Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Skokie, IL
My ideal client may looks strong on the outside but feels like they’re quietly falling apart inside. They overthink, hold everything together, and feel unseen in their relationships. They want to stop performing “fine” and start feeling real, steady, clear, and connected. Some struggle with personality patterns that keep them stuck; others are couples unsure whether to stay or separate. What they want most is relief. They need clarity, honesty, and change that finally feels different, not just talked about.
My ideal client may looks strong on the outside but feels like they’re quietly falling apart inside. They overthink, hold everything together, and feel unseen in their relationships. They want to stop performing “fine” and start feeling real, steady, clear, and connected. Some struggle with personality patterns that keep them stuck; others are couples unsure whether to stay or separate. What they want most is relief. They need clarity, honesty, and change that finally feels different, not just talked about.
I believe change occurs in the context of our relationships, with our own self and with others. Oftentimes, when people seek out therapy, they are feeling lost, discarded, and may be filled with self-doubt and negative thoughts and feelings about themselves in the world. I work with clients to forge new ways of relating to ourselves and others to engage more fully in the world. We do this by learning a range of new skills and processing past experiences, but at its core, it is about connection with another human being and being seen, heard, understood, respected, and known.
I believe change occurs in the context of our relationships, with our own self and with others. Oftentimes, when people seek out therapy, they are feeling lost, discarded, and may be filled with self-doubt and negative thoughts and feelings about themselves in the world. I work with clients to forge new ways of relating to ourselves and others to engage more fully in the world. We do this by learning a range of new skills and processing past experiences, but at its core, it is about connection with another human being and being seen, heard, understood, respected, and known.
It’s no secret that life can be difficult, and these difficulties are influenced by everything all around us, who we are, what we look like, what language we speak, what neighborhood we live in, and how we engage in our free time (if we even have time for that anymore). Relationships, learning, parenting, and life changes all come with a series of challenges that can be navigated to foster a sense of empowerment and internal strength.
It’s no secret that life can be difficult, and these difficulties are influenced by everything all around us, who we are, what we look like, what language we speak, what neighborhood we live in, and how we engage in our free time (if we even have time for that anymore). Relationships, learning, parenting, and life changes all come with a series of challenges that can be navigated to foster a sense of empowerment and internal strength.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I am passionate about guiding individuals through personal journeys toward mental and emotional well-being. I have experience working with individuals and groups focusing on issues like depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress, and grief.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I am passionate about guiding individuals through personal journeys toward mental and emotional well-being. I have experience working with individuals and groups focusing on issues like depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress, and grief.
In addition, I have taught multiple classes across a variety of topics, including suicide, kink, attachment, DID, and complex PTSD.
Looking for a not-so-typical therapist? I'm your vibe. I practice sitting with clients and understanding their truth and perspective, using sessions to help explore clients’ inner selves through processing and being allowed a positive space to best understand a client’s needs. By creating a positive space which feels comfortable, I work with clients to find what is most helpful and rewarding in sessions and allow the clients to guide their therapy journey in a manner that fits best.
In addition, I have taught multiple classes across a variety of topics, including suicide, kink, attachment, DID, and complex PTSD.
Looking for a not-so-typical therapist? I'm your vibe. I practice sitting with clients and understanding their truth and perspective, using sessions to help explore clients’ inner selves through processing and being allowed a positive space to best understand a client’s needs. By creating a positive space which feels comfortable, I work with clients to find what is most helpful and rewarding in sessions and allow the clients to guide their therapy journey in a manner that fits best.
I love working with individuals who are struggling to break free of old habits, patterns of behavior, or relationships that are no longer serving them. Often it takes getting to the "end of our rope" with things to find that we have the most motivation to change. Making changes can be really scary and anxiety provoking, even when we know what we've been doing up until this point isn't working. I like being that supportive partner that helps a client figure out what isn't working, what they might like to change, and how. I value moving at a client's pace, in their direction, and in pursuit of their own vision for their life.
I love working with individuals who are struggling to break free of old habits, patterns of behavior, or relationships that are no longer serving them. Often it takes getting to the "end of our rope" with things to find that we have the most motivation to change. Making changes can be really scary and anxiety provoking, even when we know what we've been doing up until this point isn't working. I like being that supportive partner that helps a client figure out what isn't working, what they might like to change, and how. I value moving at a client's pace, in their direction, and in pursuit of their own vision for their life.
