LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Chicago, IL
Hi there! I’m Edith, but please, call me Edie. As an out and proud transgender woman, I am excited to work with the LGBT community through sexuality- and gender-affirming treatment. Are you struggling with your gender and/or sexuality? I would love to walk with you as we collaboratively work to find answers, solutions, and resilience.
Hi there! I’m Edith, but please, call me Edie. As an out and proud transgender woman, I am excited to work with the LGBT community through sexuality- and gender-affirming treatment. Are you struggling with your gender and/or sexuality? I would love to walk with you as we collaboratively work to find answers, solutions, and resilience.
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA+, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA+, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
I work with and welcome individuals and couples ranging from straight to queer, vanilla to BDSM, monogamous to polyamorous, and everything in between and beyond.
Sharing your story is both a powerful and vulnerable experience. Although at times uncomfortable, knowing yourself intimately is also your greatest strength in moving towards your desired self. That’s why beginning therapy with me starts with the formation of a compassionate relationship that respects your autonomy and voice. In recognition of your unique lived experience, I vow to appreciate and incorporate the ideas, practices, and values you bring into this space.
I work with and welcome individuals and couples ranging from straight to queer, vanilla to BDSM, monogamous to polyamorous, and everything in between and beyond.
Sharing your story is both a powerful and vulnerable experience. Although at times uncomfortable, knowing yourself intimately is also your greatest strength in moving towards your desired self. That’s why beginning therapy with me starts with the formation of a compassionate relationship that respects your autonomy and voice. In recognition of your unique lived experience, I vow to appreciate and incorporate the ideas, practices, and values you bring into this space.
I also enjoy working with clients trying to navigtate different challenges unique to the LGBTQ+ population.
Therapy is a unique opportunity to find peace within ourselves. While it may be difficult to find the right therapist to work with, I find my warm, empathetic, friendly, straight-forward approach help my clients work through issues to find transformation and purpose in their life, as we collaboratively work to find the right approach that fits for you. I have expertise working with clients in Perinatal Mental Health, infertility challenges, all phases of pregnancy, including pre and post, and the loss of identity while in new parenting roles and different parenting challenges, which I have completed certification training.
I also enjoy working with clients trying to navigtate different challenges unique to the LGBTQ+ population.
Therapy is a unique opportunity to find peace within ourselves. While it may be difficult to find the right therapist to work with, I find my warm, empathetic, friendly, straight-forward approach help my clients work through issues to find transformation and purpose in their life, as we collaboratively work to find the right approach that fits for you. I have expertise working with clients in Perinatal Mental Health, infertility challenges, all phases of pregnancy, including pre and post, and the loss of identity while in new parenting roles and different parenting challenges, which I have completed certification training.
Alexi Peters
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ASDCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Alexi Peters MA, LCPC is a sex-positive, fat positive, queer therapist. They take a warm yet honest approach to therapy strategically supporting clients in achieving their personal and interpersonal goals through actionable work. Alexi primarily utilizes narrative therapy, DBT, and RODBT to work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQIA+ and sexual health, including gender identity and gender affirming needs.
Alexi Peters MA, LCPC is a sex-positive, fat positive, queer therapist. They take a warm yet honest approach to therapy strategically supporting clients in achieving their personal and interpersonal goals through actionable work. Alexi primarily utilizes narrative therapy, DBT, and RODBT to work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQIA+ and sexual health, including gender identity and gender affirming needs.
Benjamin Gronich
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with teens/adults within the LGBTQ+ communities.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
I have extensive experience working with teens/adults within the LGBTQ+ communities.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
As a gay therapist, I am also devoted to serving the LGBTQ+ community, and I have a passion for supporting these individuals dealing with challenges in their relationships, family of origin, and careers.
It can be overwhelming and exhausting trying to cope with the pressures and expectations from life that does not allow much room for our own unique selves and needs. This can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, and even hopeless. From my professional and personal experiences, I believe healing and becoming our authentic, best selves comes from relationships where we feel heard and understood. When you and I work together, it is important to me that I provide you with this therapeutic space, so we can collaboratively work on how to cope with these stressors, develop fulfilling relationships, and live life to your fullest potential.
As a gay therapist, I am also devoted to serving the LGBTQ+ community, and I have a passion for supporting these individuals dealing with challenges in their relationships, family of origin, and careers.
It can be overwhelming and exhausting trying to cope with the pressures and expectations from life that does not allow much room for our own unique selves and needs. This can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, and even hopeless. From my professional and personal experiences, I believe healing and becoming our authentic, best selves comes from relationships where we feel heard and understood. When you and I work together, it is important to me that I provide you with this therapeutic space, so we can collaboratively work on how to cope with these stressors, develop fulfilling relationships, and live life to your fullest potential.
Bea Gatchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605 (Online Only)
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.
