LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Chicago, IL
Peter Hindley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
My focus is working with couples and individuals looking to improve the quality of their relationships. I am passionate about sex positivity and working to unlearn shame and embarrassment that may be ingrained from past experiences. I aim to facilitate open communication between couples to ensure both parties are getting their needs met. When working with individual clients, I can help guide you in advocating for what you need in your relationships with others. I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and specialize in working with queer individuals and couples. I am kink, poly, and sex-worker affirming.
My focus is working with couples and individuals looking to improve the quality of their relationships. I am passionate about sex positivity and working to unlearn shame and embarrassment that may be ingrained from past experiences. I aim to facilitate open communication between couples to ensure both parties are getting their needs met. When working with individual clients, I can help guide you in advocating for what you need in your relationships with others. I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and specialize in working with queer individuals and couples. I am kink, poly, and sex-worker affirming.
Samuel Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I work primarily with teens, and adults, with a specialty in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Thanks for visiting! It’s not easy to find a safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space, particularly for those that identify themselves as part of the LGBTQ community. I believe having a therapist that is empathetic, shows unconditional positive regard, and is authentic is crucial to therapeutic growth. These factors are an integral part of how I practice therapy. My hope is that you leave your first session feeling supported, safe, and understood. I recognize that each client is unique, and therefore, your therapy needs to be tailored to the unique individual that you are.
I work primarily with teens, and adults, with a specialty in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Thanks for visiting! It’s not easy to find a safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space, particularly for those that identify themselves as part of the LGBTQ community. I believe having a therapist that is empathetic, shows unconditional positive regard, and is authentic is crucial to therapeutic growth. These factors are an integral part of how I practice therapy. My hope is that you leave your first session feeling supported, safe, and understood. I recognize that each client is unique, and therefore, your therapy needs to be tailored to the unique individual that you are.
Kellie Seccombe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I am also experienced in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and with neurodivergent individuals in helping them better understand themselves and how to navigate a society that often is not inclusive of our neurodiverse world.
I became a therapist due to my deeply-rooted empathy for people of all ages experiencing the various challenges of life. I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and parents at all stages of their therapeutic journeys. At the beginning of treatment, I focus on creating a solid therapeutic relationship and meet clients where they’re at so that they feel safe to explore, grow, and find empowerment. I utilize a relational and trauma-informed approach along with a variety of other evidence-based modalities to assist clients in achieving their goals. We can work on creating goals together.
I am also experienced in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and with neurodivergent individuals in helping them better understand themselves and how to navigate a society that often is not inclusive of our neurodiverse world.
I became a therapist due to my deeply-rooted empathy for people of all ages experiencing the various challenges of life. I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and parents at all stages of their therapeutic journeys. At the beginning of treatment, I focus on creating a solid therapeutic relationship and meet clients where they’re at so that they feel safe to explore, grow, and find empowerment. I utilize a relational and trauma-informed approach along with a variety of other evidence-based modalities to assist clients in achieving their goals. We can work on creating goals together.
Shaw Xueqi Xiao
Counselor, LCPC, ATR, MA
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.
I am especially dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals in their gender and sexual identity exploration and formation, destigmatizing mental health care and treatment among marginalized and immigrant communities, and am deeply committed to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journey.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
I am especially dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals in their gender and sexual identity exploration and formation, destigmatizing mental health care and treatment among marginalized and immigrant communities, and am deeply committed to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journey.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
Dillon Dostal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I regularly treat individuals that are dealing with the following issues: LGBTQIA+ related concerns- The current climate can feel exhausting for our community, and I am here to help you navigate and process the stress of it all. From family interaction, couples' counseling, or just simply existing as a queer person in a heteronormative world, let's talk about it. Anxiety- Do you find yourself often ruminating on a difficult conversation with a loved one or struggling to "let things go?" Healthcare Professional Burnout- It's important to make sure we as providers are taking care of ourselves as we navigate tough career fields.
