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Online Therapists

Photo of Stephen Heintz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lee County, IL
Stephen Heintz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I'm sex-positive, kink-friendly, ENM-affirming, and have specialized training and experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you're here, you're probably looking for a change. Whether it's in your relationships, patterns, thoughts, feelings, or something else that's important to you. Life is full of challenges, but I firmly believe that people have fundamental inner-strengths that can help them cope. As a therapist, I warmly accept my clients as they are, and work alongside them to explore who they would like to become. I believe in the power of human connection, and strive to use that connection to help empower my clients to access their strengths; to ultimately bring about meaningful change, healing, growth, and understanding.
I'm sex-positive, kink-friendly, ENM-affirming, and have specialized training and experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you're here, you're probably looking for a change. Whether it's in your relationships, patterns, thoughts, feelings, or something else that's important to you. Life is full of challenges, but I firmly believe that people have fundamental inner-strengths that can help them cope. As a therapist, I warmly accept my clients as they are, and work alongside them to explore who they would like to become. I believe in the power of human connection, and strive to use that connection to help empower my clients to access their strengths; to ultimately bring about meaningful change, healing, growth, and understanding.
(773) 290-1856 View (773) 290-1856
Photo of Lee Gilman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lee County, IL
Lee Gilman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I am gender, LGBTQ+, poly, kink, and consensual non-monogamy affirming in my work.
In order for us to grow, we must challenge our preconceived notions of self and experiences, as those are what shape our truths. We are not alone, even when it feels as if we are. We are connected to the thousands of lives that have touched ours and have had a hand in creating who we are. I approach my work through a systemic lens, in other words, I see the world as a huge ball of yarn. Those strings are our connectedness, the relationships we hold that connect us to our culture, our family, our history, and our future.
I am gender, LGBTQ+, poly, kink, and consensual non-monogamy affirming in my work.
In order for us to grow, we must challenge our preconceived notions of self and experiences, as those are what shape our truths. We are not alone, even when it feels as if we are. We are connected to the thousands of lives that have touched ours and have had a hand in creating who we are. I approach my work through a systemic lens, in other words, I see the world as a huge ball of yarn. Those strings are our connectedness, the relationships we hold that connect us to our culture, our family, our history, and our future.
(708) 304-9979 View (708) 304-9979
Photo of Brock Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lee County, IL
Brock Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
We provide affirming, sex-positive and kink-friendly therapy for clients of all ages and across the spectrum of gender & sexual identities.
My philosophy of therapy is humanist, believing that every person is worthy of dignity, love, and fulfillment in their life. Therapy provides an affirming, compassionate relationship for clients to learn more about themselves, explore choices, and better understand how they relate to the world around them. Through acceptance, curiosity, and discussion, I join with clients to support them in discovering their own potential, explore areas of growth, and identify the strengths and wisdoms they already carry with them. I believe therapy should be flexible and dynamic enough to support clients who are facing particular struggles.
We provide affirming, sex-positive and kink-friendly therapy for clients of all ages and across the spectrum of gender & sexual identities.
My philosophy of therapy is humanist, believing that every person is worthy of dignity, love, and fulfillment in their life. Therapy provides an affirming, compassionate relationship for clients to learn more about themselves, explore choices, and better understand how they relate to the world around them. Through acceptance, curiosity, and discussion, I join with clients to support them in discovering their own potential, explore areas of growth, and identify the strengths and wisdoms they already carry with them. I believe therapy should be flexible and dynamic enough to support clients who are facing particular struggles.
(773) 694-1619 View (773) 694-1619
Photo of Eric Aprill, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lee County, IL
Eric Aprill
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
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.
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 View (312) 262-4947
Photo of Jason Hoffmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lee County, IL
Jason Hoffmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
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, collaboratively we find an approach to therapy that fits to your specific needs and goals then we re-evaluate to bring about the best self. 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.
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, collaboratively we find an approach to therapy that fits to your specific needs and goals then we re-evaluate to bring about the best self. 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 View (872) 204-0513
Photo of Jason Best, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lee County, IL
Jason Best
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
I also do sex positive relationship counseling, and counseling around gender and sexuality diversity issues.
You may feel your true, joyful self is hidden under layers of depression, anxiety, guilt, or shame. Maybe you’re trying to figure out how to achieve your dreams of living the life you were meant to live. Maybe you’re trying to deal with being alone for the first time, or again. Or maybe you’re trying to manage a relationship that has gotten very tense, or is long distance. You may have had a negative experience with therapy in the past. I'm a solution focused therapist working with an incredible team and if I can't help there'll be someone on my team who can.
