Transgender Therapists in Chicago, IL
I specialize in the treatment of a range of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, trauma, self-destructive behavior, and perinatal mental health.
Change can require a great deal of vulnerability- it takes courage even to reach out and begin therapy. In fact, many people enter therapy wanting to grow and overcome troubling patterns, and yet scared of what the process will entail and fearful of the unknown. I fully recognize how challenging this can be, and work collaboratively with my clients to establish a safe place where they can feel understood, supported, and encouraged to make lasting changes.
I specialize in the treatment of a range of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, trauma, self-destructive behavior, and perinatal mental health.
Change can require a great deal of vulnerability- it takes courage even to reach out and begin therapy. In fact, many people enter therapy wanting to grow and overcome troubling patterns, and yet scared of what the process will entail and fearful of the unknown. I fully recognize how challenging this can be, and work collaboratively with my clients to establish a safe place where they can feel understood, supported, and encouraged to make lasting changes.
I also work extensively with people in the LGBTQ+ community as both a therapist and ally, helping them to build self-assurance, resolve gender dysphoria, and improve relationships.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (average age 13 to 25) who struggle with anxiety symptoms related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have extensive experience in treating survivors of sexual abuse. I utilize exposure-based interventions, which are designed to help confront fears, expand comfort zones, and extinguish avoidance behaviors. I help to achieve trauma resolution by processing traumatic incidents, reducing the associated anxiety and anger, and assisting in therapeutic corrective experiences.
I also work extensively with people in the LGBTQ+ community as both a therapist and ally, helping them to build self-assurance, resolve gender dysphoria, and improve relationships.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (average age 13 to 25) who struggle with anxiety symptoms related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have extensive experience in treating survivors of sexual abuse. I utilize exposure-based interventions, which are designed to help confront fears, expand comfort zones, and extinguish avoidance behaviors. I help to achieve trauma resolution by processing traumatic incidents, reducing the associated anxiety and anger, and assisting in therapeutic corrective experiences.
Kathleen Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide consultation and/or letters of recommendation for transgender people seeking gender-affirming surgeries.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? Are you struggling with unresolved past pain? Healing is possible. I can help. My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
I provide consultation and/or letters of recommendation for transgender people seeking gender-affirming surgeries.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? Are you struggling with unresolved past pain? Healing is possible. I can help. My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
I am continuously learning and have recently focused on expanding my expertise in working with transgender and gender nonconforming individuals.
I want to commend you for your bravery in taking the first step towards reaching out for help. Counseling can give you a non-judgmental place to vent as well as a place to learn about new ways to manage overwhelming feelings. As a therapist, my main way of understanding how people work is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It can help us challenge our negative thoughts and utilize healthy coping skills. I primarily take a humanistic approach with my clients and make sure to address psychosocial, biological, developmental, spiritual, and cultural issues as needed since every client is unique.
I am continuously learning and have recently focused on expanding my expertise in working with transgender and gender nonconforming individuals.
I want to commend you for your bravery in taking the first step towards reaching out for help. Counseling can give you a non-judgmental place to vent as well as a place to learn about new ways to manage overwhelming feelings. As a therapist, my main way of understanding how people work is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It can help us challenge our negative thoughts and utilize healthy coping skills. I primarily take a humanistic approach with my clients and make sure to address psychosocial, biological, developmental, spiritual, and cultural issues as needed since every client is unique.
I am passionate about helping transgender clients process and navigate the transition journey.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
I am passionate about helping transgender clients process and navigate the transition journey.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
My clinical specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Female Health, Menopause, LGBTQ, Transgender Youth,Premartial,Marriage,Grief,Parenting/ Parenting Children w/Special Needs.
Trying to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I’m here to make this process easy and help you find relief. I believe in a person’s capacity for change and the ability of each of us to reach our life goals. I’ll work with you to identify and remove the obstacles you have been facing. With humor and creativity, we will create the supportive environment you need to achieve your goals. I am passionate about connecting with people, and helping them to gain new ways of coping with life’s stressors.Ready to feel like yourself again?
My clinical specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Female Health, Menopause, LGBTQ, Transgender Youth,Premartial,Marriage,Grief,Parenting/ Parenting Children w/Special Needs.
