Therapists in Chicago, IL
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.
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.
Brian Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
As someone that is queer-identified, I have a passion for working with clients holding marginalized identities and supporting your journey, acknowledging the impacts society, family, and culture have in shaping the world around you.
So you’re becoming more independent and feel like conversations with family, friends, or co-workers are strained. You want to set boundaries and air frustrations with those you’re close to, but struggle with how to do this as your relationships shift. Questioning beliefs and values you’ve long held onto isn’t easy, and can be even harder when voicing them to others. Whether watching parents divorce as an adult, coming out to family, or settling into a new job, my goal is to increase your understanding of yourself both in the past and present so advocating for your needs feels less like a burden.
As someone that is queer-identified, I have a passion for working with clients holding marginalized identities and supporting your journey, acknowledging the impacts society, family, and culture have in shaping the world around you.
So you’re becoming more independent and feel like conversations with family, friends, or co-workers are strained. You want to set boundaries and air frustrations with those you’re close to, but struggle with how to do this as your relationships shift. Questioning beliefs and values you’ve long held onto isn’t easy, and can be even harder when voicing them to others. Whether watching parents divorce as an adult, coming out to family, or settling into a new job, my goal is to increase your understanding of yourself both in the past and present so advocating for your needs feels less like a burden.
Jacob Penrod
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is working with LGBTQ+, kinky, and/or poly clients.
I believe therapy serves two main functions: change and healing. Therapeutic change occurs when we take control of our lives and our stories. In therapy, I encourage you to incorporate your strengths into a larger conversation about who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there. Where change comes from transformation; healing comes from liberation. Therapy provides liberation from individual wounds; however, therapy must also be a space for healing and liberation from the effects of systemic oppression.
My specialty is working with LGBTQ+, kinky, and/or poly clients.
I believe therapy serves two main functions: change and healing. Therapeutic change occurs when we take control of our lives and our stories. In therapy, I encourage you to incorporate your strengths into a larger conversation about who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there. Where change comes from transformation; healing comes from liberation. Therapy provides liberation from individual wounds; however, therapy must also be a space for healing and liberation from the effects of systemic oppression.
Maddy Seabrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
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.
Landen A Motyka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I work particularly well with queer & trans folks exploring their anger, sarcasm, peacemaker and/or helper roles, and white people seeking to examine and dismantle white supremacy culture within themselves and their communities.
I believe our mental health is deeply impacted by our collective narratives, particularly in the context of our environment(s), our access to resources, and our experiences of privilege & oppression. Therefore our work together will be centered in your wholeness, examining and holding how all of these positions & experiences have shaped, and continue to shape, your life story & lived experience. What are the stories you tell yourself about who you are? What stories have been assigned to you w/out your consent? How might your life be different if you reclaimed & rewrote these stories?
I work particularly well with queer & trans folks exploring their anger, sarcasm, peacemaker and/or helper roles, and white people seeking to examine and dismantle white supremacy culture within themselves and their communities.
I believe our mental health is deeply impacted by our collective narratives, particularly in the context of our environment(s), our access to resources, and our experiences of privilege & oppression. Therefore our work together will be centered in your wholeness, examining and holding how all of these positions & experiences have shaped, and continue to shape, your life story & lived experience. What are the stories you tell yourself about who you are? What stories have been assigned to you w/out your consent? How might your life be different if you reclaimed & rewrote these stories?
Adam Ouanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
As a white passing bi-racial gay man, I understand that people are complex and my experiences allow me to humbly understand and embrace the inner life of my clients.
Finding a new therapist can be daunting. If you’re here, then life might be getting in the way. The old ways you used to cope might not feel good anymore. You might feel stuck and unsure where you are going. My job is to guide you towards change and help you un-believe false narratives about yourself that are holding you back. Much of my work is focused on working with LGBTQ+ people, self esteem and managing relationship issues. I also specialize in working with gay men who struggle with substances or addiction. Additionally, I work with co-occurring mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
As a white passing bi-racial gay man, I understand that people are complex and my experiences allow me to humbly understand and embrace the inner life of my clients.
