Transgender Therapists in Elgin, IL

Photo of Haven James Winter, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haven James Winter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60123
While I enjoy working with many individuals, my passion is the LGBTQIA2+ community (particularly transgender folks) providing a positive and affirming environment to explore identities and develop a strong sense of self. My approach is to help clients identify and utilize strengths while encouraging continued growth. I focus on assisting clients in setting attainable goals, improving communication, and learning skills to manage symptoms and decrease behaviors that may be harmful. I believe that identifying negative beliefs and patterns of behavior that prevent someone from being where they want to be is an essential part of therapy.
While I enjoy working with many individuals, my passion is the LGBTQIA2+ community (particularly transgender folks) providing a positive and affirming environment to explore identities and develop a strong sense of self. My approach is to help clients identify and utilize strengths while encouraging continued growth. I focus on assisting clients in setting attainable goals, improving communication, and learning skills to manage symptoms and decrease behaviors that may be harmful. I believe that identifying negative beliefs and patterns of behavior that prevent someone from being where they want to be is an essential part of therapy.
(224) 435-4648 View (224) 435-4648
Photo of Carol Fetzner, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Carol Fetzner
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60120
I have 26 years experience in the provision of therapy in an outpatient setting to treat a diverse array of presenting problems. I assist clients in problem solving more productive and healthier ways to cope with their unique challenges. A guiding principal in my work is to aid clients in achieving congruence between the person they wish to be and the person they are, thereby continually striving for authenticity. I wish to aid my clients in achieving their fullest potential in order to live gratifying lives personally and professionally.
I have 26 years experience in the provision of therapy in an outpatient setting to treat a diverse array of presenting problems. I assist clients in problem solving more productive and healthier ways to cope with their unique challenges. A guiding principal in my work is to aid clients in achieving congruence between the person they wish to be and the person they are, thereby continually striving for authenticity. I wish to aid my clients in achieving their fullest potential in order to live gratifying lives personally and professionally.
(815) 345-4028 View (815) 345-4028
Photo of Maria R Mangiardi, NCC, LPCP, Counselor
Maria R Mangiardi
Counselor, NCC, LPCP
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120  (Online Only)
I believe that a journey of self-discovery and personal growth empowers individuals to develop self-love, self-worth, and deeper meaning in their lives. I encourage honesty, acceptance, and forgiveness in order to heal and release inner struggles. I create a trusting environment integrating a collaborative approach to exploring issues and finding solutions.
I believe that a journey of self-discovery and personal growth empowers individuals to develop self-love, self-worth, and deeper meaning in their lives. I encourage honesty, acceptance, and forgiveness in order to heal and release inner struggles. I create a trusting environment integrating a collaborative approach to exploring issues and finding solutions.
(847) 649-6318 View (847) 649-6318
Photo of Leo Lease, LCPC, MA , ATR-P
Leo Lease
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA , ATR-P
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60121  (Online Only)
If you've felt lost, frustrated or feel no one quite "gets you", you are welcome here. As a trauma informed and DBT focused therapist, I believe in the power shame reduction can have in peoples lives, alongside building concrete skills, and unlearning narratives that no longer serve us. I often see clients who may feel at odds with themselves and want to adapt or grow their ability to handle distress. Although change can be uncomfortable, I work alongside clients to rediscover personal strengths and help find a "core" or "root" that may have felt lost or distant. I commend you for stepping into vulnerability.
If you've felt lost, frustrated or feel no one quite "gets you", you are welcome here. As a trauma informed and DBT focused therapist, I believe in the power shame reduction can have in peoples lives, alongside building concrete skills, and unlearning narratives that no longer serve us. I often see clients who may feel at odds with themselves and want to adapt or grow their ability to handle distress. Although change can be uncomfortable, I work alongside clients to rediscover personal strengths and help find a "core" or "root" that may have felt lost or distant. I commend you for stepping into vulnerability.
(708) 722-8843 View (708) 722-8843
Photo of Cheryl Renee Runion, MA, LCPC, LSOE, LSOTP, CADC, Counselor
Cheryl Renee Runion
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LSOE, LSOTP, CADC
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
(847) 641-2372 x2 View (847) 641-2372 x2
Photo of Justin Wolfe, MA, LCPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justin Wolfe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60123
Justin engages clients with a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental style. He specializes in working with young adults with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and those in life transitions who find it challenging to move forward in life the way that they desire. Justin's develops a therapeutic relationship where the client can explore what provides them with a feeling of purpose, and learn how to navigate life at challenging times.
Justin engages clients with a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental style. He specializes in working with young adults with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and those in life transitions who find it challenging to move forward in life the way that they desire. Justin's develops a therapeutic relationship where the client can explore what provides them with a feeling of purpose, and learn how to navigate life at challenging times.
