LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Minooka, IL

Photo of Jesse Rodriguez-Hammond, MS, ED, PSY, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jesse Rodriguez-Hammond
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ED, PSY
Verified Verified
Minooka, IL 60447
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 Sara Rivier, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Rivier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minooka, IL 60447
I have experience working with the LGBTQIA community, and those who have experienced a high level of trauma.
I believe that change happens outside of our comfort zone. At the same time, I believe that feeling safe is a vital part of the change process. We can only begin to step outside of where we have been, into a more healthy and happy life, if we are first grounded in safety and security. I strive to provide this environment for my clients. My goal is that all clients feel safe and secure the entire time that we work together, to move through the uncomfortable aspects of life, towards a happier, healthier, more fulfilling existence.
I have experience working with the LGBTQIA community, and those who have experienced a high level of trauma.
I believe that change happens outside of our comfort zone. At the same time, I believe that feeling safe is a vital part of the change process. We can only begin to step outside of where we have been, into a more healthy and happy life, if we are first grounded in safety and security. I strive to provide this environment for my clients. My goal is that all clients feel safe and secure the entire time that we work together, to move through the uncomfortable aspects of life, towards a happier, healthier, more fulfilling existence.
(815) 242-4410 View (815) 242-4410
Photo of Taylor Krull, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Krull
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minooka, IL 60447
Hello there! I am sure it has been quite a journey that has brought you to the place you are at now, and I commend you for making that first step in providing yourself with help. Everyone deserves a fulfilling, purposeful, functioning life, but let's be honest, sometimes we fall off that path and lose our way, and that is okay. Therapy is a beautiful opportunity to receive support in finding successful strategies to navigate through life's tough seasons. I find joy in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Hello there! I am sure it has been quite a journey that has brought you to the place you are at now, and I commend you for making that first step in providing yourself with help. Everyone deserves a fulfilling, purposeful, functioning life, but let's be honest, sometimes we fall off that path and lose our way, and that is okay. Therapy is a beautiful opportunity to receive support in finding successful strategies to navigate through life's tough seasons. I find joy in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(815) 453-9021 View (815) 453-9021
Photo of Courtney Doyle-O'Brien, LCPC, Counselor
Courtney Doyle-O'Brien
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minooka, IL 60447
I am dedicated to the overall health and well-being of the individual as we build a therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I believe that working with you in a collaborative relationship is critical to reaching your goals. I value the genuine and empathetic relationship that develops as a result of transparent therapeutic work. In other words, we will work together to establish goals and develop a treatment plan that makes sense to you. As your therapist, I will work to be supportive, to provide you with relevant knowledge, and to create an atmosphere that feels comfortable and safe.
I am dedicated to the overall health and well-being of the individual as we build a therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I believe that working with you in a collaborative relationship is critical to reaching your goals. I value the genuine and empathetic relationship that develops as a result of transparent therapeutic work. In other words, we will work together to establish goals and develop a treatment plan that makes sense to you. As your therapist, I will work to be supportive, to provide you with relevant knowledge, and to create an atmosphere that feels comfortable and safe.
(815) 246-3252 View (815) 246-3252
Photo of Samantha Sayre-Crnich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Sayre-Crnich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Minooka, IL 60447
You deserve to have the a life that is exciting so you can be ready for your morning cup of coffee! Does anxiety or depression keep you from enjoying the simplest of things in life? If not this, do you ever struggle to feel socially connected to your friends or feel anxiety due to not fitting in with "societal norms". I am here to help you, meet you were you are at and to provide genuine support. Sometimes having an unbiased person to talk to, can really be the key to getting a different perspective on your life dilemmas. Taking a chance with therapy can open up so many positive doors in your life.
You deserve to have the a life that is exciting so you can be ready for your morning cup of coffee! Does anxiety or depression keep you from enjoying the simplest of things in life? If not this, do you ever struggle to feel socially connected to your friends or feel anxiety due to not fitting in with "societal norms". I am here to help you, meet you were you are at and to provide genuine support. Sometimes having an unbiased person to talk to, can really be the key to getting a different perspective on your life dilemmas. Taking a chance with therapy can open up so many positive doors in your life.
(815) 393-2758 View (815) 393-2758

