LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Montgomery, IL
Cloie Mcphail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538 (Online Only)
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I specialize in working with highly sensitive persons (HSPs) and LGBTQ+ people.
Pronouns: he/they. I have master's degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Northern Illinois University, where I studied counseling and education. I hold the credentials of Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Professional Educator License (PEL) in Illinois. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) by the National Board for Certified Counselors. I have helped people with their personal growth, mental health, and wellness in inpatient, outpatient, and educational settings.
I specialize in working with highly sensitive persons (HSPs) and LGBTQ+ people.
Pronouns: he/they. I have master's degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Northern Illinois University, where I studied counseling and education. I hold the credentials of Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Professional Educator License (PEL) in Illinois. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) by the National Board for Certified Counselors. I have helped people with their personal growth, mental health, and wellness in inpatient, outpatient, and educational settings.
I have experience and training in working with the LGBTQ community and their family.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
I have experience and training in working with the LGBTQ community and their family.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
My career in psychology began with graduate study at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Chicago, IL), which included a certificate in Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, followed by completion of a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University (Lisle, IL). My practice is grounded in positive, humanistic values that encourage personal growth and healing with a variety of treatment modalities.
My career in psychology began with graduate study at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Chicago, IL), which included a certificate in Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, followed by completion of a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University (Lisle, IL). My practice is grounded in positive, humanistic values that encourage personal growth and healing with a variety of treatment modalities.
Ashley Denny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women & Gender Studies and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ashley believes one of the bravest tasks a person can do is begin to understand their own story. She values creating a safe, inclusive, affirming, and empowering space for all her clients. Sometimes we might feel alone or lost or that no one could possibly understand how we are feeling. We are all unique and have a story to tell, and you deserve to feel better.
Ashley Denny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women & Gender Studies and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ashley believes one of the bravest tasks a person can do is begin to understand their own story. She values creating a safe, inclusive, affirming, and empowering space for all her clients. Sometimes we might feel alone or lost or that no one could possibly understand how we are feeling. We are all unique and have a story to tell, and you deserve to feel better.
Laura Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
Laura Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
Joy uses her compassion and down-to-earth nature to provide an environment where clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. She understands that seeking change, or something different, is not an easy process. Joy forms collaborative partnerships with her clients when developing therapeutic goals and a plan for care. She uses mindfulness, empathy and insight to aid in the empowerment of clients. In addition, Joy also utilizes a varity of therapy techniques.
Joy uses her compassion and down-to-earth nature to provide an environment where clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. She understands that seeking change, or something different, is not an easy process. Joy forms collaborative partnerships with her clients when developing therapeutic goals and a plan for care. She uses mindfulness, empathy and insight to aid in the empowerment of clients. In addition, Joy also utilizes a varity of therapy techniques.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
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.
15 Second Videos
Matthew Graden
Graceful Therapy
Kyle Fiore
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Aurora
Therapy does not need to be dark or mysterious. In fact, it can be invigorating and empowering. You and I will create a partnership, which focuses on healing. As a team, we will establish clear goals and immediately begin working to achieve them. My approach is to identify your personal strengths and support you in utilizing these strengths to overcome life's challenges. I believe therapy should be a partnership between you and your Therapist, but with different roles. My role as your Therapist is to meet you on your level, and help you get to the next level.
Therapy does not need to be dark or mysterious. In fact, it can be invigorating and empowering. You and I will create a partnership, which focuses on healing. As a team, we will establish clear goals and immediately begin working to achieve them. My approach is to identify your personal strengths and support you in utilizing these strengths to overcome life's challenges. I believe therapy should be a partnership between you and your Therapist, but with different roles. My role as your Therapist is to meet you on your level, and help you get to the next level.
Jeannine Pacetti, LPC, RD, LDN Strives to help clients achieve healthy relationships and life balance. She serves clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. Jeannine is a licensed professional counselor, registered dietitian, and has over 25 years experience in education & clinical settings. She's a well respected therapist and advocate and was named School Counselor of the Year in her academic role and has developed a nationally recognized school counseling program. In therapy, Jeannine uses CBT, Healthy Mindset & Lifestyle, and Holistic Wellness to achieve client goals.