Authorized to practice in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, and WY
As a therapist, I work well with individuals and relationships who are curious about themselves, our work together, and the possibilities for a healthier future. Clients often find that I am a warm, patient, curious, humorous, kind, and supportive person on their journey toward self-improvement. I am passionate about my work with clients who are LGBTQ2SIA+, and I love working with gender-expansive folx.
Authorized to practice in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, and WY
As a therapist, I work well with individuals and relationships who are curious about themselves, our work together, and the possibilities for a healthier future. Clients often find that I am a warm, patient, curious, humorous, kind, and supportive person on their journey toward self-improvement. I am passionate about my work with clients who are LGBTQ2SIA+, and I love working with gender-expansive folx.
I specialize in treatment of trauma, and working with children, adolescents, alternative lifestyles, LGBTQ, and have Jungian dream analysis training. I prefer open ended and free flowing approaches that will include multiple modalities in sessions such as movement, games and artistic expressions. I would describe my therapeutic approach as open, using humor, as I recognize therapy sessions should not solely focus on negative feelings. My clinical orientation is eclectic and I can fluidly merge multiple approaches such as behavioral, cognitive, relational, psycho-dynamic. I focus a lot on the use of Jungian Theory synchronicity.
I specialize in treatment of trauma, and working with children, adolescents, alternative lifestyles, LGBTQ, and have Jungian dream analysis training. I prefer open ended and free flowing approaches that will include multiple modalities in sessions such as movement, games and artistic expressions. I would describe my therapeutic approach as open, using humor, as I recognize therapy sessions should not solely focus on negative feelings. My clinical orientation is eclectic and I can fluidly merge multiple approaches such as behavioral, cognitive, relational, psycho-dynamic. I focus a lot on the use of Jungian Theory synchronicity.
I am a bilingual, Puerto Rican, therapist with a passion for serving LGBTQ+ individuals and relationships, as well as immigrant populations. I believe that therapy often reflects the complexity inherent in life and it brings me joy to learn about and with my clients as we move through that complexity together. I enjoy working with people from different contexts and backgrounds. My clients bring stories of discovering themselves and their place in the world.
I am a bilingual, Puerto Rican, therapist with a passion for serving LGBTQ+ individuals and relationships, as well as immigrant populations. I believe that therapy often reflects the complexity inherent in life and it brings me joy to learn about and with my clients as we move through that complexity together. I enjoy working with people from different contexts and backgrounds. My clients bring stories of discovering themselves and their place in the world.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties? I provide compassionate, developmentally informed psychotherapy across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My work is grounded in the belief that lasting change comes from understanding the deeper roots of our emotional patterns and behaviors. By exploring your internal world - thoughts, feelings, relationships, and early experiences - we can uncover what’s holding you back and create room for growth and healing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties? I provide compassionate, developmentally informed psychotherapy across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My work is grounded in the belief that lasting change comes from understanding the deeper roots of our emotional patterns and behaviors. By exploring your internal world - thoughts, feelings, relationships, and early experiences - we can uncover what’s holding you back and create room for growth and healing.
I specialize in working with resolving depressive and anxious symptoms related to trauma. We will work together to find resolution to the pain and allow you to lead a more fulfilling and healthy life. I understand that the effects of trauma can interfere with all aspects of our lives. We will work together to allow you to feel more capable of managing life's stressors and develop healthier relationships. I also work with couples on healing unhealthy and painful relationship patterns. In couples work, we will develop tools to learn how to resolve conflict and increase safety in the relationship.
I specialize in working with resolving depressive and anxious symptoms related to trauma. We will work together to find resolution to the pain and allow you to lead a more fulfilling and healthy life. I understand that the effects of trauma can interfere with all aspects of our lives. We will work together to allow you to feel more capable of managing life's stressors and develop healthier relationships. I also work with couples on healing unhealthy and painful relationship patterns. In couples work, we will develop tools to learn how to resolve conflict and increase safety in the relationship.
My clients can be anyone, but I tend to most work with people struggling with their identities, struggling with connection, and working through transitional stages in life. My clients are facing the world and trying to figure out their place in it. My clients are trying to define themselves, and make connections with others. Most importantly, my clients want to work towards a future they are excited to experience.
My clients can be anyone, but I tend to most work with people struggling with their identities, struggling with connection, and working through transitional stages in life. My clients are facing the world and trying to figure out their place in it. My clients are trying to define themselves, and make connections with others. Most importantly, my clients want to work towards a future they are excited to experience.
