Transgender Therapists in Downers Grove, IL
![Photo of Helene A Jacques, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4dbb26-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dana L. Hall, MA, LCPC, DBT, TF-CBT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/422dd6e2-746e-4658-a710-b10403ba46d6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dana L. Hall
Counselor, MA, LCPC, DBT, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (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.
![Photo of Christie Ochoa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45baaa91-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christie Ochoa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
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.
![Photo of Nicole Cochrane - Infinite Within Counseling & Divorce Mediation, MEd, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bf0423b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Infinite Within Counseling & Divorce Mediation
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
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.
![Photo of Michele Albert, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f4c16c6-5dbc-4487-9059-7a027869b5b3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michele enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages and backgrounds to help clients with anxiety, trauma, spiritual issues, depression, life transitions and relationship issues. She works to provide a safe space for clients to work through their difficulties and pain while not feeling alone. A warm, encouraging, and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship is essential for growth and healing to take place.
Michele enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages and backgrounds to help clients with anxiety, trauma, spiritual issues, depression, life transitions and relationship issues. She works to provide a safe space for clients to work through their difficulties and pain while not feeling alone. A warm, encouraging, and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship is essential for growth and healing to take place.
![Photo of Andrew Schnell - LifeMindful Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16b9ecac-94e8-4947-a1d1-ea0be9619ca1/2/320x400.jpeg)
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
![Photo of Emily Weber, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0f1ec8e-36cc-4246-9f47-51b2d0dd1e0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can cause you to feel alone in your journey. Life can be stressful, overwhelming and difficult at time and it takes a lot of courage and strength to take the initial steps to seek help. As a licensed social worker, I would like to welcome the opportunity to work with you in making the changes. I will provide insight,guidance, a safe environment where you can feel empowered to find clarity and self-awareness to make the needed and wanted changes.
Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can cause you to feel alone in your journey. Life can be stressful, overwhelming and difficult at time and it takes a lot of courage and strength to take the initial steps to seek help. As a licensed social worker, I would like to welcome the opportunity to work with you in making the changes. I will provide insight,guidance, a safe environment where you can feel empowered to find clarity and self-awareness to make the needed and wanted changes.
![Photo of Meg Childress, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f222492-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Meg Childress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I help people of all ages who are dealing with stress, a significant loss, obstacles to achieving important goals, a mental health concern or difficulties in their relationships with others. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, frustrated, sad, or overwhelmed much of the time? We can work together to help you with that. Therapy provides a safe, designated space to work on feeling better, more satisfied, and "less stuck." I offer a caring and non-judgmental approach which appreciates that each person is unique, as is their life path and goals for treatment.
I help people of all ages who are dealing with stress, a significant loss, obstacles to achieving important goals, a mental health concern or difficulties in their relationships with others. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, frustrated, sad, or overwhelmed much of the time? We can work together to help you with that. Therapy provides a safe, designated space to work on feeling better, more satisfied, and "less stuck." I offer a caring and non-judgmental approach which appreciates that each person is unique, as is their life path and goals for treatment.
![Photo of Allison Niebes-Davis, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d12de97c-1548-4c75-bf04-df95c963ea7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy is a unique process, one that aims to guide you through challenges and roadblocks, helping you move towards a healthier and more meaningful life. My goal is to create a space where growth is safe and cultivated. Using an evidence-based approach, I work to help you gain awareness of your emotional experience, working to understand the way you experience and interact with the world. I help you explore parts of yourself you may not be completely comfortable with, learning to tolerate the discomfort that surfaces during this process. I challenge clients to try something different, encouraging a more intentional approach.
Therapy is a unique process, one that aims to guide you through challenges and roadblocks, helping you move towards a healthier and more meaningful life. My goal is to create a space where growth is safe and cultivated. Using an evidence-based approach, I work to help you gain awareness of your emotional experience, working to understand the way you experience and interact with the world. I help you explore parts of yourself you may not be completely comfortable with, learning to tolerate the discomfort that surfaces during this process. I challenge clients to try something different, encouraging a more intentional approach.