I regularly treat individuals that are dealing with the following issues: LGBTQIA+ related concerns- The current climate can feel exhausting for our community, and I am here to help you navigate and process the stress of it all. From family interaction, couples' counseling, or just simply existing as a queer person in a heteronormative world, let's talk about it. Anxiety- Do you find yourself often ruminating on a difficult conversation with a loved one or struggling to "let things go?" Healthcare Professional Burnout- It's important to make sure we as providers are taking care of ourselves as we navigate tough career fields.
Kat Cockey
Counselor, LCPC, ATR, MHS, CCATP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with clients (age 16+) who are seeking support healing from trauma; who are diagnosed with anxiety, OCD, and/or mood disorders; who are struggling with substance use; and who are looking for support with managing their chronic illness(es). Additionally, I have a strong commitment to working with individuals who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. My goal is to provide my clients with a chance to feel heard and to offer a supportive environment in which they can truly express themselves. I am here to be a part of your support system and to offer guidance through any path you choose to take in life!
I love working with clients (age 16+) who are seeking support healing from trauma; who are diagnosed with anxiety, OCD, and/or mood disorders; who are struggling with substance use; and who are looking for support with managing their chronic illness(es). Additionally, I have a strong commitment to working with individuals who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. My goal is to provide my clients with a chance to feel heard and to offer a supportive environment in which they can truly express themselves. I am here to be a part of your support system and to offer guidance through any path you choose to take in life!
My specialties include working with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, self-esteem and self-image issues, social difficulties, and issues surrounding gender and sexual identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I am passionate about working with LGBTQ clients and clients in consensually nonmonogamous relationships. I strive to be aware of how all individuals I work with are impacted by their social contexts, such as personal relationships, family systems, and systems of oppression.
My specialties include working with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, self-esteem and self-image issues, social difficulties, and issues surrounding gender and sexual identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I am passionate about working with LGBTQ clients and clients in consensually nonmonogamous relationships. I strive to be aware of how all individuals I work with are impacted by their social contexts, such as personal relationships, family systems, and systems of oppression.
Rowyn Kruiswyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients that are exploring their LGBTQ+/ Neurodivergent identities, anxiety, trauma, sexuality, and relational structures.
You may be feeling curious or unclear about how you want to show up in this world. In your past, you may not have had access to a space where you’ve felt valued and empowered to do this exploration work. Yet alone, have someone to guide you through this process of unraveling systemic oppression and societal expectations. In our work, we’ll address those associated fears or anxieties you have related to showing up as all of you. You deserve to move through this journey of discovery with ease, and I am passionate about providing you with that support.
I specialize in working with clients that are exploring their LGBTQ+/ Neurodivergent identities, anxiety, trauma, sexuality, and relational structures.
You may be feeling curious or unclear about how you want to show up in this world. In your past, you may not have had access to a space where you’ve felt valued and empowered to do this exploration work. Yet alone, have someone to guide you through this process of unraveling systemic oppression and societal expectations. In our work, we’ll address those associated fears or anxieties you have related to showing up as all of you. You deserve to move through this journey of discovery with ease, and I am passionate about providing you with that support.
John Charles Zibert
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626 (Online Only)
I collaborate with adults in individual and relationship counseling. Typical issues we work on together are depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, ACOA issues, stress, men's issues, and if it a specific client request - spirituality concerns. I offer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday appointments by telehealth exclusively. Due to the convenience and popularity of telehealth, I hold all sessions via telehealth and no longer offer in-person office sessions.
I collaborate with adults in individual and relationship counseling. Typical issues we work on together are depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, ACOA issues, stress, men's issues, and if it a specific client request - spirituality concerns. I offer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday appointments by telehealth exclusively. Due to the convenience and popularity of telehealth, I hold all sessions via telehealth and no longer offer in-person office sessions.
