LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Bridgeview, IL
Every person deserves to be valued for who they are and where they are in life. Life challenges can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves. There can be great value in reclaiming our entire selves, with all we have been through and currently face, while stepping into the unknown. Being truly witnessed can help us reconcile our realities, regain hope, and remember our gifts. I wish to honor your life by offering a warm, accepting haven for you to exist, unpack, discover, heal, and co-create your life in light of who you are and the unique opportunities and challenges you experience. You deserve to feel at home with yourself.
Every person deserves to be valued for who they are and where they are in life. Life challenges can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves. There can be great value in reclaiming our entire selves, with all we have been through and currently face, while stepping into the unknown. Being truly witnessed can help us reconcile our realities, regain hope, and remember our gifts. I wish to honor your life by offering a warm, accepting haven for you to exist, unpack, discover, heal, and co-create your life in light of who you are and the unique opportunities and challenges you experience. You deserve to feel at home with yourself.
Dr. Celia Zanayed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bridgeview, IL 60455 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Dr. Celia and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who opened my practice to help those who want to make a change in their lives. I specialize in working with trauma across the lifespan, which is how I know how significantly our brains and bodies can shift after a difficult event and/or a series of difficult life circumstances. Therapy is a space for us to explore how our past informs who we are. Being able to form meaningful relationships is a key part of our mental wellness, but it isn’t always so easy to do.
Hi, my name is Dr. Celia and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who opened my practice to help those who want to make a change in their lives. I specialize in working with trauma across the lifespan, which is how I know how significantly our brains and bodies can shift after a difficult event and/or a series of difficult life circumstances. Therapy is a space for us to explore how our past informs who we are. Being able to form meaningful relationships is a key part of our mental wellness, but it isn’t always so easy to do.
Stephanie Brennan
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeview, IL 60455
Not accepting new clients
I recognize that your experiences and reasons for seeking counseling are unique to you. Our sessions will help you discover and strengthen tools and skills that you need to transition through difficult times. Together we will use strategies to explore your concerns and begin taking steps towards a more satisfying life. Therapy is an opportunity for you to "tell your story" in a safe environment. Everyone needs someone to talk to when faced with difficult times. Many people meet with me to talk with an objective, nonjudgemental person.
I recognize that your experiences and reasons for seeking counseling are unique to you. Our sessions will help you discover and strengthen tools and skills that you need to transition through difficult times. Together we will use strategies to explore your concerns and begin taking steps towards a more satisfying life. Therapy is an opportunity for you to "tell your story" in a safe environment. Everyone needs someone to talk to when faced with difficult times. Many people meet with me to talk with an objective, nonjudgemental person.
More Therapists Nearby
Anthony Oltean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
Hello there. Thank you for reading my profile. I've been working in the Lakeview area for over a decade now. I offer counseling aimed at enhancing your natural strengths, introduce new coping abilities, challenge unproductive thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, as well as providing you the opportunity to try on a new perspective toward your life. I have focused predominately on issues that impact the LGBTQ+ population, as well as variety of communities located in the area.
Hello there. Thank you for reading my profile. I've been working in the Lakeview area for over a decade now. I offer counseling aimed at enhancing your natural strengths, introduce new coping abilities, challenge unproductive thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, as well as providing you the opportunity to try on a new perspective toward your life. I have focused predominately on issues that impact the LGBTQ+ population, as well as variety of communities located in the area.
As a BIPOC, immigrant, and LGBTQ+ owned practice, Platiquemos Therapy prioritizes accessibility of care for those who may not see themselves represented within the larger mental health care community. Platiquemos is centered on the values of human worth, intersectionality, radical connection, mind-body healing, courage y compassion.
As a BIPOC, immigrant, and LGBTQ+ owned practice, Platiquemos Therapy prioritizes accessibility of care for those who may not see themselves represented within the larger mental health care community. Platiquemos is centered on the values of human worth, intersectionality, radical connection, mind-body healing, courage y compassion.
Legends Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, CGT, CTDM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402 (Online Only)
I am anti-racist, queer-allied, sex positive, poly-affirming, HAES-affirming.
