LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Warrenville, IL
Jenaleigh Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555 (Online Only)
I have spent more than 15 years working with
LGBTQIA
folx, people who have experienced trauma, & diverse relationships.
I believe in the power of radical empathy. Many of the people I have worked with have experienced pain, or the weight of high expectations from themselves and others around them. I have been privileged to witness others find their authentic selves and overcome challenging obstacles along the way. I am honored to hold space for you as you work through things that feel heavy, cheer you on when it begins to feel easy again, and walk with you for all the moments in between.
I have spent more than 15 years working with
LGBTQIA
folx, people who have experienced trauma, & diverse relationships.
I believe in the power of radical empathy. Many of the people I have worked with have experienced pain, or the weight of high expectations from themselves and others around them. I have been privileged to witness others find their authentic selves and overcome challenging obstacles along the way. I am honored to hold space for you as you work through things that feel heavy, cheer you on when it begins to feel easy again, and walk with you for all the moments in between.
Ciara Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAMS-II, MCR
Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
All therapy starts with collaboration at it's core. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and we commend you for considering therapy as a tool for self-exploration and growth. Many find that building a supportive and interactive relationship with their therapist contributes to the overall effectiveness of therapy. We offer a safe and non-judgmental environment, with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your well-being. Our services are offered to adults and teens, specializing in difficulties related to: stress, coping with life's changes, anxiety, trauma, identity, body image, self-esteem, and
LGBTQ
+.
All therapy starts with collaboration at it's core. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and we commend you for considering therapy as a tool for self-exploration and growth. Many find that building a supportive and interactive relationship with their therapist contributes to the overall effectiveness of therapy. We offer a safe and non-judgmental environment, with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your well-being. Our services are offered to adults and teens, specializing in difficulties related to: stress, coping with life's changes, anxiety, trauma, identity, body image, self-esteem, and
LGBTQ
+.
Emily Majkrzak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PEL
Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555 (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with children and adolescents, the
LGBTQIA
+ community, those with school anxiety/avoidance behaviors and family relationships. I aim to create a safe and comfortable space for my clients. I understand that therapy cannot be a one-size fits all approach. I use a variety of modalities with each of my clients. I also am committed to continuously learning and growing as a therapist, so that I may provide the best help that I can.
I am passionate about working with children and adolescents, the
LGBTQIA
+ community, those with school anxiety/avoidance behaviors and family relationships. I aim to create a safe and comfortable space for my clients. I understand that therapy cannot be a one-size fits all approach. I use a variety of modalities with each of my clients. I also am committed to continuously learning and growing as a therapist, so that I may provide the best help that I can.
Leela Sims
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
Greetings! I'm Leela, a dedicated advocate of personal growth and positive change, with a special focus on empowering women,
trans
/non-binary individuals, and older adults.
Greetings! I'm Leela, a dedicated advocate of personal growth and positive change, with a special focus on empowering women,
trans
/non-binary individuals, and older adults.
Melissa A Gray
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for individuals of all ages, from youth to adults and elders, seeking to overcome life's challenges and embark on a journey toward healing and growth. I embrace and support the needs of women, the neurodivergent,
LGBTQ
+, and anyone feeling unseen and unheard.
I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for individuals of all ages, from youth to adults and elders, seeking to overcome life's challenges and embark on a journey toward healing and growth. I embrace and support the needs of women, the neurodivergent,
LGBTQ
+, and anyone feeling unseen and unheard.
Allison L Fau
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555 (Online Only)
I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and
LGBTQIA
+.
My approach as a therapist is being kind and relatable. Therapy can be a difficult step to manage, I want to make my clients feel they are in a safe environment that offers support, empathy, comfort, and a positive space where they can work through and tackle each individual issue. I have knowledge of individuals from children to adolescents. Topics included within my experience would be anxiety, depression, ADHD,
LGBTQ
+, stress, and life transition. I would use a variety of techniques to work through their needs and it is unique to each client of mine.
I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and
LGBTQIA
+.