Finding a new therapist can be daunting. If you’re here, then life might be getting in the way. The old ways you used to cope might not feel good anymore. You might feel stuck and unsure where you are going. My job is to guide you towards change and help you un-believe false narratives about yourself that are holding you back. Much of my work is focused on working with LGBTQ+ people, self esteem and managing relationship issues. I also specialize in working with gay men who struggle with substances or addiction. Additionally, I work with co-occurring mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Dr. William Hutter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654 (Online Only)
Are you part of the queer community and looking for a queer therapist? Good news, you may have found a match. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families, on a variety of topics and issues, such as consensual/ethical non-monogamous relationships, persons struggling with sexual/sexuality and gender issues, personality disorders, suicidal ideation and addictions. I have lived in various parts of the US, as well as abroad, and enjoy working with persons from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds who now residing in the US.
Are you part of the queer community and looking for a queer therapist? Good news, you may have found a match. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families, on a variety of topics and issues, such as consensual/ethical non-monogamous relationships, persons struggling with sexual/sexuality and gender issues, personality disorders, suicidal ideation and addictions. I have lived in various parts of the US, as well as abroad, and enjoy working with persons from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds who now residing in the US.
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
I am allied with and passionate about serving the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized groups including immigrant populations.
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
I am allied with and passionate about serving the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized groups including immigrant populations.
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
As a queer trans therapist, I have a passion for working within the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe that both within therapy and outside of it, authentic connections and relational dynamics are central to personal growth, well-being, and liberation. If you're here, you might be seeking a change or deeper understanding in your life. That may mean improving self-esteem, managing anxiety, gaining insight into your relationships, or something else. My goal is to support you through life's hurdles to build a future that suits your needs. I work collaboratively with clients to navigate and challenge disconnections, fostering a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing and empowerment through mutual empathy and respect.
As a queer trans therapist, I have a passion for working within the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe that both within therapy and outside of it, authentic connections and relational dynamics are central to personal growth, well-being, and liberation. If you're here, you might be seeking a change or deeper understanding in your life. That may mean improving self-esteem, managing anxiety, gaining insight into your relationships, or something else. My goal is to support you through life's hurdles to build a future that suits your needs. I work collaboratively with clients to navigate and challenge disconnections, fostering a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing and empowerment through mutual empathy and respect.
As a queer therapist, I believe we all have the power to harness our strengths and find the path that gives us the most meaning and purpose.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and struggling with a difficult time in life? Does anxiety and depression challenge you daily? If you want someone to collaboratively work with, i'm your person. Lets dig in and find how to best support your desired change with developing coping skills for the present and mending the past for a better future. Sometimes finding support can be a critical part of healing or becoming who you want to be. I want to connect with you to find your strengths to navigate through this time in your life and live as the authentic person you want to be.
As a queer therapist, I believe we all have the power to harness our strengths and find the path that gives us the most meaning and purpose.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and struggling with a difficult time in life? Does anxiety and depression challenge you daily? If you want someone to collaboratively work with, i'm your person. Lets dig in and find how to best support your desired change with developing coping skills for the present and mending the past for a better future. Sometimes finding support can be a critical part of healing or becoming who you want to be. I want to connect with you to find your strengths to navigate through this time in your life and live as the authentic person you want to be.
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Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MBA, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I identify as a 1st generation Japanese American, able bodied, gay, cisgender male.
All of us yearn for a sense of belonging, and it is human to feel lonely due to issues we may be facing in life. Feeling alone can have a detrimental impact not only to our mental/emotional health, but also physical health. I'm here to support you in your mental health journey and working towards a better quality of life. I strive for social justice and am attuned to the impacts and influences of society and culture. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and harm reduction lens, meaning I’m sensitive to the past experiences that have shaped you into who you are today while working in a collaborative approach.
I identify as a 1st generation Japanese American, able bodied, gay, cisgender male.
All of us yearn for a sense of belonging, and it is human to feel lonely due to issues we may be facing in life. Feeling alone can have a detrimental impact not only to our mental/emotional health, but also physical health. I'm here to support you in your mental health journey and working towards a better quality of life. I strive for social justice and am attuned to the impacts and influences of society and culture. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and harm reduction lens, meaning I’m sensitive to the past experiences that have shaped you into who you are today while working in a collaborative approach.
