Transgender Therapists in Waukegan, IL

Photo of Erin Johnston - PeoplePsych LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
PeoplePsych LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60079
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
(312) 629-5978 View (312) 629-5978
Photo of Glenisha Foreman - Verdure Counseling, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Verdure Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60085
Verdure Counseling works with a variety of different clients to include Veterans, families, adolescents, and adults. At Verdure counseling, your growth and wellness are our priority. We help those suffering from normal day to day struggles to severe trauma. Our clinicians have experience working with substance abuse, mood disorders, grief, adjustment, depression, identity, etc. Feeling tired, overwhelmed, stuck, or want to just learn more about yourself, Verdure Counseling can help you.
Verdure Counseling works with a variety of different clients to include Veterans, families, adolescents, and adults. At Verdure counseling, your growth and wellness are our priority. We help those suffering from normal day to day struggles to severe trauma. Our clinicians have experience working with substance abuse, mood disorders, grief, adjustment, depression, identity, etc. Feeling tired, overwhelmed, stuck, or want to just learn more about yourself, Verdure Counseling can help you.
(224) 707-8279 View (224) 707-8279
Counseling Center Of Grayslake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60079
Welcome! At Counseling Center of Grayslake, we encourage short-term therapy for long-term results. Call us to set up individual, couple, or family counseling today. We can help.
Welcome! At Counseling Center of Grayslake, we encourage short-term therapy for long-term results. Call us to set up individual, couple, or family counseling today. We can help.
(224) 269-6534 View (224) 269-6534
Photo of Dr. Patti Kimbel, PsyD, CADC, Psychologist
Dr. Patti Kimbel
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60085
Life can be challenging and sometimes painful. Most clients come to me due to distress or general life dissatisfaction. My goal is to foster a safe place for individuals to share their feelings and their pain. I want clients to feel heard and understood. I feel it is a privilege to help people find ways to cope and empower them through challenging crisis or relationship struggles. My approach is collaborative and I try to build upon a person's strengths. For some clients, I provide tools and suggestions and for others I help them to identify their role in the conflict.
Life can be challenging and sometimes painful. Most clients come to me due to distress or general life dissatisfaction. My goal is to foster a safe place for individuals to share their feelings and their pain. I want clients to feel heard and understood. I feel it is a privilege to help people find ways to cope and empower them through challenging crisis or relationship struggles. My approach is collaborative and I try to build upon a person's strengths. For some clients, I provide tools and suggestions and for others I help them to identify their role in the conflict.
(773) 906-5026 View (773) 906-5026
Photo of Kelly Hoaglund-Zumstein, LMFT, EdS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Hoaglund-Zumstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60079  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or worried all the time? Are you experiencing conflicts in your relationships? Do you or your child have school issues? Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you feel stuck?
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or worried all the time? Are you experiencing conflicts in your relationships? Do you or your child have school issues? Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you feel stuck?
(262) 218-4668 View (262) 218-4668
Photo of Amber J Dalton, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Amber J Dalton
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085  (Online Only)
I understand that the decision to participate in therapy can be uncomfortable and daunting for many people, so creating a genuine client-therapist relationship and a safe space is a priority of mine. I strive to make the therapeutic process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. I view therapy as a collaborative process that is founded on the individual’s strengths and goals and respect that each client is unique in their experiences and situations. I am passionate about working with couples, and client's struggling with anxiety, personal identity, and helping to challenge and change negative thoughts and behaviors.
I understand that the decision to participate in therapy can be uncomfortable and daunting for many people, so creating a genuine client-therapist relationship and a safe space is a priority of mine. I strive to make the therapeutic process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. I view therapy as a collaborative process that is founded on the individual’s strengths and goals and respect that each client is unique in their experiences and situations. I am passionate about working with couples, and client's struggling with anxiety, personal identity, and helping to challenge and change negative thoughts and behaviors.
(773) 729-1894 View (773) 729-1894
Photo of Shairee Lackey, LCPC, LPC, LMHC, CCMHC
Shairee Lackey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, LMHC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60087
With the right encouragement, guidance, and support, every individual possesses the strength and potential to work through their unique situation. I understand there are a lot of stressors in life that cause anxiety, depression, identity/relationship issues, past traumatic experiences that can cause disconnection. Sometimes we need to know how or where to start. The goal is to help clients overcome those challenges, reconnect and discover their ideal life. My approach is tailored to your unique needs and assists in learning skills and strategies to achieve goals through empowerment and identification of personal growth conditions.
With the right encouragement, guidance, and support, every individual possesses the strength and potential to work through their unique situation. I understand there are a lot of stressors in life that cause anxiety, depression, identity/relationship issues, past traumatic experiences that can cause disconnection. Sometimes we need to know how or where to start. The goal is to help clients overcome those challenges, reconnect and discover their ideal life. My approach is tailored to your unique needs and assists in learning skills and strategies to achieve goals through empowerment and identification of personal growth conditions.
