Transgender Therapists in Aurora, IL
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, in a variety of mental health settings including: hospitals, private practice, therapeutic day schools, and community mental health. I specialize in the treatment of Mood, Personality, Trauma and Attachment disorder. My special interests include Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Issues regarding Divorce, Adoption Issues, Personality Disorders, Parent Education/Training, Post-Partum Depression and Transgender issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, in a variety of mental health settings including: hospitals, private practice, therapeutic day schools, and community mental health. I specialize in the treatment of Mood, Personality, Trauma and Attachment disorder. My special interests include Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Issues regarding Divorce, Adoption Issues, Personality Disorders, Parent Education/Training, Post-Partum Depression and Transgender issues.
Kate Penkethman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60502
Sometimes our brain can be a scary place to live in. Sometimes our bodies feel disconnected from us, or we just feel a bit ‘off.’ And sometimes the life around us is too hard, too much, too painful. These thoughts, feelings, and sensations can be isolating, and that’s where therapy comes in. My hope is for you to feel a little less alone as you unpack the complexities of your life and move towards healing. Through our work, your thoughts and feelings will be centered and we will learn alongside one another about how to best work through the issues you're facing. Welcome!
Sometimes our brain can be a scary place to live in. Sometimes our bodies feel disconnected from us, or we just feel a bit ‘off.’ And sometimes the life around us is too hard, too much, too painful. These thoughts, feelings, and sensations can be isolating, and that’s where therapy comes in. My hope is for you to feel a little less alone as you unpack the complexities of your life and move towards healing. Through our work, your thoughts and feelings will be centered and we will learn alongside one another about how to best work through the issues you're facing. Welcome!
Anthony L Steuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505
I believe that the meaning, or sometimes “lack of meaning,” we apply to our situations, experiences, people, and ourselves is often the root of much discomfort and suffering. In meeting with individuals, I hope to learn, understand, and share your experiences to explore what meaning is being applied and if perspective and approaches need to be adjusted. I tend to work best with clients who are looking for introspection and challenges. Who are looking to walk a balance between validation of feelings and difficult challenges to identified stuck points in thinking or perspective.
I believe that the meaning, or sometimes “lack of meaning,” we apply to our situations, experiences, people, and ourselves is often the root of much discomfort and suffering. In meeting with individuals, I hope to learn, understand, and share your experiences to explore what meaning is being applied and if perspective and approaches need to be adjusted. I tend to work best with clients who are looking for introspection and challenges. Who are looking to walk a balance between validation of feelings and difficult challenges to identified stuck points in thinking or perspective.
Taking the step to get counseling takes a lot of courage. You are already on your way to reach your desired goals. I believe that everyone faces their own challenges and has their own unique experience, but you don't have to go through it on our own. It is my job to guide you in your journey to reach health and happiness. I work with adults, elders, and adolescents ages 12-17 with anxiety, depression, sexual trauma, and grief and loss. I also have special insights with people who are marginalized (BIPOC, LGBT+, Women etc.).
Taking the step to get counseling takes a lot of courage. You are already on your way to reach your desired goals. I believe that everyone faces their own challenges and has their own unique experience, but you don't have to go through it on our own. It is my job to guide you in your journey to reach health and happiness. I work with adults, elders, and adolescents ages 12-17 with anxiety, depression, sexual trauma, and grief and loss. I also have special insights with people who are marginalized (BIPOC, LGBT+, Women etc.).
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
Laura Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
Laura Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
Joy uses her compassion and down-to-earth nature to provide an environment where clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. She understands that seeking change, or something different, is not an easy process. Joy forms collaborative partnerships with her clients when developing therapeutic goals and a plan for care. She uses mindfulness, empathy and insight to aid in the empowerment of clients. In addition, Joy also utilizes a varity of therapy techniques.
Joy uses her compassion and down-to-earth nature to provide an environment where clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. She understands that seeking change, or something different, is not an easy process. Joy forms collaborative partnerships with her clients when developing therapeutic goals and a plan for care. She uses mindfulness, empathy and insight to aid in the empowerment of clients. In addition, Joy also utilizes a varity of therapy techniques.
How We Treat One Another Matters: For better and for worse, across our whole lives, we operate in relationships. Our views of our "self" and how we relate to others develop from how we have been treated in relationships. Our capacities to love, to learn, to become our best, all emerge optimally within healthy relationships. Likewise, wounds of heart and soul emerge from ways we have been treated and/or choices we have made which have hurt us, sometimes very deeply. Persons who have experienced relational trauma and/or overwhelming life stressors are ideal candidates for clinical services at Gateway.
