Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Oak Lawn, IL
Kanosha Leonard
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (Online Only)
My life journey has taught me the importance of embracing the pain, identifying lessons and moving beyond the turmoil. And, oh is that difficult, however, with patience, hard work and prayer all things can shift. I carry this motto while counseling clients, educating students and advocating for justice.
My life journey has taught me the importance of embracing the pain, identifying lessons and moving beyond the turmoil. And, oh is that difficult, however, with patience, hard work and prayer all things can shift. I carry this motto while counseling clients, educating students and advocating for justice.
Nancy Martinez
Licensed Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
I want to assist people in solving their own problems as well as empowering them to develop skills so that they can do it themselves. My inspiration to become a social worker stemmed from my desire to make a positive impact in people's lives. I have always been passionate about the wellbeing of people I come into contact with. My focus is to establish rapport & build relationships with clients. In addition to assessing clients' mental health needs. Researching mental health resources for clients such as substance abuse rehabilitation programs, domestic violence services, and suicide prevention resources.
I want to assist people in solving their own problems as well as empowering them to develop skills so that they can do it themselves. My inspiration to become a social worker stemmed from my desire to make a positive impact in people's lives. I have always been passionate about the wellbeing of people I come into contact with. My focus is to establish rapport & build relationships with clients. In addition to assessing clients' mental health needs. Researching mental health resources for clients such as substance abuse rehabilitation programs, domestic violence services, and suicide prevention resources.
Grace Alleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
I believe in the importance of meeting people where they are in this moment - not asking you to feel, look, or act like someone you are not. My therapeutic approach is centered around providing a caring space where you can safely share your thoughts free from judgement. I invite you to slow down and explore your values, emotions and life experiences to help gain a deeper understanding of yourself and relationships, including recognizing patterns that contribute to stress and anxiety. Together, we can begin the process of increasing self-awareness, practicing self-acceptance, and building practical skills to cope with life’s issues.
I believe in the importance of meeting people where they are in this moment - not asking you to feel, look, or act like someone you are not. My therapeutic approach is centered around providing a caring space where you can safely share your thoughts free from judgement. I invite you to slow down and explore your values, emotions and life experiences to help gain a deeper understanding of yourself and relationships, including recognizing patterns that contribute to stress and anxiety. Together, we can begin the process of increasing self-awareness, practicing self-acceptance, and building practical skills to cope with life’s issues.
Raquel Ornelas
LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Through compassionate empowerment, I guide clients in discovering who they are and what they want so that they are free to live healthy, happy, and impactful lives. My personal approach is active and directive but acknowledges and respects the client as their own expert. I am a strengths-based clinician and passionate about working with clients through life transitions. My clients learn to trust themselves, accept and appreciate who they are, and learn to live with a sense of calm, hope, courage, strength and wisdom from their uniquely lived experience.
Through compassionate empowerment, I guide clients in discovering who they are and what they want so that they are free to live healthy, happy, and impactful lives. My personal approach is active and directive but acknowledges and respects the client as their own expert. I am a strengths-based clinician and passionate about working with clients through life transitions. My clients learn to trust themselves, accept and appreciate who they are, and learn to live with a sense of calm, hope, courage, strength and wisdom from their uniquely lived experience.
Steve Ploum
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (Online Only)
How does one eat an elephant? "One bite at a time." I will assist with defining/understanding your elephant, with finding the best place to start and I'll support you along the way. I've worked extensively with and understand the issues of individuals/spouses/families of city workers (police, fire, etc.) and others dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management issues, addictions, trauma & situational stress, and life transitions. I specialize in individual therapy and I'm trained in CBT and as an art therapist who specializes in helping other tap their creative powers and in find balance in living creatively.
How does one eat an elephant? "One bite at a time." I will assist with defining/understanding your elephant, with finding the best place to start and I'll support you along the way. I've worked extensively with and understand the issues of individuals/spouses/families of city workers (police, fire, etc.) and others dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management issues, addictions, trauma & situational stress, and life transitions. I specialize in individual therapy and I'm trained in CBT and as an art therapist who specializes in helping other tap their creative powers and in find balance in living creatively.
