Transgender Therapists in Darien, IL
You've realized something isn't right in your life, but aren't sure what to do about it. You try to keep it together and just deal with it, but that's not working so well anymore. Whether it is an issue in your relationships, your job, or school, you find yourself looking for ways to cope that aren't really helping. Maybe you struggle with taking care of yourself and are overwhelmed or exhausted at the end of every day. After trying to be everything to everyone and get it all done, you still feel as if you're failing somehow. We can change what's happening and help get you back on track.
You've realized something isn't right in your life, but aren't sure what to do about it. You try to keep it together and just deal with it, but that's not working so well anymore. Whether it is an issue in your relationships, your job, or school, you find yourself looking for ways to cope that aren't really helping. Maybe you struggle with taking care of yourself and are overwhelmed or exhausted at the end of every day. After trying to be everything to everyone and get it all done, you still feel as if you're failing somehow. We can change what's happening and help get you back on track.
Krystal Ransom's therapy style is distinguished by her delivery and readiness to help. Krystal utilizes narrative therapy, CBT, and play therapy and sets steps to reach client goals by focusing on what can be controlled and celebrating any successes. Krystal has 6 years of experience working with children particularly in the educational setting. Her passions are helping children, adolescents, and young adults find the individual coping skills that help live their life fully again. Krystal earned her LSW from Loyola University Chicago in children and family therapy.
Krystal Ransom's therapy style is distinguished by her delivery and readiness to help. Krystal utilizes narrative therapy, CBT, and play therapy and sets steps to reach client goals by focusing on what can be controlled and celebrating any successes. Krystal has 6 years of experience working with children particularly in the educational setting. Her passions are helping children, adolescents, and young adults find the individual coping skills that help live their life fully again. Krystal earned her LSW from Loyola University Chicago in children and family therapy.
Dr. Taylor Bonno, PsyD is dedicated to helping you navigate through the challenges and uncertainties of life. Practicing in Illinois, she understands that reaching out for mental health treatment often comes after feeling stuck for a prolonged period. Dr. Bonno uses a combination of evidencebased approaches to understand your personal lived experiences and guide treatment. She believes that each client is the expert on their own life and uses this invaluable perspective to tailor the therapy process.
Dr. Taylor Bonno, PsyD is dedicated to helping you navigate through the challenges and uncertainties of life. Practicing in Illinois, she understands that reaching out for mental health treatment often comes after feeling stuck for a prolonged period. Dr. Bonno uses a combination of evidencebased approaches to understand your personal lived experiences and guide treatment. She believes that each client is the expert on their own life and uses this invaluable perspective to tailor the therapy process.
Each of us is a story, waiting for a devoted reader who will take us off the shelf and embrace all our plot twists. I believe each client is the expert in their own story and I strive to provide a warm and non-judgmental space to allow them to feel safe to explore those chapters as they are ready. I work collaboratively with each client on identifying realistic and attainable goals to their treatment that they can implement into their daily life to allow healing, growth and taking back control. I employ a holistic approach to mental health to allow clients to see themselves as a whole person and not just their diagnosis.
Each of us is a story, waiting for a devoted reader who will take us off the shelf and embrace all our plot twists. I believe each client is the expert in their own story and I strive to provide a warm and non-judgmental space to allow them to feel safe to explore those chapters as they are ready. I work collaboratively with each client on identifying realistic and attainable goals to their treatment that they can implement into their daily life to allow healing, growth and taking back control. I employ a holistic approach to mental health to allow clients to see themselves as a whole person and not just their diagnosis.
Lakeithia Butler, LCPC, creates a safe place for clients to express, process, and cope with their emotions and experiences. She helps adults develop realistic alternatives to their struggles. Lakeithia earned a BA from Western Illinois University and an MA in clinical mental health from Chicago State University. Her background includes roles as a counseling supervisor and psychotherapist serving clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and more. In therapy, Lakeithia incorporates CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, trauma informed care, and more.