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amanda L Redwine, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda L Redwine
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morris, IL 60450
I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and especially enjoy working with anyone who identifies on that spectrum as well.
After two decades of working in corporate finance, I made the leap to counseling and could not be happier. My ideal client is a human who is struggling to make sense out of all this craziness who is looking for an equally whackadoodle counselor who can sit alongside through all the hard and ugly stuff. I do not have a perfect life; I don't have much figured out. What I do know, though, is that being in the presence of another human being who unconditionally accepts you and sees your worth is healing. That attachment experience heals old wounds like nothing I've ever seen before.
I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and especially enjoy working with anyone who identifies on that spectrum as well.
After two decades of working in corporate finance, I made the leap to counseling and could not be happier. My ideal client is a human who is struggling to make sense out of all this craziness who is looking for an equally whackadoodle counselor who can sit alongside through all the hard and ugly stuff. I do not have a perfect life; I don't have much figured out. What I do know, though, is that being in the presence of another human being who unconditionally accepts you and sees your worth is healing. That attachment experience heals old wounds like nothing I've ever seen before.
(386) 465-3373 View (386) 465-3373
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 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 Amanda Grippi, LPC
Amanda Grippi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Morris, IL 60450
Hey there! My name is Amanda Grippi. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 20 years of clinical experience working with individuals, families, minors, preteens, and children with ADHD, Anxiety, Autism or Asperger's Syndrome, LGBTQIA+, Trauma, and PTSD. That being said, I am always client-centered and use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), EMDR, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapies during treatment. I believe that I am down-to-Earth and open-minded and don't just tell them what I think but what they need to do.
Hey there! My name is Amanda Grippi. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 20 years of clinical experience working with individuals, families, minors, preteens, and children with ADHD, Anxiety, Autism or Asperger's Syndrome, LGBTQIA+, Trauma, and PTSD. That being said, I am always client-centered and use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), EMDR, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapies during treatment. I believe that I am down-to-Earth and open-minded and don't just tell them what I think but what they need to do.
(630) 756-5159 View (630) 756-5159
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 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 Elizabeth Doud, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Doud
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
Beth works with clients aged 14 to 65+, addressing issues like grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, life adjustments, relationships, self-esteem, stress management, and women's issues.
Beth's ideal client is a young woman (age 20-35) navigating her identity and striving to prioritize self-care amidst her responsibilities. She believe that clients inherently know when a counselor is not the right fit and encourage them to find someone they feel comfortable with. Beth highly values receiving feedback and working collaboratively with each client to identify their goals in therapy and assess their feelings about progress and sessions throughout their time together. Beth's aim is to provide a supportive space where young women can explore and grow.
Beth works with clients aged 14 to 65+, addressing issues like grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, life adjustments, relationships, self-esteem, stress management, and women's issues.
Beth's ideal client is a young woman (age 20-35) navigating her identity and striving to prioritize self-care amidst her responsibilities. She believe that clients inherently know when a counselor is not the right fit and encourage them to find someone they feel comfortable with. Beth highly values receiving feedback and working collaboratively with each client to identify their goals in therapy and assess their feelings about progress and sessions throughout their time together. Beth's aim is to provide a supportive space where young women can explore and grow.
(779) 261-2378 View (779) 261-2378
Photo of Erin M Schicht, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Erin M Schicht
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Shorewood, IL 60404
Finally, I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ community as well as those with severe depression and anxiety.
Everyone has the potential to unlock who they want to become and achieve a balanced life. If this is your first time seeking a therapist or if you have been in therapy before, I find ways to help client's feel comfortable to be able to speak freely to reach their goals. Having experience in working with children and adults in different capacities over my career, it has become my desire to help those I work with find their own potential and assist in empowerment. I have an extensive background in woking with those with a variety of mental health issues in the community mental health setting and hospital setting.
Finally, I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ community as well as those with severe depression and anxiety.
Everyone has the potential to unlock who they want to become and achieve a balanced life. If this is your first time seeking a therapist or if you have been in therapy before, I find ways to help client's feel comfortable to be able to speak freely to reach their goals. Having experience in working with children and adults in different capacities over my career, it has become my desire to help those I work with find their own potential and assist in empowerment. I have an extensive background in woking with those with a variety of mental health issues in the community mental health setting and hospital setting.
(815) 267-0207 View (815) 267-0207
Sierra Lanai Sturghill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Shorewood, IL 60404
Sierra's ideal client would be an adult going through a transition of life (e.g., divorce, relocation, grief, LGBTQ+, interpersonal issues, family issues). Whether this is your first time going to therapy or your 50th, Sierra provides a genuine safe approach that makes her clients feel comfortable to open up to her about anything.
Sierra's ideal client would be an adult going through a transition of life (e.g., divorce, relocation, grief, LGBTQ+, interpersonal issues, family issues). Whether this is your first time going to therapy or your 50th, Sierra provides a genuine safe approach that makes her clients feel comfortable to open up to her about anything.
(815) 336-5042 View (815) 336-5042
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 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 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 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 Angela Solis - Crossroads Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor
Crossroads Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
Morris, IL 60450
It’s no secret that life comes with struggles – or that those struggles can impact every part of a person’s life. No matter the age, gender, race, or overall walk of life, those struggles can interfere with one's mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. The good news is that counseling can help with everything from childhood trauma to day-day life. With that in mind, Crossroads Counseling Services opened its doors in April 2007 with the mission of helping residents of Plainfield, Ottawa, Morris, and Yorkville, IL deal with and overcome these issues and trauma.
It’s no secret that life comes with struggles – or that those struggles can impact every part of a person’s life. No matter the age, gender, race, or overall walk of life, those struggles can interfere with one's mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. The good news is that counseling can help with everything from childhood trauma to day-day life. With that in mind, Crossroads Counseling Services opened its doors in April 2007 with the mission of helping residents of Plainfield, Ottawa, Morris, and Yorkville, IL deal with and overcome these issues and trauma.
(815) 706-3279 View (815) 706-3279
Photo of Michelle Frazier Painter, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Frazier Painter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Morris, IL 60450  (Online Only)
You may be looking for therapy to help you manage your everyday life or to cope with a specific issue. I believe in helping you work through or overcome these challenges by creating a comfortable therapeutic relationship. I aim to have you to feel safe to recognize and process thoughts, feelings and behaviors and feel confident to develop a plan that will help you move forward. I partner WITH you to help you regain your balance and find your way on your life journey - regardless of the difficulties you may be facing.
You may be looking for therapy to help you manage your everyday life or to cope with a specific issue. I believe in helping you work through or overcome these challenges by creating a comfortable therapeutic relationship. I aim to have you to feel safe to recognize and process thoughts, feelings and behaviors and feel confident to develop a plan that will help you move forward. I partner WITH you to help you regain your balance and find your way on your life journey - regardless of the difficulties you may be facing.
(815) 248-5219 View (815) 248-5219

See more therapy options for Minooka

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.