How We Treat One Another Matters: For better and for worse, across our whole lives, we operate in relationships. Our views of our "self" and how we relate to others develop from how we have been treated in relationships. Our capacities to love, to learn, to become our best, all emerge optimally within healthy relationships. Likewise, wounds of heart and soul emerge from ways we have been treated and/or choices we have made which have hurt us, sometimes very deeply. Persons who have experienced relational trauma and/or overwhelming life stressors are ideal candidates for clinical services at Gateway.
Mary Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504 (Online Only)
Led by compassion and curiosity, I see people, not problems. My practice style is client-led, culturally humble, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and social justice-oriented. I believe we live our best lives when we are seen, heard, and met with empathy, free of judgment. I work with clients to support a safe base from which to explore vulnerabilities, assess struggles, and process emotions. My clients hold the key to their own self-discovery, wellness, and balance and I am honored to walk this path with them.
Led by compassion and curiosity, I see people, not problems. My practice style is client-led, culturally humble, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and social justice-oriented. I believe we live our best lives when we are seen, heard, and met with empathy, free of judgment. I work with clients to support a safe base from which to explore vulnerabilities, assess struggles, and process emotions. My clients hold the key to their own self-discovery, wellness, and balance and I am honored to walk this path with them.
Gina Weber, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals in Illinois navigate life's challenges by providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each client's unique needs. With a focus on skillbuilding and practical strategies, Gina utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop emotional regulation and achieve their personal goals. Gina’s approach is rooted in creating a warm, welcoming environment infused with humor, making therapy both supportive and engaging.
Gina Weber, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals in Illinois navigate life's challenges by providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each client's unique needs. With a focus on skillbuilding and practical strategies, Gina utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop emotional regulation and achieve their personal goals. Gina’s approach is rooted in creating a warm, welcoming environment infused with humor, making therapy both supportive and engaging.
Did you know that 70% of the changes that clients make is based off of the relationship between client and therapist? I pride myself in practicing from a person-centered, strengths-based, and existential framework in order create a safe space for clients, validate their experiences, and provide unconditional positive regard. I use humor and warmth in sessions in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship quickly so that we can work together to achieve your goals.
Did you know that 70% of the changes that clients make is based off of the relationship between client and therapist? I pride myself in practicing from a person-centered, strengths-based, and existential framework in order create a safe space for clients, validate their experiences, and provide unconditional positive regard. I use humor and warmth in sessions in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship quickly so that we can work together to achieve your goals.
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Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
**New Clients waitlist** If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma history, Eating Disorders, Addiction issues, Personality Disorders, Sharon is a licensed clinical therapist that has over 15 years working experience with treating adolescents and adults. Whether you are looking to explore current issues or past deep painful ones, she provides a safe, non-judgmental space to discuss/express/process difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviors and relationships. Her therapy is an eclectic approach using DBT, CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing.
**New Clients waitlist** If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma history, Eating Disorders, Addiction issues, Personality Disorders, Sharon is a licensed clinical therapist that has over 15 years working experience with treating adolescents and adults. Whether you are looking to explore current issues or past deep painful ones, she provides a safe, non-judgmental space to discuss/express/process difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviors and relationships. Her therapy is an eclectic approach using DBT, CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing.
East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. is a private practice with an emphasis on the hierarchy of needs. EAC strives to support mental and emotional health for the individual and the family. East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. aims to support people dealing with issues of poverty and immigration, family, parenting, trauma, depression, anxiety, and issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. EAC trabaja para promover y apoyar la salud mental y emocional de personas, parejas, familias y grupos. Ayudamos a quienes enfrentan estrés por pobreza e inmigración, familia, crianza, trauma, depresión, ansiedad, identidad de género y otros desafíos.
East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. is a private practice with an emphasis on the hierarchy of needs. EAC strives to support mental and emotional health for the individual and the family. East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. aims to support people dealing with issues of poverty and immigration, family, parenting, trauma, depression, anxiety, and issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. EAC trabaja para promover y apoyar la salud mental y emocional de personas, parejas, familias y grupos. Ayudamos a quienes enfrentan estrés por pobreza e inmigración, familia, crianza, trauma, depresión, ansiedad, identidad de género y otros desafíos.
