LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Joliet, IL

Photo of Renee Keyvan, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Keyvan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
Welcome! I aim to create an environment that is healing, welcoming, and non-judgmental. I recognize and celebrate the uniqueness of every person's identity, and I am devoted to cultivating an atmosphere of inclusivity that allows every client to embrace their genuine selves. I work with adolescents and adults 12 years and older, and specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, domestic and sexual violence, racial and LGBTQ+ identity development, intergenerational trauma, stress, school-related concerns, and more.
Welcome! I aim to create an environment that is healing, welcoming, and non-judgmental. I recognize and celebrate the uniqueness of every person's identity, and I am devoted to cultivating an atmosphere of inclusivity that allows every client to embrace their genuine selves. I work with adolescents and adults 12 years and older, and specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, domestic and sexual violence, racial and LGBTQ+ identity development, intergenerational trauma, stress, school-related concerns, and more.
(815) 581-8876 View (815) 581-8876
Photo of Meghan Grzetich, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan Grzetich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
When your child or teen needs support it's important to find the right fit for them. They need to be comfortable with a therapist and you as a caregiver should feel confident with that provider as well. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults on a variety of issues they may be struggling with. Depression, family or marital stress, behavioral issues, lack of motivation or school refusal, healthy relationships, excessive anxiety and self-esteem are common struggles people may tackle through therapy. Additionally, I work with the LGBTQ community including teens with gender identity issues.
When your child or teen needs support it's important to find the right fit for them. They need to be comfortable with a therapist and you as a caregiver should feel confident with that provider as well. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults on a variety of issues they may be struggling with. Depression, family or marital stress, behavioral issues, lack of motivation or school refusal, healthy relationships, excessive anxiety and self-esteem are common struggles people may tackle through therapy. Additionally, I work with the LGBTQ community including teens with gender identity issues.
(779) 213-2050 View (779) 213-2050
Photo of Kate Stevens, LCPC
Kate Stevens
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60431
I specialize in anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ with a focus on gender identity and sexual orientation, trauma, and suicidal ideation/self-harming.
I am a client-centered clinician that focuses my work on children, adolescents and young adults. I have worked with clients in a variety of settings, including a community mental health center, private practice, and an emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence. I have a strong passion for the intersection of mental health and community advocacy.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ with a focus on gender identity and sexual orientation, trauma, and suicidal ideation/self-harming.
I am a client-centered clinician that focuses my work on children, adolescents and young adults. I have worked with clients in a variety of settings, including a community mental health center, private practice, and an emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence. I have a strong passion for the intersection of mental health and community advocacy.
(815) 559-5404 View (815) 559-5404
Photo of Jesse Rodriguez-Hammond, MS, ED, PSY, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jesse Rodriguez-Hammond
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ED, PSY
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
Are you feeling “stuck,” unheard, and looking for someone who understands? Does your family not look like everyone else’s? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I am here to help. As a married gay man with six adopted children, I know that all families don’t look alike. I work with adults, children, families, and couples (marital and premarital) and those who struggle with parenting, foster parenting, bio-parent reunification, foster care trauma, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, marriage, and LGBTQ issues.
Are you feeling “stuck,” unheard, and looking for someone who understands? Does your family not look like everyone else’s? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I am here to help. As a married gay man with six adopted children, I know that all families don’t look alike. I work with adults, children, families, and couples (marital and premarital) and those who struggle with parenting, foster parenting, bio-parent reunification, foster care trauma, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, marriage, and LGBTQ issues.
(815) 367-8434 View (815) 367-8434
Photo of Payal Sud, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Payal Sud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60432
I am LGBTQ+, ethical non-monogamous relationships, and kink friendly.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is my job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
I am LGBTQ+, ethical non-monogamous relationships, and kink friendly.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is my job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
(708) 377-2935 View (708) 377-2935
Photo of Lindsey Craven - Well Mind Therapy Services, Inc, PhD, LCSW, LCPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Well Mind Therapy Services, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
We have bilingual clinicians, and clinicians that focus on the LGBTQ community.
