LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Mokena, IL
Since 2016, Kathy has specialized in helping those with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, eating disorders, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Kathy is a Licensed Social Worker and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. She has extensive experience in therapeutic mental health settings, including residential, inpatient, and outpatient programs, and has worked with survivors of domestic violence. Kathy uses various treatment modalities, including DBT, ACT, and CBT.
Since 2016, Kathy has specialized in helping those with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, eating disorders, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Kathy is a Licensed Social Worker and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. She has extensive experience in therapeutic mental health settings, including residential, inpatient, and outpatient programs, and has worked with survivors of domestic violence. Kathy uses various treatment modalities, including DBT, ACT, and CBT.
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.
I am here to help you realize that challenging experiences do not determine your future. I specialize in working with individuals with a history of religious trauma, members of the gamer, geek or nerd communities, neurodivergence, poly/ENM, kink, and LGBTQIA+. I also work with clients dealing with PTSD, depression and anxiety, burnout in helping professions, caretaking challenges, and more. I create a space of acceptance, compassion, and equanimity for clients to encounter themselves.
I am here to help you realize that challenging experiences do not determine your future. I specialize in working with individuals with a history of religious trauma, members of the gamer, geek or nerd communities, neurodivergence, poly/ENM, kink, and LGBTQIA+. I also work with clients dealing with PTSD, depression and anxiety, burnout in helping professions, caretaking challenges, and more. I create a space of acceptance, compassion, and equanimity for clients to encounter themselves.
Childhood trauma, OCD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, family, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, anger, accidents, eating disorders, fear.
Are you feeling more anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or are just not where you want to be? At S-R&R Counseling, I can create a safe, comfortable, and inviting environment so you can process emotional stressors, and transitions. My team and I work to treat anxiety, depression, anger, and phobias. We help children, adolescents, adults, couples and family. My team also specializes in EMDR , ERP, DBT(in person and virtually) and exposure therapy to treat trauma/PTSD phobias and fear. In addition, sleep and eating addiction. If you are feeling stuck and can't get past a fear, let us help you.
Childhood trauma, OCD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, family, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, anger, accidents, eating disorders, fear.
Are you feeling more anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or are just not where you want to be? At S-R&R Counseling, I can create a safe, comfortable, and inviting environment so you can process emotional stressors, and transitions. My team and I work to treat anxiety, depression, anger, and phobias. We help children, adolescents, adults, couples and family. My team also specializes in EMDR , ERP, DBT(in person and virtually) and exposure therapy to treat trauma/PTSD phobias and fear. In addition, sleep and eating addiction. If you are feeling stuck and can't get past a fear, let us help you.
In some ways, the decision you’re about to make is the hardest part of this process. Choosing the right therapist and “type of therapy” can be confusing. That’s why I’d like to explain a little about my training and my approach to make your choice a little easier. My training taught me that by knowing what to listen for, I can connect your symptoms to your past life experiences. Once we start to do that, I will help you identify the reasons those experiences were hard to resolve. When something is hard to resolve, we tend to avoid it, which is why our mind then tells us that something still feels unresolved by producing symptoms.
In some ways, the decision you’re about to make is the hardest part of this process. Choosing the right therapist and “type of therapy” can be confusing. That’s why I’d like to explain a little about my training and my approach to make your choice a little easier. My training taught me that by knowing what to listen for, I can connect your symptoms to your past life experiences. Once we start to do that, I will help you identify the reasons those experiences were hard to resolve. When something is hard to resolve, we tend to avoid it, which is why our mind then tells us that something still feels unresolved by producing symptoms.
My approach is strengths based, focused on solutions, and present and forward directed. We will explore new possibilities and opportunities to learn how to lessen your current clinical symptoms, while improving your sense of self-acceptance, increasing your resiliency, and developing a healthier and more effective behavioral pattern moving forward. Together, we will collaborate on aligning your treatment goals with your own personal values within a warm, empathic, and compassionate space.
My approach is strengths based, focused on solutions, and present and forward directed. We will explore new possibilities and opportunities to learn how to lessen your current clinical symptoms, while improving your sense of self-acceptance, increasing your resiliency, and developing a healthier and more effective behavioral pattern moving forward. Together, we will collaborate on aligning your treatment goals with your own personal values within a warm, empathic, and compassionate space.
I have experience providing treatment for those who have suffered painful experiences in their childhood or adult life. As well as treating individuals who feel angry, sad or anxious much of the time. I have also worked with those who feel out of control of their behavior and feel misunderstood in their relationships. Additionally, I have experience working with milder symptoms including stress related to managing a healthy work-life balance, interpersonal relationship struggles, inattention, and hyperactivity. I have also provided therapy to help individuals implement effective parenting strategies and increase assertiveness in their lives.
