Feminist Therapists in Chicago, IL
Bea Gatchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605 (Online Only)
I work from an evidence-based practice approach pulling in the following theoretical models: Affirmative Therapy with LGBTQ+ Folx, Intersectional Feminist, Anti-Oppression, Person Centered, Trauma-Informed, Harm Reduction, Relational, Empowerment, and Strenths-Based Practice.
My areas of specialization are working with individuals/couples/relationships who are in the LGBTQ+ community who have experienced violence, such as sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, family system-based violence, spiritual abuse, and community-based violence. I work with many different relationship structures from cisgender heterosexual monogamous couples and folx with more expansive relationship structures. My areas of specialization in working with relationship clients are high-conflict relationships, sexual dysfunction/dysregulation, infidelity, trust, safety, and stability.
I work from an evidence-based practice approach pulling in the following theoretical models: Affirmative Therapy with LGBTQ+ Folx, Intersectional Feminist, Anti-Oppression, Person Centered, Trauma-Informed, Harm Reduction, Relational, Empowerment, and Strenths-Based Practice.
My areas of specialization are working with individuals/couples/relationships who are in the LGBTQ+ community who have experienced violence, such as sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, family system-based violence, spiritual abuse, and community-based violence. I work with many different relationship structures from cisgender heterosexual monogamous couples and folx with more expansive relationship structures. My areas of specialization in working with relationship clients are high-conflict relationships, sexual dysfunction/dysregulation, infidelity, trust, safety, and stability.
Olivia Falcone
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
I have a deep appreciation for feminist theory and unique understanding of how patriarchal systems weigh on our mental health.
I am a psychodynamic therapist that utilizes a person-centered approach with an internal family systems lens. Basically, I am here to help you improve the relationships in your life by exploring your past, promoting self-acceptance, and establishing a shame and judgement free environment. I am passionate about working with individuals who seek to improve the relationships in their lives and become better versions of themselves.
I have a deep appreciation for feminist theory and unique understanding of how patriarchal systems weigh on our mental health.
I am a psychodynamic therapist that utilizes a person-centered approach with an internal family systems lens. Basically, I am here to help you improve the relationships in your life by exploring your past, promoting self-acceptance, and establishing a shame and judgement free environment. I am passionate about working with individuals who seek to improve the relationships in their lives and become better versions of themselves.
Raina Cowan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
My therapy approach is to first find out what the client is seeking from therapy, and if they have prior experiences with therapy or art therapy. Then we can set the course, and shape it to meet their needs. I give assignments in between sessions to help clients gain confidence getting where they want to be when they leave therapy. After all, the work of living is not done in a therapy office, so life skills need to be practiced and honed outside of therapy. My work is informed by a combination of cognitive behavioral, relational/feminist, client centered and psycho-dynamic therapy, but not limited by these frameworks.
My therapy approach is to first find out what the client is seeking from therapy, and if they have prior experiences with therapy or art therapy. Then we can set the course, and shape it to meet their needs. I give assignments in between sessions to help clients gain confidence getting where they want to be when they leave therapy. After all, the work of living is not done in a therapy office, so life skills need to be practiced and honed outside of therapy. My work is informed by a combination of cognitive behavioral, relational/feminist, client centered and psycho-dynamic therapy, but not limited by these frameworks.
Lgbtqia+ Relationship Therapist Nicole Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
I am poly affirming, kink-aware, and practice therapy from a feminist, anti-racist, and Health at Every Size perspective.
Are you and your partner struggling to communicate and looking for a space to learn how to better understand each other? Or, maybe you're an individual looking to improve your self-esteem and build a stronger relationship with yourself. As a couple and family therapist, I strive to provide a safe and encouraging space for intimate relationships, families, and individuals to process, heal, challenge patterns, explore different ways of thinking… and even enjoy some fun and laughs along the way!
I am poly affirming, kink-aware, and practice therapy from a feminist, anti-racist, and Health at Every Size perspective.