(847) 595-4732 View (847) 595-4732
Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085  (Online Only)
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
(773) 915-0573 View (773) 915-0573
Photo of Rebecca Esser - Esser Counseling Services, PLLC, MA LCPC, CCTP, CSIP
Esser Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA LCPC, CCTP, CSIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60085  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients, offering online/telehealth services. I practice statewide in Illinois & Florida. I provide affirming therapy to neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, trans, non-traditional relationships such as: poly, swing, kink/BDSM, open communities. In therapy with me you can expect a safe, non-judgmental, trusting space were we explore what is happening in your life. I can be direct yet empathetic and meet you were you are in order for therapy to provide you with the answers you are seeking to lasting change. I believe clients are the experts of themselves.
Accepting new clients, offering online/telehealth services. I practice statewide in Illinois & Florida. I provide affirming therapy to neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, trans, non-traditional relationships such as: poly, swing, kink/BDSM, open communities. In therapy with me you can expect a safe, non-judgmental, trusting space were we explore what is happening in your life. I can be direct yet empathetic and meet you were you are in order for therapy to provide you with the answers you are seeking to lasting change. I believe clients are the experts of themselves.
(727) 382-4801 View (727) 382-4801
Photo of Jennifer (Jenny) Pineda, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer (Jenny) Pineda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60085
Waitlist for new clients
(847) 495-7997 View (847) 495-7997
Photo of Shelley M Johnson, MA, CCMHC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley M Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you are looking for someone to be your number one ally, but also call you on your stuff... that's me! Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other serious mental illness- I can help. If you are just struggling to find direction and need some outside voice- I can help with that too.
If you are looking for someone to be your number one ally, but also call you on your stuff... that's me! Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other serious mental illness- I can help. If you are just struggling to find direction and need some outside voice- I can help with that too.
(815) 396-8250 View (815) 396-8250

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Megan Sayre, LCSW, CEDS-S, WPATH P, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Sayre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S, WPATH P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
My expertise includes treating depression, anxiety, self-injury, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ clients, eating disorders, and developing healthy boundaries.
My strengths include making authentic connections, practicing compassionate accountability, and bringing gentle humor into therapy. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy techniques in my sessions. I am a relational therapist and focus on developing clients' strengths while also providing support for clients to stretch beyond their comfort zones. My treatment motto has become "It's through discomfort that we change." I will provide you with the education, compassion and support needed for you to face any fears or discomfort to become a healthier and happier person.
My expertise includes treating depression, anxiety, self-injury, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ clients, eating disorders, and developing healthy boundaries.
My strengths include making authentic connections, practicing compassionate accountability, and bringing gentle humor into therapy. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy techniques in my sessions. I am a relational therapist and focus on developing clients' strengths while also providing support for clients to stretch beyond their comfort zones. My treatment motto has become "It's through discomfort that we change." I will provide you with the education, compassion and support needed for you to face any fears or discomfort to become a healthier and happier person.
(847) 305-3182 View (847) 305-3182
Photo of Thea Rossmiller, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Thea Rossmiller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I am a passionate individual with a calming presence. I have experience working with children as young as five all the way through to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disturbances, self-esteem, ADHD, autism and more. Through therapeutic intervention and hands-on learning, I aim to create a transformative environment for my clients. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also aim to create a safe space for individuals to explore their gender or sexuality. No member of our community should feel isolated or alone, and I am here to be the support you need.
I am a passionate individual with a calming presence. I have experience working with children as young as five all the way through to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disturbances, self-esteem, ADHD, autism and more. Through therapeutic intervention and hands-on learning, I aim to create a transformative environment for my clients. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also aim to create a safe space for individuals to explore their gender or sexuality. No member of our community should feel isolated or alone, and I am here to be the support you need.
(224) 324-3073 x01 View (224) 324-3073 x01
Photo of Lynn Moosman - Lynn Moosman, MA, LCPC, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lynn Moosman, MA, LCPC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Within each of us is the ability to heal from painful emotional symptoms and to live a well balanced, fulfilling life. Coming to counseling takes courage but can lead the reduction of anxiety and depression, as well as improving relationships and finding solutions to recurring problems in our lives. With over 24 years in professional counseling psychology, I am well versed in traditional theory and treatment, but use evidenced-based alternative treatments based on client's needs.
Within each of us is the ability to heal from painful emotional symptoms and to live a well balanced, fulfilling life. Coming to counseling takes courage but can lead the reduction of anxiety and depression, as well as improving relationships and finding solutions to recurring problems in our lives. With over 24 years in professional counseling psychology, I am well versed in traditional theory and treatment, but use evidenced-based alternative treatments based on client's needs.
(847) 941-0548 View (847) 941-0548
Photo of Melissa A. Frey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa A. Frey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048  (Online Only)
If you are dealing with a relationship concern, a health issue, or you are caregiving for someone with a health issue, we can help. Living with a challenging relationship or health condition can make you feel like you've tried everything and nothing is working. You may feel like you're the only person who has faced your specific struggle and aren't sure what to do. Your friends and family try to help, but their feedback seems biased, or they don't understand.