Ryan Coventry
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
With 10+ years of LGBTQ community-oriented work, including graduation from the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) at the Center on Halsted, I am uniquely qualified to support members of the LGBTQ community in reaching their goals.
Operating from an 8-week Waitlist. As a therapist, I work from a relational perspective that believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to help clients achieve their goals. You can receive therapy from (almost) anyone, but the sense of trust, warmth, and comfort (or sometimes discomfort) you experience with a therapist can be the deciding factor between significant change and desired positive growth. To benefit those under my care, I am devoted to creating an affirmative, empathic, and understanding relationship that balances what my clients often refer to as my "challenging" feedback and "bluntness" in therapy.
With 10+ years of LGBTQ community-oriented work, including graduation from the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) at the Center on Halsted, I am uniquely qualified to support members of the LGBTQ community in reaching their goals.
Operating from an 8-week Waitlist. As a therapist, I work from a relational perspective that believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to help clients achieve their goals. You can receive therapy from (almost) anyone, but the sense of trust, warmth, and comfort (or sometimes discomfort) you experience with a therapist can be the deciding factor between significant change and desired positive growth. To benefit those under my care, I am devoted to creating an affirmative, empathic, and understanding relationship that balances what my clients often refer to as my "challenging" feedback and "bluntness" in therapy.
The ideal client is seeking out reassurance and support in times of calm as well as crisis. The goal is to help clients with the issues facing them every day to treat the entire person, not just the pinpointed issue. A therapist is only as strong as the relationship with each client. Each client is unique, collaboratively we find an approach to therapy that fits to your specific needs and goals then we re-evaluate to bring about the best self. Whether it be LGBTQIA+ issues, sex/intimacy, relationships, depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, kink and/or other issues, you aren't alone. Together we can get you where you want to go.
The ideal client is seeking out reassurance and support in times of calm as well as crisis. The goal is to help clients with the issues facing them every day to treat the entire person, not just the pinpointed issue. A therapist is only as strong as the relationship with each client. Each client is unique, collaboratively we find an approach to therapy that fits to your specific needs and goals then we re-evaluate to bring about the best self. Whether it be LGBTQIA+ issues, sex/intimacy, relationships, depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, kink and/or other issues, you aren't alone. Together we can get you where you want to go.
Aaron D Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I have experience helping people deal with: addictions, depression, anxiety, trauma and concerns specific to the LGBTQIA community.
These are unprecedented times that we are living in, and there continues to be so much of the unknown out there and we all need help from others, especially now. So many people have been in isolation, and I feel that connection is vital to healing. I believe the ideal healing environment is one where you feel safe, respected, supported and valued. I work very hard to create this kind of space, especially as we are first getting to know each other. We all need to be heard and feel like someone understands what we are going through. I strive to offer this kind of understanding.
I have experience helping people deal with: addictions, depression, anxiety, trauma and concerns specific to the LGBTQIA community.
These are unprecedented times that we are living in, and there continues to be so much of the unknown out there and we all need help from others, especially now. So many people have been in isolation, and I feel that connection is vital to healing. I believe the ideal healing environment is one where you feel safe, respected, supported and valued. I work very hard to create this kind of space, especially as we are first getting to know each other. We all need to be heard and feel like someone understands what we are going through. I strive to offer this kind of understanding.
In addition to the specialties listed below, I focus on all members of the LGBTQ+ communities and all of the issues they face in striving for pride, relationships, and fulfillment while navigating the world.
We’re born with innate needs to grow, connect, and find purpose. Our lives shapes how we go about getting these needs met. If we're successful in this, we often feel content and fulfilled. However, sometimes life intervenes in ways that prevent us from successfully getting these needs met and leaves us stuck and suffering. Often, we need help from a supportive professional to help us focus productively on our problems, ease our immediate distress with direction solutions, and help us develop the insights and skills needed for long term growth and fulfillment. I'll work closely with you to help you achieve your specific goals.
In addition to the specialties listed below, I focus on all members of the LGBTQ+ communities and all of the issues they face in striving for pride, relationships, and fulfillment while navigating the world.