I have experience providing treatment for those who have suffered painful experiences in their childhood or adult life. As well as treating individuals who feel angry, sad or anxious much of the time. I have also worked with those who feel out of control of their behavior and feel misunderstood in their relationships. Additionally, I have experience working with milder symptoms including stress related to managing a healthy work-life balance, interpersonal relationship struggles, inattention, and hyperactivity. I have also provided therapy to help individuals implement effective parenting strategies and increase assertiveness in their lives.
Lynn Panepinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II, EMDR
Verified Verified
Mokena, IL 60448
If you’re struggling with difficult emotions, relationship/family issues, trauma, uncomfortable life transitions, or feeling stuck and overwhelmed, help is available. My passion is working with clients to develop self-awareness, inner strength, and coping skills so that true and lasting healing occurs. I believe that your overall sense of well-being and overall health includes mental and emotional wellness. My hope is that therapy will help you experience greater self-acceptance, understanding, and an ability to achieve your goals and increase your emotional wellness.
If you’re struggling with difficult emotions, relationship/family issues, trauma, uncomfortable life transitions, or feeling stuck and overwhelmed, help is available. My passion is working with clients to develop self-awareness, inner strength, and coping skills so that true and lasting healing occurs. I believe that your overall sense of well-being and overall health includes mental and emotional wellness. My hope is that therapy will help you experience greater self-acceptance, understanding, and an ability to achieve your goals and increase your emotional wellness.
My approach to therapy is not always your traditional approach. I utilize many evidence-based therapy modalities while also making our time together interesting and fun. Many times deep healing work can occur without even realizing it. You may find yourself feeling an array of emotions from crying to laughing as we work together. I believe that there is deep healing power in laughter.
My approach to therapy is not always your traditional approach. I utilize many evidence-based therapy modalities while also making our time together interesting and fun. Many times deep healing work can occur without even realizing it. You may find yourself feeling an array of emotions from crying to laughing as we work together. I believe that there is deep healing power in laughter.
Sometimes life is is hard, especially when circumstances keep us from living the peaceful life we want. Many people come to therapy seeking help with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and in some cases, trauma recovery. Whether you’re taking your first steps toward self-improvement and wellness, or have been on your journey for a while, therapy can help you figure out what you need to achieve your goals. I enjoy working with adults who are navigating a variety of life challenges by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment to support you on your journey to make meaningful life changes.
Sometimes life is is hard, especially when circumstances keep us from living the peaceful life we want. Many people come to therapy seeking help with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and in some cases, trauma recovery. Whether you’re taking your first steps toward self-improvement and wellness, or have been on your journey for a while, therapy can help you figure out what you need to achieve your goals. I enjoy working with adults who are navigating a variety of life challenges by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment to support you on your journey to make meaningful life changes.
Melissa Baranowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mokena, IL 60448
Do you sometimes feel like you’re disconnected, or feel like you don’t belong? Are you finding yourself overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety? Or perhaps relationship struggles or past traumas are not allowing you to live the life you want. You are not alone. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and more. I pride myself on being open and accepting of everyone and have been fortunate to work with clients from all walks of life.
Do you sometimes feel like you’re disconnected, or feel like you don’t belong? Are you finding yourself overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety? Or perhaps relationship struggles or past traumas are not allowing you to live the life you want. You are not alone. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and more. I pride myself on being open and accepting of everyone and have been fortunate to work with clients from all walks of life.
We’ve all experienced times when we just feel stuck, going through the motions of life rather than actually living our best lives. Anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, past trauma or many other issues can impact your ability to live a full and happy life and have healthy family and other relationships. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and many more. I enjoy working with child/adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step, Trauma-Informed, and Family Systems Therapy.
We’ve all experienced times when we just feel stuck, going through the motions of life rather than actually living our best lives. Anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, past trauma or many other issues can impact your ability to live a full and happy life and have healthy family and other relationships. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and many more. I enjoy working with child/adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step, Trauma-Informed, and Family Systems Therapy.
Kimberly specializes in numerous mental health issues, including: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Anger Issues, Relationship issues, and Personality and Behavior Disorders. Over the years, Kimberly has gained expertise with several specialty areas and populations in mental health, including co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed/ gender-responsive treatment, and has significant experience working with diverse populations. Kimberly also has expertise working with clients with substance abuse struggles and is a Registered Dual Disorder Professional (RDDP).
Kimberly specializes in numerous mental health issues, including: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Anger Issues, Relationship issues, and Personality and Behavior Disorders. Over the years, Kimberly has gained expertise with several specialty areas and populations in mental health, including co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed/ gender-responsive treatment, and has significant experience working with diverse populations. Kimberly also has expertise working with clients with substance abuse struggles and is a Registered Dual Disorder Professional (RDDP).
Hello and welcome. If you have arrived at my site, I am imagining you are possibly feeling overwhelmed and wondering how to make the next step in obtaining support. I am hoping that I can assist you on the next steps of your journey to wellness. My name is Tracey Martin and I have established the Center of Personal Empowerment in order to assist others with discovering their values and to make changes towards living their ideal life.