Mary Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Immediate Availability - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - My work focuses on laying the foundation for individuals to create a safe and inclusive space during sessions while focusing on emotional healing. I believe therapy works best when it’s collaborative. We’ll work together to identify strengths, increase insight, and change any troubling thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns, neurodiversity, as well as trauma and abuse. I also enjoy working with the LGBTQ community.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Immediate Availability - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - My work focuses on laying the foundation for individuals to create a safe and inclusive space during sessions while focusing on emotional healing. I believe therapy works best when it’s collaborative. We’ll work together to identify strengths, increase insight, and change any troubling thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns, neurodiversity, as well as trauma and abuse. I also enjoy working with the LGBTQ community.
Tyler Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Immediate Availability- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Life asks a lot of us and most people in this world are doing the best they can with the tools they have. You may be dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, grief, burnout, or just feel like things have been really heavy lately. Sometimes, we just need a few more tools in the toolbox and to work with someone who accepts us, validates us and walks with us through the issues we are facing. To be in a space that challenges us yet values our strengths and uses them to help see us through. That is the space I want to provide for you.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Immediate Availability- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Life asks a lot of us and most people in this world are doing the best they can with the tools they have. You may be dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, grief, burnout, or just feel like things have been really heavy lately. Sometimes, we just need a few more tools in the toolbox and to work with someone who accepts us, validates us and walks with us through the issues we are facing. To be in a space that challenges us yet values our strengths and uses them to help see us through. That is the space I want to provide for you.
Shana M. Anderson
Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (Online Only)
As a counselor, I believe that you are the expert in your own experiences and that our lived experiences teach us about the life that we want to curate for ourselves. As your counselor, my approach is to assist you by asking you questions to help you discover or rediscover your purpose in an empathetic and curious way. We co-create an environment of exploration by finding ways to encourage authenticity in our space so that we can explore the root causes of behaviors in an environment of care and compassion. During our process, we do work to untether you from toxic patterns so that you may experience what life has to offer you.,
As a counselor, I believe that you are the expert in your own experiences and that our lived experiences teach us about the life that we want to curate for ourselves. As your counselor, my approach is to assist you by asking you questions to help you discover or rediscover your purpose in an empathetic and curious way. We co-create an environment of exploration by finding ways to encourage authenticity in our space so that we can explore the root causes of behaviors in an environment of care and compassion. During our process, we do work to untether you from toxic patterns so that you may experience what life has to offer you.,
Sarah Pals
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (Online Only)
I have been working in the social work and therapy field for 10+ years. I have worked in a variety of environments with a multitude of populations. I am a believer in unplugging and truly getting to know your strengths, weaknesses, and values. I mainly come from a framework of Existentialism, especially finding meaning in life, and living authentically to our values. I am a proponent of the mind-body connection and use mindfulness in therapy. Although Existential and Mindfulness Therapies are my framework, I use an integrative approach which is a mix of therapies depending on what will best help each presenting difficulty.
I have been working in the social work and therapy field for 10+ years. I have worked in a variety of environments with a multitude of populations. I am a believer in unplugging and truly getting to know your strengths, weaknesses, and values. I mainly come from a framework of Existentialism, especially finding meaning in life, and living authentically to our values. I am a proponent of the mind-body connection and use mindfulness in therapy. Although Existential and Mindfulness Therapies are my framework, I use an integrative approach which is a mix of therapies depending on what will best help each presenting difficulty.
Andrea Espinosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (Online Only)
Welcome! Thank you for being here. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, distinct traumatic events/complex trauma, grief/loss, stress management, boundary setting, life transitions, relationship issues, therapy for therapists, emotional regulation skills, and identity development. One of my passions is working with women of color and first-generation child of immigrants dealing with the impacts of intersectionality, marginalization, immigration, acculturation, and generational/historical trauma. I also love working with couples helping them work on their communication, rebuild connection, and reducing negativity.
Welcome! Thank you for being here. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, distinct traumatic events/complex trauma, grief/loss, stress management, boundary setting, life transitions, relationship issues, therapy for therapists, emotional regulation skills, and identity development. One of my passions is working with women of color and first-generation child of immigrants dealing with the impacts of intersectionality, marginalization, immigration, acculturation, and generational/historical trauma. I also love working with couples helping them work on their communication, rebuild connection, and reducing negativity.
