LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Dana Wierzbicki, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Wierzbicki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a queer, nonbinary therapist, I also value working with LGBTQ+ clients, people questioning their gender identity, and people in open relationships and non-traditional relationships.
I provide therapy from the perspective that an understanding, trusting, and genuine relationship between myself and my clients is the necessary foundation for helping them to create change in their lives. I think everyone, myself included, can relate to hiding parts of ourselves out of fear of being judged– whether it’s our feelings, desires, or the qualities that make us unique. Those fears and self-judgments can then add another difficult dimension to our experience.
As a queer, nonbinary therapist, I also value working with LGBTQ+ clients, people questioning their gender identity, and people in open relationships and non-traditional relationships.
I provide therapy from the perspective that an understanding, trusting, and genuine relationship between myself and my clients is the necessary foundation for helping them to create change in their lives. I think everyone, myself included, can relate to hiding parts of ourselves out of fear of being judged– whether it’s our feelings, desires, or the qualities that make us unique. Those fears and self-judgments can then add another difficult dimension to our experience.
(773) 729-6960 View (773) 729-6960
Photo of Kate Zucker, LSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Zucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
My central area of focus has been working with those in the queer community to navigate non-traditional relationships, coming out, experiences and experimentation with gender, and every day life.
Are you going through the world trying to navigate systems that aren't made for you? Are you looking for validation and care, as well as tools and skills? The work that I do in the therapeutic space is well suited for clients looking for an affirming, non-judgmental space to process their experiences and make changes towards their best vision of themselves. More than modalities, I believe that it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship that can guide folks towards change and transformation. As a white queer person, I have worked to develop an intersectional lens, making sure to hold space for folks with varying identities.
My central area of focus has been working with those in the queer community to navigate non-traditional relationships, coming out, experiences and experimentation with gender, and every day life.
Are you going through the world trying to navigate systems that aren't made for you? Are you looking for validation and care, as well as tools and skills? The work that I do in the therapeutic space is well suited for clients looking for an affirming, non-judgmental space to process their experiences and make changes towards their best vision of themselves. More than modalities, I believe that it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship that can guide folks towards change and transformation. As a white queer person, I have worked to develop an intersectional lens, making sure to hold space for folks with varying identities.
(773) 207-4186 View (773) 207-4186
Photo of Kathleen (Katie) Feyh, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kathleen (Katie) Feyh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I work at Practical Audacity. We are a Group Practice where therapy is performed by Queer Identified/ Aligned and Trauma-Informed Professionals. We want people to find Pleasure, Joy, and Confidence in their sexuality no matter what barriers they face. We provide therapy and coaching grounded in feminist ideals and collaboration, focusing on strengths, trauma-informed care, and science-backed interventions and, at the same time, providing a space for you to feel safe and seen right where you are.
I work at Practical Audacity. We are a Group Practice where therapy is performed by Queer Identified/ Aligned and Trauma-Informed Professionals. We want people to find Pleasure, Joy, and Confidence in their sexuality no matter what barriers they face. We provide therapy and coaching grounded in feminist ideals and collaboration, focusing on strengths, trauma-informed care, and science-backed interventions and, at the same time, providing a space for you to feel safe and seen right where you are.
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Photo of Franki Catinella, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Franki Catinella
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
I work from a sex-positive, body-positive, kink-positive, gender affirming lens with individuals within the LGBTQ+ and Queer communities.
I work with individuals who present with a variety of issues including navigating/exploring gender and sexuality, anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, substance use, relationship issues within monogamous and multiple partner relationships (polyamory, consensual non-monogamy), and life-stage adjustment. I trust in the importance of therapeutic rapport and creating safe, trusting, non-judgmental environments. Working together in a safe environment, I aid you in restoring hope and facilitate healing by helping you discover how to cope with day-to-day stressors, including environmental strains and life transitions.
I work from a sex-positive, body-positive, kink-positive, gender affirming lens with individuals within the LGBTQ+ and Queer communities.