We’re born with innate needs to grow, connect, and find purpose. Our lives shapes how we go about getting these needs met. If we're successful in this, we often feel content and fulfilled. However, sometimes life intervenes in ways that prevent us from successfully getting these needs met and leaves us stuck and suffering. Often, we need help from a supportive professional to help us focus productively on our problems, ease our immediate distress with direction solutions, and help us develop the insights and skills needed for long term growth and fulfillment. I'll work closely with you to help you achieve your specific goals.
Together, let us begin this transformative journey to achieve the life you deserve.
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. As a Black and queer person, I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
Together, let us begin this transformative journey to achieve the life you deserve.
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. As a Black and queer person, I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
ThroughLine Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
I offer Queer centered trauma-informed, strengths-based therapy grounded in mindfulness and tailored to your needs.
Welcome to ThroughLine Therapy! I’m David, a licensed clinical social worker with a passion for providing affirming, compassionate, and individualized care to the LGBTQ+ community. At ThroughLine Therapy, I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are navigating issues related to identity, relationships, and personal growth in an inclusive and safe space. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the importance of a therapist who “gets” the unique challenges we face.
I offer Queer centered trauma-informed, strengths-based therapy grounded in mindfulness and tailored to your needs.
Welcome to ThroughLine Therapy! I’m David, a licensed clinical social worker with a passion for providing affirming, compassionate, and individualized care to the LGBTQ+ community. At ThroughLine Therapy, I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are navigating issues related to identity, relationships, and personal growth in an inclusive and safe space. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the importance of a therapist who “gets” the unique challenges we face.
Bea Gatchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605 (Online Only)
I work from an evidence-based practice approach using Affirmative Therapy with LGBTQ+ Folx, Intersectional Feminist, Anti-Oppression, Person Centered, Trauma-Informed, Harm Reduction, Relational, Empowerment, Strengths-Based, and 3rd Wave Behavioral Practice.
My area of specialization are working with LGBTQ+ individuals looking to explore their identity and intersecting experiences of violence, such as sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, family system-based violence, spiritual abuse, and community-based violence. I want to work with clients to examine what it means to be present to life on life's terms using radical acceptance, non-judgement, and loving honesty. I love working with folx who want to address thoughts, feelings, and behaviors stemming from anxiety, depression, avoidance, and rumination.
I work from an evidence-based practice approach using Affirmative Therapy with LGBTQ+ Folx, Intersectional Feminist, Anti-Oppression, Person Centered, Trauma-Informed, Harm Reduction, Relational, Empowerment, Strengths-Based, and 3rd Wave Behavioral Practice.
My area of specialization are working with LGBTQ+ individuals looking to explore their identity and intersecting experiences of violence, such as sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, family system-based violence, spiritual abuse, and community-based violence. I want to work with clients to examine what it means to be present to life on life's terms using radical acceptance, non-judgement, and loving honesty. I love working with folx who want to address thoughts, feelings, and behaviors stemming from anxiety, depression, avoidance, and rumination.
Mesphina Kudowor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647 (Online Only)
I also offer preparation & integration of transpersonal experiences, particularly through Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
Each of us possesses an innate ability to evolve & heal, especially in supportive communities, to live our most genuine and fulfilling lives. Sometimes difficult life experiences & oppressive social structures may cause a disconnection from this inner healer, & we need support reconnecting with self. If you are BIPOC & LGBTQIA+, and are struggling with grief/loss, shame, peer/romantic relationships, immigration/acculturation stress, childhood trauma, & identity exploration, and need support integrating these experiences & realizing the life you envision for yourself, we may be a good fit.
I also offer preparation & integration of transpersonal experiences, particularly through Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
Each of us possesses an innate ability to evolve & heal, especially in supportive communities, to live our most genuine and fulfilling lives. Sometimes difficult life experiences & oppressive social structures may cause a disconnection from this inner healer, & we need support reconnecting with self. If you are BIPOC & LGBTQIA+, and are struggling with grief/loss, shame, peer/romantic relationships, immigration/acculturation stress, childhood trauma, & identity exploration, and need support integrating these experiences & realizing the life you envision for yourself, we may be a good fit.
