LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Lyons, IL
My approach is practical and solution-focused, emphasizing mindfulness and skill-building to help clients navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. I support individuals experiencing addiction, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, schizoaffective disorder, and men’s issues. Through structured guidance, I aim to empower clients to set healthy boundaries, strengthen emotional resilience, and create meaningful change. I am EMDR-trained and use this approach to help process trauma and other distressing experiences that may be holding you back.
My approach is practical and solution-focused, emphasizing mindfulness and skill-building to help clients navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. I support individuals experiencing addiction, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, schizoaffective disorder, and men’s issues. Through structured guidance, I aim to empower clients to set healthy boundaries, strengthen emotional resilience, and create meaningful change. I am EMDR-trained and use this approach to help process trauma and other distressing experiences that may be holding you back.
Ellie Dumerauf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychotherapist with a passionately client centered approach to therapy. Living with symptoms and/or living through experiences that are overwhelming can rupture confidence in ourselves and in our ability to adapt to life's challenges. I aim to help clients repair and deepen this trust in themselves. No matter how great the challenges, I believe that we all naturally move towards growth and healing when in an environment of genuine presence and support. I build therapeutic relationships grounded in authenticity, collaboration, and respect.
I am a psychotherapist with a passionately client centered approach to therapy. Living with symptoms and/or living through experiences that are overwhelming can rupture confidence in ourselves and in our ability to adapt to life's challenges. I aim to help clients repair and deepen this trust in themselves. No matter how great the challenges, I believe that we all naturally move towards growth and healing when in an environment of genuine presence and support. I build therapeutic relationships grounded in authenticity, collaboration, and respect.
More Therapists Nearby
Jasper (he/him) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience in providing mental health services. He specializes in working with children and adolescents ages 5 to 18. He takes a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to mental health therapy and is also neurodiverse-affirming and LGBTQIA+ affirming in his practice. Jasper is working towards becoming a registered play therapist, and he is passionate about connecting with children and teens in play such as video and board games, movies and tv shows, pop culture, and anything nerdy.
Jasper (he/him) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience in providing mental health services. He specializes in working with children and adolescents ages 5 to 18. He takes a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to mental health therapy and is also neurodiverse-affirming and LGBTQIA+ affirming in his practice. Jasper is working towards becoming a registered play therapist, and he is passionate about connecting with children and teens in play such as video and board games, movies and tv shows, pop culture, and anything nerdy.
I believe that healing is done through social support, collaboration, empathy, and creativity. I blend both talk therapy with art making to facilitate emotional expression, learn new skills, and build compassion for self and others. You don't have to be an artist to do art therapy! My goal is to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard and seen.
I believe that healing is done through social support, collaboration, empathy, and creativity. I blend both talk therapy with art making to facilitate emotional expression, learn new skills, and build compassion for self and others. You don't have to be an artist to do art therapy! My goal is to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard and seen.
In the last 8 years, I've worked with adolescents and young adults navigating life through mood disorders, identity development, sexual abuse, moments of crisis, neurodivergence, racial identity and acculturation, LGBTQIA+ experiences, etc.
Existing has felt difficult lately. Maybe you've been feeling anxious or depressed, or frozen in place, not really knowing what to do or how to move forward. Therapy won't have all the solutions, but it will create a safe space for you and your journey. Therapy is an intentional process and can seem daunting at times, so while we work together, we will make sure we balance holding space for validation as well as challenges so you can reach your goals. Also making sure that we have time for chisme. Having someone to talk to can often help us breathe more deeply and process life more intentionally.
In the last 8 years, I've worked with adolescents and young adults navigating life through mood disorders, identity development, sexual abuse, moments of crisis, neurodivergence, racial identity and acculturation, LGBTQIA+ experiences, etc.
Existing has felt difficult lately. Maybe you've been feeling anxious or depressed, or frozen in place, not really knowing what to do or how to move forward. Therapy won't have all the solutions, but it will create a safe space for you and your journey. Therapy is an intentional process and can seem daunting at times, so while we work together, we will make sure we balance holding space for validation as well as challenges so you can reach your goals. Also making sure that we have time for chisme. Having someone to talk to can often help us breathe more deeply and process life more intentionally.