Welcome to Well Mind Therapy Services! We are so happy you are here! Our clinicians are ready to walk this next step of your journey with you. At Well Mind, we believe each person is unique and take the time you deserve to develop goals and objectives to move you towards the wellness and growth you desire. We believe in meeting our clients where they are, and guiding them at a pace they are comfortable with. No matter what you are going through, our goal is to make you feel safe and validated in our presence. Our therapist will work with you to build on the sacredness that is the therapeutic bond.
We have bilingual clinicians, and clinicians that focus on the LGBTQ community.
Welcome to Well Mind Therapy Services! We are so happy you are here! Our clinicians are ready to walk this next step of your journey with you. At Well Mind, we believe each person is unique and take the time you deserve to develop goals and objectives to move you towards the wellness and growth you desire. We believe in meeting our clients where they are, and guiding them at a pace they are comfortable with. No matter what you are going through, our goal is to make you feel safe and validated in our presence. Our therapist will work with you to build on the sacredness that is the therapeutic bond.
(815) 706-6312 View (815) 706-6312
Photo of Payal Sud - Payal Sud, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Payal Sud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60433
I am LGBT, non-monogamous relationship, and kink-friendly.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is our job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
I am LGBT, non-monogamous relationship, and kink-friendly.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. It is our job to help you identify and eliminate stresses, embrace your strengths, and work towards empowerment. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life.
(630) 756-5550 View (630) 756-5550
Photo of Amy N Druzik, LPC, MA, Counselor
Amy N Druzik
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
I also work with clients who have grief/loss issues, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, self-injury, OCD, and LGBTQ+.
I am committed to supporting my clients, responding to their therapeutic needs, and understanding the problems that are present in their daily lives. I value each client and work to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and transparency. While offering support, nurturance, and compassion, I will help you successfully cope with life's many challenges.
I also work with clients who have grief/loss issues, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, self-injury, OCD, and LGBTQ+.
I am committed to supporting my clients, responding to their therapeutic needs, and understanding the problems that are present in their daily lives. I value each client and work to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and transparency. While offering support, nurturance, and compassion, I will help you successfully cope with life's many challenges.
(708) 746-4086 View (708) 746-4086
Photo of Shanna J Muir, LCPC, CCMHC, MA, Counselor
Shanna J Muir
Counselor, LCPC, CCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60432  (Online Only)
Special Interest in: autism, kink, queer/ LGBT+, non-monogamous/polyamorous, gender non-conforming, trauma, romantic relationships.
You want a therapist that is different, a therapist that can think outside of the box. You know you need help but taking the first step is terrifying and hard. You’re scared of opening up and talking about things that most people don't understand. You don't want to waste your time with the same old therapy talk. You need someone who can provide some immediate relief, is safe to talk to, and will work at your pace. You are an expert on your own experiences, I am a professional who understands diverse ways of life. Tell me what you can, when you can, and I will be right here for you.
Special Interest in: autism, kink, queer/ LGBT+, non-monogamous/polyamorous, gender non-conforming, trauma, romantic relationships.
You want a therapist that is different, a therapist that can think outside of the box. You know you need help but taking the first step is terrifying and hard. You’re scared of opening up and talking about things that most people don't understand. You don't want to waste your time with the same old therapy talk. You need someone who can provide some immediate relief, is safe to talk to, and will work at your pace. You are an expert on your own experiences, I am a professional who understands diverse ways of life. Tell me what you can, when you can, and I will be right here for you.
(309) 306-7016 View (309) 306-7016
Photo of Edlicia Johnson, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Edlicia Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60403  (Online Only)
I service various types of couples (heterosexual, poly, LGBTQIA, high conflict), various family compositions and individuals experiencing, abuse, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and identity issues.
Relationships are challenging and trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, worry, shame and guilt are just some of the things that can hinder you from not only achieving a healthy relationship but also being the best version of yourself. As a Couples and Family therapist I help individuals, couples and families achieve relationship satisfaction, gain a deeper understanding of self and each other and heal from wounds that are negatively impacting the ability to heal. I believe that each individual in a relationship has their own individual thoughts and beliefs that are impacted by childhood and the families we are born into.