I work with individuals who present with a variety of issues including navigating/exploring gender and sexuality, anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, substance use, relationship issues within monogamous and multiple partner relationships (polyamory, consensual non-monogamy), and life-stage adjustment. I trust in the importance of therapeutic rapport and creating safe, trusting, non-judgmental environments. Working together in a safe environment, I aid you in restoring hope and facilitate healing by helping you discover how to cope with day-to-day stressors, including environmental strains and life transitions.
(773) 207-2122 View (773) 207-2122
Photo of Abbey Casagrande, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abbey Casagrande
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Therapy is a chance for us to come together and collaborate so that we can help you build the life you want to live. I am particularly interested in helping adolescents and young adults navigate depression, anxiety, LGBTQ identity, school and work-related challenges, and the challenges of making major life transitions.
Therapy is a chance for us to come together and collaborate so that we can help you build the life you want to live. I am particularly interested in helping adolescents and young adults navigate depression, anxiety, LGBTQ identity, school and work-related challenges, and the challenges of making major life transitions.
(872) 278-1451 View (872) 278-1451
Photo of Kelly Crooks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Crooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Kelly. I was born and raised in Southern Illinois. I grew up in a military family and so have a sense of understanding of how community can help. I received my MSW in Social Work from SIU Edwardsville in 2013 and got my LCSW in 2017. I have worked with children in all different settings since 2014. The LGBTQ community has been a part of my practice, especially when working in the most rural of areas. I have helped children and adults with different diagnoses over the course of my career and continue growing in my knowledge of how to serve each individual.
Hello! I'm Kelly. I was born and raised in Southern Illinois. I grew up in a military family and so have a sense of understanding of how community can help. I received my MSW in Social Work from SIU Edwardsville in 2013 and got my LCSW in 2017. I have worked with children in all different settings since 2014. The LGBTQ community has been a part of my practice, especially when working in the most rural of areas. I have helped children and adults with different diagnoses over the course of my career and continue growing in my knowledge of how to serve each individual.
(224) 507-5839 View (224) 507-5839
Photo of Adam Ouanes, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Ouanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
As a white passing bi-racial gay man, I understand people are complex and my experiences allow me to humbly understand and embrace the inner life of my clients.
Finding a new therapist can be daunting. If you’re here, then life might be getting in the way. The ways you used to cope might have stopped working. You might feel stuck and unsure where you are going. My job is to guide you towards change and help you un-believe false narratives about yourself that are holding you back. Much of my work is focused on working with LGBTQ+ people, self esteem and managing relationship issues. I also specialize in working with gay men in recovery from addiction. Additionally, I work with co-occurring mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
As a white passing bi-racial gay man, I understand people are complex and my experiences allow me to humbly understand and embrace the inner life of my clients.
Finding a new therapist can be daunting. If you’re here, then life might be getting in the way. The ways you used to cope might have stopped working. You might feel stuck and unsure where you are going. My job is to guide you towards change and help you un-believe false narratives about yourself that are holding you back. Much of my work is focused on working with LGBTQ+ people, self esteem and managing relationship issues. I also specialize in working with gay men in recovery from addiction. Additionally, I work with co-occurring mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
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Photo of Matthew Amador, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Amador
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a queer, Mexican-American, therapist who believes you are inherently awesome, and that sometimes our awesomeness needs to be recalibrated from time to time. Whether meeting individually, or as a part of a relationship/polycule, I value working towards opportunities for new growth and a better sense of self-awareness. I use an intersectional approach towards helping you reclaim agency in your life so that you can move forward courageously.
I’m a queer, Mexican-American, therapist who believes you are inherently awesome, and that sometimes our awesomeness needs to be recalibrated from time to time. Whether meeting individually, or as a part of a relationship/polycule, I value working towards opportunities for new growth and a better sense of self-awareness. I use an intersectional approach towards helping you reclaim agency in your life so that you can move forward courageously.
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Photo of Chase Arledge, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chase Arledge
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660
Amid life's complexities, you deserve a space where self-compassion and curiosity flourish, where every part of your identity is not just welcomed, but celebrated. I'm here to offer that affirming space—an oasis of emotional safety and empowerment where you can explore, center, and grow. I'm committed to creating a therapy space that feels liberating, empowering, and affirming. Your lived experience is not just respected—it's centered in every session. As a queer neurodivergent therapist, I bring a deep passion for supporting LGBTQIA, and neurodivergent individuals on their journey toward self-discovery and understanding.