Licensed in CA, IL, & MO. You've survived. You've coped. You’ve done healing ceremonies & sat in therapy, built real integrity into your values - maybe even built a good life from the outside. But something still feels off: disconnected, unsure, lonely in a way you can't quite name. I will guide you on how to navigate those surges of anxiety at 3 a.m., when the real you is waiting to be heard. I work at the intersection of modern trauma science & ancient contemplative wisdom, using a theory I call Dynamic Trauma Integration to help you move from surviving into truly being present - at home with your true nature.
Licensed in CA, IL, & MO. You've survived. You've coped. You’ve done healing ceremonies & sat in therapy, built real integrity into your values - maybe even built a good life from the outside. But something still feels off: disconnected, unsure, lonely in a way you can't quite name. I will guide you on how to navigate those surges of anxiety at 3 a.m., when the real you is waiting to be heard. I work at the intersection of modern trauma science & ancient contemplative wisdom, using a theory I call Dynamic Trauma Integration to help you move from surviving into truly being present - at home with your true nature.
I am a queer, neurodivergent, nonbinary Jew.
Do you often feel stuck or lost in life? Maybe you find it difficult to understand yourself or other people, or how to be in healthy, mutual relationships. Perhaps you have survived trauma and are wondering “what does life look like now?” I work with individuals who exist within many systems and use our shared understanding of culture and intersectionality; oppressive power structures (like patriarchy, cis- and heterosexism, racism and white supremacy, ableism, etc.,); relational and family history; as well as our position within these systems to examine how they have impacted you, your sense of self, community, and relationships.
I am a queer, neurodivergent, nonbinary Jew.
Do you often feel stuck or lost in life? Maybe you find it difficult to understand yourself or other people, or how to be in healthy, mutual relationships. Perhaps you have survived trauma and are wondering “what does life look like now?” I work with individuals who exist within many systems and use our shared understanding of culture and intersectionality; oppressive power structures (like patriarchy, cis- and heterosexism, racism and white supremacy, ableism, etc.,); relational and family history; as well as our position within these systems to examine how they have impacted you, your sense of self, community, and relationships.
I'm a witty transgender EMDRIA-Certified Therapist and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist who works with LGBTQ+ adults navigating complex trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, and OCD.
I begin with a thorough assessment so we can custom-fit your treatment plan. Think of it as therapy couture! Both EMDR and ERP are structured and evidence-based treatment protocols for addressing mental health concerns in a way talk therapy cannot. Every intervention is chosen intentionally, based on your unique history, symptoms, and goals.
I'm a witty transgender EMDRIA-Certified Therapist and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist who works with LGBTQ+ adults navigating complex trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, and OCD.
I begin with a thorough assessment so we can custom-fit your treatment plan. Think of it as therapy couture! Both EMDR and ERP are structured and evidence-based treatment protocols for addressing mental health concerns in a way talk therapy cannot. Every intervention is chosen intentionally, based on your unique history, symptoms, and goals.
I love working with people who are a part of my community - trans, queer and BIPOC folks!
Words that come to mind when I think about healing are: witnessing, nurturing and integrating.
I love working with people who are a part of my community - trans, queer and BIPOC folks!
Words that come to mind when I think about healing are: witnessing, nurturing and integrating.
I primarily see LGBTQ+ adults and people who experience(d) anxiety, depression, OCD, sexual trauma, complex trauma/C-PTSD, and those impacted by systemic oppression.
The communal process of therapy is of the utmost importance to me, and I cater therapy to each individual’s unique needs focusing on consent, choice, and education. I am trained in EMDR therapy. I also use IFS, EFT, ACT, DBT, Somatic therapies, Narrative Therapy, and I-CBT, while always working through a trauma-informed lens.
I primarily see LGBTQ+ adults and people who experience(d) anxiety, depression, OCD, sexual trauma, complex trauma/C-PTSD, and those impacted by systemic oppression.