Lakeithia Butler, LCPC, creates a safe place for clients to express, process, and cope with their emotions and experiences. She helps adults develop realistic alternatives to their struggles. Lakeithia earned a BA from Western Illinois University and an MA in clinical mental health from Chicago State University. Her background includes roles as a counseling supervisor and psychotherapist serving clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and more. In therapy, Lakeithia incorporates CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, trauma informed care, and more.
Emily Spaargaren, a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, creates a safe and welcoming space for clients seeking support and understanding. Emily received an undergraduate degree from Emmaus Bible college in Biblical Studies and Counseling Psychology. Emily received her graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana Wesleyan University. With a background in Christian counseling, Emily is open to incorporating faith-based perspectives into therapy. Emily would like to help guide her clients through their spiritual exploration. Allowing a safe space for her clients to ask questions.
Emily Spaargaren, a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, creates a safe and welcoming space for clients seeking support and understanding. Emily received an undergraduate degree from Emmaus Bible college in Biblical Studies and Counseling Psychology. Emily received her graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana Wesleyan University. With a background in Christian counseling, Emily is open to incorporating faith-based perspectives into therapy. Emily would like to help guide her clients through their spiritual exploration. Allowing a safe space for her clients to ask questions.
Dr. Kirsten Raether is a Post Doctoral Fellow in Illinois. She received her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University and then went on to receive her M.Ed. and Psy.D. in School Psychology from the APA-accredited Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. Dr. Raether is also a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). She completed her pre-doctoral internship through the University of Arizona Psychology Internship Consortium, where she worked for Tucson Unified School District in both primary and secondary schools.
Dr. Kirsten Raether is a Post Doctoral Fellow in Illinois. She received her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University and then went on to receive her M.Ed. and Psy.D. in School Psychology from the APA-accredited Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. Dr. Raether is also a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). She completed her pre-doctoral internship through the University of Arizona Psychology Internship Consortium, where she worked for Tucson Unified School District in both primary and secondary schools.
Baiba Davydenkovas is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, practicing since 2018. She brings a multicultural, diverse, and non-judgmental approach to her work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. Baiba earned her bachelor’s degree in Latvia in 2020 and graduated from Aurora University with her LSW. With over four years of experience, she specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and realistic interventions. Baiba helps clients connect with their undiscovered strengths and resources, encouraging them to find hope and resilience after loss, divorce, depression, trauma, abuse, life-altering experiences.
Baiba Davydenkovas is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, practicing since 2018. She brings a multicultural, diverse, and non-judgmental approach to her work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. Baiba earned her bachelor’s degree in Latvia in 2020 and graduated from Aurora University with her LSW. With over four years of experience, she specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and realistic interventions. Baiba helps clients connect with their undiscovered strengths and resources, encouraging them to find hope and resilience after loss, divorce, depression, trauma, abuse, life-altering experiences.
Stephanie Popp, LCPC, specializes in traumatic experiences, sexual issues, ADHD, and relationship concerns. Stephanie received her undergraduate degree in psychology from University of Illinois at Chicago and her masters degree in clinical mental health counseling from Governors State University. She spent 10 years working with high risk youth, who had been human trafficked, experienced sexual trauma, or had offending behaviors. Stephanie enjoys working with the entire lifespan, especially adolescents and adults 50+. She will use a fully collaborative approach.
Stephanie Popp, LCPC, specializes in traumatic experiences, sexual issues, ADHD, and relationship concerns. Stephanie received her undergraduate degree in psychology from University of Illinois at Chicago and her masters degree in clinical mental health counseling from Governors State University. She spent 10 years working with high risk youth, who had been human trafficked, experienced sexual trauma, or had offending behaviors. Stephanie enjoys working with the entire lifespan, especially adolescents and adults 50+. She will use a fully collaborative approach.
Dr. Michelle Sierzega is a licensed clinical psychologist who sees clients in the Darien office. Her educational background and professional experience resulted in her strong belief that we are profoundly impacted by not only our inner emotional experience, but factors to which we are exposed in past or present environments as well. Alone or in concert, these experiences can contribute to the development of problematic psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, involvement in toxic relationships, low self-esteem, addictive behaviors, and inhibited progress toward life goals.
