Transgender Therapists in Elk Grove Village, IL

Photo of Taylor Eckberg, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Eckberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
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 George W Liebert, LCPC, MS, NCC
George W Liebert
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
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 Kate Messier, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Messier
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
Whether you are seeking help for your family, your relationship, or yourself, I want to be on your team. I am here to create a safe environment that will support you on your path toward change. I have a passion for helping people conquer their past-trauma, family issues, personal struggles-and move into a free and peaceful future.
Whether you are seeking help for your family, your relationship, or yourself, I want to be on your team. I am here to create a safe environment that will support you on your path toward change. I have a passion for helping people conquer their past-trauma, family issues, personal struggles-and move into a free and peaceful future.
(847) 984-3054 View (847) 984-3054
Photo of Nutashia Baynes, PhD, LMHC, LPC, NBCC, CST, Counselor
Nutashia Baynes
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC, NBCC, CST
Verified Verified
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
Relationships can be a source of fulfillment to draw from in our lives. Often, however, miscommunication, old habits, physiological issues and daily stress create barriers preventing them from being a source of happiness and strength. Therapy can help break down barriers to improve communication, decrease conflict and increase emotional and physical intimacy. I specialize in the respectful and confidential treatment of relationship and sexual concerns. I believe in utilizing an open, honest, and sex-positive approach to help assess your unique personal goals and assist you in developing more positive and fulfilling relationships- with your self and with your partner.
Relationships can be a source of fulfillment to draw from in our lives. Often, however, miscommunication, old habits, physiological issues and daily stress create barriers preventing them from being a source of happiness and strength. Therapy can help break down barriers to improve communication, decrease conflict and increase emotional and physical intimacy. I specialize in the respectful and confidential treatment of relationship and sexual concerns. I believe in utilizing an open, honest, and sex-positive approach to help assess your unique personal goals and assist you in developing more positive and fulfilling relationships- with your self and with your partner.
(773) 231-5430 View (773) 231-5430
Photo of Lisa Irgang - Relationship Solutions Center, P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
Relationship Solutions Center, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
Relationship Solutions Center focuses on improving self-esteem and how self-esteem impacts your mental health concerns/disorder, developing a lifelong plan for managing your symptoms, understanding the factors that influenced your self-esteem and working to repair challenging and reframing your thoughts, strengthening your communication skills or learning to create and maintain healthy boundaries. Our specialties are Alternative Dispute Resolution, Alternative Sexualities, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression), Depression and Relationship Counseling.
Relationship Solutions Center focuses on improving self-esteem and how self-esteem impacts your mental health concerns/disorder, developing a lifelong plan for managing your symptoms, understanding the factors that influenced your self-esteem and working to repair challenging and reframing your thoughts, strengthening your communication skills or learning to create and maintain healthy boundaries. Our specialties are Alternative Dispute Resolution, Alternative Sexualities, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression), Depression and Relationship Counseling.
(331) 219-6568 View (331) 219-6568

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Phet Coggin, LCPC, Counselor
Phet Coggin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
I am certified as a Transgender Care Specialist.
I specialize in providing individual counseling for adults, adolescents and their families. My approach is client-centered and individualized to meet my client's current needs. My goal is to assist clients to reach their potential well being through education, teaching, and modeling skills, while assisting to identify barriers that prevent change. My therapy approach is guided by dialectical-behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, and gender identity support.
I am certified as a Transgender Care Specialist.
I specialize in providing individual counseling for adults, adolescents and their families. My approach is client-centered and individualized to meet my client's current needs. My goal is to assist clients to reach their potential well being through education, teaching, and modeling skills, while assisting to identify barriers that prevent change. My therapy approach is guided by dialectical-behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, and gender identity support.
(224) 699-0196 View (224) 699-0196
Photo of Helene A Jacques, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Helene A Jacques
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148  (Online Only)
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.