Trying to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I’m here to make this process easy and help you find relief. I believe in a person’s capacity for change and the ability of each of us to reach our life goals. I’ll work with you to identify and remove the obstacles you have been facing. With humor and creativity, we will create the supportive environment you need to achieve your goals. I am passionate about connecting with people, and helping them to gain new ways of coping with life’s stressors.Ready to feel like yourself again?
Dana L. Hall
Counselor, MA, LCPC, DBT, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
Professional Membership: American Psychological Association, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, & International Society of Trauma-Informed Therapists.
Do you often feel burdened by anxiety or depression? If managing these overwhelming emotions feels challenging, know that you are not alone. You don't have to struggle on your own to "figure things out." Together, we can develop strategies to address the causes of these challenges and build coping mechanisms that restore your quality of life. You'll have a partner in this process. *Accepting telehealth clients.
Professional Membership: American Psychological Association, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, & International Society of Trauma-Informed Therapists.
Do you often feel burdened by anxiety or depression? If managing these overwhelming emotions feels challenging, know that you are not alone. You don't have to struggle on your own to "figure things out." Together, we can develop strategies to address the causes of these challenges and build coping mechanisms that restore your quality of life. You'll have a partner in this process. *Accepting telehealth clients.
Aelijah Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Waitlist for new clients
Lots of people seek counseling for problems that are bigger than any one person. Managing relationships, school or work - let alone anxiety, depression, spirituality, sexuality, or identity - is a lot to ask of someone who is already navigating oppressive systems every day. Together, we can build a judgement free space to untangle the painful mental and emotional knots in your life. I can support you to find ways to connect anew, to live confidently and authentically, and to get through the hard times.
Lots of people seek counseling for problems that are bigger than any one person. Managing relationships, school or work - let alone anxiety, depression, spirituality, sexuality, or identity - is a lot to ask of someone who is already navigating oppressive systems every day. Together, we can build a judgement free space to untangle the painful mental and emotional knots in your life. I can support you to find ways to connect anew, to live confidently and authentically, and to get through the hard times.
When we are feeling isolated and disconnected, therapy can be a safe platform for building self-awareness and work towards growth and healing. I utilize the therapeutic relationship itself as the primary vessel for healing and to undo the aloneness that comes from life’s adversities. We will explore your emotional patterns, intersectional identities, personality, and unique quirks and use them to build awareness, acceptance, and love for your truest and most authentic self. I’m a radically silly, queer/nb, sentimental, and curious artist, musician, and therapist.
When we are feeling isolated and disconnected, therapy can be a safe platform for building self-awareness and work towards growth and healing. I utilize the therapeutic relationship itself as the primary vessel for healing and to undo the aloneness that comes from life’s adversities. We will explore your emotional patterns, intersectional identities, personality, and unique quirks and use them to build awareness, acceptance, and love for your truest and most authentic self. I’m a radically silly, queer/nb, sentimental, and curious artist, musician, and therapist.
Micah Holst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
People are resilient and are capable of growth. My approach to therapy is systems and trauma-informed, affirming, and client-centered. I recognize that multiple systems that affect your experiences and relationships. Our social culture, interpersonal relationships, and core beliefs all shape how we exist and experience our world. With warmth, curiosity, encouragement, and acceptance, we will work together to find new ways of coping, identify patterns that no longer suit your needs, build/repair relationships, connect with yourself, and create a positive therapeutic relationship while we explore your desires, goals, and motivations.
People are resilient and are capable of growth. My approach to therapy is systems and trauma-informed, affirming, and client-centered. I recognize that multiple systems that affect your experiences and relationships. Our social culture, interpersonal relationships, and core beliefs all shape how we exist and experience our world. With warmth, curiosity, encouragement, and acceptance, we will work together to find new ways of coping, identify patterns that no longer suit your needs, build/repair relationships, connect with yourself, and create a positive therapeutic relationship while we explore your desires, goals, and motivations.
Dani LaPlant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
I am a genderqueer human being providing supportive counseling services to people who are neurodivergent, queer, nerdy, and live alternative lifestyles. My sessions are held online 100 percent to make it convenient for my clients in their busy life to receive support. I've supported clients in role-playing therapy through the use of Dungeons & Dragons, led queer support groups, and am currently CSTIP (Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional) certified so I may expand to couples work in the future. I've taught BDSM/Kink affirming seminars and have a background in understanding nutrition and body neutrality.