I also do sex positive relationship counseling, and counseling around gender and sexuality diversity issues.
You may feel your true, joyful self is hidden under layers of depression, anxiety, guilt, or shame. Maybe you’re trying to figure out how to achieve your dreams of living the life you were meant to live. Maybe you’re trying to deal with being alone for the first time, or again. Or maybe you’re trying to manage a relationship that has gotten very tense, or is long distance. You may have had a negative experience with therapy in the past. I'm a solution focused therapist working with an incredible team and if I can't help there'll be someone on my team who can.
(847) 737-3114 View (847) 737-3114
Photo of Kenneth Dowling, Psychologist in Lee County, IL
Kenneth Dowling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
As well as general LGBTQ & spiritual topics, I specialize in perfectionism, shame, men’s issues, autism, ADHD, relationships, sex, kink, ethical nonmonogamy, substance abuse.
Self-awareness, self-compassion, self-esteem? Resilience, effective functioning, self-care? Connection, authenticity, belonging? Are these things you’ve realized you lack and want more of? These are directions of growth I hope for you and each of my clients, to be defined and directed by us collaboratively in therapy. One of the first things I'll ask you is how you want your life and your mental health to improve within the next few months. I use an integrative, client-centered approach, weaving together CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), compassion-focused, psychodynamic and relational interventions. Licensed in IL and NY.
As well as general LGBTQ & spiritual topics, I specialize in perfectionism, shame, men’s issues, autism, ADHD, relationships, sex, kink, ethical nonmonogamy, substance abuse.
Self-awareness, self-compassion, self-esteem? Resilience, effective functioning, self-care? Connection, authenticity, belonging? Are these things you’ve realized you lack and want more of? These are directions of growth I hope for you and each of my clients, to be defined and directed by us collaboratively in therapy. One of the first things I'll ask you is how you want your life and your mental health to improve within the next few months. I use an integrative, client-centered approach, weaving together CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), compassion-focused, psychodynamic and relational interventions. Licensed in IL and NY.
(773) 839-5336 View (773) 839-5336
Photo of Mark Vaughan - Sex Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lee County, IL
Mark Vaughan - Sex Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I am LGBTQ, kink, and poly sensitive and sex-positive.
The decision to seek therapy is positive and courageous. It is important to find the right therapist to help you with your problems, to make it possible to feel capable and resilient. If you're someone for whom anxiety, depression or other issues seem to get in the way of enjoying life, we can work together so you can create a fulfilling life of your choice. For couples trying to rediscover that spark in your relationship, together you can move past hurts to forge the relationship you want. If you are struggling with not knowing your life path or career, we can focus on your inherent strengths and personality to develop your vision.
I am LGBTQ, kink, and poly sensitive and sex-positive.
The decision to seek therapy is positive and courageous. It is important to find the right therapist to help you with your problems, to make it possible to feel capable and resilient. If you're someone for whom anxiety, depression or other issues seem to get in the way of enjoying life, we can work together so you can create a fulfilling life of your choice. For couples trying to rediscover that spark in your relationship, together you can move past hurts to forge the relationship you want. If you are struggling with not knowing your life path or career, we can focus on your inherent strengths and personality to develop your vision.
(312) 487-4993 View (312) 487-4993
Photo of Patrick Sterk, Counselor in Lee County, IL
Patrick Sterk
Counselor
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I am a member of Chicago Kink and Poly Aware Therapists (KPACT) as well as several similar national organizations.
Life can be hard, and change isn’t easy; if it was, we would have done it already. In my experience, change and personal growth come with guidance and training as well as support and understanding. That is what I can offer to anyone that would like to work with me. The main focus of my work is with individuals in the kink and poly communities, as well as individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). I also work frequently with LGBTQIA clients and people experiencing anxiety, depression, and personal and career stress.
I am a member of Chicago Kink and Poly Aware Therapists (KPACT) as well as several similar national organizations.
Life can be hard, and change isn’t easy; if it was, we would have done it already. In my experience, change and personal growth come with guidance and training as well as support and understanding. That is what I can offer to anyone that would like to work with me. The main focus of my work is with individuals in the kink and poly communities, as well as individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). I also work frequently with LGBTQIA clients and people experiencing anxiety, depression, and personal and career stress.
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Photo of Benjamin Gronich, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lee County, IL
Benjamin Gronich
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Areas of focus include but are not limited to: sexual and gender identity, minority issues, racial equity, men's issues, acute/complex trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, poly/kink, sexual health, self-esteem, substance use, life transitions, and loss/grief.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
Areas of focus include but are not limited to: sexual and gender identity, minority issues, racial equity, men's issues, acute/complex trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, poly/kink, sexual health, self-esteem, substance use, life transitions, and loss/grief.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
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Photo of Rich Jentzen LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lee County, IL