Amid life's complexities, you deserve a space where self-compassion and curiosity flourish, where every part of your identity is not just welcomed, but celebrated. I'm here to offer that affirming space—an oasis of emotional safety and empowerment where you can explore, center, and grow. I'm committed to creating a therapy space that feels liberating, empowering, and affirming. Your lived experience is not just respected—it's centered in every session. As a queer neurodivergent therapist, I bring a deep passion for supporting LGBTQIA, and neurodivergent individuals on their journey toward self-discovery and understanding.
(872) 278-1935 View (872) 278-1935
Photo of Cher Hamilton-Tekautz | Neurodivergent Trauma Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cher Hamilton-Tekautz | Neurodivergent Trauma Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
In addition to offering therapy that incorporates the body, I work from a culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, kink knowledgeable, anti-racist approach.
You have a critical inner voice saying you aren’t good enough, you’re an imposter, or you’re a burden to those you care about. Your mental health is impacting your physical health, you have trouble sleeping, and you find it difficult to manage your thoughts, emotions, and stress levels. You also have difficulty navigating relationship(s) (especially family ones) and you want to have healthier relationships where you can speak honestly about your feelings and needs, feel less guilt, and find peace of mind. You also want to understand your emotional triggers and find healthy ways to soothe yourself.
In addition to offering therapy that incorporates the body, I work from a culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, kink knowledgeable, anti-racist approach.
You have a critical inner voice saying you aren’t good enough, you’re an imposter, or you’re a burden to those you care about. Your mental health is impacting your physical health, you have trouble sleeping, and you find it difficult to manage your thoughts, emotions, and stress levels. You also have difficulty navigating relationship(s) (especially family ones) and you want to have healthier relationships where you can speak honestly about your feelings and needs, feel less guilt, and find peace of mind. You also want to understand your emotional triggers and find healthy ways to soothe yourself.
(773) 362-5277 View (773) 362-5277
Photo of Jack Sweeney, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack Sweeney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I have experience providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care to newly arrived immigrants and refugees and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I connect deeply with creating safe space and bearing witness to the unique challenges we all face.
Therapy doesn’t have to be the front-facing camera of how we see ourselves. By showing up and being honest, we can reposition the lens, adjust undesirable angles and tweak the lighting to help illuminate your happiest, most grounded self. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is YOU-centered. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in our relationship. I have an expansive view of the human spirit, relate to the pitfalls of human experience and possess a profound understanding of the disconnect which can occur between the stories we tell ourselves, and the realities we actually face.
I have experience providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care to newly arrived immigrants and refugees and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I connect deeply with creating safe space and bearing witness to the unique challenges we all face.
Therapy doesn’t have to be the front-facing camera of how we see ourselves. By showing up and being honest, we can reposition the lens, adjust undesirable angles and tweak the lighting to help illuminate your happiest, most grounded self. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is YOU-centered. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in our relationship. I have an expansive view of the human spirit, relate to the pitfalls of human experience and possess a profound understanding of the disconnect which can occur between the stories we tell ourselves, and the realities we actually face.
(872) 210-5469 View (872) 210-5469
Photo of Alex Bond, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Bond
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment free of judgment or pretense, where you may feel empowered to voice thoughts, express feelings, and be curious about yourself in a way you may not have elsewhere. I believe that each person has the ability to create their own meaning in life, and I am passionate about helping my clients uncover their unique purpose and potential. Together, we will work to address any limiting beliefs or patterns, as well as examine how past experiences and cultural factors have shaped your worldview and prevented you from living a more fulfilling life.
I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment free of judgment or pretense, where you may feel empowered to voice thoughts, express feelings, and be curious about yourself in a way you may not have elsewhere. I believe that each person has the ability to create their own meaning in life, and I am passionate about helping my clients uncover their unique purpose and potential. Together, we will work to address any limiting beliefs or patterns, as well as examine how past experiences and cultural factors have shaped your worldview and prevented you from living a more fulfilling life.