Hello and welcome. If you have arrived at my site, I am imagining you are possibly feeling overwhelmed and wondering how to make the next step in obtaining support. I am hoping that I can assist you on the next steps of your journey to wellness. My name is Tracey Martin and I have established the Center of Personal Empowerment in order to assist others with discovering their values and to make changes towards living their ideal life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have extensive counseling experience working with Adolescents, Adults and Families for over 24 years. The counseling process should be a collaborative effort between the client and counselor. It is important for the client to trust the therapist for the process to be successful. I work with each person to develop a connection with them to allow us to explore life issues. My professional work has been with clients of all ages in both private and social service agency settings.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have extensive counseling experience working with Adolescents, Adults and Families for over 24 years. The counseling process should be a collaborative effort between the client and counselor. It is important for the client to trust the therapist for the process to be successful. I work with each person to develop a connection with them to allow us to explore life issues. My professional work has been with clients of all ages in both private and social service agency settings.
Want to re-create your life in a positive atmosphere? At Life Synergy, LLC, we help individuals to accomplish just that. We work with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults to overcome life challenges and stressors. Together, we can address and conquer life challenges related to anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, drug abuse, depression, stress, relationship issues, and self-esteem. Creating a warm, open environment is essential for individuals to address and conquer the pressures of today's world. Taking a positive, nonjudgmental approach creates a trusting connection that is important for individuals sharing sensitive topics.
Want to re-create your life in a positive atmosphere? At Life Synergy, LLC, we help individuals to accomplish just that. We work with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults to overcome life challenges and stressors. Together, we can address and conquer life challenges related to anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, drug abuse, depression, stress, relationship issues, and self-esteem. Creating a warm, open environment is essential for individuals to address and conquer the pressures of today's world. Taking a positive, nonjudgmental approach creates a trusting connection that is important for individuals sharing sensitive topics.
"Your greatest self has been waiting your whole life, don't make it wait any longer." When we least expect it, life throws us many difficult challenges. Therapy is the first step in your journey of self exploration and change. You have the power to overcome obstacles and make positive changes in your life. I can give you the proper guidance, education, and tools to make your life better.
"Your greatest self has been waiting your whole life, don't make it wait any longer." When we least expect it, life throws us many difficult challenges. Therapy is the first step in your journey of self exploration and change. You have the power to overcome obstacles and make positive changes in your life. I can give you the proper guidance, education, and tools to make your life better.
Jenna Bruchauser Sarna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mokena, IL 60448
Waitlist for new clients
***Dr. Bruchauser Sarna is not currently taking therapy patients at this time; however is still conducting neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna received her Master's and Doctorate at Midwestern University in Downer's Grove. Her areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disorders, neurological disorders, as well as an array of medical ailments including pain, diabetes, cancer, and weight management. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna is skilled in neuropsychological/psychological assessment, in addition to individual and couples therapy.
***Dr. Bruchauser Sarna is not currently taking therapy patients at this time; however is still conducting neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna received her Master's and Doctorate at Midwestern University in Downer's Grove. Her areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disorders, neurological disorders, as well as an array of medical ailments including pain, diabetes, cancer, and weight management. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna is skilled in neuropsychological/psychological assessment, in addition to individual and couples therapy.
There are many situations that can influence a person to seek therapy services. Maybe you are going through a difficult transition, such as grief, loss, or divorce. Maybe you are experiencing signs and symptoms of anxiety or depression and are feeling nervous, worried, or sad. Regardless of the life transition or the type of symptoms you are struggling with, therapy can help. My goal is to understand what has led to this point in time, what this experience has been like for you, and what direction in life you want to go. Working together, we’ll determine what obstacles are getting in the way of moving forward and what steps can be
There are many situations that can influence a person to seek therapy services. Maybe you are going through a difficult transition, such as grief, loss, or divorce. Maybe you are experiencing signs and symptoms of anxiety or depression and are feeling nervous, worried, or sad. Regardless of the life transition or the type of symptoms you are struggling with, therapy can help. My goal is to understand what has led to this point in time, what this experience has been like for you, and what direction in life you want to go. Working together, we’ll determine what obstacles are getting in the way of moving forward and what steps can be
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Board Certified Coach and Choice Theory Reality Therapy Certified. Since 2009, I have had the honor and privilege to be entrusted with helping a wide range of clients navigate critical life transitions and mental health issues. I work with individuals, couples, teenagers, families, and groups. Special interests include working with interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, self-harming, grief and loss, spirituality, parenting, stress management, and life transitions.
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Board Certified Coach and Choice Theory Reality Therapy Certified. Since 2009, I have had the honor and privilege to be entrusted with helping a wide range of clients navigate critical life transitions and mental health issues. I work with individuals, couples, teenagers, families, and groups. Special interests include working with interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, self-harming, grief and loss, spirituality, parenting, stress management, and life transitions.
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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.