(630) 599-8674 View (630) 599-8674
Photo of Dr. Patrick Gunderson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Patrick Gunderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I also work extensively with people in the LGBTQ+ community as both a therapist and ally, helping them to build self-assurance, resolve gender dysphoria, and improve relationships.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (average age 13 to 25) who struggle with anxiety symptoms related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have extensive experience in treating survivors of sexual abuse. I utilize exposure-based interventions, which are designed to help confront fears, expand comfort zones, and extinguish avoidance behaviors. I help to achieve trauma resolution by processing traumatic incidents, reducing the associated anxiety and anger, and assisting in therapeutic corrective experiences.
I also work extensively with people in the LGBTQ+ community as both a therapist and ally, helping them to build self-assurance, resolve gender dysphoria, and improve relationships.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (average age 13 to 25) who struggle with anxiety symptoms related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have extensive experience in treating survivors of sexual abuse. I utilize exposure-based interventions, which are designed to help confront fears, expand comfort zones, and extinguish avoidance behaviors. I help to achieve trauma resolution by processing traumatic incidents, reducing the associated anxiety and anger, and assisting in therapeutic corrective experiences.
(224) 347-1596 View (224) 347-1596
Photo of Bonnie Estensen - Guided Path Psychological Services, MS, LCPC, NCC
Guided Path Psychological Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
One specialty area of my practice is the provision of services to the LGBTQ population, especially transgender individuals.
It takes courage to reach out for help. As a caring, knowledgeable therapist, I am committed to assisting people to take the additional steps necessary to create change in their lives. Let's work together to identify the changes you wish to make and develop a plan to move toward those goals. Whether it is depression, anxiety, grief and loss or whatever issues you face, I can help you as I have helped others to achieve their goals as they improve the quality of their lives.
One specialty area of my practice is the provision of services to the LGBTQ population, especially transgender individuals.
It takes courage to reach out for help. As a caring, knowledgeable therapist, I am committed to assisting people to take the additional steps necessary to create change in their lives. Let's work together to identify the changes you wish to make and develop a plan to move toward those goals. Whether it is depression, anxiety, grief and loss or whatever issues you face, I can help you as I have helped others to achieve their goals as they improve the quality of their lives.
(847) 558-6573 View (847) 558-6573
Photo of Mary Rizzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary Rizzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
My experience includes work in behavioral health hospitals, university counseling centers, and an outpatient family counseling setting. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in grief and loss, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also works with caregivers for chronic diseases, the transgender population, and those struggling with identity exploration. In addition to therapy, Dr. Rizzo provides psychological testing across the lifespan to assess intellectual functioning, academic concerns, ADHD-related symptoms, learning and behavioral styles, and diagnostic clarification regarding clinical diagnosis.
My experience includes work in behavioral health hospitals, university counseling centers, and an outpatient family counseling setting. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in grief and loss, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also works with caregivers for chronic diseases, the transgender population, and those struggling with identity exploration. In addition to therapy, Dr. Rizzo provides psychological testing across the lifespan to assess intellectual functioning, academic concerns, ADHD-related symptoms, learning and behavioral styles, and diagnostic clarification regarding clinical diagnosis.
(708) 294-7813 x405 View (708) 294-7813 x405
Photo of Jackie Bobinski, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Bobinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I am very passionate about working with LGTBQIA+ individuals & have experience working with clients who identify as transgender, gay, bisexual, pansexual, nonbinary, and gender fluid.
I have often been excitedly told by prior clients that I'm "different" from previous therapists that they have worked with & that they feel comfortable with me - and trust me - quickly...I also believe that I am different from the "traditional" or "stereotypical" therapist in many ways! This could be because I am less "formal" or "buttoned up", creating a relaxed environment & my sense of humility puts others at ease in an environment that can often feel very vulnerable and intimidating. Your feelings of comfort and emotional safety are my number 1 priority as we begin to build our therapeutic relationship.
I am very passionate about working with LGTBQIA+ individuals & have experience working with clients who identify as transgender, gay, bisexual, pansexual, nonbinary, and gender fluid.
I have often been excitedly told by prior clients that I'm "different" from previous therapists that they have worked with & that they feel comfortable with me - and trust me - quickly...I also believe that I am different from the "traditional" or "stereotypical" therapist in many ways! This could be because I am less "formal" or "buttoned up", creating a relaxed environment & my sense of humility puts others at ease in an environment that can often feel very vulnerable and intimidating. Your feelings of comfort and emotional safety are my number 1 priority as we begin to build our therapeutic relationship.