Mindful Healing Counseling
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (Online Only)
At Mindful Healing Counseling, we are committed to providing inclusive, affirming, compassionate, and exceptional care to help you create meaningful and long-lasting change. Our dedicated and experienced therapists have a passion for helping people work through the uncomfortable feelings and thoughts that can arise with feelings of anxiety, stress, depression, conflicts in relationships, struggling to find one’s identity, the demands of motherhood, neurodiversity, or working through one of the many challenges life can bring.
At Mindful Healing Counseling, we are committed to providing inclusive, affirming, compassionate, and exceptional care to help you create meaningful and long-lasting change. Our dedicated and experienced therapists have a passion for helping people work through the uncomfortable feelings and thoughts that can arise with feelings of anxiety, stress, depression, conflicts in relationships, struggling to find one’s identity, the demands of motherhood, neurodiversity, or working through one of the many challenges life can bring.
Ana C Chávez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (Online Only)
My clinical work is grounded in relational, cultural, and trauma-informed practices. Creating a safe and empathetic therapeutic relationship is essential to me, as it lays the foundation for building insight and fostering self-compassion in my clients. I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate closely with you, ensuring that your life resonates with your aspirations and dreams. I look forward to your call! I do provide a free 15 minute chat/consultation.
My clinical work is grounded in relational, cultural, and trauma-informed practices. Creating a safe and empathetic therapeutic relationship is essential to me, as it lays the foundation for building insight and fostering self-compassion in my clients. I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate closely with you, ensuring that your life resonates with your aspirations and dreams. I look forward to your call! I do provide a free 15 minute chat/consultation.
Mindful Behavior
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
My name is Elisa Lee, LCPC and I provide counseling services for individuals, families and couples. I connect clients with psychiatry services via Telehealth within 48 hours. I work diligently to match clients in order to stabilize and manage their mental health needs. I also counsel and utilize CBT and reality therapy. I also integrate Mindfulness in therapy to enhance awareness of one's self. When working with minors, I incoorporate the family unit. Please give me a call to inquire further about our services and I can best help you with your psychological needs.
My name is Elisa Lee, LCPC and I provide counseling services for individuals, families and couples. I connect clients with psychiatry services via Telehealth within 48 hours. I work diligently to match clients in order to stabilize and manage their mental health needs. I also counsel and utilize CBT and reality therapy. I also integrate Mindfulness in therapy to enhance awareness of one's self. When working with minors, I incoorporate the family unit. Please give me a call to inquire further about our services and I can best help you with your psychological needs.
Kendreia Redmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60454
Having trouble sleeping? Can’t seem to find the motivation to complete daily tasks? Struggling to communicate with a loved one? Various challenges in life can lead us to feeling overwhelmed or frustrated; or BOTH. Seeking support of a therapist can be beneficial in addressing your concerns. Therapy can provide a safe space to process, cope, and heal. Sometimes, we fail to see how our environments, upbringing, and relationships impact our mental health. Other times, we lack the appropriate self-tools to change our own dynamics. I strongly believe that therapy empowers us to be more self-aware and protective of their mental wellness.
Having trouble sleeping? Can’t seem to find the motivation to complete daily tasks? Struggling to communicate with a loved one? Various challenges in life can lead us to feeling overwhelmed or frustrated; or BOTH. Seeking support of a therapist can be beneficial in addressing your concerns. Therapy can provide a safe space to process, cope, and heal. Sometimes, we fail to see how our environments, upbringing, and relationships impact our mental health. Other times, we lack the appropriate self-tools to change our own dynamics. I strongly believe that therapy empowers us to be more self-aware and protective of their mental wellness.
Laura Costello
Counselor, LCPC, PEL
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60455
Let's clarify a few things! Often people who experience anxiety, depression and panic attacks feel like they are stuck forever. They have gone through difficult life challenges or tough transitions that are taking a toll on their ability to cope as well as they would like. If you are going through one or more of these challenges, you are not alone. Seeking help through therapy can be the first step to taking back control of your life. I utilize a holistic and engaged style to achieve both comfort and trust, blended with authentic and respectful therapeutic techniques.
Let's clarify a few things! Often people who experience anxiety, depression and panic attacks feel like they are stuck forever. They have gone through difficult life challenges or tough transitions that are taking a toll on their ability to cope as well as they would like. If you are going through one or more of these challenges, you are not alone. Seeking help through therapy can be the first step to taking back control of your life. I utilize a holistic and engaged style to achieve both comfort and trust, blended with authentic and respectful therapeutic techniques.