Rich Jentzen LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Who you are… straight, transgender, bisexual, lesbian, gay, queer, genderqueer, questioning… is an essential part of our work together. I welcome your whole self, supporting traditional and non-traditional families: blended, multiracial, multigenerational, foster, poly, leather, and members of kink communities. Therapy promotes healing, growth, and change. We'll focus together to understand your thoughts and behaviors. Our work together will help you develop new coping skills. Growth happens by reinforcing your strengths and values, increasing your self-awareness, and help you build a tolerance for distress and ambiguity.
Who you are… straight, transgender, bisexual, lesbian, gay, queer, genderqueer, questioning… is an essential part of our work together. I welcome your whole self, supporting traditional and non-traditional families: blended, multiracial, multigenerational, foster, poly, leather, and members of kink communities. Therapy promotes healing, growth, and change. We'll focus together to understand your thoughts and behaviors. Our work together will help you develop new coping skills. Growth happens by reinforcing your strengths and values, increasing your self-awareness, and help you build a tolerance for distress and ambiguity.
(847) 943-9894 View (847) 943-9894
Photo of Tom Doctor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lee County, IL
Tom Doctor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I am a Licensed Social Worker, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Sex Therapist. My clinical experience is focused on working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families on issues including addiction, alcoholism, substance abuse, relationship/marital conflicts, codependency, divorce, infidelity, PTSD, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, life transition, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual health concerns, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, and intimacy injuries.
I am a Licensed Social Worker, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Sex Therapist. My clinical experience is focused on working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families on issues including addiction, alcoholism, substance abuse, relationship/marital conflicts, codependency, divorce, infidelity, PTSD, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, life transition, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual health concerns, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, and intimacy injuries.
(773) 207-3046 View (773) 207-3046
Photo of Seth Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lee County, IL
Seth Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
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.
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 View (312) 467-7553
Photo of Bill Johnson, Psychologist in Lee County, IL
Bill Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I am also a Certified Sex Therapist with expertise in kink, ethnical non-monogamy, men's sexual health concerns, and infidelity.
You may be experiencing a period of mental unrest and uncertainty. When you have the space and willingness to reflect on past traumas and experiences to understand their impact on your current circumstances, you gain a new awareness that often leads to powerful insights. As a licensed clinical psychologist who understands the need for inner healing first, it is my goal to support you in identifying core sources of pain, confusion, fear, and stress in order to get to the root cause of the issue. By working with you to form a deeper sense of clarity, I am able to guide you in taking the next steps along your journey of healing.
I am also a Certified Sex Therapist with expertise in kink, ethnical non-monogamy, men's sexual health concerns, and infidelity.
You may be experiencing a period of mental unrest and uncertainty. When you have the space and willingness to reflect on past traumas and experiences to understand their impact on your current circumstances, you gain a new awareness that often leads to powerful insights. As a licensed clinical psychologist who understands the need for inner healing first, it is my goal to support you in identifying core sources of pain, confusion, fear, and stress in order to get to the root cause of the issue. By working with you to form a deeper sense of clarity, I am able to guide you in taking the next steps along your journey of healing.
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Photo of Anthony Paul Verdino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lee County, IL
Anthony Paul Verdino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I mainly work with Queer, kink, and poly folx on transitions, sex/relationships, decision-making, connection, and joy/pleasure.
Please know that I'm only accepting clients on a very limited basis for Summer 2024 (May-August). You're the one that lives your worries, shame, and desires. You're the expert or emerging expert on your own life though it may not feel that way because life is confusing and overwhelming, and the world may feel a bit devastating. My aim is to help you become more aware of your emotions, relationship patterns, and less-than-helpful thoughts, so you may become more responsive to your truly authentic needs, desires, and values. My hope is that you will begin to feel more comfortable and confidant with who you are AND who you want to be.
I mainly work with Queer, kink, and poly folx on transitions, sex/relationships, decision-making, connection, and joy/pleasure.
Please know that I'm only accepting clients on a very limited basis for Summer 2024 (May-August). You're the one that lives your worries, shame, and desires. You're the expert or emerging expert on your own life though it may not feel that way because life is confusing and overwhelming, and the world may feel a bit devastating. My aim is to help you become more aware of your emotions, relationship patterns, and less-than-helpful thoughts, so you may become more responsive to your truly authentic needs, desires, and values. My hope is that you will begin to feel more comfortable and confidant with who you are AND who you want to be.
(773) 825-6996 View (773) 825-6996
Photo of James Chamerlik, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lee County, IL
James Chamerlik
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
As a kink-aware therapist and one that has experienced with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, I hope to provide support to marginalized communities that face stigma, or that feel left out. I care deeply about social justice and work hard to dismantle oppression, as a vocal LGBTQ+ and feminist ally. As someone that became a therapist later in life, I apply my diverse experiences to my practice so that I may be more able to help you along your unique journey, or to uncover and address barriers that may prevent you from meeting personal goals or living a more authentic life.
