Transgender Therapists in Dekalb, IL

Photo of Evelyn Comber, PhD, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Evelyn Comber
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Change (no matter what it is) challenges your perceptions, feeling, memories, habits, and relationships. It starts out hard and messy, but it is growth. You are becoming a better parent, friend, partner, worker. But, you may not yet have much confidence in the decisions you're making. You want someone to listen carefully and to not question your sanity, in a non-judgmental, compassionate and insightful way. You know self questioning is normal, but you also know that talking it over with someone who has your best interests at heart will help you to feel better and more confident about your choices.
Change (no matter what it is) challenges your perceptions, feeling, memories, habits, and relationships. It starts out hard and messy, but it is growth. You are becoming a better parent, friend, partner, worker. But, you may not yet have much confidence in the decisions you're making. You want someone to listen carefully and to not question your sanity, in a non-judgmental, compassionate and insightful way. You know self questioning is normal, but you also know that talking it over with someone who has your best interests at heart will help you to feel better and more confident about your choices.
(815) 216-9829 View (815) 216-9829
Photo of Erin Johnston - PeoplePsych LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
PeoplePsych LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
(312) 629-5978 View (312) 629-5978
Photo of Shrestha Singh, MDiv, MSW, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shrestha Singh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
To me, therapy is about seeking wholeness; it is a journey of more fully integrating our minds, bodies, & souls. Many of us live trapped in patterns & scripts that weigh us down & that keep us from living full, authentic lives. As a trauma-informed therapist (& former spiritual director), I take into consideration the whole person, noting that past or ongoing traumas, wounds, & injustices shape the way we understand and engage with ourselves and the world. I help clients draw connections between formative past experiences & current ones in order to identify & shift those relational patterns & ongoing struggles.
To me, therapy is about seeking wholeness; it is a journey of more fully integrating our minds, bodies, & souls. Many of us live trapped in patterns & scripts that weigh us down & that keep us from living full, authentic lives. As a trauma-informed therapist (& former spiritual director), I take into consideration the whole person, noting that past or ongoing traumas, wounds, & injustices shape the way we understand and engage with ourselves and the world. I help clients draw connections between formative past experiences & current ones in order to identify & shift those relational patterns & ongoing struggles.
(217) 616-3176 View (217) 616-3176
Photo of Jamie Lynn Henrikson, MS, LCPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Lynn Henrikson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
In life, when we deal with difficult relationships or toxic situations, it causes negative symptoms and stress in ourselves. Carrying this burden is stressful and unnecessary. Often, these symptoms can become permanent habits that are difficult to change. My role is to help you unload stress and replace this with helpful and healing tools, permanently. My approach involves helping you understand ways of maintaining life balance and living a fulfilling life.
In life, when we deal with difficult relationships or toxic situations, it causes negative symptoms and stress in ourselves. Carrying this burden is stressful and unnecessary. Often, these symptoms can become permanent habits that are difficult to change. My role is to help you unload stress and replace this with helpful and healing tools, permanently. My approach involves helping you understand ways of maintaining life balance and living a fulfilling life.
(815) 427-4819 View (815) 427-4819
Photo of Shelley Pier, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelley Pier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Healing from trauma and grief is not just about surviving the experience, it is also about learning to LIVE again. I enjoy being part of this process and empowering people to grow, change, heal, and thrive! I am passionate about my work and I love helping people reconnect with themselves. I believe it is important to get to the root of the problem, not just manage symptoms. One of the gifts I bring to you is listening deeply and helping you feel understood as we collaborate on implementing practical solutions.
Healing from trauma and grief is not just about surviving the experience, it is also about learning to LIVE again. I enjoy being part of this process and empowering people to grow, change, heal, and thrive! I am passionate about my work and I love helping people reconnect with themselves. I believe it is important to get to the root of the problem, not just manage symptoms. One of the gifts I bring to you is listening deeply and helping you feel understood as we collaborate on implementing practical solutions.
(847) 629-0840 View (847) 629-0840
Photo of Candice Riles-Daniels - Healing Crown Counseling PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Crown Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Candice has worked with clients who have struggled with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, grief and loss, substance abuse, LGBTQ Issues, personality disorders, and PTSD. Her specialties include struggles with intimate and family relationships, personality disorders, criminal thinking, anger management, poor self image, depression, and trauma. Candice prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each of her clients. She is passionate about helping clients draw strength from their experiences; to live a better quality of life and reach personal fulfillment.