![Photo of Benjamin Cowell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50852ed2-6d14-4352-a9ee-0a8612b0508d/1/320x400.jpeg)
In therapy, I enjoy collaborating with clients to increase their self-knowledge and utilize their strengths to facilitate change towards living a more rewarding and fulfilling life. I am committed to identifying and implementing an individualized approach for each client to support them in achieving their therapeutic goals. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults using an integrative therapeutic approach, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills.
In therapy, I enjoy collaborating with clients to increase their self-knowledge and utilize their strengths to facilitate change towards living a more rewarding and fulfilling life. I am committed to identifying and implementing an individualized approach for each client to support them in achieving their therapeutic goals. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults using an integrative therapeutic approach, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills.
![Photo of Celia Owens, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/538f321b-56f9-4dba-8792-ad9cc7b14ea1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Celia is a graduate of Northern Illinois University with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certification in Trauma-Informed Counseling. Celia supports her clients through life transitions and personal growth using her skill set based in ACT, DBT, and strengths-based therapy. Celia has experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults, in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and ADHD. She also has experience supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring their gender identity.
Celia is a graduate of Northern Illinois University with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certification in Trauma-Informed Counseling. Celia supports her clients through life transitions and personal growth using her skill set based in ACT, DBT, and strengths-based therapy. Celia has experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults, in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and ADHD. She also has experience supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring their gender identity.
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![Photo of Amanda M Beedy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef09b9b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda M Beedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist specializing in work with children, parents and women's issues. In a safe and empathic environment, I provide trauma-information, relationship-based psychotherapy and play therapy. I completed my training in family systems practice and hold additional certifications in domestic violence and sexual assault. My approach is informed by training in normative child development and the neuropsychological effects of complex stress and I have extensive experience working with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist specializing in work with children, parents and women's issues. In a safe and empathic environment, I provide trauma-information, relationship-based psychotherapy and play therapy. I completed my training in family systems practice and hold additional certifications in domestic violence and sexual assault. My approach is informed by training in normative child development and the neuropsychological effects of complex stress and I have extensive experience working with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns.
![Photo of Tamakisha Meeks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f028612-b29f-4afd-968d-8e41d442c9a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tamakisha is passionate about being of service to others. She makes it her business to meet her clients where they are and work as a team to accomplish their therapeutic goals.
Tamakisha is passionate about being of service to others. She makes it her business to meet her clients where they are and work as a team to accomplish their therapeutic goals.
![Photo of Amber Glavor, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d68f442b-5309-46ee-896a-0eaf428b7492/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Glavor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
If you are here, you are already demonstrating the strength and willingness to improve your life and well-being. I will empower you to take the next step towards healing past wounds, let go of patterns that no longer serve you and address and improve upon relationship issues. I will support and empower you through your journey in finding growth and healing through both challenges that have been ongoing for years or more recent struggles or traumatic experiences.
If you are here, you are already demonstrating the strength and willingness to improve your life and well-being. I will empower you to take the next step towards healing past wounds, let go of patterns that no longer serve you and address and improve upon relationship issues. I will support and empower you through your journey in finding growth and healing through both challenges that have been ongoing for years or more recent struggles or traumatic experiences.
![Photo of Rev. Liz Casaclang Melo, MA, LPC, CADC, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e37c8bdf-f6a2-4573-a6ac-d366a915f13a/1/320x400.png)
Rev. Liz Casaclang Melo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, post traumatic stress disorder, difficulties with daily stressors, LGBTQ, feeling stuck, having difficulties with transitioning or substance use disorders, then together we can find coping skills and achievable goals which will help you have a more satisfying life.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, post traumatic stress disorder, difficulties with daily stressors, LGBTQ, feeling stuck, having difficulties with transitioning or substance use disorders, then together we can find coping skills and achievable goals which will help you have a more satisfying life.
![Photo of Kathryn Berry, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed527373-e54a-4d9d-902a-27e32d21d198/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Online Only)
My ideal client is anyone who experiences overwhelming emotions. I continue to work with clients living with mental illness and substance abuse, especially those who want to engage in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and those that are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe that we are all doing the best we can in any given moment, and I hope to help clients to become better equipped to improve the moment through learning new skills.