Are you and your partner struggling to communicate and looking for a space to learn how to better understand each other? Or, maybe you're an individual looking to improve your self-esteem and build a stronger relationship with yourself. As a couple and family therapist, I strive to provide a safe and encouraging space for intimate relationships, families, and individuals to process, heal, challenge patterns, explore different ways of thinking… and even enjoy some fun and laughs along the way!
Johanna Hayes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is heavily influenced by feminist and attachment theories.
I am a queer, sex positive, trauma-informed therapist who supports individuals (18+) and couples (monogamous/non-monogamous/poly) at Move Therapy and Wellness. I believe therapy to be a collaborative experience in which the therapeutic relationship plays an invaluable role in your healing. I specialize in working with sex and intimacy challenges, sexual trauma, relationship challenges, LGBTQIA+ folks, anxiety, depression, and adult children of narcissistic/borderline parents. As a queer-identified therapist I have a particular passion for supporting my community in this current political climate.
My approach to therapy is heavily influenced by feminist and attachment theories.
I am a queer, sex positive, trauma-informed therapist who supports individuals (18+) and couples (monogamous/non-monogamous/poly) at Move Therapy and Wellness. I believe therapy to be a collaborative experience in which the therapeutic relationship plays an invaluable role in your healing. I specialize in working with sex and intimacy challenges, sexual trauma, relationship challenges, LGBTQIA+ folks, anxiety, depression, and adult children of narcissistic/borderline parents. As a queer-identified therapist I have a particular passion for supporting my community in this current political climate.
Gabby Rascati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I use a feminist, strengths-based, person-centered approach and believe in holding the duality of acceptance and desire for change.
I am a Therapist (LCSW) and Registered Yoga Teacher in Lakeview/Roscoe Village in Chicago, integrating both body and mind where possible during therapy. My clients can expect to be met with empathy and authenticity, as I aim to create a space that feels safe enough to explore coping tools, acceptance, and personal growth.
I use a feminist, strengths-based, person-centered approach and believe in holding the duality of acceptance and desire for change.
I am a Therapist (LCSW) and Registered Yoga Teacher in Lakeview/Roscoe Village in Chicago, integrating both body and mind where possible during therapy. My clients can expect to be met with empathy and authenticity, as I aim to create a space that feels safe enough to explore coping tools, acceptance, and personal growth.
I use a collaborative, feminist approach to help you examine how power structures have impacted you.
Do you struggle with sexual desire and feel like your partner is always more in the mood than you are (or vice-versa)? Are you currently struggling with dating and worried you won’t find a good match? Do you want to explore kink or non-monogamy, but aren’t sure how to go about doing so? Did you wait until marriage to have sex for the first time, but are now struggling to enjoy sex with your partner? If any of these questions resonated with you, you’re in luck! I would be honored to work with any and all people who may be having these experiences. I work with any issues related to sex, intimacy, relationships, queerness.
I use a collaborative, feminist approach to help you examine how power structures have impacted you.
Do you struggle with sexual desire and feel like your partner is always more in the mood than you are (or vice-versa)? Are you currently struggling with dating and worried you won’t find a good match? Do you want to explore kink or non-monogamy, but aren’t sure how to go about doing so? Did you wait until marriage to have sex for the first time, but are now struggling to enjoy sex with your partner? If any of these questions resonated with you, you’re in luck! I would be honored to work with any and all people who may be having these experiences. I work with any issues related to sex, intimacy, relationships, queerness.
Dinah Hudson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
I am an EMDR therapist who anchors their anti-oppressive work in the perspectives of the feminist relational model, harm-reduction, body positivity, and restorative and transformative justice frames.
As a queer Black person who has done their own healing work, it became my mission to establish the therapeutic space I provide as trauma-informed. As such, I strive toward building a fundamental anti-oppressive space, one where your intersectionalities are respected and your healing is centered. Bringing these intentions to the space I provide makes doing the work that healing requires that much more possible for the communities I serve.
I am an EMDR therapist who anchors their anti-oppressive work in the perspectives of the feminist relational model, harm-reduction, body positivity, and restorative and transformative justice frames.
As a queer Black person who has done their own healing work, it became my mission to establish the therapeutic space I provide as trauma-informed. As such, I strive toward building a fundamental anti-oppressive space, one where your intersectionalities are respected and your healing is centered. Bringing these intentions to the space I provide makes doing the work that healing requires that much more possible for the communities I serve.