(224) 293-6717 View (224) 293-6717
Photo of Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
(847) 807-4085 View (847) 807-4085
Photo of Rory F Jeanniton, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rory F Jeanniton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
Hi I’m Rory! I’m a Black – Hispanic, non Spanish speaking (so sorry) - Hetero – Cis Male (He/Him). I specialize in helping those who struggle with their own inner demons. My style is nonjudgmental, compassionate, and strength focused and I openly celebrate anybody who is working to level themselves up. Here you'll find nonjudgmental acceptance of whatever you bring in and a genuine desire to help you feel more at peace. I coach my clients to trust their gut more, accept themselves with compassion, and tolerate tough emotions and thoughts. My main goal is to help you learn what works for YOU.
Hi I’m Rory! I’m a Black – Hispanic, non Spanish speaking (so sorry) - Hetero – Cis Male (He/Him). I specialize in helping those who struggle with their own inner demons. My style is nonjudgmental, compassionate, and strength focused and I openly celebrate anybody who is working to level themselves up. Here you'll find nonjudgmental acceptance of whatever you bring in and a genuine desire to help you feel more at peace. I coach my clients to trust their gut more, accept themselves with compassion, and tolerate tough emotions and thoughts. My main goal is to help you learn what works for YOU.
(630) 812-1358 View (630) 812-1358
Photo of Elizabeth Piazza, MA, LCPC
Elizabeth Piazza
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
I believe therapy is for everyone. There is no problem too big or small that can't be helped through therapy. My goal with all my clients is to create a safe, judgment-free space for self-exploration and healing. I’ve been a practicing Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 2015, after receiving my Master’s in Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I’ve worked extensively with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and substance abuse. I work with ages 12 and up. I am happy to meet in person or via telehealth to design a game plan to address your treatment goals.
I believe therapy is for everyone. There is no problem too big or small that can't be helped through therapy. My goal with all my clients is to create a safe, judgment-free space for self-exploration and healing. I’ve been a practicing Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 2015, after receiving my Master’s in Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I’ve worked extensively with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and substance abuse. I work with ages 12 and up. I am happy to meet in person or via telehealth to design a game plan to address your treatment goals.
(630) 332-3873 View (630) 332-3873
Photo of Natalie Freeman, LPC, CDWF, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CDWF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
You may notice distrust of change, discomfort with a lack of direction, or maybe you numb or isolate when overwhelmed. You may also have friends and family you "should" be able to talk with, however without the space to explore and ability to give yourself permission, we often feel stuck or that something is missing.
You may notice distrust of change, discomfort with a lack of direction, or maybe you numb or isolate when overwhelmed. You may also have friends and family you "should" be able to talk with, however without the space to explore and ability to give yourself permission, we often feel stuck or that something is missing.
(224) 260-2458 View (224) 260-2458
Photo of Jena C Yuen, LCPC, MA
Jena C Yuen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60120
Finding a therapist you or your child feels comfortable with can be an intimidating process at first. Sometimes, it can be difficult to trust and open up to someone who is a stranger. I strive to provide a caring and nonjudgmental atmosphere, where clients can be heard and respected. Therapy should be a journey for both client and therapist, exploring and working through issues together. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults as they deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, family conflict, grief, gender identity issues and oppositional behavior.
Finding a therapist you or your child feels comfortable with can be an intimidating process at first. Sometimes, it can be difficult to trust and open up to someone who is a stranger. I strive to provide a caring and nonjudgmental atmosphere, where clients can be heard and respected. Therapy should be a journey for both client and therapist, exploring and working through issues together. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults as they deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, family conflict, grief, gender identity issues and oppositional behavior.
(224) 207-4560 View (224) 207-4560
Photo of George W Liebert, LCPC, MS, NCC
George W Liebert
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
Life is complicated and it often leaves us feeling out of control. This feeling of being powerless can lead to suffering, and forces us to make changes in order to go on. That's what I do; I help people with making changes, whether they are trying to change their thoughts, feelings or behavior. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy focused on the personal needs and strengths of my clients. The work is rooted in building a strong relationship based on trust, understanding, and respect, that challenges individuals to learn about themselves, and to use that knowledge to implement meaningful changes in their lives.
Life is complicated and it often leaves us feeling out of control. This feeling of being powerless can lead to suffering, and forces us to make changes in order to go on. That's what I do; I help people with making changes, whether they are trying to change their thoughts, feelings or behavior. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy focused on the personal needs and strengths of my clients. The work is rooted in building a strong relationship based on trust, understanding, and respect, that challenges individuals to learn about themselves, and to use that knowledge to implement meaningful changes in their lives.