Are you a member of the LGBTQIA community or an ally? Have you struggled to find a therapist who is engaging and focused on change? Are you a geek who feels unheard, over-diagnosed for your hobbies and passions, and enjoy creative endeavors like table-top RPGs, video games, and board games? I view my role as a lantern in the dark. It is challenging to walk around in the dark without any sense of direction before you find a lantern sitting on a stool. It is up to you to decide to pick up the lantern, to use it to guide your path through the dark, walk the path, overcome the barriers before you, and find mental wellness.
I am anti-racist, queer-allied, sex positive, poly-affirming, HAES-affirming.
Are you a member of the LGBTQIA community or an ally? Have you struggled to find a therapist who is engaging and focused on change? Are you a geek who feels unheard, over-diagnosed for your hobbies and passions, and enjoy creative endeavors like table-top RPGs, video games, and board games? I view my role as a lantern in the dark. It is challenging to walk around in the dark without any sense of direction before you find a lantern sitting on a stool. It is up to you to decide to pick up the lantern, to use it to guide your path through the dark, walk the path, overcome the barriers before you, and find mental wellness.
I am a gay therapist that finds meaning working with individuals with histories of trauma, complex family dynamics, and those in toxic relationships with themselves and others. I also work with LGBTQ couples and mixed neurotype couples who want to explore open relationships, polyamory, and how to feel more connected and safer with their partners. My role as a therapist is to help my clients understand the symptoms that once protected them from trauma with the wisdom and compassion of your present self and encourage them to feel confident while you practice new skills to look ahead.
I am a gay therapist that finds meaning working with individuals with histories of trauma, complex family dynamics, and those in toxic relationships with themselves and others. I also work with LGBTQ couples and mixed neurotype couples who want to explore open relationships, polyamory, and how to feel more connected and safer with their partners. My role as a therapist is to help my clients understand the symptoms that once protected them from trauma with the wisdom and compassion of your present self and encourage them to feel confident while you practice new skills to look ahead.
Maddy Seabrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
Vulnerability met with empathy can be transformative, so I meet all clients with non-judgmental care.
As a therapist, my goal is to affirm my clients’ unique experiences and to support them in living more empowered lives. Everyone has the tools within themselves to flourish, but life experiences can make it challenging to connect with those strengths and abilities. The impact of trauma and oppression can move us into places of isolation and self-doubt. I respect how people adapt in order to survive, and I deeply honor their resiliency. I also believe that people deserve more than mere survival. We all deserve joy, connection, and safety.
Vulnerability met with empathy can be transformative, so I meet all clients with non-judgmental care.
As a therapist, my goal is to affirm my clients’ unique experiences and to support them in living more empowered lives. Everyone has the tools within themselves to flourish, but life experiences can make it challenging to connect with those strengths and abilities. The impact of trauma and oppression can move us into places of isolation and self-doubt. I respect how people adapt in order to survive, and I deeply honor their resiliency. I also believe that people deserve more than mere survival. We all deserve joy, connection, and safety.
Arthur Avalos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60521 (Online Only)
I work with behavioral issues, mood impairment, anxiety, life transitions, work/life balance, self-esteem, substance abuse, chronic medical issues, crisis management and issues unique to the LGBTQ population.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
I work with behavioral issues, mood impairment, anxiety, life transitions, work/life balance, self-esteem, substance abuse, chronic medical issues, crisis management and issues unique to the LGBTQ population.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
Dr. Therin Slayton
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463 (Online Only)
My primary specialization is in working with folks who are part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Are you struggling with issues of identity, wounds from childhood, anxiety, spirituality and religion, finding meaning, feeling present, or how to blossom and care for yourself in a world that prefers the straight and narrow? I believe that, deep down, we often know what we need to create fulfillment in our lives. But sometimes it’s difficult to hear ourselves over the stress of daily life. Doing the work of therapy is courageous. I would be honored to accompany you, at whatever pace you like, on your journey.
My primary specialization is in working with folks who are part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Are you struggling with issues of identity, wounds from childhood, anxiety, spirituality and religion, finding meaning, feeling present, or how to blossom and care for yourself in a world that prefers the straight and narrow? I believe that, deep down, we often know what we need to create fulfillment in our lives. But sometimes it’s difficult to hear ourselves over the stress of daily life. Doing the work of therapy is courageous. I would be honored to accompany you, at whatever pace you like, on your journey.