Allison Schentrup
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
My practice is trauma informed, and based on feminist, existential, and transpersonal approaches.
I want to help you live purpose led, pleasure-full life. I work with individuals and couples on all manner of relationships. In my couples work, I help partners rediscover intimate connection, learn more effective and compassionate ways of communicating, and rebuild trust. Often, I work with couples on co-parenting, life transitions, and mismatched desire. With individuals I support all of your relationships, whether you’re wanting to find love, deepen friendships, or understand your family. I also help individuals with managing anxiety, spiritual/religious trauma, and healing body image.
My practice is trauma informed, and based on feminist, existential, and transpersonal approaches.
I want to help you live purpose led, pleasure-full life. I work with individuals and couples on all manner of relationships. In my couples work, I help partners rediscover intimate connection, learn more effective and compassionate ways of communicating, and rebuild trust. Often, I work with couples on co-parenting, life transitions, and mismatched desire. With individuals I support all of your relationships, whether you’re wanting to find love, deepen friendships, or understand your family. I also help individuals with managing anxiety, spiritual/religious trauma, and healing body image.
I use an integrative approach, drawing upon elements of psychodynamic, client-centered therapy while utilizing a multicultural feminist lens.
I’m Kellie, a clinical counseling therapist-in-training. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse, multicultural backgrounds. I work to help clients recognize their strengths, feel empowered to realize their goals, and increase their overall wellness. I am committed to social justice and advocacy, and I am dedicated to helping my clients feel supported by fostering a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe, judgment-free space. I would be honored to support you throughout your therapeutic journey.
I use an integrative approach, drawing upon elements of psychodynamic, client-centered therapy while utilizing a multicultural feminist lens.
I’m Kellie, a clinical counseling therapist-in-training. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse, multicultural backgrounds. I work to help clients recognize their strengths, feel empowered to realize their goals, and increase their overall wellness. I am committed to social justice and advocacy, and I am dedicated to helping my clients feel supported by fostering a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe, judgment-free space. I would be honored to support you throughout your therapeutic journey.
Seeking therapy is often a difficult process for many individuals of diverse backgrounds due to cultural stigmas and stereotypes around mental health. Trying to then find the "right" therapist can feel impossible whether it's your first time exploring or the umpteenth attempt following another not-so-great experience. I believe a safe therapeutic relationship can create unique opportunities for minority populations who are seeking to better understand and cope with their mental health, especially when approached with multicultural and feminist perspectives that allow for a level of empathy that is often unavailable in other spaces.
Seeking therapy is often a difficult process for many individuals of diverse backgrounds due to cultural stigmas and stereotypes around mental health. Trying to then find the "right" therapist can feel impossible whether it's your first time exploring or the umpteenth attempt following another not-so-great experience. I believe a safe therapeutic relationship can create unique opportunities for minority populations who are seeking to better understand and cope with their mental health, especially when approached with multicultural and feminist perspectives that allow for a level of empathy that is often unavailable in other spaces.
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I am influenced by a variety of evidence-based practices, including DBT, ACT, internal family systems, feminist therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
I work with adolescents and adults. My specialities include working with people experiencing life transitions, survivors of trauma, queer and trans people, people of color, and disabled folks. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink affirming, and sex positive. I also work with polyamourous and non-monogamous people, as well as those with other alternative relationship orientations. Additionally, I have experience working with folks with substance use concerns, adoptees, religious minorities, sex workers, and neurodivergent people.
I am influenced by a variety of evidence-based practices, including DBT, ACT, internal family systems, feminist therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
I work with adolescents and adults. My specialities include working with people experiencing life transitions, survivors of trauma, queer and trans people, people of color, and disabled folks. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink affirming, and sex positive. I also work with polyamourous and non-monogamous people, as well as those with other alternative relationship orientations. Additionally, I have experience working with folks with substance use concerns, adoptees, religious minorities, sex workers, and neurodivergent people.
