LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Montgomery, IL
Deborah Brozewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
Jaclyn Harwey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Matthew Graden
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
I specialize in working with highly sensitive persons (HSPs) and LGBTQ+ people.
Pronouns: he/they. I have master's degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Northern Illinois University, where I studied counseling and education. I hold the credentials of Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Professional Educator License (PEL) in Illinois. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) by the National Board for Certified Counselors. I have helped people with their personal growth, mental health, and wellness in inpatient, outpatient, and educational settings.
I specialize in working with highly sensitive persons (HSPs) and LGBTQ+ people.
Pronouns: he/they. I have master's degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Northern Illinois University, where I studied counseling and education. I hold the credentials of Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Professional Educator License (PEL) in Illinois. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) by the National Board for Certified Counselors. I have helped people with their personal growth, mental health, and wellness in inpatient, outpatient, and educational settings.
Christine Caputo
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538
I have experience and training in working with the LGBTQ community and their family.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
I have experience and training in working with the LGBTQ community and their family.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
Joy Lockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Joy uses her compassion and down-to-earth nature to provide an environment where clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. She understands that seeking change, or something different, is not an easy process. Joy forms collaborative partnerships with her clients when developing therapeutic goals and a plan for care. She uses mindfulness, empathy and insight to aid in the empowerment of clients. In addition, Joy also utilizes a varity of therapy techniques.
Joy uses her compassion and down-to-earth nature to provide an environment where clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. She understands that seeking change, or something different, is not an easy process. Joy forms collaborative partnerships with her clients when developing therapeutic goals and a plan for care. She uses mindfulness, empathy and insight to aid in the empowerment of clients. In addition, Joy also utilizes a varity of therapy techniques.
Ryan Muir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
Jaymee Goodspeed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Jaymee Goodspeed is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. She has an MSW from Aurora University and EMDR Training from The Trauma Institute & Child Trauma Institute. Jaymee's experience includes the justice-involved population, along with community-based mental health with additional competency working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and substance use disorders and who need crisis stabilization. As a therapist, she utilizes a very honest, empathetic, and diversified approach that is continuously evolving to meet the individual client's needs.
Jaymee Goodspeed is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. She has an MSW from Aurora University and EMDR Training from The Trauma Institute & Child Trauma Institute. Jaymee's experience includes the justice-involved population, along with community-based mental health with additional competency working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and substance use disorders and who need crisis stabilization. As a therapist, she utilizes a very honest, empathetic, and diversified approach that is continuously evolving to meet the individual client's needs.
Stephen Hoffmann
Counselor, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Waitlist for new clients
Steve Hoffmann is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 35 years of experience in the mental health field. He works with families, couples, and individuals ages 12 and up. He has also worked with developmentally disabled adults and chronically severely mentally ill adults and assisting families with young children to find services for various developmental delays. He uses skills and tools from various types of therapy and has been trained in EMDR for trauma recovery and FBT (Family Based Therapy) for families wrestling with eating disorders.
Steve Hoffmann is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 35 years of experience in the mental health field. He works with families, couples, and individuals ages 12 and up. He has also worked with developmentally disabled adults and chronically severely mentally ill adults and assisting families with young children to find services for various developmental delays. He uses skills and tools from various types of therapy and has been trained in EMDR for trauma recovery and FBT (Family Based Therapy) for families wrestling with eating disorders.
Kathy Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
My career in psychology began with graduate study at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Chicago, IL), which included a certificate in Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, followed by completion of a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University (Lisle, IL). My practice is grounded in positive, humanistic values that encourage personal growth and healing with a variety of treatment modalities.
My career in psychology began with graduate study at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Chicago, IL), which included a certificate in Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, followed by completion of a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University (Lisle, IL). My practice is grounded in positive, humanistic values that encourage personal growth and healing with a variety of treatment modalities.
Laura Kenward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Laura Sauer-Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
Laura Sauer-Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
Ashley Denny
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Ashley Denny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women & Gender Studies and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ashley believes one of the bravest tasks a person can do is begin to understand their own story. She values creating a safe, inclusive, affirming, and empowering space for all her clients. Sometimes we might feel alone or lost or that no one could possibly understand how we are feeling. We are all unique and have a story to tell, and you deserve to feel better.
Ashley Denny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women & Gender Studies and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ashley believes one of the bravest tasks a person can do is begin to understand their own story. She values creating a safe, inclusive, affirming, and empowering space for all her clients. Sometimes we might feel alone or lost or that no one could possibly understand how we are feeling. We are all unique and have a story to tell, and you deserve to feel better.
Joseph Bynum
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Therapy does not need to be dark or mysterious. In fact, it can be invigorating and empowering. You and I will create a partnership, which focuses on healing. As a team, we will establish clear goals and immediately begin working to achieve them. My approach is to identify your personal strengths and support you in utilizing these strengths to overcome life's challenges. I believe therapy should be a partnership between you and your Therapist, but with different roles. My role as your Therapist is to meet you on your level, and help you get to the next level.
Therapy does not need to be dark or mysterious. In fact, it can be invigorating and empowering. You and I will create a partnership, which focuses on healing. As a team, we will establish clear goals and immediately begin working to achieve them. My approach is to identify your personal strengths and support you in utilizing these strengths to overcome life's challenges. I believe therapy should be a partnership between you and your Therapist, but with different roles. My role as your Therapist is to meet you on your level, and help you get to the next level.