Lauren L. Breit
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Not accepting new clients
My experience has prepared me to work with a variety of concerns including depression, mood disorders, eating disorder, self-injury, addictions, substance use, personality disorders, grief/loss issues, PTSD, emotional trauma, sexual trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, poly/kink communities, sexuality/intimacy concerns, and sexually compulsive behaviors.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, as well carrying a Certification in Drug and Alcohol Counseling. I am a Certified Sex Therapist. I am also a Level III Reiki Practitioner and firmly believe in the power of holistic counseling. I specialize in working with adults, although have experience working with adolescents, couples, and families. I have a focus on those practicing alternative spiritualties, those struggling with trauma/PTSD, survivors of sexual trauma, male survivors of childhood sexual trauma, and first responders.
My experience has prepared me to work with a variety of concerns including depression, mood disorders, eating disorder, self-injury, addictions, substance use, personality disorders, grief/loss issues, PTSD, emotional trauma, sexual trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, poly/kink communities, sexuality/intimacy concerns, and sexually compulsive behaviors.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, as well carrying a Certification in Drug and Alcohol Counseling. I am a Certified Sex Therapist. I am also a Level III Reiki Practitioner and firmly believe in the power of holistic counseling. I specialize in working with adults, although have experience working with adolescents, couples, and families. I have a focus on those practicing alternative spiritualties, those struggling with trauma/PTSD, survivors of sexual trauma, male survivors of childhood sexual trauma, and first responders.
More Therapists Nearby
Albe Gutierrez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, BFA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
Priscilla Huley
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
In my couples work, I utilize a sex positive approach and attitude, fully supporting individuals and couples coping with alternative and non-traditional sexual lifestyles, polyamorous relationships, open relationships, sexual dysfunctions, and sexual traumas.
I view therapy as a safe and sacred space for processing life experiences, emotions, thoughts, and trauma in order to achieve one’s goals and necessary growth. My goal as a therapist is to collaborate with clients to understand their thought processes, address barriers to wellness, and identify ways in which they can achieve their goals. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives: however, sometimes we need an outside perspective to help re-frame our thinking. I’m here to work with you to increase self-awareness and empower you to approach life in a way that enhances health and well-being.
In my couples work, I utilize a sex positive approach and attitude, fully supporting individuals and couples coping with alternative and non-traditional sexual lifestyles, polyamorous relationships, open relationships, sexual dysfunctions, and sexual traumas.
I view therapy as a safe and sacred space for processing life experiences, emotions, thoughts, and trauma in order to achieve one’s goals and necessary growth. My goal as a therapist is to collaborate with clients to understand their thought processes, address barriers to wellness, and identify ways in which they can achieve their goals. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives: however, sometimes we need an outside perspective to help re-frame our thinking. I’m here to work with you to increase self-awareness and empower you to approach life in a way that enhances health and well-being.
Payal Sud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willow Springs, IL 60480
I am LGBT, non-monogamous relationships, and kink friendly.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is our job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
I am LGBT, non-monogamous relationships, and kink friendly.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is our job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
Patrycja Krynski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525 (Online Only)
Her approach is humanistic, trauma informed, culturally competent, gender affirming, sex positive, anti racist, body positive, strengths based, harm reduction, evidence based, and empowering.
Patrycja is a Chicago based Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in therapy for adults with trauma, c-PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, and challenging life transitions. She cares deeply about the individuals she serves, and strives to provide a supportive and impactful therapeutic experience. She practices from a psychodynamic and humanistic framework, and has a profound curiosity about the complexity of the human experience. She is passionate about demystifying the process of therapy.
Her approach is humanistic, trauma informed, culturally competent, gender affirming, sex positive, anti racist, body positive, strengths based, harm reduction, evidence based, and empowering.
Patrycja is a Chicago based Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in therapy for adults with trauma, c-PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, and challenging life transitions. She cares deeply about the individuals she serves, and strives to provide a supportive and impactful therapeutic experience. She practices from a psychodynamic and humanistic framework, and has a profound curiosity about the complexity of the human experience. She is passionate about demystifying the process of therapy.
See more therapy options for Oak Lawn
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.