I practice using a holistic lens, goal oriented mindset, social justice framework, transparency, feminist lens, spirituality (for those interested), multicultural, solution focused, CBT, Gottman method, harm reduction, and values work.
Clients that enjoy working with me are multicultural clients who are seeking a safe, non-judgmental environment. I provide a safe and respectful space for clients to express themselves, to cry, to laugh and to be their authentic self. My passion is to help people of color embrace their identity, break generational barriers, and live healthier lives. Areas of interest: seeking therapy for the first time (welcome!), multicultural/first generation experiences, trauma, navigating dating experiences, ADHD, depression, men of color, trauma work, boundary work, making difficult decisions, working on confidence, body image/body neutrality.
I practice using a holistic lens, goal oriented mindset, social justice framework, transparency, feminist lens, spirituality (for those interested), multicultural, solution focused, CBT, Gottman method, harm reduction, and values work.
Clients that enjoy working with me are multicultural clients who are seeking a safe, non-judgmental environment. I provide a safe and respectful space for clients to express themselves, to cry, to laugh and to be their authentic self. My passion is to help people of color embrace their identity, break generational barriers, and live healthier lives. Areas of interest: seeking therapy for the first time (welcome!), multicultural/first generation experiences, trauma, navigating dating experiences, ADHD, depression, men of color, trauma work, boundary work, making difficult decisions, working on confidence, body image/body neutrality.
Allison Sheade is a feminist psychodynamic, relational, trauma-focused LCPC in Chicago. Her style is warm, empathic, collaborative, and direct. Allison has an active style, and clients enjoy knowing that she will offer insights, interpretations, and feedback that are effective, helpful, and supportive. Allison has worked in community mental health, at the Women's Center at Northwestern University, and in outpatient settings. Allison works with diverse populations and operates from a multicultural perspective, valuing differences of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender and sexuality (+ poly & kink), ableness, and world-view.
Allison Sheade is a feminist psychodynamic, relational, trauma-focused LCPC in Chicago. Her style is warm, empathic, collaborative, and direct. Allison has an active style, and clients enjoy knowing that she will offer insights, interpretations, and feedback that are effective, helpful, and supportive. Allison has worked in community mental health, at the Women's Center at Northwestern University, and in outpatient settings. Allison works with diverse populations and operates from a multicultural perspective, valuing differences of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender and sexuality (+ poly & kink), ableness, and world-view.
I work from a feminist lens to collaborate with my clients to determine goals and obstacles for our therapeutic relationship.
I work with adults from all walks of life. I specialize in working with clients who face systemic harm and societal stigma including but not limited to; LBGTQ and TGNC folks, women, and people from other marginalized communities. I am affirming of all genders & sexualities, careers, reproductive choices, kinks, and alternative relationship structures. I also work with people striving to change their interpersonal relationship dynamics. I am trained in using a harm reduction framework to work with folks who want to change their relationship with substance use.
I work from a feminist lens to collaborate with my clients to determine goals and obstacles for our therapeutic relationship.
I work with adults from all walks of life. I specialize in working with clients who face systemic harm and societal stigma including but not limited to; LBGTQ and TGNC folks, women, and people from other marginalized communities. I am affirming of all genders & sexualities, careers, reproductive choices, kinks, and alternative relationship structures. I also work with people striving to change their interpersonal relationship dynamics. I am trained in using a harm reduction framework to work with folks who want to change their relationship with substance use.
My therapeutic approach in sessions is from a feminist perspective.
In the therapeutic setting, my goal is to provide clients the space to be their most authentic selves. Too often in society, we are forced to wear a façade, or be a fraction of ourselves in any given space, for fear of being “too much” or fear of not being accepted fully. In our sessions, I encourage you to take up space unapologetically. I love being able to help my clients discover their real selves and give them the tools to overcome any obstacles in their journeys towards wellness. I show up to sessions as my authentic self, and I encourage my clients to do the same. The work begins where the masks end.
My therapeutic approach in sessions is from a feminist perspective.