I service various types of couples (heterosexual, poly, LGBTQIA, high conflict), various family compositions and individuals experiencing, abuse, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and identity issues.
Relationships are challenging and trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, worry, shame and guilt are just some of the things that can hinder you from not only achieving a healthy relationship but also being the best version of yourself. As a Couples and Family therapist I help individuals, couples and families achieve relationship satisfaction, gain a deeper understanding of self and each other and heal from wounds that are negatively impacting the ability to heal. I believe that each individual in a relationship has their own individual thoughts and beliefs that are impacted by childhood and the families we are born into.
(312) 598-1578 View (312) 598-1578
Photo of Samantha Soll, PsyD, Psychologist
Samantha Soll
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
Soll also specializes in working with trauma, domestic violence and postpartum depression, as well as with the LGBTQ community.
There are many experiences and challenges in life that cause distress. Therapy can be a healthy and meaningful way to improve ones functioning, experience and level of fulfillment. It is my goal to provide a supportive and gently challenging environment, where a client can expect to make therapeutic change. My role in therapy is to work as a team with my client to identify therapeutic goals, identify how to best reach the goals and explore how to manage the social, emotional and environmental barriers in the individual's life.
Soll also specializes in working with trauma, domestic violence and postpartum depression, as well as with the LGBTQ community.
There are many experiences and challenges in life that cause distress. Therapy can be a healthy and meaningful way to improve ones functioning, experience and level of fulfillment. It is my goal to provide a supportive and gently challenging environment, where a client can expect to make therapeutic change. My role in therapy is to work as a team with my client to identify therapeutic goals, identify how to best reach the goals and explore how to manage the social, emotional and environmental barriers in the individual's life.
(815) 261-1793 View (815) 261-1793
Photo of Edward Franklin Pagella, MS, CRC, LCPC, Counselor
Edward Franklin Pagella
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60403
Are you feeling nervous, scared or anxious, and have nowhere to turn, I am here to help. Do you have low self-esteem, anxiety, depression or a substance abuse problem? Life is full of transitions, and it is acceptable to receive guidance to achieve your happiness. I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 30 years' experience in making individuals feel happy about themselves and the life you're living. I also work with the LGBTQ community to help individuals know that they belong and help their loved ones understand...630-544-0505 for free consultation.
Are you feeling nervous, scared or anxious, and have nowhere to turn, I am here to help. Do you have low self-esteem, anxiety, depression or a substance abuse problem? Life is full of transitions, and it is acceptable to receive guidance to achieve your happiness. I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 30 years' experience in making individuals feel happy about themselves and the life you're living. I also work with the LGBTQ community to help individuals know that they belong and help their loved ones understand...630-544-0505 for free consultation.
(815) 336-4062 View (815) 336-4062
Photo of Kristina Jongsma, LCSW, PEL, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Jongsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PEL, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
My ideal client is any human struggling with the present moment, any human suffering.
My ideal client is any human struggling with the present moment, any human suffering.
(331) 481-5335 View (331) 481-5335
Photo of Megan Grzetich - MGMT Therapeutic Services, LMFT, LCPC, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
MGMT Therapeutic Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
We have immediate availability for children, adolescents, and adults seeking support. Our Therapists at MGMT are ready to give you the time and focus you deserve. We meet you where you are at and work with you on creating an individual plan for support and growth. Each therapist brings their unique personality and experience to the group so we can find a good fit for you or your family. We offer in person sessions in the Joliet/Plainfield/Shorewood area and Virtual therapy appointments as well. Please contact us with any questions!
We have immediate availability for children, adolescents, and adults seeking support. Our Therapists at MGMT are ready to give you the time and focus you deserve. We meet you where you are at and work with you on creating an individual plan for support and growth. Each therapist brings their unique personality and experience to the group so we can find a good fit for you or your family. We offer in person sessions in the Joliet/Plainfield/Shorewood area and Virtual therapy appointments as well. Please contact us with any questions!