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 deliver care and treatment primarily to Black, queer, and BIPOC individuals seeking to improve their mental health and life experience. I have extensive experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, sexuality, racial impacts, stress management, and neurodiversity. As a black queer individual, I recognize how difficult the experience can be to find a culturally competent therapist that can understand the nuances of intersectionality and develop strategies to address such issues in a personalized manner. I want to meet my client where they are and assist them in this journey forward.
I deliver care and treatment primarily to Black, queer, and BIPOC individuals seeking to improve their mental health and life experience. I have extensive experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, sexuality, racial impacts, stress management, and neurodiversity. As a black queer individual, I recognize how difficult the experience can be to find a culturally competent therapist that can understand the nuances of intersectionality and develop strategies to address such issues in a personalized manner. I want to meet my client where they are and assist them in this journey forward.
Many adults face anxiety and trauma and seek a life free from the limitations these challenges bring. These are my specialty! I also work with persons in the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member. Though I have an M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Illinois Institute of Technology, I am also a visual artist and received my undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Art. I use Internal Family Systems Therapy as the modality for treating clients.
Many adults face anxiety and trauma and seek a life free from the limitations these challenges bring. These are my specialty! I also work with persons in the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member. Though I have an M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Illinois Institute of Technology, I am also a visual artist and received my undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Art. I use Internal Family Systems Therapy as the modality for treating clients.
He is highly experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, personality disorders, LGBT challenges, relationship difficulties, and a variety of social challenges facing African American males in the community.
Philip Montgomery, LPC, PhD, has a track record of delivering high-quality services to individuals with a variety of emotional difficulties. He believes each client's voice needs to be heard and their stories validated to allow them to feel safe so the work can begin. Philip earned an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University and a PhD from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
He is highly experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, personality disorders, LGBT challenges, relationship difficulties, and a variety of social challenges facing African American males in the community.
Philip Montgomery, LPC, PhD, has a track record of delivering high-quality services to individuals with a variety of emotional difficulties. He believes each client's voice needs to be heard and their stories validated to allow them to feel safe so the work can begin. Philip earned an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University and a PhD from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
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I am dedicated to working with marginalized communities, specifically folks who identify as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as BIPOC individuals.
I became a clinician because I know what it is like to feel unheard and disconnected from my communities, and I wanted to provide a space where people could come and feel seen and heard. I believe that therapy is about healing, which comes primarily from being understood, valued, and heard as your authentic self. I am continuing to grow in my own journey and am passionate about helping others navigate through their journey in ways that feel meaningful and supportive.
I am dedicated to working with marginalized communities, specifically folks who identify as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as BIPOC individuals.
I became a clinician because I know what it is like to feel unheard and disconnected from my communities, and I wanted to provide a space where people could come and feel seen and heard. I believe that therapy is about healing, which comes primarily from being understood, valued, and heard as your authentic self. I am continuing to grow in my own journey and am passionate about helping others navigate through their journey in ways that feel meaningful and supportive.
I love working with adults from all walks of life and am particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ individuals or couples.
Do you feel like you’re hitting roadblocks that leave you stuck, disconnected, or out of sync with your most authentic self? I want to help you achieve the authenticity and connection you deserve. My goal is creating an affirming space where we can work together to not only identify barriers but push past them to realize your potential. Progress is not always linear, but healing and constructive change are possible. Therapy can be challenging and sometimes intense, but I hope you walk away from each session feeling hopeful and truly seen.
I love working with adults from all walks of life and am particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ individuals or couples.
Do you feel like you’re hitting roadblocks that leave you stuck, disconnected, or out of sync with your most authentic self? I want to help you achieve the authenticity and connection you deserve. My goal is creating an affirming space where we can work together to not only identify barriers but push past them to realize your potential. Progress is not always linear, but healing and constructive change are possible. Therapy can be challenging and sometimes intense, but I hope you walk away from each session feeling hopeful and truly seen.
He is LGBTQIA+ affirming and has experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Adjustment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Substance Use, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia.
Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments.
He is LGBTQIA+ affirming and has experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Adjustment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Substance Use, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia.
Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and as a member of the queer community, I especially enjoy working with folks who identify as trans, non-binary, queer, or LGBTQIA+ more broadly.
To me, therapy is a team sport. I'm there to help create a space and relationship where you feel safe exploring the things that are happening in your life. Maybe that thing is identity exploration, depression or anxiety that just won't quit, or figuring out how survive and then thrive after a big trauma. All of this is big stuff. I'm here to help you hold it and find a way through it. I have plenty of tools that I can bring to bear (questions, coping skills training, identifying patterns, and reframing situations), but ultimately, my approach centers around you and what you need to be successful, however you define success.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and as a member of the queer community, I especially enjoy working with folks who identify as trans, non-binary, queer, or LGBTQIA+ more broadly.