I am a genderqueer human being providing supportive counseling services to people who are neurodivergent, queer, nerdy, and live alternative lifestyles. My sessions are held online 100 percent to make it convenient for my clients in their busy life to receive support. I've supported clients in role-playing therapy through the use of Dungeons & Dragons, led queer support groups, and am currently CSTIP (Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional) certified so I may expand to couples work in the future. I've taught BDSM/Kink affirming seminars and have a background in understanding nutrition and body neutrality.
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Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Are you going through the world trying to navigate systems that aren't made for you? Are you looking for validation and care, as well as tools and skills? The work that I do in the therapeutic space is well suited for clients looking for an affirming, non-judgmental space to process their experiences and make changes towards their best vision of themselves. More than modalities, I believe that it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship that can guide folks towards change and transformation. As a white queer person, I have worked to develop an intersectional lens, making sure to hold space for folks with varying identities.
Are you going through the world trying to navigate systems that aren't made for you? Are you looking for validation and care, as well as tools and skills? The work that I do in the therapeutic space is well suited for clients looking for an affirming, non-judgmental space to process their experiences and make changes towards their best vision of themselves. More than modalities, I believe that it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship that can guide folks towards change and transformation. As a white queer person, I have worked to develop an intersectional lens, making sure to hold space for folks with varying identities.
Are you or your teen struggling with navigating your identity? Have you experienced trauma, bullying, communication issues, self-harm, or suicidal ideation? Has your gender and/or sexuality impacted your mental health and you are wanting to learn how to embrace your most authentic self? Knowing how to navigate your own identity, or knowing how to support your child as they discover parts of who they are, can be a scary process. In order to embrace authenticity we need safety, security, and an ability to communicate. We will work together on finding healing, cultivating healthy communication, and creating a sense of safety.
Are you or your teen struggling with navigating your identity? Have you experienced trauma, bullying, communication issues, self-harm, or suicidal ideation? Has your gender and/or sexuality impacted your mental health and you are wanting to learn how to embrace your most authentic self? Knowing how to navigate your own identity, or knowing how to support your child as they discover parts of who they are, can be a scary process. In order to embrace authenticity we need safety, security, and an ability to communicate. We will work together on finding healing, cultivating healthy communication, and creating a sense of safety.
I am passionate about working with young people who are struggling to find their place and realize their strengths inside the challenges of this world. If you have been made to feel like you are difficult or too much this may be the place for you. Being queer, nonbinary and neurodivergent, I understand those who feel different and may need support and companionship as they shape their relationship with themselves and others. I like to work creatively bringing in the things you care about and incorporating art, movement and play therapy for all ages. My practice focuses on working with complex trauma, anxiety and neurodivergence.
I am passionate about working with young people who are struggling to find their place and realize their strengths inside the challenges of this world. If you have been made to feel like you are difficult or too much this may be the place for you. Being queer, nonbinary and neurodivergent, I understand those who feel different and may need support and companionship as they shape their relationship with themselves and others. I like to work creatively bringing in the things you care about and incorporating art, movement and play therapy for all ages. My practice focuses on working with complex trauma, anxiety and neurodivergence.
El Rector
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626 (Online Only)
Whether you have specific goals in therapy, or are simply struggling to keep your head above water, therapy can be a space to slow down and allow yourself the opportunity to sit with your experiences and feelings. I love working with queer and trans folks, people exploring their gender and sexuality for the first time, as well as people with Autism and ADHD, and people who are exploring the possibility that they may be neurodivergent. I also enjoy working with people with complex trauma histories, religious trauma, complicated family dynamics, as well as people struggling with anxiety and mood disorders.
Whether you have specific goals in therapy, or are simply struggling to keep your head above water, therapy can be a space to slow down and allow yourself the opportunity to sit with your experiences and feelings. I love working with queer and trans folks, people exploring their gender and sexuality for the first time, as well as people with Autism and ADHD, and people who are exploring the possibility that they may be neurodivergent. I also enjoy working with people with complex trauma histories, religious trauma, complicated family dynamics, as well as people struggling with anxiety and mood disorders.