(815) 743-2284 View (815) 743-2284
Photo of Loretta Colhardt, MSW, LSW
Loretta Colhardt
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
As a Licensed Social Worker, the focus of my practice has been assisting client's in finding their true potential by overcoming life's obstacles and encouraging empowerment. I provide a safe, client centered approach to explore and navigate solutions. Throughout my career I have worked with all ages in community mental health and inpatient settings. I incorporate various types of treatment including CBT and DBT to achieve optimal health and wellness. My specialties including Addictions, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. I treat adults age 18-65+.
As a Licensed Social Worker, the focus of my practice has been assisting client's in finding their true potential by overcoming life's obstacles and encouraging empowerment. I provide a safe, client centered approach to explore and navigate solutions. Throughout my career I have worked with all ages in community mental health and inpatient settings. I incorporate various types of treatment including CBT and DBT to achieve optimal health and wellness. My specialties including Addictions, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. I treat adults age 18-65+.
(630) 332-8212 View (630) 332-8212
Photo of Meghan Peters, LSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meghan Peters
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60403
I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.
I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.
(815) 745-5982 View (815) 745-5982
Photo of Stephanie Renea Brands - B&B Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
B&B Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
At B&B Therapy we strive to ensure all of our clients, regardless of age, receive the best care we can provide. We have tailored our adult and adolescent therapy rooms to be relaxing and calm to help our clients feel like they are at home. Our child therapy rooms are designed to help our clinicians provide fun and safe play therapy to help our young clients feel comfortable to be themselves. At B&B Therapy we believe in promoting growth and autonomy to help all our clients succeed outside of our therapy rooms.
At B&B Therapy we strive to ensure all of our clients, regardless of age, receive the best care we can provide. We have tailored our adult and adolescent therapy rooms to be relaxing and calm to help our clients feel like they are at home. Our child therapy rooms are designed to help our clinicians provide fun and safe play therapy to help our young clients feel comfortable to be themselves. At B&B Therapy we believe in promoting growth and autonomy to help all our clients succeed outside of our therapy rooms.
(815) 456-8418 View (815) 456-8418
Photo of Michael B Wathen, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michael B Wathen
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
I welcome therapeutic opportunities with diverse people, cultures, and systems in a zealous advocacy for the healing and enhancement of the human condition. I believe all of us are seeking change and recovery in our way and at our own time. If this is your time, I hope to offer you and yours a warm, welcoming, and safe space to work toward mental health and wellness.
I welcome therapeutic opportunities with diverse people, cultures, and systems in a zealous advocacy for the healing and enhancement of the human condition. I believe all of us are seeking change and recovery in our way and at our own time. If this is your time, I hope to offer you and yours a warm, welcoming, and safe space to work toward mental health and wellness.
(779) 223-1106 View (779) 223-1106
Photo of Chelsea Webb, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chelsea Webb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435  (Online Only)
Chelsea Webb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 4 years of experience. She specializes in helping clients of all ages to manage depression, anxiety, grief, major life transitions, relationship issues, and more.
Chelsea Webb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 4 years of experience. She specializes in helping clients of all ages to manage depression, anxiety, grief, major life transitions, relationship issues, and more.
(815) 374-8113 View (815) 374-8113
Photo of Rick Susner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rick Susner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60432
I have been working as a therapist since 2008 and enjoy helping people understand the role of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in creating a life worth living for themselves. Relationships are important for coping with day to day stressors. One that often gets neglected is the personal relationship an individual has with his or herself. I enjoy helping people identify their strengths and define themselves by these qualities.
I have been working as a therapist since 2008 and enjoy helping people understand the role of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in creating a life worth living for themselves. Relationships are important for coping with day to day stressors. One that often gets neglected is the personal relationship an individual has with his or herself. I enjoy helping people identify their strengths and define themselves by these qualities.
(779) 246-4124 View (779) 246-4124
1
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.