Dr. Michelle Sierzega is a licensed clinical psychologist who sees clients in the Darien office. Her educational background and professional experience resulted in her strong belief that we are profoundly impacted by not only our inner emotional experience, but factors to which we are exposed in past or present environments as well. Alone or in concert, these experiences can contribute to the development of problematic psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, involvement in toxic relationships, low self-esteem, addictive behaviors, and inhibited progress toward life goals.
While in school, I was asked why I choose the field of psychology. I replied, "life doesn't need to be so painful". Finding relief isn't always easy. Life offers us many challenges that are not only difficult to face; but, even more painful to face alone. I am here to offer unbiased support and help processing through and uncover feelings, beliefs, behaviors, and consequences to life's discomforts. I counsel: ADULTS in transition, personal development, trauma, depression, anxiety, impulse, and mood disorders. ADOLESCENCE: social anxiety, ocd, adhd/add, school issues/avoidance, self-harm, and issues with self-esteem.
While in school, I was asked why I choose the field of psychology. I replied, "life doesn't need to be so painful". Finding relief isn't always easy. Life offers us many challenges that are not only difficult to face; but, even more painful to face alone. I am here to offer unbiased support and help processing through and uncover feelings, beliefs, behaviors, and consequences to life's discomforts. I counsel: ADULTS in transition, personal development, trauma, depression, anxiety, impulse, and mood disorders. ADOLESCENCE: social anxiety, ocd, adhd/add, school issues/avoidance, self-harm, and issues with self-esteem.
Sherry L Mauritzen
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CAADC, AADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darien, IL 60561
Counseling is online, certified in Illinois CAADC and South Carolina AADC, so its flexible, easy access, safe and in the privacy of your own home. We can do a phone or free video chat consultation and answer all your questions. As a therapist, I am compassionate and believe in being genuine and mindful with clients. Supporting and working with clients that struggle from situational issues needing help with developing healthier coping skills to long term symptoms with anxiety, depression, grief and/or addictions.
Counseling is online, certified in Illinois CAADC and South Carolina AADC, so its flexible, easy access, safe and in the privacy of your own home. We can do a phone or free video chat consultation and answer all your questions. As a therapist, I am compassionate and believe in being genuine and mindful with clients. Supporting and working with clients that struggle from situational issues needing help with developing healthier coping skills to long term symptoms with anxiety, depression, grief and/or addictions.
I believe that therapy is a unique place to take a breath and a step back to figure out the direction to go. Life is a journey with both highs and lows. I believe that everyone can improve their lives and enjoy helping others identify the changes needed to better themselves. I am down-to-earth, relatable and genuine. I also enjoy pointing out the irony of everyday life and getting my clients to laugh at times. I believe therapy is beneficial to everyone and practice it myself.
I believe that therapy is a unique place to take a breath and a step back to figure out the direction to go. Life is a journey with both highs and lows. I believe that everyone can improve their lives and enjoy helping others identify the changes needed to better themselves. I am down-to-earth, relatable and genuine. I also enjoy pointing out the irony of everyday life and getting my clients to laugh at times. I believe therapy is beneficial to everyone and practice it myself.
More Therapists Nearby
Helene Jacques is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor who has been in practice since 2000. She sees adolescents and adults for individual and family therapy. Helene has extensive experience working with clients dealing with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adoption concerns, relationship problems, stress management, medical and health concerns, and post-abortion issues. Helene was trained in an eclectic model of therapy and relies on this knowledge base to select effective treatment approaches for each client or family.
Helene Jacques is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor who has been in practice since 2000. She sees adolescents and adults for individual and family therapy. Helene has extensive experience working with clients dealing with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adoption concerns, relationship problems, stress management, medical and health concerns, and post-abortion issues. Helene was trained in an eclectic model of therapy and relies on this knowledge base to select effective treatment approaches for each client or family.
