LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in North Aurora, IL
Areas of specialty: Addiction, ADHD, Aging issues, Anxiety, Education, Family, Gerontology, Grief, LGBTQ, Marital issues, Mood disorders, Parenting, Personality disorders, Spiritual Issues.
I am a highly skilled clinical psychotherapist and gerontologist, having worked in various mental health and educational settings since 1996. I encourage clients to integrate what they learn and experience in therapy to their life outside of sessions, equipping them with accessible, practical, and easy to use resources. My style is engaging, collaborative, and strength based, which create realistic and sustainable plans for positive outcomes for overall wellness.
Areas of specialty: Addiction, ADHD, Aging issues, Anxiety, Education, Family, Gerontology, Grief, LGBTQ, Marital issues, Mood disorders, Parenting, Personality disorders, Spiritual Issues.
I am a highly skilled clinical psychotherapist and gerontologist, having worked in various mental health and educational settings since 1996. I encourage clients to integrate what they learn and experience in therapy to their life outside of sessions, equipping them with accessible, practical, and easy to use resources. My style is engaging, collaborative, and strength based, which create realistic and sustainable plans for positive outcomes for overall wellness.
Lindsey Maltese
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, LGBTQ+, Ally
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I have experience working with a variety of concerns including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues as well as providing services to individuals, couples, and families.
At some point in life, everyone finds themselves facing something. The question is, "Are you ready to face it?" Come take the first step with counseling and I will gladly walk with you! I make it my mission to cater to the specific needs of each person using creative techniques that fit you. My counseling style is based on the foundation of transparency and mutual trust, using collaborative efforts to meet your personal goals. I believe that every person has the power within themselves to create lasting change. My goal is to help you grow, one step at a time.
I have experience working with a variety of concerns including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues as well as providing services to individuals, couples, and families.
At some point in life, everyone finds themselves facing something. The question is, "Are you ready to face it?" Come take the first step with counseling and I will gladly walk with you! I make it my mission to cater to the specific needs of each person using creative techniques that fit you. My counseling style is based on the foundation of transparency and mutual trust, using collaborative efforts to meet your personal goals. I believe that every person has the power within themselves to create lasting change. My goal is to help you grow, one step at a time.
Welcome, you have just taken a step closer to living the life that you want for yourself! When life challenges are greater than the skills and support that we have, personal problems erupt. I believe that human suffering is an inherent part of life. I am committed to helping people overcome life challenges and achieve greater life satisfaction.
Welcome, you have just taken a step closer to living the life that you want for yourself! When life challenges are greater than the skills and support that we have, personal problems erupt. I believe that human suffering is an inherent part of life. I am committed to helping people overcome life challenges and achieve greater life satisfaction.
Reaching out for help during difficult times in your life can feel vulnerable. The truth is healthy people ask for help when they need it. I know, not ideal, but it is what it is. Building a strong connection with your therapist is one of the largest predictors for therapy success. I want my clients to know that I take their care seriously. I am a little fiery and I like to tell it like it is. I have my client's best interest in mind while guiding them toward their goals. It won't be easy, but that is what I am here for! I am proud of the work I do and I feel honored when clients trust me to be part of their journey.
Reaching out for help during difficult times in your life can feel vulnerable. The truth is healthy people ask for help when they need it. I know, not ideal, but it is what it is. Building a strong connection with your therapist is one of the largest predictors for therapy success. I want my clients to know that I take their care seriously. I am a little fiery and I like to tell it like it is. I have my client's best interest in mind while guiding them toward their goals. It won't be easy, but that is what I am here for! I am proud of the work I do and I feel honored when clients trust me to be part of their journey.
My greatest wish in life is to be able to help make a difference in the world; counseling is my way. I have confronted a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, adoption, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, ADHD, defiant behaviors, anger management, and attachment concerns. My work also extends to parental support in working with their children / adolescents more effectively in communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs.
My greatest wish in life is to be able to help make a difference in the world; counseling is my way. I have confronted a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, adoption, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, ADHD, defiant behaviors, anger management, and attachment concerns. My work also extends to parental support in working with their children / adolescents more effectively in communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs.
Stress is inevitable, we all struggle with it, and at some point we all need support. Stress can look like anxiety, irritability, sadness, and conflict. When an individual feels safe, supported, and understood in the therapeutic relationship they are more likely to reach their goals. I provide a calm, laid-back atmosphere that allows you to be vulnerable to your experiences. You will be provided with guidance and positive support. Counseling has proven to be an effective way to manage stressors and you deserve the benefits of this hard-work!
Stress is inevitable, we all struggle with it, and at some point we all need support. Stress can look like anxiety, irritability, sadness, and conflict. When an individual feels safe, supported, and understood in the therapeutic relationship they are more likely to reach their goals. I provide a calm, laid-back atmosphere that allows you to be vulnerable to your experiences. You will be provided with guidance and positive support. Counseling has proven to be an effective way to manage stressors and you deserve the benefits of this hard-work!
It takes great courage to acknowledge and embrace the things that challenge us. I understand this strength and the importance of starting the journey to change the things that no longer serve you. I am a compassionate therapist trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. I have worked in social services for over ten years, working in various capacities, from medical social workers to therapists. I seek to help individuals and families address anxiety, depression, and trauma issues. I believe that healing takes place by identifying the source of the problem. The therapy hour is a sacred time of healing owned by the client.
It takes great courage to acknowledge and embrace the things that challenge us. I understand this strength and the importance of starting the journey to change the things that no longer serve you. I am a compassionate therapist trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. I have worked in social services for over ten years, working in various capacities, from medical social workers to therapists. I seek to help individuals and families address anxiety, depression, and trauma issues. I believe that healing takes place by identifying the source of the problem. The therapy hour is a sacred time of healing owned by the client.