As a kink-aware therapist and one that has experienced with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, I hope to provide support to marginalized communities that face stigma, or that feel left out. I care deeply about social justice and work hard to dismantle oppression, as a vocal LGBTQ+ and feminist ally. As someone that became a therapist later in life, I apply my diverse experiences to my practice so that I may be more able to help you along your unique journey, or to uncover and address barriers that may prevent you from meeting personal goals or living a more authentic life.
(872) 239-3824 View (872) 239-3824
Photo of Dale Roberson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lee County, IL
Dale Roberson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Entering therapy is about developing a collaborative relationship between client and therapist. With that in mind, I make every effort to engage clients by first getting to know them and their needs; for change to occur for clients, they need to believe their therapist is trustworthy, sincere, and compassionate. I am experienced in supporting those navigating identity (gender, race, nationality, etc.), LGBTQIA+-related issues, fetish/kink/leather, polyamory/consensual non-monogamy, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, ADHD, phase-of-life issues, emotion dysregulation, and relationship issues.
Entering therapy is about developing a collaborative relationship between client and therapist. With that in mind, I make every effort to engage clients by first getting to know them and their needs; for change to occur for clients, they need to believe their therapist is trustworthy, sincere, and compassionate. I am experienced in supporting those navigating identity (gender, race, nationality, etc.), LGBTQIA+-related issues, fetish/kink/leather, polyamory/consensual non-monogamy, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, ADHD, phase-of-life issues, emotion dysregulation, and relationship issues.
(773) 305-6841 View (773) 305-6841
Photo of Steve Baltrukonis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lee County, IL
Steve Baltrukonis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, CPTSD, emotional dysregulation, overwhelm, crises of identity/spirituality, existential dread, poly/kink/BDSM, and LGBTQIA+-related issues.
I identify as deeply spiritual, queer, an artist, a mindfulness teacher, and a therapist deeply committed to the art of healing through empathy and conversation. I believe too many people go through life confusing their true self with the person folks would like them to be. I feel honored to walk alongside his clients as they parse their identities, meeting the authentic individual as they uncover new parts of their self. I take pride in bringing compassion and care to sessions with my clients.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, CPTSD, emotional dysregulation, overwhelm, crises of identity/spirituality, existential dread, poly/kink/BDSM, and LGBTQIA+-related issues.
I identify as deeply spiritual, queer, an artist, a mindfulness teacher, and a therapist deeply committed to the art of healing through empathy and conversation. I believe too many people go through life confusing their true self with the person folks would like them to be. I feel honored to walk alongside his clients as they parse their identities, meeting the authentic individual as they uncover new parts of their self. I take pride in bringing compassion and care to sessions with my clients.
(847) 469-9466 View (847) 469-9466
Photo of Charlie Blim, LPC Intern in Lee County, IL
Charlie Blim
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I have passion for working with adolescents, LGBTQIA+ folk, and those who identify as non-monogamous/polyamorous or part of the kink community.
When we are facing challenges in our lives, I believe all of us hold the key to our own growth and success. You have intrinsic strengths and skills that can be built upon and practiced through therapy. Together we will identify the powerful traits you possess, then create pathways for overcoming the challenges in front of you. Therapy should not feel like someone is giving you the answers to your problems or telling you what you are doing wrong. As a therapist, I seek to collaborate with you to find ways of addressing your concerns that highlight your strengths and respect your most authentic self.
I have passion for working with adolescents, LGBTQIA+ folk, and those who identify as non-monogamous/polyamorous or part of the kink community.
When we are facing challenges in our lives, I believe all of us hold the key to our own growth and success. You have intrinsic strengths and skills that can be built upon and practiced through therapy. Together we will identify the powerful traits you possess, then create pathways for overcoming the challenges in front of you. Therapy should not feel like someone is giving you the answers to your problems or telling you what you are doing wrong. As a therapist, I seek to collaborate with you to find ways of addressing your concerns that highlight your strengths and respect your most authentic self.
(872) 401-6252 View (872) 401-6252
Photo of Bert Fox | Specializing In Therapy For Men, Counselor in Lee County, IL
Bert Fox | Specializing In Therapy For Men
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in working with men, especially those who identify as gay, bi or queer. Common issues I work with clients on include relationship/intimacy struggles, isolation, depression, shame, career issues, anger/rage, anxiety, sexual issues, feelings of numbness and addiction. I can assure you a level of comfort and understanding as well as specialized training when dealing with these issues. In addition, I take a sex positive approach and am attuned to the needs of poly, non-monogamous, kink and BDSM clients.
I specialize in working with men, especially those who identify as gay, bi or queer. Common issues I work with clients on include relationship/intimacy struggles, isolation, depression, shame, career issues, anger/rage, anxiety, sexual issues, feelings of numbness and addiction. I can assure you a level of comfort and understanding as well as specialized training when dealing with these issues. In addition, I take a sex positive approach and am attuned to the needs of poly, non-monogamous, kink and BDSM clients.
(773) 389-2853 View (773) 389-2853