My approach as a therapist is being kind and relatable. Therapy can be a difficult step to manage, I want to make my clients feel they are in a safe environment that offers support, empathy, comfort, and a positive space where they can work through and tackle each individual issue. I have knowledge of individuals from children to adolescents. Topics included within my experience would be anxiety, depression, ADHD,
LGBTQ
+, stress, and life transition. I would use a variety of techniques to work through their needs and it is unique to each client of mine.
Amy Jeffers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified
6 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
My areas of focus include the treatment of anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, and
LGBTQ
+/identity issues, as well as women struggling with motherhood or life transitions, and individuals facing parenting challenges.
My ideal client is anyone willing to come to counseling and be open to the process! Regardless of where a client may be starting from or what they’re hoping to accomplish, I believe that anyone who is willing to show up and engage in the therapeutic process can benefit, and I am happy to guide and support them on their journey. I believe I would be an especially good fit for those clients who want to learn more about themselves and the “why” behind their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts; hope to develop a deeper, more genuine connection with themselves and others; and can appreciate some gentle challenging when appropriate.
My areas of focus include the treatment of anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, and
LGBTQ
+/identity issues, as well as women struggling with motherhood or life transitions, and individuals facing parenting challenges.
My ideal client is anyone willing to come to counseling and be open to the process! Regardless of where a client may be starting from or what they’re hoping to accomplish, I believe that anyone who is willing to show up and engage in the therapeutic process can benefit, and I am happy to guide and support them on their journey. I believe I would be an especially good fit for those clients who want to learn more about themselves and the “why” behind their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts; hope to develop a deeper, more genuine connection with themselves and others; and can appreciate some gentle challenging when appropriate.
Camille Ellimac-Raheem
Counselor, LPC
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Camille Ellimac-Raheem is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She graduated from Seton Hall University with an M. A. in Professional Counseling and is currently pursuing her Ph. D in Counseling & Psychological Studies. Camille is passionate about helping clients create goals and action plans to navigate life's challenges. In order to have an effective therapeutic relationship with clients, it is imperative that the client and Camille work collaboratively in order for the client to achieve their therapeutic goals.
Camille Ellimac-Raheem is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She graduated from Seton Hall University with an M. A. in Professional Counseling and is currently pursuing her Ph. D in Counseling & Psychological Studies. Camille is passionate about helping clients create goals and action plans to navigate life's challenges. In order to have an effective therapeutic relationship with clients, it is imperative that the client and Camille work collaboratively in order for the client to achieve their therapeutic goals.
Carolyn Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Carolyn Richards is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Carolyn believes that you are the expert of your own experiences. She works from a helping perspective to provide you with the support you need to make the changes you wish to have in your daily life. Carolyn works with you to understand how counseling can benefit you in the season of life that you're in. Once she has gained an understanding of the concerns, Carolyn works with you to better understand ways of coping and operating within your daily life through the use of evidence-based practices like DBT, CBT, ACT, bio feedback, and others.
Carolyn Richards is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Carolyn believes that you are the expert of your own experiences. She works from a helping perspective to provide you with the support you need to make the changes you wish to have in your daily life. Carolyn works with you to understand how counseling can benefit you in the season of life that you're in. Once she has gained an understanding of the concerns, Carolyn works with you to better understand ways of coping and operating within your daily life through the use of evidence-based practices like DBT, CBT, ACT, bio feedback, and others.
Kristen Melchiori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Kristen Melchiori has a wealth of experience working with clients in a variety of levels of care. Having worked in foster care, therapeutic day school, substance abuse residential, and community mental health, she is able to help clients navigate complex external systems. She is adept at handling crisis situations and helping clients manage the most difficult times in their lives. She uses a trauma informed approach to help individuals make new meaning in their lives and find their personal path to success.
Kristen Melchiori has a wealth of experience working with clients in a variety of levels of care. Having worked in foster care, therapeutic day school, substance abuse residential, and community mental health, she is able to help clients navigate complex external systems. She is adept at handling crisis situations and helping clients manage the most difficult times in their lives. She uses a trauma informed approach to help individuals make new meaning in their lives and find their personal path to success.