(847) 474-9917 View (847) 474-9917
Photo of Ken Andjulis, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Ken Andjulis
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I also specialize in working with gay men in recovery from addiction.
Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can cause you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. You may have noticed changes in your relationships, work, mood or self esteem. I will collaborate with you to gain self awareness, insight and self acceptance. I will encourage, challenge and empower you to make changes. I will guide you in making informed decisions about how to deal with issues we identify together. My clients comment on my ability to create a warm, welcoming, non-judgemental space and my ability to establish an easy rapport.
I also specialize in working with gay men in recovery from addiction.
Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can cause you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. You may have noticed changes in your relationships, work, mood or self esteem. I will collaborate with you to gain self awareness, insight and self acceptance. I will encourage, challenge and empower you to make changes. I will guide you in making informed decisions about how to deal with issues we identify together. My clients comment on my ability to create a warm, welcoming, non-judgemental space and my ability to establish an easy rapport.
(312) 448-9403 View (312) 448-9403
Photo of Aryn Pardieck, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Aryn Pardieck
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Aryn Pardieck and I am a psychotherapist based in Illinois and Wisconsin. My style is warm and friendly. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, depression, trauma, and grief and loss. I further specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender and nonbinary clients. I always provide gender-affirming care and work to provide a safe and accepting space. I also very much enjoy working with those who want to go deeper in therapy and explore mindfulness. I have 15 year of experience working with adults and teens.
Hello! My name is Aryn Pardieck and I am a psychotherapist based in Illinois and Wisconsin. My style is warm and friendly. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, depression, trauma, and grief and loss. I further specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender and nonbinary clients. I always provide gender-affirming care and work to provide a safe and accepting space. I also very much enjoy working with those who want to go deeper in therapy and explore mindfulness. I have 15 year of experience working with adults and teens.
(312) 564-5335 View (312) 564-5335
Photo of Danielle Pertiller, LCPC
Danielle Pertiller
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Danielle also has volunteer experience with Kids Sake, an organization that serves orphans in Bangladesh, For Fair Girls, a support system for sex traffic survivors, Howard Brown, a group that promotes wellness in the LGBTQIA community, and Fleetwood Jourdain, an organization that teaches optimism and life goals to the POC community.
Danielle Pertiller, LCPC, guides her clients to achieve the things they believe are important to becoming their optimal selves. She is an empathetic, non-judgmental advocate as she helps clients navigate the hurdles of life. Danielle earned a B.A. from Southern Illinois University and an M. A. from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, she worked in a variety of mental health settings including residential, community mental health, hospitals, and private practice.
Danielle also has volunteer experience with Kids Sake, an organization that serves orphans in Bangladesh, For Fair Girls, a support system for sex traffic survivors, Howard Brown, a group that promotes wellness in the LGBTQIA community, and Fleetwood Jourdain, an organization that teaches optimism and life goals to the POC community.
Danielle Pertiller, LCPC, guides her clients to achieve the things they believe are important to becoming their optimal selves. She is an empathetic, non-judgmental advocate as she helps clients navigate the hurdles of life. Danielle earned a B.A. from Southern Illinois University and an M. A. from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, she worked in a variety of mental health settings including residential, community mental health, hospitals, and private practice.
(872) 242-1579 View (872) 242-1579
Photo of Mirsadies Raber-Dunning, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Mirsadies Raber-Dunning
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a clinical intern, I specialize in helping clients navigate sexual and intimacy concerns, societal pressures, identity development, parent/child relationships, and life transitions. I hope to provide a safe and welcoming space for self-exploration, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ and kink communities. In this environment, the focus is on inclusivity, understanding, and supporting diverse relationships. My goal is to empower clients to embrace their authentic selves and build healthier relationships.
As a clinical intern, I specialize in helping clients navigate sexual and intimacy concerns, societal pressures, identity development, parent/child relationships, and life transitions. I hope to provide a safe and welcoming space for self-exploration, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ and kink communities. In this environment, the focus is on inclusivity, understanding, and supporting diverse relationships. My goal is to empower clients to embrace their authentic selves and build healthier relationships.