Candice has worked with clients who have struggled with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, grief and loss, substance abuse, LGBTQ Issues, personality disorders, and PTSD. Her specialties include struggles with intimate and family relationships, personality disorders, criminal thinking, anger management, poor self image, depression, and trauma. Candice prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each of her clients. She is passionate about helping clients draw strength from their experiences; to live a better quality of life and reach personal fulfillment.
(779) 252-7348 View (779) 252-7348
Photo of Leslie Albion, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Leslie Albion
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Life can be tough sometimes, and I am here to tell you that you do not need to walk that journey alone. We often get distracted by the daily activities in our lives, the mindless routines, and the various roles we play, without noticing we are struggling. You seek to find peace, empowerment, and/or to be seen and heard in your own life. You may be experiencing stressful experiences, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, life transitions, or depression, that can make you feel alone. I am thankful to work alongside you, as you reexamine your life path, to live the best you that you can be.
Life can be tough sometimes, and I am here to tell you that you do not need to walk that journey alone. We often get distracted by the daily activities in our lives, the mindless routines, and the various roles we play, without noticing we are struggling. You seek to find peace, empowerment, and/or to be seen and heard in your own life. You may be experiencing stressful experiences, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, life transitions, or depression, that can make you feel alone. I am thankful to work alongside you, as you reexamine your life path, to live the best you that you can be.
(815) 627-1543 View (815) 627-1543
Photo of Megan Orr, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
If you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. In our sessions you will have a non-judgmental space to work on these issues as we partner to find solutions for you. If you are experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
If you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. In our sessions you will have a non-judgmental space to work on these issues as we partner to find solutions for you. If you are experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
(331) 276-6517 View (331) 276-6517
Photo of J Wett, MS, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
J J Wett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you had a hard time adjusting to a life change? Are you feeling nervous or sad? Have you had relationship difficulties with your partner? Have you had a difficult time "getting through" to your children? I can help! I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to everyone no matter the age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. In fact, I specialize in helping people with traumatic experiences and their family members overcome obstacles in their life!
Have you had a hard time adjusting to a life change? Are you feeling nervous or sad? Have you had relationship difficulties with your partner? Have you had a difficult time "getting through" to your children? I can help! I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to everyone no matter the age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. In fact, I specialize in helping people with traumatic experiences and their family members overcome obstacles in their life!
(815) 570-9176 View (815) 570-9176
Photo of Amanda Ruppert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Ruppert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
(779) 222-2709 View (779) 222-2709
Photo of Rebecca Esser, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Esser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Everyone struggles. from time to time. I am committed to helping my clients harness their power to foster healing and restore balance to those who have been impacted by, days of feeling defeated and overwhelmed, mental health, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction and other life stressors. I provide a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment in which you are free to discover your true authentic self while developing meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles. I help clients gain insight about how their past impacts the present and am EMDR trained.
Everyone struggles. from time to time. I am committed to helping my clients harness their power to foster healing and restore balance to those who have been impacted by, days of feeling defeated and overwhelmed, mental health, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction and other life stressors. I provide a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment in which you are free to discover your true authentic self while developing meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles. I help clients gain insight about how their past impacts the present and am EMDR trained.
(779) 228-4911 View (779) 228-4911
Photo of Jayne A Braden - Braden Counseling Center, P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
Braden Counseling Center, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Braden Counseling Center (BCC) specializes in counseling individuals, couples and families in various stages of life. With flexible scheduling, Sycamore, Rochelle, and Elgin locations, and a free initial consultation, BCC makes it easy for you to make the first step toward change. We accept various insurance types, and also offer a sliding scale for those who qualify.
Braden Counseling Center (BCC) specializes in counseling individuals, couples and families in various stages of life. With flexible scheduling, Sycamore, Rochelle, and Elgin locations, and a free initial consultation, BCC makes it easy for you to make the first step toward change. We accept various insurance types, and also offer a sliding scale for those who qualify.
(815) 401-1212 View (815) 401-1212
Photo of Gina L Raimondi, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina L Raimondi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I am looking forward to working with you. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self harm, and eating disorders. I have extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am sensitive to individuals with an extensive history from childhood trauma and sexual abuse. Depression and anxiety can plague many of us, however psychotherapy treatment is needed for those of us who need more support. I am here for you, your friend, family member, or loved one.
I am looking forward to working with you. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self harm, and eating disorders. I have extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am sensitive to individuals with an extensive history from childhood trauma and sexual abuse. Depression and anxiety can plague many of us, however psychotherapy treatment is needed for those of us who need more support. I am here for you, your friend, family member, or loved one.