(224) 434-3426 View (224) 434-3426
Photo of Nicole L Guther-Rogowski, MA, LCPC, CAMS-II, Counselor
Nicole L Guther-Rogowski
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
I have worked extensively with adults with concerns related to anxiety, depression, anger management, transgender issues and abuse as well as children struggling with behavior challenges, family problems, and bullying.
I believe that every individual has the ability to achieve their personal goals and live the life they aspire to lead. Often individuals find themselves in a situation that has them stuck in one place, I can help you move forward. I help my clients identify the challenges that are preventing them from achieving their goals, help create a unique and specific plan for each individual, and assist with any obstacles that might get in the way. Committing to change can be challenging, but you do not have to do it alone.
I have worked extensively with adults with concerns related to anxiety, depression, anger management, transgender issues and abuse as well as children struggling with behavior challenges, family problems, and bullying.
I believe that every individual has the ability to achieve their personal goals and live the life they aspire to lead. Often individuals find themselves in a situation that has them stuck in one place, I can help you move forward. I help my clients identify the challenges that are preventing them from achieving their goals, help create a unique and specific plan for each individual, and assist with any obstacles that might get in the way. Committing to change can be challenging, but you do not have to do it alone.
(847) 737-7767 View (847) 737-7767
Photo of Cai Fasse, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cai Fasse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I approach counseling with empathy and acceptance through an intersectional lens. I support clients through short-term goals, long-term processing of trauma/past experiences, and the impact on the present using their existing strengths and interests. The therapeutic relationship itself is an effective avenue of healing and as such I value open communication.
I approach counseling with empathy and acceptance through an intersectional lens. I support clients through short-term goals, long-term processing of trauma/past experiences, and the impact on the present using their existing strengths and interests. The therapeutic relationship itself is an effective avenue of healing and as such I value open communication.
(847) 243-6591 View (847) 243-6591
Photo of Heather Hollysmith, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Hollysmith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067  (Online Only)
I believe much of what pains us in life comes back to our sense of connection. Whether it's a feeling of not fitting in, constant fights with your partner, or struggles with your identity and self-image, it's all about who we are and how we feel in relation to others. If you are feeling lost or alone or find yourself struggling in your relationships, let's rebuild these connections—to your partner, your current self, and your desired self. With compassionate support, we'll explore your patterns, understand how your past experiences shape your present reality, and navigate setting boundaries for healthier relationships.
I believe much of what pains us in life comes back to our sense of connection. Whether it's a feeling of not fitting in, constant fights with your partner, or struggles with your identity and self-image, it's all about who we are and how we feel in relation to others. If you are feeling lost or alone or find yourself struggling in your relationships, let's rebuild these connections—to your partner, your current self, and your desired self. With compassionate support, we'll explore your patterns, understand how your past experiences shape your present reality, and navigate setting boundaries for healthier relationships.
(847) 613-4393 View (847) 613-4393
Photo of Dennis Morris, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dennis Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60067
Come as you are - I look forward to our journey that begins where ever you need it to begin. Whether an individual is seeking therapy for the first time or looking someone different, I welcome every client into each session with the belief that they are a whole and unique person, not the sum of their issues. I am passionate about helping individuals of all ages (3 - 65) achieve happiness and fulfillment while always building upon their strengths. I believe that everyone has the ability to grow and live a healthy and fulfilling life, no matter how defeated or pessimistic they may feel.
Come as you are - I look forward to our journey that begins where ever you need it to begin. Whether an individual is seeking therapy for the first time or looking someone different, I welcome every client into each session with the belief that they are a whole and unique person, not the sum of their issues. I am passionate about helping individuals of all ages (3 - 65) achieve happiness and fulfillment while always building upon their strengths. I believe that everyone has the ability to grow and live a healthy and fulfilling life, no matter how defeated or pessimistic they may feel.
(847) 278-9382 View (847) 278-9382
Photo of Garrett R. Pluhar-Schaeffer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Garrett R. Pluhar-Schaeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
We all are in relationships with others, and these relationships affect and change who we are. I look forward to exploring these relationships, past and present, and how they have shaped you. I’m interested in helping my patients gain insight into their relational patterns. I utilize a psychoanalytic theories in psychotherapy. I have received a certificate from the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute in child psychoanalytic psychotherapy where I am also a candidate in the psychoanalytic education program.