Traumatic events leave invisible wounds, and healing begins with understanding how trauma has shaped you. These experiences often affect not only emotions but also relationships, self-esteem, and the way you move through daily life. I specialize in acute trauma and bring extensive training in DBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR to support children, teens, and adults in finding safety and stability again. My work is grounded in creating a non-judgmental, compassionate environment where you can process painful experiences at a pace that feels right for you.
Traumatic events leave invisible wounds, and healing begins with understanding how trauma has shaped you. These experiences often affect not only emotions but also relationships, self-esteem, and the way you move through daily life. I specialize in acute trauma and bring extensive training in DBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR to support children, teens, and adults in finding safety and stability again. My work is grounded in creating a non-judgmental, compassionate environment where you can process painful experiences at a pace that feels right for you.
Jeanine Cannella Howe
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC, CDVP
14 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
Are you ready to make a change? "Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." Instead of ignoring problems, work with me to explore your challenges, set goals, and build on your strengths. Learn how to gain innovative ways of coping with life stressors. I incorporate approaches that will be most beneficial to the individual, couple, or family. I take a direct interactive collaborative approach. I believe our counseling relationship is important to your growth. The goal is to lead you to a more satisfied and balanced life.
Are you ready to make a change? "Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." Instead of ignoring problems, work with me to explore your challenges, set goals, and build on your strengths. Learn how to gain innovative ways of coping with life stressors. I incorporate approaches that will be most beneficial to the individual, couple, or family. I take a direct interactive collaborative approach. I believe our counseling relationship is important to your growth. The goal is to lead you to a more satisfied and balanced life.
I specialize with queer, non-monogamous, and kink communities.
Therapy can sometimes feel awkward or uncomfortable, and it's not always easy. That's why the therapeutic relationship is so important! My goal as a therapist is to support clients in using their strengths to stay curious and help them work towards their goals for a fulfilling life. Through an interpersonal and contextual lens, we can work towards greater self-understanding and improved relationships. I also do single session WPATH for gender-affirming care and psychological assessments for diagnostic clarity.
I specialize with queer, non-monogamous, and kink communities.
Therapy can sometimes feel awkward or uncomfortable, and it's not always easy. That's why the therapeutic relationship is so important! My goal as a therapist is to support clients in using their strengths to stay curious and help them work towards their goals for a fulfilling life. Through an interpersonal and contextual lens, we can work towards greater self-understanding and improved relationships. I also do single session WPATH for gender-affirming care and psychological assessments for diagnostic clarity.
Though each person’s experience is unique, a common thread is that not knowing where emotions come from adds to suffering. My hope is to provide a nonjudgmental place to better understand your emotions so that you can gain a sense of agency in creating a meaningful life. A meaningful life may involve feeling comfortable sitting alone with your thoughts, the past becoming less haunting, more effective communication in relationships, believing you are good enough as you are, or something else. Whatever you are working towards, I am here to support you.
Though each person’s experience is unique, a common thread is that not knowing where emotions come from adds to suffering. My hope is to provide a nonjudgmental place to better understand your emotions so that you can gain a sense of agency in creating a meaningful life. A meaningful life may involve feeling comfortable sitting alone with your thoughts, the past becoming less haunting, more effective communication in relationships, believing you are good enough as you are, or something else. Whatever you are working towards, I am here to support you.
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.
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
My clinical approach fits best with clients who want to better understand how their psychological symptoms are linked to experiences they have had in their past. By building a therapeutic space that honors the impact of these lived experiences on their minds and bodies, I help clients rewrite the narratives of their lives and have more compassion for their many parts of themselves. I also understand the impact ancient wisdom and spiritual practice can have on mental health and work with individuals of all faith traditions to incorporate this into their therapeutic journey as appropriate.
My clinical approach fits best with clients who want to better understand how their psychological symptoms are linked to experiences they have had in their past. By building a therapeutic space that honors the impact of these lived experiences on their minds and bodies, I help clients rewrite the narratives of their lives and have more compassion for their many parts of themselves. I also understand the impact ancient wisdom and spiritual practice can have on mental health and work with individuals of all faith traditions to incorporate this into their therapeutic journey as appropriate.
I am dedicated and passionate about forming a meaningful bond with each client I work with. Empathic, effective, and client-centered mental health care are foundations of my therapeutic practice, and I aspire to create a space that is both welcoming and safe for all clients.
I am dedicated and passionate about forming a meaningful bond with each client I work with. Empathic, effective, and client-centered mental health care are foundations of my therapeutic practice, and I aspire to create a space that is both welcoming and safe for all clients.
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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.