Anne J Dickinson
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, CADC
Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified in Hypnosis. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 2004 and my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in 2012. I work with ages 11 and older and have over 29 years experience with adults, adolescents and families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified in Hypnosis. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 2004 and my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in 2012. I work with ages 11 and older and have over 29 years experience with adults, adolescents and families.
Ashley Ullyot
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I believe that each person is deserving of fulfillment in every relationship. To attain that, we need to recognize the complexity of relationships. My ideal client is wanting to be more aware of relational patterns so that they can recreate the moments they desire most. My goal is to help people feel heard and accepted within their relationships. I do this through creating an environment where differences are appreciated and authentic choices can be identified to maintain connection.
I believe that each person is deserving of fulfillment in every relationship. To attain that, we need to recognize the complexity of relationships. My ideal client is wanting to be more aware of relational patterns so that they can recreate the moments they desire most. My goal is to help people feel heard and accepted within their relationships. I do this through creating an environment where differences are appreciated and authentic choices can be identified to maintain connection.
Starlene Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
One of my ideal clients would be identified as a Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron, PhD. It can be difficult to know how best to guard your energy while still being available for the people and activities you love. Another client might share they would like to reach their fullest potential and would appreciate a trainer of sorts to do so. Someone else's needs might center around increased ability to maintain emotional stability, even when disagreeing with a loved one.
One of my ideal clients would be identified as a Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron, PhD. It can be difficult to know how best to guard your energy while still being available for the people and activities you love. Another client might share they would like to reach their fullest potential and would appreciate a trainer of sorts to do so. Someone else's needs might center around increased ability to maintain emotional stability, even when disagreeing with a loved one.
Sophia Cortes-Moreno
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Trauma, especially childhood trauma can affect every aspect of your life. Borderline personality disorder is often misunderstood and I want my clients to know that they are not a diagnosis. Issues of trauma, BPD, racial issues, and communicating within your family system can be stressful, and cause a variety of life altering symptoms. Anxiety, stress, depression, harsh internal thoughts, and loss of hope are some of the reasons my clients come to therapy. During therapy, I want you to feel understood, and safe to open up and process these deep concerns.
Trauma, especially childhood trauma can affect every aspect of your life. Borderline personality disorder is often misunderstood and I want my clients to know that they are not a diagnosis. Issues of trauma, BPD, racial issues, and communicating within your family system can be stressful, and cause a variety of life altering symptoms. Anxiety, stress, depression, harsh internal thoughts, and loss of hope are some of the reasons my clients come to therapy. During therapy, I want you to feel understood, and safe to open up and process these deep concerns.
Dr. Lenore Tinics
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Everyday we are presented with challenges. It is your choice as to how you will manage them. As a mental health provider, I can help you create a strategy and path that will allow you to take control and manage your life so that you feel more satisfied and happier. Together we will work toward realistic goals that are set by you and I will work with you at a pace that is comfortable for you. Because everyone is different, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy that is customized to you and your needs. I have experience working with diverse clients in a variety of ages children through the senior community.
Everyday we are presented with challenges. It is your choice as to how you will manage them. As a mental health provider, I can help you create a strategy and path that will allow you to take control and manage your life so that you feel more satisfied and happier. Together we will work toward realistic goals that are set by you and I will work with you at a pace that is comfortable for you. Because everyone is different, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy that is customized to you and your needs. I have experience working with diverse clients in a variety of ages children through the senior community.
Trude Holli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555 (Online Only)
Yes. I am convinced that mental health is not achieved in isolation, which is why I commend you for reaching out. Trusting is so hard if you have endured more than most. Learning how to deal with what is inside is harder if nobody ever taught you how to make sense of it all. Therapy is a special process where in the moment you let a safe person experience hurt alongside you, you might feel less alone and scared to feel. Less weird for what has or is happening. When we feel less alone, we could even try what it would be like to practice responses that won’t get us deeper into depression and anxiety.