Jeannine Pacetti, LPC, RD, LDN Strives to help clients achieve healthy relationships and life balance. She serves clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. Jeannine is a licensed professional counselor, registered dietitian, and has over 25 years experience in education & clinical settings. She's a well respected therapist and advocate and was named School Counselor of the Year in her academic role and has developed a nationally recognized school counseling program. In therapy, Jeannine uses CBT, Healthy Mindset & Lifestyle, and Holistic Wellness to achieve client goals.
Lynette Terrell is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2011. She has an undergraduate degree from Governors State University with a major in Pre-Clinical Psychology and minor in Addictions Studies, and a Master's degree in Clinical Professional Psychology at Roosevelt University. Lynette's goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting positive change and resilience. Her approach is collaborative, understanding, caring, and supportive while you embark on your journey through change to enhance your quality of life.
Lynette Terrell is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2011. She has an undergraduate degree from Governors State University with a major in Pre-Clinical Psychology and minor in Addictions Studies, and a Master's degree in Clinical Professional Psychology at Roosevelt University. Lynette's goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting positive change and resilience. Her approach is collaborative, understanding, caring, and supportive while you embark on your journey through change to enhance your quality of life.
Kristina Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.
Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.
I envision ideal clients as individuals or couples seeking deeper understanding & connection, dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. At Graceful Therapy, my group practice I started almost 6 years ago, we cater to diverse needs. We provide grace-filled therapy to help clients achieve their unique goals. Seek out one of our amazing clinicians and see all the different specialties & therapy types we are able to offer at Graceful Therapy. Whether it be animal based therapy, art therapy, brainspotting, EMDR, we can meet you where you're at & provide the support you are looking for.
I envision ideal clients as individuals or couples seeking deeper understanding & connection, dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. At Graceful Therapy, my group practice I started almost 6 years ago, we cater to diverse needs. We provide grace-filled therapy to help clients achieve their unique goals. Seek out one of our amazing clinicians and see all the different specialties & therapy types we are able to offer at Graceful Therapy. Whether it be animal based therapy, art therapy, brainspotting, EMDR, we can meet you where you're at & provide the support you are looking for.
Trinity Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CYT, CHT
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
If you are experiencing increased stress, negative beliefs about yourself, tend to worry frequently, are struggling with past painful experiences, are having difficulty sleeping, have a low mood, are struggling with a relationship, and/or generally want to improve your life, we may be a great fit. At Trinity Wellness Counseling, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective interventions to help you heal. I work with adults of all ages.
If you are experiencing increased stress, negative beliefs about yourself, tend to worry frequently, are struggling with past painful experiences, are having difficulty sleeping, have a low mood, are struggling with a relationship, and/or generally want to improve your life, we may be a great fit. At Trinity Wellness Counseling, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective interventions to help you heal. I work with adults of all ages.
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Aurora understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Aurora understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Certified Addictions Counselor, Dr. Touwanna Edwards specializes in family-based interventions for adults, couples therapy, issues of diversity, and addictions. Her practice includes treating anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders, codependency traits, self-esteem, transitional stages in life, addiction maintenance, and recovery. Additionally, she is an alumna of the Chicago area Christian Training Consortium where she received specialized clinical training in the integration of faith-based practice and psychology.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Certified Addictions Counselor, Dr. Touwanna Edwards specializes in family-based interventions for adults, couples therapy, issues of diversity, and addictions. Her practice includes treating anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders, codependency traits, self-esteem, transitional stages in life, addiction maintenance, and recovery. Additionally, she is an alumna of the Chicago area Christian Training Consortium where she received specialized clinical training in the integration of faith-based practice and psychology.
See more therapy options for Montgomery
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Montgomery
- Aurora
- Batavia
- Bolingbrook
- Elburn
- Geneva
- Naperville
- North Aurora
- Oswego
- Plainfield
- Sugar Grove
- Warrenville
- Yorkville
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.