(773) 974-3578 x535 View (773) 974-3578 x535
Photo of Dani LaPlant, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dani LaPlant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a genderqueer human being providing supportive counseling services to people who are neurodivergent, queer, nerdy, and live alternative lifestyles. My sessions are held online 100 percent to make it convenient for my clients in their busy life to receive support. I've supported clients in role-playing therapy through the use of Dungeons & Dragons, led queer support groups, and am currently CSTIP (Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional) certified so I may expand to couples work in the future. I've taught BDSM/Kink affirming seminars and have a background in understanding nutrition and body neutrality.
I am a genderqueer human being providing supportive counseling services to people who are neurodivergent, queer, nerdy, and live alternative lifestyles. My sessions are held online 100 percent to make it convenient for my clients in their busy life to receive support. I've supported clients in role-playing therapy through the use of Dungeons & Dragons, led queer support groups, and am currently CSTIP (Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional) certified so I may expand to couples work in the future. I've taught BDSM/Kink affirming seminars and have a background in understanding nutrition and body neutrality.
(779) 237-8099 View (779) 237-8099
Photo of Madhu Khare, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madhu Khare
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with the intersectionality of BIPOC and LGBTQIA+2 individuals, in helping them to explore ways to feel connected and welcome in this world.
My journey into psychology was inspired by my own growth and pursuit of self actualization. Through the exploration of my own background as an Indian immigrant and the process of transitioning to life in America, I have to appreciate the unique perspective of integrative culture. My work has helped me understand culture as a rich tapestry that is unique for each individual and their story. I strive to help(give) clients a sense of empowerment to take charge of their narrative and journey. My goal is to understand and work with individuals based on their current state in life, with the intention of helping them at their own pace.
I am passionate about working with the intersectionality of BIPOC and LGBTQIA+2 individuals, in helping them to explore ways to feel connected and welcome in this world.
My journey into psychology was inspired by my own growth and pursuit of self actualization. Through the exploration of my own background as an Indian immigrant and the process of transitioning to life in America, I have to appreciate the unique perspective of integrative culture. My work has helped me understand culture as a rich tapestry that is unique for each individual and their story. I strive to help(give) clients a sense of empowerment to take charge of their narrative and journey. My goal is to understand and work with individuals based on their current state in life, with the intention of helping them at their own pace.
(312) 313-5809 View (312) 313-5809
Photo of Minh Dong, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Minh Dong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
Choosing therapy can be a daunting task, but when you do, it shows that you have incredible strength and a strong desire to invest in yourself. Whether you are coming in to understand parts of yourself, navigating difficult interpersonal relationships, or striving to have a more authentic self, it is my pleasure to assist you along the way. I am a queer-identifying Asian Therapist who is a strong advocate for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities who deals with everyday struggles and issues. I utilize a strength-based and client centered approach to foster a safe and supporting environment.
Choosing therapy can be a daunting task, but when you do, it shows that you have incredible strength and a strong desire to invest in yourself. Whether you are coming in to understand parts of yourself, navigating difficult interpersonal relationships, or striving to have a more authentic self, it is my pleasure to assist you along the way. I am a queer-identifying Asian Therapist who is a strong advocate for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities who deals with everyday struggles and issues. I utilize a strength-based and client centered approach to foster a safe and supporting environment.
(708) 726-6357 View (708) 726-6357
Photo of Sara Groth, MA
Sara Groth
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have experience working with individual adults and partnerships in areas such as anxiety, depression, sex & intimate wellness, relationship conflict, sexual assault, life transitions, and self esteem. One of my primary areas of expertise is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas of positive sexual and/ or gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and sexual health. However, I work with people of all identities and backgrounds. I foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, and polyamorous- and kink-affirming.
I have experience working with individual adults and partnerships in areas such as anxiety, depression, sex & intimate wellness, relationship conflict, sexual assault, life transitions, and self esteem. One of my primary areas of expertise is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas of positive sexual and/ or gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and sexual health. However, I work with people of all identities and backgrounds. I foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, and polyamorous- and kink-affirming.
(773) 207-3330 View (773) 207-3330
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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.