Jeannine Pacetti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Jeannine Pacetti, LPC, RD, LDN Strives to help clients achieve healthy relationships and life balance. She serves clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. Jeannine is a licensed professional counselor, registered dietitian, and has over 25 years experience in education & clinical settings. She's a well respected therapist and advocate and was named School Counselor of the Year in her academic role and has developed a nationally recognized school counseling program. In therapy, Jeannine uses CBT, Healthy Mindset & Lifestyle, and Holistic Wellness to achieve client goals.
Jeannine Pacetti, LPC, RD, LDN Strives to help clients achieve healthy relationships and life balance. She serves clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. Jeannine is a licensed professional counselor, registered dietitian, and has over 25 years experience in education & clinical settings. She's a well respected therapist and advocate and was named School Counselor of the Year in her academic role and has developed a nationally recognized school counseling program. In therapy, Jeannine uses CBT, Healthy Mindset & Lifestyle, and Holistic Wellness to achieve client goals.
Lynette Terrell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Lynette Terrell is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2011. She has an undergraduate degree from Governors State University with a major in Pre-Clinical Psychology and minor in Addictions Studies, and a Master's degree in Clinical Professional Psychology at Roosevelt University. Lynette's goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting positive change and resilience. Her approach is collaborative, understanding, caring, and supportive while you embark on your journey through change to enhance your quality of life.
Lynette Terrell is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2011. She has an undergraduate degree from Governors State University with a major in Pre-Clinical Psychology and minor in Addictions Studies, and a Master's degree in Clinical Professional Psychology at Roosevelt University. Lynette's goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting positive change and resilience. Her approach is collaborative, understanding, caring, and supportive while you embark on your journey through change to enhance your quality of life.
Megan Schauner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
I am passionate about working with individuals to achieve their goals and improving their lives. Change can be difficult, but you and I will work together in developing an individualized plan of support to meet your needs. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of issues from Eating Disorders, DepressionSelf Worth, Anxiety, and Crisis Situations in a variety of settings. I am trained in variety of modalities including Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which I use to tailor a unique approach for you.
I am passionate about working with individuals to achieve their goals and improving their lives. Change can be difficult, but you and I will work together in developing an individualized plan of support to meet your needs. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of issues from Eating Disorders, DepressionSelf Worth, Anxiety, and Crisis Situations in a variety of settings. I am trained in variety of modalities including Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which I use to tailor a unique approach for you.
Decolonized Wellness
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538 (Online Only)
Co-Creating Liberation with Grace & Grit I'm Jacqueline Shelton-Espinosa, a wellness coach on a mission to ignite social justice within and without. My journey blends the fire of activism with the grace of radical acceptance, crafting a path where personal growth and societal change intersect. Forget one-size-fits-all solutions. I believe in co-creating liberation – a collaborative journey where we explore your unique experiences, dismantle internalized limitations, and build the resilience to challenge unjust systems.
Co-Creating Liberation with Grace & Grit I'm Jacqueline Shelton-Espinosa, a wellness coach on a mission to ignite social justice within and without. My journey blends the fire of activism with the grace of radical acceptance, crafting a path where personal growth and societal change intersect. Forget one-size-fits-all solutions. I believe in co-creating liberation – a collaborative journey where we explore your unique experiences, dismantle internalized limitations, and build the resilience to challenge unjust systems.
Kristina Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.
Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.
Heather A Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
At Oswego Wellness we understand that psychological struggles can feel so isolating, yet are experienced by everyone at various points in our lives. We want to partner with you to create a treatment plan that encompasses the very idea of wellness--in all of the facets of your life that matter most to you. The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce your suffering, so that you can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life. We are happy to answer any of your questions to help decide if our practice could be beneficial to you.
At Oswego Wellness we understand that psychological struggles can feel so isolating, yet are experienced by everyone at various points in our lives. We want to partner with you to create a treatment plan that encompasses the very idea of wellness--in all of the facets of your life that matter most to you. The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce your suffering, so that you can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life. We are happy to answer any of your questions to help decide if our practice could be beneficial to you.
Kyle Fiore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
Trinity Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CYT, CHT
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
If you are experiencing increased stress, negative beliefs about yourself, tend to worry frequently, are struggling with past painful experiences, are having difficulty sleeping, have a low mood, are struggling with a relationship, and/or generally want to improve your life, we may be a great fit. At Trinity Wellness Counseling, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective interventions to help you heal. I work with adults of all ages.
If you are experiencing increased stress, negative beliefs about yourself, tend to worry frequently, are struggling with past painful experiences, are having difficulty sleeping, have a low mood, are struggling with a relationship, and/or generally want to improve your life, we may be a great fit. At Trinity Wellness Counseling, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective interventions to help you heal. I work with adults of all ages.
See more therapy options for Montgomery
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Montgomery
- Aurora
- Batavia
- Bolingbrook
- Elburn
- Geneva
- Naperville
- North Aurora
- Oswego
- Plainfield
- Sugar Grove
- Warrenville
- Yorkville
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.