Being a therapist is a privilege and an honor. I care deeply about your reality and experience of the world. I have a Master's degree in Counseling, focusing on psychodynamic and feminist theory. My psychodynamic training means I have experience listening in a specific way that invites us, together, to discover and make meaning out of the experiences in life. I believe that gaining insight means learning to be open to learning about ourselves curiously and compassionately. All parts of you, including the ones deemed shameful or bad, are accepted into this space.
Being a therapist is a privilege and an honor. I care deeply about your reality and experience of the world. I have a Master's degree in Counseling, focusing on psychodynamic and feminist theory. My psychodynamic training means I have experience listening in a specific way that invites us, together, to discover and make meaning out of the experiences in life. I believe that gaining insight means learning to be open to learning about ourselves curiously and compassionately. All parts of you, including the ones deemed shameful or bad, are accepted into this space.
You want to feel emotions fully without shame. You want to be connected to your own sense of desire and purpose. You deserve a space to explore the parts of you that feel unknown, “unacceptable,” or taboo. My commitment in the therapeutic relationship is to welcome and value all aspects of your experience – the stories that reflect humor and resilience, and the parts that have been shamed or dismissed. I combine EMDR trauma processing, somatic approaches, and discussions about how systems of oppression shape what we believe about ourselves to help clients express emotion and explore new patterns and identities.
You want to feel emotions fully without shame. You want to be connected to your own sense of desire and purpose. You deserve a space to explore the parts of you that feel unknown, “unacceptable,” or taboo. My commitment in the therapeutic relationship is to welcome and value all aspects of your experience – the stories that reflect humor and resilience, and the parts that have been shamed or dismissed. I combine EMDR trauma processing, somatic approaches, and discussions about how systems of oppression shape what we believe about ourselves to help clients express emotion and explore new patterns and identities.
I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds on a wide range of struggles including feelings of depression, academic difficulties, identity exploration, anxiety, family conflict, relationship questions, experiences of discrimination, trauma, and grief and loss. I have also volunteered in the Emergency Room to counsel and advocate for people following sexual assault. As a man of trans experience, I am especially interested in supporting queer and TGNC communities and have a wealth of experience with emerging adults.
I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds on a wide range of struggles including feelings of depression, academic difficulties, identity exploration, anxiety, family conflict, relationship questions, experiences of discrimination, trauma, and grief and loss. I have also volunteered in the Emergency Room to counsel and advocate for people following sexual assault. As a man of trans experience, I am especially interested in supporting queer and TGNC communities and have a wealth of experience with emerging adults.
My approach to counseling is guided by self-empowerment and embracing the person you are and the ways you’d like to foster a kinder relationship with yourself. Our work together will be tailored to the parts of you that you’d like to better understand and support. This may include deep exploration of sexuality, gender, spirituality, culture, and the many different experiences that create the “parts” of who we are. My space is anti-capitalist and fueled by radical self-acceptance.
My approach to counseling is guided by self-empowerment and embracing the person you are and the ways you’d like to foster a kinder relationship with yourself. Our work together will be tailored to the parts of you that you’d like to better understand and support. This may include deep exploration of sexuality, gender, spirituality, culture, and the many different experiences that create the “parts” of who we are. My space is anti-capitalist and fueled by radical self-acceptance.
Essie Shachar-Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
People often come to therapy to try to understand something: something about themselves, their relationships, or their past experiences. I enjoy joining my clients in these moments of exploration with warmth, attunement, and collaboration. I support clients in navigating oppressive systems and experiences in their everyday lives, as well as in their personal and ancestral pasts. I’m interested in making space for all parts of you, including the parts that may feel “bad,” shameful, or wrong. I work with individuals ages 14 and older.
People often come to therapy to try to understand something: something about themselves, their relationships, or their past experiences. I enjoy joining my clients in these moments of exploration with warmth, attunement, and collaboration. I support clients in navigating oppressive systems and experiences in their everyday lives, as well as in their personal and ancestral pasts. I’m interested in making space for all parts of you, including the parts that may feel “bad,” shameful, or wrong. I work with individuals ages 14 and older.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Chicago
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