He also specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
He also specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
15 Second Videos
Dillon Dostal
Steven Nakisher
Victoria Borland
Lafayette Bagley
Julleon Garrison
Daniel Brewer
Marlee Gebhard
Zaraar Zahid
Matthew English (Taking Clients)
Pedro Segura-Moore
Lindsay Warriner
Sex Therapist + Couples Therapist Libby Ebert
Center for Effective Artistry
Tandem Psychology[Therapy & Psychological Testing]
Connor McInerney
Zayn Singh
Kayla Hartman
Lindsay Sherman
Steff Du Bois
Deanna Pacelli
Bespoke Healing
Essie Shachar-Hill
Joey Marchese
Lucien Loveless
El Rector
Adam Kessler
Josh Jude
Luke Lusk
Stephen Heintz
Eric Geweniger
Ian Bonner
E Ardron
Justin Sato
Jay Butterfield
Cher Hamilton-Tekautz | Neurodivergent Trauma Therapist
Troy Eldon Gibson
Abigail Serafin
Alex Chwalik
Jake Stone
Patrick Gehrlich LCSW
Arthur Avalos
Chicago Center for Psychotherapy, PLLC
Kerry McBroome
Allegra Socki
Osvaldo Alcaraz
Celeste Souza
Terry Ann Dornak
Jake Hogan
Katy Howe
Thomas Nguyen
Finding a therapist can be really hard work, so I applaud you for looking at this page right now! I'm quirky and humorous and I'd love to help with whatever you're bringing to therapy. I specialize in OCD and anxiety, and enjoy working with all letters of the LGBT+ community. I strive to provide trans-affirming care. My goal is to give you a safe and nonjudgmental space to bring whatever you've got going on, help you make sense of it, and learn how to cope.
Finding a therapist can be really hard work, so I applaud you for looking at this page right now! I'm quirky and humorous and I'd love to help with whatever you're bringing to therapy. I specialize in OCD and anxiety, and enjoy working with all letters of the LGBT+ community. I strive to provide trans-affirming care. My goal is to give you a safe and nonjudgmental space to bring whatever you've got going on, help you make sense of it, and learn how to cope.
The Expansive Group
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
We're obsessed with staying up-to-date on affirming, anti-oppressive language and concepts, and think learning directly from queer and BIPOC community leaders is just as important as gathering data from research.
We're here because we've been there, so we can't help but to be wholeheartedly invested in your journey. We want to provide you the warmth, validation, and affirmation that can feel so rare in adulthood. Working with us will challenge you, but it will also feel like coming home.
We're obsessed with staying up-to-date on affirming, anti-oppressive language and concepts, and think learning directly from queer and BIPOC community leaders is just as important as gathering data from research.
We're here because we've been there, so we can't help but to be wholeheartedly invested in your journey. We want to provide you the warmth, validation, and affirmation that can feel so rare in adulthood. Working with us will challenge you, but it will also feel like coming home.
Alex Ragsdale
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Waitlist for new clients
I am queer, sex-positive, fat-positive, and trauma-informed.
As a relational therapist, I focus on supporting and witnessing clients in finding healing, connection, conflict resolution, and repair to ultimately build a life and relationships that honor their values and imagination. Therapy is an opportunity for liberation from dominant social narratives that don’t work for us as individuals or in our relationships, and I recognize the intergenerational and ongoing trauma of struggling against those dominant narratives. All relationships can benefit from this lens – whether they're romantic, platonic, brand new, long-term, with others, or with parts of yourself.
I am queer, sex-positive, fat-positive, and trauma-informed.
As a relational therapist, I focus on supporting and witnessing clients in finding healing, connection, conflict resolution, and repair to ultimately build a life and relationships that honor their values and imagination. Therapy is an opportunity for liberation from dominant social narratives that don’t work for us as individuals or in our relationships, and I recognize the intergenerational and ongoing trauma of struggling against those dominant narratives. All relationships can benefit from this lens – whether they're romantic, platonic, brand new, long-term, with others, or with parts of yourself.
Merek Rowe Poto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, a non-binary individual, I cater to the needs of my fellow members of the community, especially transgender individuals. I have advocated for the LGBTQIA+ community for about four years, returning to my former high school to educate the advanced health classes on gender, sex, sexuality, and gender expression. I provide a unique experience that leads to my ability to relate to my communities and understand what they're going through.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, a non-binary individual, I cater to the needs of my fellow members of the community, especially transgender individuals. I have advocated for the LGBTQIA+ community for about four years, returning to my former high school to educate the advanced health classes on gender, sex, sexuality, and gender expression. I provide a unique experience that leads to my ability to relate to my communities and understand what they're going through.
