LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Elburn, IL
![Photo of Jenine L Chiles, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cceb64d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am skilled at working with the LGBTQIA community.
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.
I am skilled at working with the LGBTQIA community.
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.
![Photo of Jean Ryan-Meyers, LCSW, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/999407dd-923d-4c1e-af1a-60f96f32c302/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jean Ryan-Meyers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elburn, IL 60119
I draw upon an eclectic mix of treatment modalities to support clients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, self-harm, ADHD, executive functioning and sensory concerns, neurodiversity/ ASD, self-esteem, life transitions, trauma history, grief/loss, identity concerns, including those specific to LGBTQ+ individuals, and women's issues.
Having been raised to value service to others, Clinical Social Work is not only my profession, but my calling. During my years of supporting the social and emotional well being of others, I have developed an understanding of the importance of connection and the value of self-compassion and self-care. I strive to create an environment in which my clients can feel safe and supported in exploring their struggles free of judgment, knowing that they don’t have to carry their burdens alone. I believe that the foundation for effective treatment and development of mental health and wellness begins with the therapeutic relationship.
I draw upon an eclectic mix of treatment modalities to support clients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, self-harm, ADHD, executive functioning and sensory concerns, neurodiversity/ ASD, self-esteem, life transitions, trauma history, grief/loss, identity concerns, including those specific to LGBTQ+ individuals, and women's issues.
Having been raised to value service to others, Clinical Social Work is not only my profession, but my calling. During my years of supporting the social and emotional well being of others, I have developed an understanding of the importance of connection and the value of self-compassion and self-care. I strive to create an environment in which my clients can feel safe and supported in exploring their struggles free of judgment, knowing that they don’t have to carry their burdens alone. I believe that the foundation for effective treatment and development of mental health and wellness begins with the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Sarah Reszke, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9666ae15-4496-45ac-9523-54d1943fe8ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Reszke is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She received her Master's of Science in Clinical Psychology. Sarah's humor and passion for helping people make it easy for her to connect to others on a human level. Her positive yet realistic attitude helps her stay grounded and approachable. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys reading, writing, listening to music, and hanging out with her dog and cat. She loves anything that involves her love of arts and crafts.
Sarah Reszke is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She received her Master's of Science in Clinical Psychology. Sarah's humor and passion for helping people make it easy for her to connect to others on a human level. Her positive yet realistic attitude helps her stay grounded and approachable. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys reading, writing, listening to music, and hanging out with her dog and cat. She loves anything that involves her love of arts and crafts.
![Photo of Nicole Kothe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f78b8c8-21e1-440b-a577-03fc33efd122/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Kothe, LPC, helps clients overcome challenges by finding their strengths. She works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, motivation issues, stress, and more. Nicole received an undergraduate degree from Hope College and an MSED from Northern Illinois University. Her career includes over two decades of experience as a middle and high school counselor where she served students with various social, emotional, and academic issues. In therapy, Nicole uses a client-centered approach and also incorporates mindfulness. Her goal is for each client to feel heard and gain the skills they need to move forward.
Nicole Kothe, LPC, helps clients overcome challenges by finding their strengths. She works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, motivation issues, stress, and more. Nicole received an undergraduate degree from Hope College and an MSED from Northern Illinois University. Her career includes over two decades of experience as a middle and high school counselor where she served students with various social, emotional, and academic issues. In therapy, Nicole uses a client-centered approach and also incorporates mindfulness. Her goal is for each client to feel heard and gain the skills they need to move forward.
![Photo of Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438268ed-3142-48b8-a5a1-7ba4757f6e7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, treats each client relationship as unique and constantly evolving. She believes life is a journey full of obstacles that impact one's well-being, but any challenge can be overcome with the correct tools.Veris supports adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, and more. She is an expert at helping clients identify and understand unhealthy behaviors and create a plan for change.
Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, treats each client relationship as unique and constantly evolving. She believes life is a journey full of obstacles that impact one's well-being, but any challenge can be overcome with the correct tools.Veris supports adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, and more. She is an expert at helping clients identify and understand unhealthy behaviors and create a plan for change.
![Photo of Shawn Garry, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f913253-264f-4fdb-9931-8a9b210540a4/1/320x400.png)
Shawn earned his Master's Degree in Counseling from National Louis University and received his Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from Lake Forest College. I began my career working in Mchenry County SASS which was the child and adolescent crisis response team. During that time I developed and honed skills that resonate with children and adolescents in order to help determine core issues and work towards action plans on how to progress on those issues. Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can decrease your quality of life and make you feel not like yourself.
Shawn earned his Master's Degree in Counseling from National Louis University and received his Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from Lake Forest College. I began my career working in Mchenry County SASS which was the child and adolescent crisis response team. During that time I developed and honed skills that resonate with children and adolescents in order to help determine core issues and work towards action plans on how to progress on those issues. Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can decrease your quality of life and make you feel not like yourself.