If you are dealing with a relationship concern, a health issue, or you are caregiving for someone with a health issue, we can help. Living with a challenging relationship or health condition can make you feel like you've tried everything and nothing is working. You may feel like you're the only person who has faced your specific struggle and aren't sure what to do. Your friends and family try to help, but their feedback seems biased, or they don't understand.
(872) 704-1920 View (872) 704-1920
Photo of Sara Luce, LCPC, Counselor
Sara Luce
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Let's face it - life can be pretty tough sometimes. Work, family, relationships, anxiety, stress... It can be a long list. The positive spin is that you do not need to tackle it all by yourself. Therapy is an excellent place to receive extra support and work towards positive change. My role is to meet you where you're at, help you identify your goals, and start making steps to reach those goals.
Let's face it - life can be pretty tough sometimes. Work, family, relationships, anxiety, stress... It can be a long list. The positive spin is that you do not need to tackle it all by yourself. Therapy is an excellent place to receive extra support and work towards positive change. My role is to meet you where you're at, help you identify your goals, and start making steps to reach those goals.
(847) 558-1755 View (847) 558-1755
Photo of Rebekah Erin Dickey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah Erin Dickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with traumatic memories or difficult life experiences that just don't seem to go away? Are you struggling to find a safe space because you don't live by everyone else's "normal"? Have you been thinking about starting therapy? Today is the day! I’m an LCSW offering telehealth services in Illinois and Indiana. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and positive toward all lifestyles. I focus on creating a safe, non-judgmental, trust-filled space where you can express yourself. We will work together to figure out a custom built treatment plan that will enable you to feel better and meet your goals.
Are you struggling with traumatic memories or difficult life experiences that just don't seem to go away? Are you struggling to find a safe space because you don't live by everyone else's "normal"? Have you been thinking about starting therapy? Today is the day! I’m an LCSW offering telehealth services in Illinois and Indiana. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and positive toward all lifestyles. I focus on creating a safe, non-judgmental, trust-filled space where you can express yourself. We will work together to figure out a custom built treatment plan that will enable you to feel better and meet your goals.
(224) 258-0526 View (224) 258-0526
Photo of Paige Swan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige Swan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Paige Swan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. When life feels overwhelming talking with the right person can help. Paige Swan is here to work with you in hopes of providing long-lasting solutions for a better quality of life. She strives to provide a warm, comfortable, non-judgmental environment where you can express your whole self. Through collaboration you will work together to create a wellness plan that is right for you. These practices can help provide a happier and healthier lifestyle. Paige uniquely offers a safe space and personalized tools to help individuals and families reach their personal goals.
Paige Swan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. When life feels overwhelming talking with the right person can help. Paige Swan is here to work with you in hopes of providing long-lasting solutions for a better quality of life. She strives to provide a warm, comfortable, non-judgmental environment where you can express your whole self. Through collaboration you will work together to create a wellness plan that is right for you. These practices can help provide a happier and healthier lifestyle. Paige uniquely offers a safe space and personalized tools to help individuals and families reach their personal goals.
(224) 267-2294 View (224) 267-2294
Photo of Cathy J Betti, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy J Betti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide a nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic environment for my clients and I value client-therapist alliance above anything else. I have a direct yet empathetic therapy style, collaborating with my clients to help achieve their goals. I love working with couples who struggle with communication and connection, who want to learn how to reconnect or "fight better". I also love empowering partners to find their voice and express their needs in a relationship.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide a nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic environment for my clients and I value client-therapist alliance above anything else. I have a direct yet empathetic therapy style, collaborating with my clients to help achieve their goals. I love working with couples who struggle with communication and connection, who want to learn how to reconnect or "fight better". I also love empowering partners to find their voice and express their needs in a relationship.
(224) 306-1977 View (224) 306-1977
Photo of Candyce Booker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candyce Booker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grayslake, IL 60030  (Online Only)
I have worked in the mental health field for over a decade in many different capacities. I have specific training around the areas of trauma and abuse, although I take a holistic approach to counseling. I work with clients to meet the goals that they have for their lives, whatever those may be. My goal is to foster a strong trusting relationship with clients so they feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment so they can work through the change process. I work to empower clients to utilize their strengths to overcome the challenges that bring them to counseling.
I have worked in the mental health field for over a decade in many different capacities. I have specific training around the areas of trauma and abuse, although I take a holistic approach to counseling. I work with clients to meet the goals that they have for their lives, whatever those may be. My goal is to foster a strong trusting relationship with clients so they feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment so they can work through the change process. I work to empower clients to utilize their strengths to overcome the challenges that bring them to counseling.
(217) 596-4970 View (217) 596-4970
Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.