Yes. I am convinced that mental health is not achieved in isolation, which is why I commend you for reaching out. Trusting is so hard if you have endured more than most. Learning how to deal with what is inside is harder if nobody ever taught you how to make sense of it all. Therapy is a special process where in the moment you let a safe person experience hurt alongside you, you might feel less alone and scared to feel. Less weird for what has or is happening. When we feel less alone, we could even try what it would be like to practice responses that won’t get us deeper into depression and anxiety.
Molly Ansari
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Registered Art Therapist and hold a doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision, working in my own practice, Molly Jo Counseling & Art Therapy Services. I am currently accepting new clients at this location and see children, adults, couples and families. My experience is in both in-patient and out-patient settings focusing on work related to trauma recovery and severe mental health disorders. My area of focus currently is trauma-focused therapy, depression, anxiety, relational issues, and self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Registered Art Therapist and hold a doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision, working in my own practice, Molly Jo Counseling & Art Therapy Services. I am currently accepting new clients at this location and see children, adults, couples and families. My experience is in both in-patient and out-patient settings focusing on work related to trauma recovery and severe mental health disorders. My area of focus currently is trauma-focused therapy, depression, anxiety, relational issues, and self-esteem.
Tasheika Nash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Do you struggle with vulnerability? Are you struggling with creating or maintaining healthy relationships? Are you ruminating on negative thoughts or situations? Do you struggle with imposter syndrome? Are you dealing with transgenerational trauma? Parentification? If you answered yes, I can assist you. Sometimes life events, our environment, or trauma can impact our mental health. I am dedicated to providing healing to people who have been through traumatic or stressful events. I am a licensed social worker who enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and couples. Increasing self-awareness and self-esteem along the way.
Do you struggle with vulnerability? Are you struggling with creating or maintaining healthy relationships? Are you ruminating on negative thoughts or situations? Do you struggle with imposter syndrome? Are you dealing with transgenerational trauma? Parentification? If you answered yes, I can assist you. Sometimes life events, our environment, or trauma can impact our mental health. I am dedicated to providing healing to people who have been through traumatic or stressful events. I am a licensed social worker who enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and couples. Increasing self-awareness and self-esteem along the way.
Yolanda Olszewski
Counselor, PsyD, MPH, MScOB
Warrenville, IL 60555
I strive to provide each patient with an individualized care that is evidence based and delivered with respect, compassion and education. My goal is to work with you as a partner to be able to achieve your goals. I enjoy working with with high risk adolescents who may be diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention and executive functioning deficits, as well as Panic disorder, and or trauma. I also specialize in treating young women with peripartum mood disorders, GLBTQ youth, and families going through divorce. https://www.dryolandao.com/Appointments.en.html or https://doxy.me/dryolandao
I strive to provide each patient with an individualized care that is evidence based and delivered with respect, compassion and education. My goal is to work with you as a partner to be able to achieve your goals. I enjoy working with with high risk adolescents who may be diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention and executive functioning deficits, as well as Panic disorder, and or trauma. I also specialize in treating young women with peripartum mood disorders, GLBTQ youth, and families going through divorce. https://www.dryolandao.com/Appointments.en.html or https://doxy.me/dryolandao
Suzanne M. Pinto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
Making the decision to change is often difficult as there is comfort in holding onto old ways of thinking or patterns of behavior even when they are ineffective and no longer serve us well. My goal is to help guide you through the change or healing process. My therapeutic approach is supportive and collaborative. I work with adults and older adolescents with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also have significant experience working with individuals experiencing life transitions, relationship/marital issues, stress management or coping skill difficulties, grief and loss, abuse and trauma, and substance use disorders.
Making the decision to change is often difficult as there is comfort in holding onto old ways of thinking or patterns of behavior even when they are ineffective and no longer serve us well. My goal is to help guide you through the change or healing process. My therapeutic approach is supportive and collaborative. I work with adults and older adolescents with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also have significant experience working with individuals experiencing life transitions, relationship/marital issues, stress management or coping skill difficulties, grief and loss, abuse and trauma, and substance use disorders.
See more therapy options for Warrenville
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.