![Photo of Robin Zoeller-Pullman, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93216243-fddb-4271-8269-880fd990fab3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Change can be difficult, particularly when you are struggling with the stressors of life. Therapy can seem daunting when you already have so much going on. However, it does not have to be. Psychotherapy can help you clarify thinking, gain insight into past experiences that may be adversely impacting current circumstances, develop a plan, and increase your ability to handle and cope with the challenges of life. I have helped many people make the changes they needed to improve their mood, relationships, and overall functioning.
Change can be difficult, particularly when you are struggling with the stressors of life. Therapy can seem daunting when you already have so much going on. However, it does not have to be. Psychotherapy can help you clarify thinking, gain insight into past experiences that may be adversely impacting current circumstances, develop a plan, and increase your ability to handle and cope with the challenges of life. I have helped many people make the changes they needed to improve their mood, relationships, and overall functioning.
![Photo of Allison Grendzinski, LSCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f02a117b-8139-4dc4-9620-16e18d8fbcdf/1/320x400.png)
Allison Grendzinski, LCSW, is flexible, supportive, and engages meaningfully with clients. She takes the time to understand each client's journey and meets them where they are to overcome challenges. Allison serves clients of all ages struggling with depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, and more. She is also especially skilled at treating mood, psychotic, and anxiety disorders. In addition, Allison has extensive experience working with people who at high-risk or in crisis situations. In therapy, Allison tailors her treatment to meet individual needs.
Allison Grendzinski, LCSW, is flexible, supportive, and engages meaningfully with clients. She takes the time to understand each client's journey and meets them where they are to overcome challenges. Allison serves clients of all ages struggling with depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, and more. She is also especially skilled at treating mood, psychotic, and anxiety disorders. In addition, Allison has extensive experience working with people who at high-risk or in crisis situations. In therapy, Allison tailors her treatment to meet individual needs.
![Photo of Nida Haider, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7359ab0f-ae29-4575-a1d1-1c7b656681ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Let's be real. Therapy can be scary! Sitting in front of a total stranger and sharing your deepest and possibly even darkest thoughts can sound terrifying. Well, I can definitely reassure you that, yes, while therapy can be scary, if your therapist is able to create a warm environment, making you feel seen and heard, it can very quickly become an appointment we look forward to! My goal is to make sure my therapy room is a judgement- free, safe space for my clients. I love using an eclectic, scientific- based and holistic approach to therapy.
Let's be real. Therapy can be scary! Sitting in front of a total stranger and sharing your deepest and possibly even darkest thoughts can sound terrifying. Well, I can definitely reassure you that, yes, while therapy can be scary, if your therapist is able to create a warm environment, making you feel seen and heard, it can very quickly become an appointment we look forward to! My goal is to make sure my therapy room is a judgement- free, safe space for my clients. I love using an eclectic, scientific- based and holistic approach to therapy.
![Photo of Nelson Jenig, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e0f8f29-c5ee-4b6a-96f0-b4f78be42a53/2/320x400.png)
I am here to provide a safe and empathetic space for you to feel comfortable "opening up," and to support you as you make things in your life better. I enjoy listening and learning about each person's unique realities and perspectives. I am honored to be allowed to share in your thoughts, ideas, and issues. I hope to be a companion who can help you through your difficult times and celebrate in your best moments. Together, we can work through behaviors that may no longer be serving you in your present day life that may have had a purpose in the past.
I am here to provide a safe and empathetic space for you to feel comfortable "opening up," and to support you as you make things in your life better. I enjoy listening and learning about each person's unique realities and perspectives. I am honored to be allowed to share in your thoughts, ideas, and issues. I hope to be a companion who can help you through your difficult times and celebrate in your best moments. Together, we can work through behaviors that may no longer be serving you in your present day life that may have had a purpose in the past.
![Photo of Brittany P Male, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac8a152d-9ae0-4b41-93ef-0bfb7bd38f22/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany P Male
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elburn, IL 60119
We're not meant to live our lives without the support and encouragement of other people. Whether you've been feeling overwhelmed, alone, or haven't had success in the past making long lasting changes towards becoming a healthy you, I would love the opportunity to help. Utilizing an eclectic blend of effective therapeutic techniques and tools, I have had great success helping clients achieve their goals and begin living a truly authentic and fulfilling life.
We're not meant to live our lives without the support and encouragement of other people. Whether you've been feeling overwhelmed, alone, or haven't had success in the past making long lasting changes towards becoming a healthy you, I would love the opportunity to help. Utilizing an eclectic blend of effective therapeutic techniques and tools, I have had great success helping clients achieve their goals and begin living a truly authentic and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Danielle Nowak, MS, LCPC, CCTP, CATP, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35442627-0262-4ebc-8082-8480b256c4b2/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I am humbled to have the opportunity to walk with my clients through part of their life’s journey. In session, I provide a safe, compassionate, and welcoming environment where my clients are unconditionally accepted and through building a strong therapeutic relationship, feel comfortable to be their complete, authentic selves. It takes courage to seek out support and that bravery is a quality to be honored and recognized.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I am humbled to have the opportunity to walk with my clients through part of their life’s journey. In session, I provide a safe, compassionate, and welcoming environment where my clients are unconditionally accepted and through building a strong therapeutic relationship, feel comfortable to be their complete, authentic selves. It takes courage to seek out support and that bravery is a quality to be honored and recognized.