In the therapeutic setting, my goal is to provide clients the space to be their most authentic selves. Too often in society, we are forced to wear a façade, or be a fraction of ourselves in any given space, for fear of being “too much” or fear of not being accepted fully. In our sessions, I encourage you to take up space unapologetically. I love being able to help my clients discover their real selves and give them the tools to overcome any obstacles in their journeys towards wellness. I show up to sessions as my authentic self, and I encourage my clients to do the same. The work begins where the masks end.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with robust experience working in community, residential and medical settings. I work predominately from a relational model that utilizes an intersectional feminist lens to situate people’s lived experiences. People can have multiple identities and belief systems that deserve recognition. Leveraging these nuances can empower patients to utilize coping strategies and frameworks that serve to better sustain their wellbeing. Whether it is seeking out specific solutions or making meaning of an event, I strive to work collaboratively alongside patients in their healing journey
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with robust experience working in community, residential and medical settings. I work predominately from a relational model that utilizes an intersectional feminist lens to situate people’s lived experiences. People can have multiple identities and belief systems that deserve recognition. Leveraging these nuances can empower patients to utilize coping strategies and frameworks that serve to better sustain their wellbeing. Whether it is seeking out specific solutions or making meaning of an event, I strive to work collaboratively alongside patients in their healing journey
My practice as a therapist is founded on social justice and feminist frameworks, as well as relational-cultural theory.
There are many reasons a child might benefit from therapy–maybe they’re experiencing intense, big feelings and having a difficult time processing them; maybe they’re fighting at school or with their siblings; or maybe they’re having a hard time making friends. Whatever the reason is, as your child’s therapist I am committed to hearing their story and collaboratively working with them to become confident and secure explorers of the world. Through building a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients, they are able to feel safe and empowered to have agency within therapy and in their lives.
My practice as a therapist is founded on social justice and feminist frameworks, as well as relational-cultural theory.
There are many reasons a child might benefit from therapy–maybe they’re experiencing intense, big feelings and having a difficult time processing them; maybe they’re fighting at school or with their siblings; or maybe they’re having a hard time making friends. Whatever the reason is, as your child’s therapist I am committed to hearing their story and collaboratively working with them to become confident and secure explorers of the world. Through building a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients, they are able to feel safe and empowered to have agency within therapy and in their lives.
I understand that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in a positive therapeutic experience, and as such, I believe that psychotherapy is just as much of a place to laugh and celebrate joys as it is a place to grieve and manage disappointments. I value taking a collaborative, non-hierarchical approach to therapy, drawing from a feminist and social justice lens.
I understand that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in a positive therapeutic experience, and as such, I believe that psychotherapy is just as much of a place to laugh and celebrate joys as it is a place to grieve and manage disappointments. I value taking a collaborative, non-hierarchical approach to therapy, drawing from a feminist and social justice lens.
Marlee Gebhard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
The styles I pull from most often are CBT, DBT, ACT, and Feminist Therapy.
As a queer, gender-expansive, and neurodivergent therapist, I deeply empathize with the diverse lived experiences of my clients. If you struggle with issues related to your sexual health, self-doubt, overthinking, being overly self-critical, or people-pleasing, then we might be a good fit! My warm approach emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure, self-compassion, and is rooted in mindfulness. I'm affirming of all identities, relationship structures, and am a kink-aware clinician. I’m passionate about helping queer and trans folks unlearn values of cisgender/heteronormative culture, discover repressed desires, and embrace self-kindness.
The styles I pull from most often are CBT, DBT, ACT, and Feminist Therapy.
As a queer, gender-expansive, and neurodivergent therapist, I deeply empathize with the diverse lived experiences of my clients. If you struggle with issues related to your sexual health, self-doubt, overthinking, being overly self-critical, or people-pleasing, then we might be a good fit! My warm approach emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure, self-compassion, and is rooted in mindfulness. I'm affirming of all identities, relationship structures, and am a kink-aware clinician. I’m passionate about helping queer and trans folks unlearn values of cisgender/heteronormative culture, discover repressed desires, and embrace self-kindness.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Feminist Therapists Searches for Chicago
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Feminist Therapists
How does feminist therapy work?
Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.
What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?
Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.
How long does feminist therapy last?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.
Does feminist therapy work?
As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.