Amid life's complexities, you deserve a space where self-compassion and curiosity flourish, where every part of your identity is not just welcomed, but celebrated. I'm here to offer that affirming space—an oasis of emotional safety and empowerment where you can explore, center, and grow. I'm committed to creating a therapy space that feels liberating, empowering, and affirming. Your lived experience is not just respected—it's centered in every session. As a queer neurodivergent therapist, I bring a deep passion for supporting LGBTQIA, and neurodivergent individuals on their journey toward self-discovery and understanding.
Amid life's complexities, you deserve a space where self-compassion and curiosity flourish, where every part of your identity is not just welcomed, but celebrated. I'm here to offer that affirming space—an oasis of emotional safety and empowerment where you can explore, center, and grow. I'm committed to creating a therapy space that feels liberating, empowering, and affirming. Your lived experience is not just respected—it's centered in every session. As a queer neurodivergent therapist, I bring a deep passion for supporting LGBTQIA, and neurodivergent individuals on their journey toward self-discovery and understanding.
Ross Mondschain
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
Additionally, I have a passion for counseling LGBTQ+ clients and celebrate diverse and expansive expressions of sexuality, affection, gender, and intimate relationships.
Our quality of life improves dramatically as we learn to show up more authentically in our personal relationships. We can always cultivate more meaningful connections, whether in an intimate partnership, biological or chosen family, or friendships. I understand how creating change can feel daunting or overwhelming and is best navigated with intentionality and solid support. Actively collaborating with my clients, I ensure that together, we set clear and attainable goals and that each session moves you closer to achieving your vision. Change is Possible!
Additionally, I have a passion for counseling LGBTQ+ clients and celebrate diverse and expansive expressions of sexuality, affection, gender, and intimate relationships.
Our quality of life improves dramatically as we learn to show up more authentically in our personal relationships. We can always cultivate more meaningful connections, whether in an intimate partnership, biological or chosen family, or friendships. I understand how creating change can feel daunting or overwhelming and is best navigated with intentionality and solid support. Actively collaborating with my clients, I ensure that together, we set clear and attainable goals and that each session moves you closer to achieving your vision. Change is Possible!
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.
Matthew Amador
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660 (Online Only)
I’m a queer, Mexican-American, therapist who believes you are inherently awesome, and that sometimes our awesomeness needs to be recalibrated from time to time. Whether meeting individually, or as a part of a relationship/polycule, I value working towards opportunities for new growth and a better sense of self-awareness. I use an intersectional approach towards helping you reclaim agency in your life so that you can move forward courageously.
I’m a queer, Mexican-American, therapist who believes you are inherently awesome, and that sometimes our awesomeness needs to be recalibrated from time to time. Whether meeting individually, or as a part of a relationship/polycule, I value working towards opportunities for new growth and a better sense of self-awareness. I use an intersectional approach towards helping you reclaim agency in your life so that you can move forward courageously.
I also particularly enjoy working with emerging adults and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The world we live in can feel scary. Things are constantly changing, and global, societal, and personal events happen outside our control that can make it feel hard to find a place where we truly belong. At other times, life’s unpredictability brings delightful surprises and new opportunities. My goal as your therapist is to create space for contradictions: to help you experience both the challenge and the joy, so that you can move away from feeling as though you are just surviving life and towards fully, authentically living it.
I also particularly enjoy working with emerging adults and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The world we live in can feel scary. Things are constantly changing, and global, societal, and personal events happen outside our control that can make it feel hard to find a place where we truly belong. At other times, life’s unpredictability brings delightful surprises and new opportunities. My goal as your therapist is to create space for contradictions: to help you experience both the challenge and the joy, so that you can move away from feeling as though you are just surviving life and towards fully, authentically living it.
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.