(847) 380-8092 View (847) 380-8092
Photo of Jenine L Chiles, PsyD, Psychologist
Jenine L Chiles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Hello, thanks so much for visiting my profile. My work with clients is collaborative and I will help you to explore your past and discover patterns that have occurred throughout your life and continue to have an impact on you. It is my fundamental belief that people have the ability to change and each person knows what's best for them. My job is to help you discover these issues in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment that allows you to express your innermost thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Hello, thanks so much for visiting my profile. My work with clients is collaborative and I will help you to explore your past and discover patterns that have occurred throughout your life and continue to have an impact on you. It is my fundamental belief that people have the ability to change and each person knows what's best for them. My job is to help you discover these issues in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment that allows you to express your innermost thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(312) 800-1621 View (312) 800-1621
Photo of Stephanie Nelson-Gerhardt - Bloom Women's Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bloom Women's Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Whether you are feeling down or overwhelmed, stuck in an unhappy relationship or trying to find your purpose, it is my mission to help women improve their lives and find their own happiness. One of my former client's said, "Thank you for helping me be me again...I feel FREE!' I believe we all deserve to feel that way, especially women that have spent years trying to be everything to everyone. At Bloom Women's Counseling you can find support and you can find your voice.
Whether you are feeling down or overwhelmed, stuck in an unhappy relationship or trying to find your purpose, it is my mission to help women improve their lives and find their own happiness. One of my former client's said, "Thank you for helping me be me again...I feel FREE!' I believe we all deserve to feel that way, especially women that have spent years trying to be everything to everyone. At Bloom Women's Counseling you can find support and you can find your voice.
(815) 828-4085 View (815) 828-4085
Photo of Shannon Pociecha, MA, LCPC
Shannon Pociecha
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
(815) 406-6057 View (815) 406-6057
Photo of Kevin Kloosterman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Kloosterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Immediate availability. Now accepting Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO. Asking for help is the first step, and I know how hard that can be. You're not alone! Having a therapist to help you through mental health challenges and/or difficult life circumstances is as important as having a primary care doctor or dentist. I have over 25 years experience as a therapist helping people with their mental health recovery. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or other challenges, I am here to help. I will engage in a collaborative manner to customize therapy for you and help you to move forward in your life.
Immediate availability. Now accepting Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO. Asking for help is the first step, and I know how hard that can be. You're not alone! Having a therapist to help you through mental health challenges and/or difficult life circumstances is as important as having a primary care doctor or dentist. I have over 25 years experience as a therapist helping people with their mental health recovery. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or other challenges, I am here to help. I will engage in a collaborative manner to customize therapy for you and help you to move forward in your life.
(815) 828-4398 View (815) 828-4398
Photo of Michael W. Elgersma, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michael W. Elgersma
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult and frustrating. Our lives can become messy and complicated. But there is hope. I am dedicated to walking alongside of others to help them find hope and make some sense of their life and experiences. I sincerely believe that counseling gives an individual the opportunity to experience significant growth and healing through a greater personal awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Life can be difficult and frustrating. Our lives can become messy and complicated. But there is hope. I am dedicated to walking alongside of others to help them find hope and make some sense of their life and experiences. I sincerely believe that counseling gives an individual the opportunity to experience significant growth and healing through a greater personal awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.
(815) 981-3239 View (815) 981-3239
Photo of Briana Jakubik - Briana Jakubik, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Briana Jakubik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” in life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I specialize in LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, and eating disorders. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” in life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I specialize in LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, and eating disorders. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
(847) 380-8485 View (847) 380-8485
Photo of Raya Newman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raya Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Building a trusting relationship in therapy is the foundation to making progress in treatment. I focus on compassion, validation, and acceptance throughout therapy to empower and encourage my clients to make the change in their life. My clinical experience from the last 10 years has helped me learn about a lot of different therapy styles. I pull from a lot of various different theoretical orientations depending on the needs of the person. I have experience working in the juvenile justice system, community mental health, and foster care system through DCFS.
Building a trusting relationship in therapy is the foundation to making progress in treatment. I focus on compassion, validation, and acceptance throughout therapy to empower and encourage my clients to make the change in their life. My clinical experience from the last 10 years has helped me learn about a lot of different therapy styles. I pull from a lot of various different theoretical orientations depending on the needs of the person. I have experience working in the juvenile justice system, community mental health, and foster care system through DCFS.
(815) 706-7781 View (815) 706-7781
1
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.