MacKenzie Reeb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60516
Experiencing unexplained sources of anxiety, and not understanding out own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be really scary. Not being able to understand or effectively communicate with your child can be even scarier. If you are an overwhelmed parent of a child or adolescent who is experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, anger, explosive emotion, isolation, self-harm, or identity confusion, or you yourself are struggling to understand your own thoughts, feelings, or sexual/gender identity, I may be the right fit for you.
Experiencing unexplained sources of anxiety, and not understanding out own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be really scary. Not being able to understand or effectively communicate with your child can be even scarier. If you are an overwhelmed parent of a child or adolescent who is experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, anger, explosive emotion, isolation, self-harm, or identity confusion, or you yourself are struggling to understand your own thoughts, feelings, or sexual/gender identity, I may be the right fit for you.
Liza Devaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60516
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
Irene Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60516
I have extensive experience and expertise in understanding the intricacies of trauma and its impact on mental and physical well-being. My approach integrates trauma-focused, mindfulness, attachment-based, holistic, energy, and somatic modalities. I am direct in my approach and work best with individuals who are ready for change. My specialties include: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex-PTSD, LGBTQ+ related Traumas and Challenges, Anxiety, Depression, Navigating Toxic Relationships and Healing from Abusive Relationships
I have extensive experience and expertise in understanding the intricacies of trauma and its impact on mental and physical well-being. My approach integrates trauma-focused, mindfulness, attachment-based, holistic, energy, and somatic modalities. I am direct in my approach and work best with individuals who are ready for change. My specialties include: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex-PTSD, LGBTQ+ related Traumas and Challenges, Anxiety, Depression, Navigating Toxic Relationships and Healing from Abusive Relationships
Infinite Within Counseling & Divorce Mediation
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
I feel that the most important component of every successful therapy outcome is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Trust, safety, empathy, and authenticity should be experienced within the relationship. These relationship qualities create an environment conducive to working on life’s issues and feeling comfortable throughout the process of change. I take a collaborative approach to therapy to meet the goals presented by my clients. My style is interactive and my treatment orientation is tailored to each individual client to meet their individual needs and to fit with their unique personalities.
I feel that the most important component of every successful therapy outcome is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Trust, safety, empathy, and authenticity should be experienced within the relationship. These relationship qualities create an environment conducive to working on life’s issues and feeling comfortable throughout the process of change. I take a collaborative approach to therapy to meet the goals presented by my clients. My style is interactive and my treatment orientation is tailored to each individual client to meet their individual needs and to fit with their unique personalities.
Being a culturally competent therapist is extremely important to me. As the daughter of immigrants, this experience has helped me to get in touch with my own beliefs and value systems. Therefore, I am able to help clients connect to their own values and take committed action steps in service of those values. I work primarily with adults and specialize in working with emerging adults who may be undergoing life transitions. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, severe or chronic mental illness and trauma.
Being a culturally competent therapist is extremely important to me. As the daughter of immigrants, this experience has helped me to get in touch with my own beliefs and value systems. Therefore, I am able to help clients connect to their own values and take committed action steps in service of those values. I work primarily with adults and specialize in working with emerging adults who may be undergoing life transitions. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, severe or chronic mental illness and trauma.
Jessica Carufel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Trauma can make you feel like someone has robbed you of your innocence, purpose, sense of belonging, your voice, and ability to feel safe in your own body. You might be searching for a sense of control, but feeling completely powerless. You escape into activities or relationships in order to feel anything at all and other times to make the feelings stop all together. You may have developed parts of yourself in order to survive, but what would life look like if you could shed old scripts and truly live a life that’s worth living?
Trauma can make you feel like someone has robbed you of your innocence, purpose, sense of belonging, your voice, and ability to feel safe in your own body. You might be searching for a sense of control, but feeling completely powerless. You escape into activities or relationships in order to feel anything at all and other times to make the feelings stop all together. You may have developed parts of yourself in order to survive, but what would life look like if you could shed old scripts and truly live a life that’s worth living?
See more therapy options for Darien
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Darien
- Aurora
- Bolingbrook
- Clarendon Hills
- Downers Grove
- Hinsdale
- La Grange
- Lisle
- Oak Brook
- Western Springs
- Westmont
- Willowbrook
- Woodridge
Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.