See more therapy options for Lee County

Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists

Why might an individual want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?

A sex-positive or kinky individual may want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist because the client may feel safer and more supported discussing their experiences and challenges. A therapist who identifies as kink-friendly will have experience with clients having diverse sexual preferences and will likely be nonjudgmental and supportive about issues brought to the table. It is important to note that sex-positive, kink-allied individuals may find equal success with therapists who do not have such specialized knowledge and background. The most important factor in the success of therapy is for the client and practitioner to form a strong, trusting bond.

Do therapists have special training to gain expertise in sex-positive, kink-allied treatment?

Generally, no. There are limited training programs and unofficial accreditations that therapists can pursue, but a therapist’s expertise will ultimately come from their previous experience with similar clients, their engagement with organizations that promote sex positivity or kink-allied lifestyles, and the importance they place on safety and cultural sensitivity.

How can individuals recognize a good sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?

An experienced therapist is able to help clients explore their sexual identity and expression and relieve any discomfort or stigma attached to discussing such matters and the client’s overall challenges. A therapist who is sex-positive and kink-allied is able to create an environment that honors a client’s experience and sexual preferences. To recognize a good therapist, clients can simply ask directly about topics and issues important to them and gauge their comfort level and connection with a clinician based on the responses.

Can clients benefit from having a therapist with a focus on sex positivity and alternative sexual lifestyles?

Some individuals may feel most comfortable knowing that the clinician they’re working with has a commitment to creating an atmosphere of sex positivity and has experience with relationship diversity and alternative relationship structures. Working with a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist may help clients respect their own challenges and improve identity-affirming treatment.