My ideal client is anyone who experiences overwhelming emotions. I continue to work with clients living with mental illness and substance abuse, especially those who want to engage in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and those that are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe that we are all doing the best we can in any given moment, and I hope to help clients to become better equipped to improve the moment through learning new skills.
![Photo of Sabrina Albert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f004b88-53c5-4db7-ad4f-eec5a70ee656/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sabrina Albert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Although there are times when we feel broken, hopeless, and unsure of the future, there is hope. As a therapist, I provide a safe environment for you to process your vulnerabilities, expand your coping skills and begin to heal. As a psychodynamic therapist, my approach emphasizes the unconscious mind, therapeutic interpretation and early childhood experiences. I help you better understand the unconscious forces which impact your current thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I'm an Internal Family Systems informed clinician and can help you identify your protective inner parts. I practice from an anti-racist & anti-oppressive lens.
Although there are times when we feel broken, hopeless, and unsure of the future, there is hope. As a therapist, I provide a safe environment for you to process your vulnerabilities, expand your coping skills and begin to heal. As a psychodynamic therapist, my approach emphasizes the unconscious mind, therapeutic interpretation and early childhood experiences. I help you better understand the unconscious forces which impact your current thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I'm an Internal Family Systems informed clinician and can help you identify your protective inner parts. I practice from an anti-racist & anti-oppressive lens.
![Photo of Emily Weber - Ellie Mental Health- Chicagoland , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/798ecd66-e69b-4ea4-8624-e84e30b4d2bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ellie Mental Health- Chicagoland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Why Seek Treatment? Because You Deserve to Thrive! Life can be tough—whether you're facing anxiety, depression, major life changes, or just feeling stuck, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming your life. At Ellie Mental Health, we understand your struggles and are here to support you every step of the way. Our diverse team includes BIPOC-identified, LGBTQ+ , bilingual Spanish-speaking therapists, male therapists, and more, all committed to providing inclusive, empathetic care. You deserve to thrive, and we're here to help you!
Why Seek Treatment? Because You Deserve to Thrive! Life can be tough—whether you're facing anxiety, depression, major life changes, or just feeling stuck, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming your life. At Ellie Mental Health, we understand your struggles and are here to support you every step of the way. Our diverse team includes BIPOC-identified, LGBTQ+ , bilingual Spanish-speaking therapists, male therapists, and more, all committed to providing inclusive, empathetic care. You deserve to thrive, and we're here to help you!
![Photo of Jessica Lowery, LCPC, MS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26d07bda-ad87-496e-a599-1a8aedae648c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Check out more about me & my practice by clicking the website link found on this page (www.livinfreetherapy.com). I'm a laid-back, real-as-it-gets kind of human. Looking to connect with other humans, and if I may be of any assistance in the cultivation of whatever changes and goodness you're seeking in your life, well that would be quite an honor!
Check out more about me & my practice by clicking the website link found on this page (www.livinfreetherapy.com). I'm a laid-back, real-as-it-gets kind of human. Looking to connect with other humans, and if I may be of any assistance in the cultivation of whatever changes and goodness you're seeking in your life, well that would be quite an honor!
![Photo of Breda M Doak, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3baac075-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Peace of mind and contentment are achievable goals. I have helped people with emotional struggles for over 30 years, empowering their ability to attain greater acceptance and compassion for oneself as well as the people in their life and family. I take a mindful approach to therapy which encourages peace of mind and an appreciation for one's own uniqueness and strength. By listening to a patient's life story from a compassionate, non-judgmental stance, I have witnessed the development of strength, confidence, and courage necessary to gracefully weather the storms that are an inevitable part of life.
Peace of mind and contentment are achievable goals. I have helped people with emotional struggles for over 30 years, empowering their ability to attain greater acceptance and compassion for oneself as well as the people in their life and family. I take a mindful approach to therapy which encourages peace of mind and an appreciation for one's own uniqueness and strength. By listening to a patient's life story from a compassionate, non-judgmental stance, I have witnessed the development of strength, confidence, and courage necessary to gracefully weather the storms that are an inevitable part of life.
See more therapy options for Downers Grove
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Downers Grove
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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.