health letters for gender-affirming surgery that meet insurance and surgical requirements. You’ll get free revisions and one appeal letter—because when the system gets messy, I don’t disappear.
” I offer gender dysphoria assessments and same-day letters for transgender surgery—top surgery, bottom surgery, and facial feminization.
Once we connect, I move fast. Most gender dysphoria letters are delivered the same day. I write WPATH letters and mental health letters for gender-affirming surgery that meet insurance and surgical requirements. You’ll get free revisions and one appeal letter—because when the system gets messy, I don’t disappear.
(312) 248-7155 View (312) 248-7155
Photo of Caitlin D Schutz, Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Caitlin D Schutz
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Serves Area
A proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I bring a unique perspective and sensitivity, offering inclusive and affirming support to clients of all identities and backgrounds.
Hi, my name is Cat Schutz. I am a licensed social worker who is a compassionate counselor specializing in supporting children, families and individuals through challenging times. With a wealth of experience in working with those who have survived tremendous trauma, life changes, and who are struggling with well-being, I'm deeply committed to empowering you to navigate life's obstacles with resilience and strength. I bring a calm and reassuring presence to my therapeutic approach, and value creating a safe space for you to explore your emotions and experiences.
A proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I bring a unique perspective and sensitivity, offering inclusive and affirming support to clients of all identities and backgrounds.
Hi, my name is Cat Schutz. I am a licensed social worker who is a compassionate counselor specializing in supporting children, families and individuals through challenging times. With a wealth of experience in working with those who have survived tremendous trauma, life changes, and who are struggling with well-being, I'm deeply committed to empowering you to navigate life's obstacles with resilience and strength. I bring a calm and reassuring presence to my therapeutic approach, and value creating a safe space for you to explore your emotions and experiences.
(217) 846-9361 View (217) 846-9361
Photo of Cassandra Laskowski, Counselor, MA, CADC, LCPC, CKAP
Cassandra Laskowski
Counselor, MA, CADC, LCPC, CKAP
Maroa, IL 61756
I work particularly well with helping-professionals, queer-identified individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergence, and anxiety/depression.
I understand the impact of trauma on your life: I am a certified substance use counselor, and I have specific training working with cPTSD, vicarious trauma, codependency, & compassion fatigue. I will help you learn the tools you need for emotional regulation and healing with kindness and gentle humor.
I work particularly well with helping-professionals, queer-identified individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergence, and anxiety/depression.
I understand the impact of trauma on your life: I am a certified substance use counselor, and I have specific training working with cPTSD, vicarious trauma, codependency, & compassion fatigue. I will help you learn the tools you need for emotional regulation and healing with kindness and gentle humor.
(217) 302-8215 View (217) 302-8215
Photo of Molly Burke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Molly Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
I am LGBTQ+ affirming, and welcome individuals of all ages, identities, and cultural backgrounds.
Rudolph Dreikers says, “Children are keen observers, but poor interpreters”. Growing up and learning how to exist in a chaotic world can be extremely challenging in even the best circumstances. Those with trauma, neurodivergence, or any other challenges may have an especially tough time with this.
I am LGBTQ+ affirming, and welcome individuals of all ages, identities, and cultural backgrounds.
Rudolph Dreikers says, “Children are keen observers, but poor interpreters”. Growing up and learning how to exist in a chaotic world can be extremely challenging in even the best circumstances. Those with trauma, neurodivergence, or any other challenges may have an especially tough time with this.
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Photo of Andi Mandel, MA-MFT
Andi Mandel
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work systemically around sex therapy, neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, depression, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and social justice issues.
Relationships can be difficult. Whether it is familial, romantic or platonic, each of us is the sum of all the experiences, communities, and cultures we have been involved in and around our entire lives. We often struggle to understand how to effectively communicate, as well as making and keeping connections.
I work systemically around sex therapy, neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, depression, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and social justice issues.
Relationships can be difficult. Whether it is familial, romantic or platonic, each of us is the sum of all the experiences, communities, and cultures we have been involved in and around our entire lives. We often struggle to understand how to effectively communicate, as well as making and keeping connections.
(773) 832-5954 View (773) 832-5954
Photo of Elissa Bailey, Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv
Elissa Bailey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
She is affirming and inclusive and has a particular interest in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Elissa has a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and Master’s Degree in Divinity. Currently, Elissa is a student at Capella University working towards a Master’s of Mental Health Counseling. She has worked as a chaplain in a trauma level 1 hospital, as a substitute teacher, and a youth director. Elissa works with individuals of all ages and has served alongside families from birth to death. Elissa has spent much of her career walking with families in the grief process. She works with all faith backgrounds including the "nones" and "dones". Elissa also currently works as the Stated Clerk of her local denomination.
She is affirming and inclusive and has a particular interest in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Elissa has a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and Master’s Degree in Divinity. Currently, Elissa is a student at Capella University working towards a Master’s of Mental Health Counseling. She has worked as a chaplain in a trauma level 1 hospital, as a substitute teacher, and a youth director. Elissa works with individuals of all ages and has served alongside families from birth to death. Elissa has spent much of her career walking with families in the grief process. She works with all faith backgrounds including the "nones" and "dones". Elissa also currently works as the Stated Clerk of her local denomination.
(309) 328-8253 View (309) 328-8253
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.