The communal process of therapy is of the utmost importance to me, and I cater therapy to each individual’s unique needs focusing on consent, choice, and education. I am trained in EMDR therapy. I also use IFS, EFT, ACT, DBT, Somatic therapies, Narrative Therapy, and I-CBT, while always working through a trauma-informed lens.
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ and trans community as a LGBTQ+ therapist.
I have experience with PTSD, anxiety disorders, grief, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ clients, clients on the autism spectrum, depression, and self esteem issues. I would love to use my skills, experience, and personal approach to help you begin the exciting process of therapy.
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ and trans community as a LGBTQ+ therapist.
I have experience with PTSD, anxiety disorders, grief, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ clients, clients on the autism spectrum, depression, and self esteem issues. I would love to use my skills, experience, and personal approach to help you begin the exciting process of therapy.
I specialize in trauma informed care and LGBTQIA affirming therapy.
I use approaches like EMDR, IFS-informed (parts work), EFT tapping, and mindfulness, because healing is not one-size-fits-all. Therapy with me is about discovering what helps you feel stronger, calmer, and more connected to yourself.
Sessions are virtual, so you can meet with me from the comfort of your own space.
I specialize in trauma informed care and LGBTQIA affirming therapy.
I use approaches like EMDR, IFS-informed (parts work), EFT tapping, and mindfulness, because healing is not one-size-fits-all. Therapy with me is about discovering what helps you feel stronger, calmer, and more connected to yourself.
Sessions are virtual, so you can meet with me from the comfort of your own space.
I believe therapy is a collaborative space for folks to explore their biographies and learn to hold deeper relationships with their own self and others. Change happens when we feel safe to be curious and understanding of our patterns and choices. I invite clients to explore the intersections of their identities with me as we create a space that is brave and trusting. I see the connection between the external world and our internal experience as central to the therapy process. I'm mindful to social identities, dynamics in family systems, and the larger cultural landscape that impact a person's sense of self.
I believe therapy is a collaborative space for folks to explore their biographies and learn to hold deeper relationships with their own self and others. Change happens when we feel safe to be curious and understanding of our patterns and choices. I invite clients to explore the intersections of their identities with me as we create a space that is brave and trusting. I see the connection between the external world and our internal experience as central to the therapy process. I'm mindful to social identities, dynamics in family systems, and the larger cultural landscape that impact a person's sense of self.
I am an ally of and advocate for members of the LGBTQ+ community, and I am passionate about providing support (WPATH, etc.).
I can offer you a space where you don’t have to pretend, perform, or have things figured out ahead of time. A safe environment where we can slow things down to review and understand what’s been happening with you. Without judgment or pressure to “fix” yourself. I primarily use research-based learning theories to assist individuals in modifying their behavior
I am an ally of and advocate for members of the LGBTQ+ community, and I am passionate about providing support (WPATH, etc.).
I can offer you a space where you don’t have to pretend, perform, or have things figured out ahead of time. A safe environment where we can slow things down to review and understand what’s been happening with you. Without judgment or pressure to “fix” yourself. I primarily use research-based learning theories to assist individuals in modifying their behavior
Additionally I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ individuals of all ages.
My passion lies in encouraging people to process their emotions by tapping into their creativity, strengths, and personal interests. The therapeutic modalities I use include IFS, CBT, DBT, ACT, mindfulness, and play therapy. I believe that everyone deserves a space to work through difficult feelings and explore their inner world without fear of judgement.
Additionally I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ individuals of all ages.
My passion lies in encouraging people to process their emotions by tapping into their creativity, strengths, and personal interests. The therapeutic modalities I use include IFS, CBT, DBT, ACT, mindfulness, and play therapy. I believe that everyone deserves a space to work through difficult feelings and explore their inner world without fear of judgement.
I have specific experience supporting queer and trans BIPOC communities that have been shaped by race, gender, sexuality, power, or institutional harm.
Much of our work focuses on patterns shaped by early attachment, lived experience, and unspoken dynamics that continue to influence how you relate to yourself and others. We'll pay close attention to what unfolds between us in the room, including moments of connection, rupture, and repair, as these experiences often hold important pathways toward healing.
I have specific experience supporting queer and trans BIPOC communities that have been shaped by race, gender, sexuality, power, or institutional harm.