I have specialized training and experience working with LGBTQ adults in different life phases, as well as artists who see creativity as a part of their life and a source of their growth.
I offer therapy in an affirming environment where individuals share concerns about their current and past challenges. I work collaboratively with clients to help them gain insight into their lives, manage distress, and develop tools to create meaningful and sustainable relationships. With the support of therapy, you can move towards a healthier, more balanced life.
I have specialized training and experience working with LGBTQ adults in different life phases, as well as artists who see creativity as a part of their life and a source of their growth.
I offer therapy in an affirming environment where individuals share concerns about their current and past challenges. I work collaboratively with clients to help them gain insight into their lives, manage distress, and develop tools to create meaningful and sustainable relationships. With the support of therapy, you can move towards a healthier, more balanced life.
Erin Mooney-Simkus
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
If you want to feel more content, improve your relationships and manage life transitions, we can work together to build awareness, develop resilience & create balance to meet your goals, and feel better. I work with young adults, & adults managing depression, anxiety, loss & interpersonal conflicts. I provide a safe space for LGBTQ concerns, whether you or someone close to you identifies.
If you want to feel more content, improve your relationships and manage life transitions, we can work together to build awareness, develop resilience & create balance to meet your goals, and feel better. I work with young adults, & adults managing depression, anxiety, loss & interpersonal conflicts. I provide a safe space for LGBTQ concerns, whether you or someone close to you identifies.
I specialize in providing care to members of the LGBTQ+ community and those questioning their identities.
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds including gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, and faith/spirituality. I work to provide customized and culturally appropriate treatment approaches based on collaboration and integrity. I acknowledge the barriers inherent in seeking out and receiving mental health care and work to utilize my expertise to create an accessible standard of care. I approach therapy from the standpoint of exploring social contexts and the impact of social messages on individual mental health and collective relationships.
I specialize in providing care to members of the LGBTQ+ community and those questioning their identities.
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds including gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, and faith/spirituality. I work to provide customized and culturally appropriate treatment approaches based on collaboration and integrity. I acknowledge the barriers inherent in seeking out and receiving mental health care and work to utilize my expertise to create an accessible standard of care. I approach therapy from the standpoint of exploring social contexts and the impact of social messages on individual mental health and collective relationships.
He also has experience working with LGBTQ+ community, people on the autism spectrum, extending a hand to those who are seeking direction in life or simply want a place to help figure things out during life transition.
Jay Butterfield, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Illinois since 2019, brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to his practice. Armed with an MS from Mercer University, Jay is dedicated to employing research-based techniques and practices to enhance the well-being of his clients. His methodology is eclectic but has strong roots in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), among others. His style is typically navigational, with a focus on finding realistic goals and actionable solutions.
He also has experience working with LGBTQ+ community, people on the autism spectrum, extending a hand to those who are seeking direction in life or simply want a place to help figure things out during life transition.
Jay Butterfield, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Illinois since 2019, brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to his practice. Armed with an MS from Mercer University, Jay is dedicated to employing research-based techniques and practices to enhance the well-being of his clients. His methodology is eclectic but has strong roots in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), among others. His style is typically navigational, with a focus on finding realistic goals and actionable solutions.
Mary M Clarke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
Waitlist for new clients
I connect with the LGBTQ+, Trans, and Non Binary communities.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
I connect with the LGBTQ+, Trans, and Non Binary communities.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
Kristy Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, CADC, EdD
Verified Verified
Blue Island, IL 60406 (Online Only)
I am a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and a member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). I work with all aspects of sex and sexuality that may be the cause of pain or distress. These issues could include any variety of difficulties with desire, arousal, intimacy, physical pain, communication, identity/expression, or fertility. I work with individuals/couples of all expressions ( LGBTQ-identified, heterosexual-identified, non-monogamous, polyamorous, etc) to integrate sex positive communication into their relationships.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and a member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). I work with all aspects of sex and sexuality that may be the cause of pain or distress. These issues could include any variety of difficulties with desire, arousal, intimacy, physical pain, communication, identity/expression, or fertility. I work with individuals/couples of all expressions ( LGBTQ-identified, heterosexual-identified, non-monogamous, polyamorous, etc) to integrate sex positive communication into their relationships.