Are you chronically worried and/or unhappy -- and can't "snap out of it?" Maybe you're stuck. Perhaps you feel lonely and misunderstood. I'd like to give you personal attention, understand you, and provide you warm, genuine, and nonjudgmental support and guidance. Together, we can identify and understand the causes of your pain, reinstill hope, and find ways for you to cope and regain pleasure in the here-and-now. My research on loss and mother-daughter relationships strengthens my work with individuals; couples; gender issues; parenting; anxiety and depression; and adjustment to loss and overall life changes.
Are you chronically worried and/or unhappy -- and can't "snap out of it?" Maybe you're stuck. Perhaps you feel lonely and misunderstood. I'd like to give you personal attention, understand you, and provide you warm, genuine, and nonjudgmental support and guidance. Together, we can identify and understand the causes of your pain, reinstill hope, and find ways for you to cope and regain pleasure in the here-and-now. My research on loss and mother-daughter relationships strengthens my work with individuals; couples; gender issues; parenting; anxiety and depression; and adjustment to loss and overall life changes.
Vana M Bowen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
Hello! Choosing a therapist is not easy and involves finding someone with whom you are comfortable. I offer a supportive approach that is sustained by years of experience, knowledge and training through private psychotherapy and consulting services.
My clinical services provide a comprehensive and holistic approach toward personal growth and healing. Together, we can uncover your inner strengths and gifts to make emotional and behavioral treatment a fulfilling journey.
I have received DIPLOMATE professional certification with the American Psychotherapy Association and have professional certifications in Play Therapy, Domestic Violence, Sexual Addictions,and Trauma-Based Treatments.
Hello! Choosing a therapist is not easy and involves finding someone with whom you are comfortable. I offer a supportive approach that is sustained by years of experience, knowledge and training through private psychotherapy and consulting services.
My clinical services provide a comprehensive and holistic approach toward personal growth and healing. Together, we can uncover your inner strengths and gifts to make emotional and behavioral treatment a fulfilling journey.
I have received DIPLOMATE professional certification with the American Psychotherapy Association and have professional certifications in Play Therapy, Domestic Violence, Sexual Addictions,and Trauma-Based Treatments.
We all have the capacity to reach our fullest potential. Yet all too often we find ourselves stuck in negative patterns of thinking and acting, unable to see other possibilities. Therapy allows us to make meaning of our difficult life experiences and open up to new ways of thinking, feeling, and being. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn to identify and express their emotions effectively, develop healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions, improve the quality of their relationships, and increase their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
We all have the capacity to reach our fullest potential. Yet all too often we find ourselves stuck in negative patterns of thinking and acting, unable to see other possibilities. Therapy allows us to make meaning of our difficult life experiences and open up to new ways of thinking, feeling, and being. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn to identify and express their emotions effectively, develop healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions, improve the quality of their relationships, and increase their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
Ashley Denny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women & Gender Studies and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ashley believes one of the bravest tasks a person can do is begin to understand their own story. She values creating a safe, inclusive, affirming, and empowering space for all her clients. Sometimes we might feel alone or lost or that no one could possibly understand how we are feeling. We are all unique and have a story to tell, and you deserve to feel better.
Ashley Denny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women & Gender Studies and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ashley believes one of the bravest tasks a person can do is begin to understand their own story. She values creating a safe, inclusive, affirming, and empowering space for all her clients. Sometimes we might feel alone or lost or that no one could possibly understand how we are feeling. We are all unique and have a story to tell, and you deserve to feel better.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
As a counselor, I believe we all strive to live happy, healthy, successful, and independent lives, but sometimes find the stresses of our every day responsibilities to be overwhelming. This is where counseling can make a difference. Counseling has long been a proven tool in the successful management of stress. My office is a safe space to explore any number of private topics you may want to discuss such as wellness, depression, anxiety, trauma, or other areas of concern. We will meet to discuss these important issues and work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.
As a counselor, I believe we all strive to live happy, healthy, successful, and independent lives, but sometimes find the stresses of our every day responsibilities to be overwhelming. This is where counseling can make a difference. Counseling has long been a proven tool in the successful management of stress. My office is a safe space to explore any number of private topics you may want to discuss such as wellness, depression, anxiety, trauma, or other areas of concern. We will meet to discuss these important issues and work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.
See more therapy options for Aurora
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Aurora
- Bolingbrook
- Downers Grove
- Glen Ellyn
- Lemont
- Lisle
- Naperville
- Warrenville
- West Chicago
- Westmont
- Wheaton
- Winfield
- Woodridge
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.