![Photo of Annie Barsch, MA, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e27ec5a-10c3-40c5-ac86-b884e9ec27c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all have seasons of life where we could use some support. Someone to help us see our options more clearly, to help us grow, and to heal from past pain. It is my passion to walk with people on their journey. Finding a therapist you are comfortable with is important. I invite you to look over my website. It is a great representation of what you can expect in our time together; especially the "inspiration" section. You will gain insight into how my mind thinks and my approach to therapy and growth.
We all have seasons of life where we could use some support. Someone to help us see our options more clearly, to help us grow, and to heal from past pain. It is my passion to walk with people on their journey. Finding a therapist you are comfortable with is important. I invite you to look over my website. It is a great representation of what you can expect in our time together; especially the "inspiration" section. You will gain insight into how my mind thinks and my approach to therapy and growth.
![Photo of Stephanie Nelson-Gerhardt - Bloom Women's Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9a55a6c-63bb-4080-8dec-fe6483ea9c70/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Thomas Slattery, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5507180e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a warm light-hearted therapist who will focus on solutions for you, your child, or you family? Are you ready to make changes so that life can be more joyful? I'll work hard with you to attain your goals. I have helped many clients manage their feelings like sadness, worry, anger, improve their self-control, or improving their relationships. It can be very difficult choosing a therapist and taking the next step. By just committing to make changes, can make all the difference between success and remaining stuck.
Are you looking for a warm light-hearted therapist who will focus on solutions for you, your child, or you family? Are you ready to make changes so that life can be more joyful? I'll work hard with you to attain your goals. I have helped many clients manage their feelings like sadness, worry, anger, improve their self-control, or improving their relationships. It can be very difficult choosing a therapist and taking the next step. By just committing to make changes, can make all the difference between success and remaining stuck.
![Photo of Adam Figlewicz, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d62f9ff5-2ede-4066-a84f-1a5233c60204/2/320x400.jpeg)
The need to adapt, to learn, and grow can often be a difficult one, but I am here to be able to help guide your journey to rediscovering the best you. Your therapy will be shaped to you, as a unique individual, and you will have the opportunity to share in a space that is open with empathy, warmth, and unconditional positive regard. Here, we can learn about ourselves, where our fears and stressors lie, build our self-esteem and communication, and overcome the barriers that have shifted us away from the center of our own universes.
The need to adapt, to learn, and grow can often be a difficult one, but I am here to be able to help guide your journey to rediscovering the best you. Your therapy will be shaped to you, as a unique individual, and you will have the opportunity to share in a space that is open with empathy, warmth, and unconditional positive regard. Here, we can learn about ourselves, where our fears and stressors lie, build our self-esteem and communication, and overcome the barriers that have shifted us away from the center of our own universes.
![Photo of Brandon Johnson, ALMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93a93b20-de3c-4b90-b02f-4d77dd33d839/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have well-rounded training in working with couples, families, and individuals. Some of my specialities include but are not limited to anxiety, relationship issues, depression, men's issues, family issues, communication, grief, life transitions, and behavioral issues. I work with clients to become stronger in their understanding of their emotional experiences and the development of a stronger set of skills necessary for navigating life.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have well-rounded training in working with couples, families, and individuals. Some of my specialities include but are not limited to anxiety, relationship issues, depression, men's issues, family issues, communication, grief, life transitions, and behavioral issues. I work with clients to become stronger in their understanding of their emotional experiences and the development of a stronger set of skills necessary for navigating life.
![Photo of Leslie Albion, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d853f3a8-0829-4801-a8a6-a0cc686ea148/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Brianna Sorensen, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5dfce11-243c-4911-a083-a08e19d5439e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brianna Sorensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134 (Online Only)
I lean on feminist, queer, and anti-racist theories to contextualize my client's experiences.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the complexities of their mental health. My focus is on working with teens and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and other symptoms of CPTSD. I believe patterns are passed down through generations and can impact how we view and interact with the world around us. I focus on body image issues and how those are passed on to the next generation. Together, we can work towards healing these wounds and breaking cycles.
I lean on feminist, queer, and anti-racist theories to contextualize my client's experiences.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the complexities of their mental health. My focus is on working with teens and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and other symptoms of CPTSD. I believe patterns are passed down through generations and can impact how we view and interact with the world around us. I focus on body image issues and how those are passed on to the next generation. Together, we can work towards healing these wounds and breaking cycles.
![Photo of Robin Zazove, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84ccf99c-8f63-4281-a805-98859cab7a55/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Zazove
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60506 (Online Only)
I also have a passion for working with those who take care of others, such as family caregivers, healthcare workers, first responders, teachers, other therapists, as well as the LGBTQ+ community.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
I also have a passion for working with those who take care of others, such as family caregivers, healthcare workers, first responders, teachers, other therapists, as well as the LGBTQ+ community.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
See more therapy options for Elburn
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Elburn
- Batavia
- Cortland
- Elgin
- Geneva
- Montgomery
- North Aurora
- Pingree Grove
- Saint Charles
- South Elgin
- Sugar Grove
- Sycamore
- West Chicago
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.