Guided Path Psychological Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
One specialty area of my practice is the provision of services to the LGBTQ population, especially transgender individuals.
It takes courage to reach out for help. As a caring, knowledgeable therapist, I am committed to assisting people to take the additional steps necessary to create change in their lives. Let's work together to identify the changes you wish to make and develop a plan to move toward those goals. Whether it is depression, anxiety, grief and loss or whatever issues you face, I can help you as I have helped others to achieve their goals as they improve the quality of their lives.
One specialty area of my practice is the provision of services to the LGBTQ population, especially transgender individuals.
It takes courage to reach out for help. As a caring, knowledgeable therapist, I am committed to assisting people to take the additional steps necessary to create change in their lives. Let's work together to identify the changes you wish to make and develop a plan to move toward those goals. Whether it is depression, anxiety, grief and loss or whatever issues you face, I can help you as I have helped others to achieve their goals as they improve the quality of their lives.
With more than 6 years of professional education and experience in mental health care, Lucretia has continued showcasing a commitment to helping a diverse range of clients, including those from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those dealing with relationship issues.
Lucretia Mayer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2015. Lucretia is uniquely skilled in working with professionals like caregivers, medical professionals, social workers, and counselors, focusing on managing career and emotional burnout, which is increasingly relevant in today's high-stress work/living environments. Her approach is characterized by a deep sense of empathy, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and understanding therapeutic relationship.
With more than 6 years of professional education and experience in mental health care, Lucretia has continued showcasing a commitment to helping a diverse range of clients, including those from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those dealing with relationship issues.
Lucretia Mayer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2015. Lucretia is uniquely skilled in working with professionals like caregivers, medical professionals, social workers, and counselors, focusing on managing career and emotional burnout, which is increasingly relevant in today's high-stress work/living environments. Her approach is characterized by a deep sense of empathy, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and understanding therapeutic relationship.
Dr. Mary Madrake is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with members of the LGBT+ community, neurodivergent clients, those in non-monogamous and alternative relationships, and clients involved in kink. Dr. Madrake has experience in a variety of settings, including schools, community mental health centers, and private practice. They provide individual and couples therapy with older children, adolescents, and adults. They have experience treating trauma, relationship issues, gender identity and sexuality, emotional and behavioral disorders, anxiety, and adjustment to a variety of life transitions.
Dr. Mary Madrake is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with members of the LGBT+ community, neurodivergent clients, those in non-monogamous and alternative relationships, and clients involved in kink. Dr. Madrake has experience in a variety of settings, including schools, community mental health centers, and private practice. They provide individual and couples therapy with older children, adolescents, and adults. They have experience treating trauma, relationship issues, gender identity and sexuality, emotional and behavioral disorders, anxiety, and adjustment to a variety of life transitions.
Neelima D. Prabhala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I work with tweens through adults on a variety of issues including: mood disorders, neurodivergence, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC concerns, disordered eating, personality and mood disorders, trauma, and attachment.
Therapy is hard work but it’s worth it because it starts with choosing yourself and being intentional about how you want to live your life. While we may come to therapy in a time of hardship, we all have strengths that we can use a foundation for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach so I use a blend of approaches including DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Play/Narrative therapies. I also understand how systemic forces shape our realities, and I help clients recognize these forces and develop skills to cope.
I work with tweens through adults on a variety of issues including: mood disorders, neurodivergence, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC concerns, disordered eating, personality and mood disorders, trauma, and attachment.
Therapy is hard work but it’s worth it because it starts with choosing yourself and being intentional about how you want to live your life. While we may come to therapy in a time of hardship, we all have strengths that we can use a foundation for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach so I use a blend of approaches including DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Play/Narrative therapies. I also understand how systemic forces shape our realities, and I help clients recognize these forces and develop skills to cope.
See more therapy options for Bridgeview
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Bridgeview
- Alsip
- Brookfield
- Chicago Ridge
- Evergreen Park
- La Grange
- La Grange Park
- Oak Lawn
- Palos Heights
- Palos Hills
- Palos Park
- Western Springs
- Willow Springs
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.