Much of our work focuses on patterns shaped by early attachment, lived experience, and unspoken dynamics that continue to influence how you relate to yourself and others. We'll pay close attention to what unfolds between us in the room, including moments of connection, rupture, and repair, as these experiences often hold important pathways toward healing.
As a trans woman immersed in trans and queer community, I understand how mental health can intersect with relationships, sex, gender, neurodivergence, family, work, sobriety, financial stress and belonging.
My approach is genuine, collaborative and nonjudgmental. You set the pace and help determine where our work goes. Along the way, I can help you build practical skills for managing distress, regulating emotions, navigating relationships and advocating for yourself while making space for the complexity of your experiences and identities.
As a trans woman immersed in trans and queer community, I understand how mental health can intersect with relationships, sex, gender, neurodivergence, family, work, sobriety, financial stress and belonging.
My approach is genuine, collaborative and nonjudgmental. You set the pace and help determine where our work goes. Along the way, I can help you build practical skills for managing distress, regulating emotions, navigating relationships and advocating for yourself while making space for the complexity of your experiences and identities.
I am a proud advocate for LGBTQIA+ and marginalized communities and strive to create a therapeutic environment where every person feels respected, valued, and safe to explore their authentic self.
I create a safe, affirming space for individuals, couples, and families to heal and grow. As a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist, I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship concerns, and LGBTQIA+ care. My approach is compassionate, culturally responsive, and tailored to help clients build resilience and lasting change.
I am a proud advocate for LGBTQIA+ and marginalized communities and strive to create a therapeutic environment where every person feels respected, valued, and safe to explore their authentic self.
I create a safe, affirming space for individuals, couples, and families to heal and grow. As a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist, I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship concerns, and LGBTQIA+ care. My approach is compassionate, culturally responsive, and tailored to help clients build resilience and lasting change.
You may be a child, adult, or family looking for support with: feeling stuck in addiction, compulsive behaviors, mood disruptions, or patterns you can’t break; feeling failed or misunderstood by other therapies or higher levels of care; anxiety, resentment, or confusion about your identity or your life; experience of trauma or struggling at school or at home; a neurodiverse child who is struggling; feeling disconnected from purpose or direction; feeling exhausted, stuck, or unsure if anything will actually help. My approach is relational, and focused on helping you feel comfortable enough to do deeper work.
You may be a child, adult, or family looking for support with: feeling stuck in addiction, compulsive behaviors, mood disruptions, or patterns you can’t break; feeling failed or misunderstood by other therapies or higher levels of care; anxiety, resentment, or confusion about your identity or your life; experience of trauma or struggling at school or at home; a neurodiverse child who is struggling; feeling disconnected from purpose or direction; feeling exhausted, stuck, or unsure if anything will actually help. My approach is relational, and focused on helping you feel comfortable enough to do deeper work.
Outside of therapy, I feel most grounded when I am biking, dancing in Chicago’s queer nightlife scene, reading music blogs, and connecting with friends.
My training includes school-based therapy, college counseling, childhood trauma assessment, harm reduction for substance use, and ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP). I work well with clients navigating identity development, attachment patterns, religious trauma, anxiety, ENM/poly relationships, boundary setting, and self-care skill building. My approach is grounded in non-judgment, compassion, and curiosity. I believe that many symptoms—like anxiety, depression, and burnout—are rooted in relational stress and disconnection.
Outside of therapy, I feel most grounded when I am biking, dancing in Chicago’s queer nightlife scene, reading music blogs, and connecting with friends.
My training includes school-based therapy, college counseling, childhood trauma assessment, harm reduction for substance use, and ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP). I work well with clients navigating identity development, attachment patterns, religious trauma, anxiety, ENM/poly relationships, boundary setting, and self-care skill building. My approach is grounded in non-judgment, compassion, and curiosity. I believe that many symptoms—like anxiety, depression, and burnout—are rooted in relational stress and disconnection.
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Lyons
- Berwyn
- Bridgeview
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Forest Park
- La Grange
- La Grange Park
- Maywood
- North Riverside
- Riverside
- Westchester
- Western Springs
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.