We all are in relationships with others, and these relationships affect and change who we are. I look forward to exploring these relationships, past and present, and how they have shaped you. I’m interested in helping my patients gain insight into their relational patterns. I utilize a psychoanalytic theories in psychotherapy. I have received a certificate from the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute in child psychoanalytic psychotherapy where I am also a candidate in the psychoanalytic education program.
(224) 219-0784 View (224) 219-0784
Photo of Africa L Rainey, MA, LCPC, EdD, Counselor
Africa L Rainey
Counselor, MA, LCPC, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
I believe the key to healing lies within each of us. My passion is in helping others locate that key and unlock the fear, pain, and feeling of not being good enough and open the door to being the Authentic person you desire. I believe our emotions, aren't the enemy but guides toward helping us realize what we do and do not want for ourselves. Once we learn to be more aware of what we are doing that perpetuates our unhappiness, then we can make different choices, ones that bring us a greater understanding of ourselves and our relationships.
I believe the key to healing lies within each of us. My passion is in helping others locate that key and unlock the fear, pain, and feeling of not being good enough and open the door to being the Authentic person you desire. I believe our emotions, aren't the enemy but guides toward helping us realize what we do and do not want for ourselves. Once we learn to be more aware of what we are doing that perpetuates our unhappiness, then we can make different choices, ones that bring us a greater understanding of ourselves and our relationships.
(847) 416-0921 View (847) 416-0921
Photo of Patrick M McKee, LCPC, Counselor
Patrick M McKee
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Prospect, IL 60056
You deserve a balanced, happy and successful life. Whether you are questioning what to do, who you are, struggling to find motivation/strength, or just not sure how to attain what you want, there is a safe & non-judgmental space for you. You will learn how to become the "you" that you have always wanted to be. Through empowering work, you will challenge thoughts and uncover negative and sabotaging patterns to help overcome barriers.
You deserve a balanced, happy and successful life. Whether you are questioning what to do, who you are, struggling to find motivation/strength, or just not sure how to attain what you want, there is a safe & non-judgmental space for you. You will learn how to become the "you" that you have always wanted to be. Through empowering work, you will challenge thoughts and uncover negative and sabotaging patterns to help overcome barriers.
(847) 416-1050 View (847) 416-1050
Photo of Carolynne Funk, PsyD, Psychologist
Carolynne Funk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Depression, anxiety or stress can keep you stuck with negative thoughts and behaviors. I can work with you to identify the obstacles in your way. I view therapy as a collaborative experience where you will develop new patterns and make positive changes in your life.
Depression, anxiety or stress can keep you stuck with negative thoughts and behaviors. I can work with you to identify the obstacles in your way. I view therapy as a collaborative experience where you will develop new patterns and make positive changes in your life.
(847) 962-1484 View (847) 962-1484
Photo of Margo M Jacquot - Center for Gender & Sexuality at Juniper Center, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS, Psychologist
Center for Gender & Sexuality at Juniper Center
Psychologist, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
At The Juniper Center you will find LGBTQ centered care. We are owned and directed by a therapist and a member of our community. Your name, your pronouns, your identity belong to you. Helping you heal belongs with us. You don't want to have to hide any of who you are. Whether your gender does not match your body, your identity does not match your gender, you love someone born the same sex as you or you love someone who is working their way through these issues, we are here to help. Perhaps you are a parent wanting to understand your child, or to help your child find a positive way through confusing issues.
At The Juniper Center you will find LGBTQ centered care. We are owned and directed by a therapist and a member of our community. Your name, your pronouns, your identity belong to you. Helping you heal belongs with us. You don't want to have to hide any of who you are. Whether your gender does not match your body, your identity does not match your gender, you love someone born the same sex as you or you love someone who is working their way through these issues, we are here to help. Perhaps you are a parent wanting to understand your child, or to help your child find a positive way through confusing issues.
(847) 807-4258 x1 View (847) 807-4258 x1

See more therapy options for Elk Grove Village

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.