To me, therapy is a team sport. I'm there to help create a space and relationship where you feel safe exploring the things that are happening in your life. Maybe that thing is identity exploration, depression or anxiety that just won't quit, or figuring out how survive and then thrive after a big trauma. All of this is big stuff. I'm here to help you hold it and find a way through it. I have plenty of tools that I can bring to bear (questions, coping skills training, identifying patterns, and reframing situations), but ultimately, my approach centers around you and what you need to be successful, however you define success.
Angela Campion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Hello, I'm Angela, a queer, multiracial clinician. I work with individuals and couples and have particular experience with queer and trans youth and young adults. My practice is geared toward people who often feel misunderstood, alienated, or detached from prescribed social or cultural “norms.” Many may experience incongruity or tension between different parts of their identity, causing them to feel at times like an “insider-outsider” in the spaces they occupy. In providing a non-judgmental environment, I work with clients to develop an integrated and authentic understanding of themselves.
Hello, I'm Angela, a queer, multiracial clinician. I work with individuals and couples and have particular experience with queer and trans youth and young adults. My practice is geared toward people who often feel misunderstood, alienated, or detached from prescribed social or cultural “norms.” Many may experience incongruity or tension between different parts of their identity, causing them to feel at times like an “insider-outsider” in the spaces they occupy. In providing a non-judgmental environment, I work with clients to develop an integrated and authentic understanding of themselves.
Shaw Xueqi Xiao
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and a testament to the rich tapestry of Eastern and Western cultures, I embody a comprehensive, empathetic perspective.
I'm a licensed art therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and a testament to the rich tapestry of Eastern and Western cultures, I embody a comprehensive, empathetic perspective.
I'm a licensed art therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
(M) Hayden Gorr-Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I help guide adults and adolescents who are queer, transgender, gender nonconforming, nonbinary, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, kinky/polyamorous/consensually non-monogamous to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a supportive environment that is free from judgment or stigma.
Feeling stuck, anxious, or unsure how to make positive changes in your life? I'm a queer, nonbinary therapist focused on intersectionality and identity. I empower individuals, especially LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and those navigating gender/sexuality, using a client-centered, strength-based approach. My eclectic modalities include acceptance, mindfulness, somatic, and harm-reduction methods. I bring a relational, compassionate, and humorous approach. Each person is an expert in their own lived experience. Let's create a therapeutic experience that leaves you centered, heard, and fulfilled.
I help guide adults and adolescents who are queer, transgender, gender nonconforming, nonbinary, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, kinky/polyamorous/consensually non-monogamous to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a supportive environment that is free from judgment or stigma.
Feeling stuck, anxious, or unsure how to make positive changes in your life? I'm a queer, nonbinary therapist focused on intersectionality and identity. I empower individuals, especially LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and those navigating gender/sexuality, using a client-centered, strength-based approach. My eclectic modalities include acceptance, mindfulness, somatic, and harm-reduction methods. I bring a relational, compassionate, and humorous approach. Each person is an expert in their own lived experience. Let's create a therapeutic experience that leaves you centered, heard, and fulfilled.
Healing can be a journey. I believe asking for help is the hardest part of the healing journey. It’s difficult to find someone to open up and show your authentic self. I try to create a space that is welcoming to all parts of you. Clients who gravitate towards healing with me share values in learning, growing, change, and challenge. The majority of folks I see are BIPOC, LGBTQ+, First-gen/Immigrants, creatives, and/or trauma survivors.
Healing can be a journey. I believe asking for help is the hardest part of the healing journey. It’s difficult to find someone to open up and show your authentic self. I try to create a space that is welcoming to all parts of you. Clients who gravitate towards healing with me share values in learning, growing, change, and challenge. The majority of folks I see are BIPOC, LGBTQ+, First-gen/Immigrants, creatives, and/or trauma survivors.
I believe that humans can create meaning and change in their lives if they feel safe to explore, which is why I foster a therapeutic space that is non-judgmental and supportive. I believe the stories we tell about ourselves are powerful and have the ability to heal us from harmful narratives imparted by trauma and oppressive systems. I work to support clients who have experienced trauma, complex trauma, substance abuse, anxiety and depression, plus folks exploring identity and life transitions. I am passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and am enthusiastically poly/kink affirming.
I believe that humans can create meaning and change in their lives if they feel safe to explore, which is why I foster a therapeutic space that is non-judgmental and supportive. I believe the stories we tell about ourselves are powerful and have the ability to heal us from harmful narratives imparted by trauma and oppressive systems. I work to support clients who have experienced trauma, complex trauma, substance abuse, anxiety and depression, plus folks exploring identity and life transitions. I am passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and am enthusiastically poly/kink affirming.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Norridge
- North Riverside
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Riverside
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.