(630) 354-0832 View (630) 354-0832
Photo of Taylor Eckberg, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Eckberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60123
I believe that therapy is most effective when there is a strong bond based in respect, trust and mutual understanding between the client and the clinician. I work with my clients to develop this therapeutic alliance, and use the relationship to help them feel confident while working through the various challenges they bring to the table. I have experience working with Adults, Children, Adolescents, Couples and Families, and have seen clients in a hospital setting, community mental health setting, and in private practice.
I believe that therapy is most effective when there is a strong bond based in respect, trust and mutual understanding between the client and the clinician. I work with my clients to develop this therapeutic alliance, and use the relationship to help them feel confident while working through the various challenges they bring to the table. I have experience working with Adults, Children, Adolescents, Couples and Families, and have seen clients in a hospital setting, community mental health setting, and in private practice.
(630) 895-9506 View (630) 895-9506
Photo of Angela L. Gallo, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela L. Gallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
BILINGUAL ENGLISH / SPANISH - I enjoy witnessing my clients discover who they really are. I relish the thought that with new communications skills, my clients can build healthier and stronger relationships with their loved ones. I also like working with adult men and women, young adult issues, marital therapy, relationship therapy as well as grief and loss counseling.
BILINGUAL ENGLISH / SPANISH - I enjoy witnessing my clients discover who they really are. I relish the thought that with new communications skills, my clients can build healthier and stronger relationships with their loved ones. I also like working with adult men and women, young adult issues, marital therapy, relationship therapy as well as grief and loss counseling.
(630) 448-4660 View (630) 448-4660
Photo of Jayne A Braden - Braden Counseling Center, P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
Braden Counseling Center, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60120
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 Lauren Lollini, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lauren Lollini
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60124
Congratulations, you have made the first and most important step in helping yourself reach your goals. I believe psychotherapy is truly a process, one which the therapist can help guide a client to make the changes they need for positive change. My 15+ years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults and families allows for me to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms. As all clients have differing needs, it is crucial for you to find the right therapist, the one with whom you feel a comfort and who might best help you succeed.
Congratulations, you have made the first and most important step in helping yourself reach your goals. I believe psychotherapy is truly a process, one which the therapist can help guide a client to make the changes they need for positive change. My 15+ years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults and families allows for me to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms. As all clients have differing needs, it is crucial for you to find the right therapist, the one with whom you feel a comfort and who might best help you succeed.
(630) 318-1201 View (630) 318-1201
Photo of Danielle Lozano, LCPC, CFTP, NCC
Danielle Lozano
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CFTP, NCC
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60123
My name is Danielle Lozano and I work hard to be compassionate, warm, and authentic with my clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) that has been recognized by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NCC) and has received a certificate as a Family Trauma Professional (CFTP). I feel that my warm demeanor and openness, aids me in building a strong and healthy therapeutic relationship with my clients. My current therapy style revolves around client's needs and comfort level. Most frequently I utilize the client-centered, psychodynamic, emotionally focused, and cognitive behavioral approaches.
My name is Danielle Lozano and I work hard to be compassionate, warm, and authentic with my clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) that has been recognized by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NCC) and has received a certificate as a Family Trauma Professional (CFTP). I feel that my warm demeanor and openness, aids me in building a strong and healthy therapeutic relationship with my clients. My current therapy style revolves around client's needs and comfort level. Most frequently I utilize the client-centered, psychodynamic, emotionally focused, and cognitive behavioral approaches.
(224) 249-3659 View (224) 249-3659
Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, MA, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60123
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Sarah Klein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples' therapy. While working with these modalities of treatments, I help clients that are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behaviors, behavioral issues, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Clients with these symptoms or situations face many challenges which I love helping them overcome through compassionate understanding and establishment of trust and rapport.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples' therapy. While working with these modalities of treatments, I help clients that are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behaviors, behavioral issues, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Clients with these symptoms or situations face many challenges which I love helping them overcome through compassionate understanding and establishment of trust and rapport.
(815) 281-5218 View (815) 281-5218
Photo of A Better You Counseling Pllc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Better You Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
It is often difficult to ask for help in the face of life's challenges. People attend therapy for a variety of reasons such as; trauma, struggling with anxiety, depression or a life altering event. Ultimately, we want to feel better and live more-productive lives. Therapy is a collaborative endeavor which takes place in a warm, open and non-judgmental environment. My role is to help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, what motivates their behaviors and how they can bring about change.
It is often difficult to ask for help in the face of life's challenges. People attend therapy for a variety of reasons such as; trauma, struggling with anxiety, depression or a life altering event. Ultimately, we want to feel better and live more-productive lives. Therapy is a collaborative endeavor which takes place in a warm, open and non-judgmental environment. My role is to help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, what motivates their behaviors and how they can bring about change.
(773) 945-6819 View (773) 945-6819
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.