During times of inner conflict or deep turmoil, I believe it can be difficult to find the time or a safe place to unravel everything and work out the details. I hope to work with my clients to create a safe place to give your needs and goals the space and time they deserve. Together we will work towards the future you see for yourself and confront the issues that need to be addressed.
During times of inner conflict or deep turmoil, I believe it can be difficult to find the time or a safe place to unravel everything and work out the details. I hope to work with my clients to create a safe place to give your needs and goals the space and time they deserve. Together we will work towards the future you see for yourself and confront the issues that need to be addressed.
Michelle Lemrise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
Taking the first step toward self-improvement and healing can be challenging, and I'm here to support you on this journey. As a licensed social worker, I am committed to helping my clients become their best selves. With extensive experience working with individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, I offer a compassionate and personalized approach to therapy. I believe in the power of evidence-based practices to facilitate meaningful and lasting change. I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your unique needs. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.
Taking the first step toward self-improvement and healing can be challenging, and I'm here to support you on this journey. As a licensed social worker, I am committed to helping my clients become their best selves. With extensive experience working with individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, I offer a compassionate and personalized approach to therapy. I believe in the power of evidence-based practices to facilitate meaningful and lasting change. I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your unique needs. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.
Matthew Caston is an LCPC with several years of experience working with adolescents and adults with a variety of personal and clinical issues (mood, anxiety, behavioral, life transition, men's/women's issues, relationships, trauma, etc.). He sees strong conviction in those who are forthcoming about what brings them to counseling. "For me, it shows a level of vulnerability that I've come to respect greatly. With such a large stigma surrounding mental health, I believe it's helpful to adapt to life's stressors; when we're vulnerable to them, learn how the environment may contribute, and what can we do to address the issues at hand."
Matthew Caston is an LCPC with several years of experience working with adolescents and adults with a variety of personal and clinical issues (mood, anxiety, behavioral, life transition, men's/women's issues, relationships, trauma, etc.). He sees strong conviction in those who are forthcoming about what brings them to counseling. "For me, it shows a level of vulnerability that I've come to respect greatly. With such a large stigma surrounding mental health, I believe it's helpful to adapt to life's stressors; when we're vulnerable to them, learn how the environment may contribute, and what can we do to address the issues at hand."
Alma Lazaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
Are you seeking a therapist that demonstrates cultural humility? Has it been difficult to find a therapist that understands your cultural experience? I am bilingual, I speak both English and Spanish. I am passionate about working with the Hispanic population and enjoy working with late adolescents (15-18), emerging adults, adults, and older adults (65+).
Are you seeking a therapist that demonstrates cultural humility? Has it been difficult to find a therapist that understands your cultural experience? I am bilingual, I speak both English and Spanish. I am passionate about working with the Hispanic population and enjoy working with late adolescents (15-18), emerging adults, adults, and older adults (65+).
Are you tired of facing your problems alone, yet feeling uncertain about discussing them with a stranger? Are you feeling trapped in your anxious and depressive thoughts, but feeling too embarrassed to talk, but also too desperate NOT to? For most people, finding a therapist IS very anxiety provoking. They are afraid of being judged and of the unknown. So allow me to first applaud your courage and wisdom for taking action! To help my clients feel accepted and motivated, my approach is warm, casual, and collaborative. My focus is always on emphasizing the strengths, NOT on what "disorders" you might have.
Are you tired of facing your problems alone, yet feeling uncertain about discussing them with a stranger? Are you feeling trapped in your anxious and depressive thoughts, but feeling too embarrassed to talk, but also too desperate NOT to? For most people, finding a therapist IS very anxiety provoking. They are afraid of being judged and of the unknown. So allow me to first applaud your courage and wisdom for taking action! To help my clients feel accepted and motivated, my approach is warm, casual, and collaborative. My focus is always on emphasizing the strengths, NOT on what "disorders" you might have.
Mary Madsen-Heskin
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
Are you ready for change in your life? But something is keeping you from reaching your greatest potential? Are you feeling anxious or confused about how to get started on your new path? Whether you are looking to heal and move forward or simply to feel and function better in your life; know that counseling helps! Let go of old habits or relationships that are no longer working for you. Start feeling more balanced and more trusting of yourself and your decisions. Live life fully and with purpose. Get ready to create the life you deserve!
Are you ready for change in your life? But something is keeping you from reaching your greatest potential? Are you feeling anxious or confused about how to get started on your new path? Whether you are looking to heal and move forward or simply to feel and function better in your life; know that counseling helps! Let go of old habits or relationships that are no longer working for you. Start feeling more balanced and more trusting of yourself and your decisions. Live life fully and with purpose. Get ready to create the life you deserve!
As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients explore themselves to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to have a happier future by their own definition. I believe that we all need someone to talk with - who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment -a safe place to explore the issues that you want to discuss with me. I was trained as a plastic surgeon in China for 9 years. I also speak Mandarin and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients explore themselves to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to have a happier future by their own definition. I believe that we all need someone to talk with - who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment -a safe place to explore the issues that you want to discuss with me. I was trained as a plastic surgeon in China for 9 years. I also speak Mandarin and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
Mindy M Burkhamer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PEL, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
Accepting New Clients! Do you find yourself carrying an emotional weight that seems to get heavier each day without really understanding what it is, or why? The tremendous emotional impact of the environmental and societal events over the last couple of years has been staggering. The rollercoaster of emotions that come with the grief of losing what was seen as normal and dependable, can make you feel like your world has been turned upside down.
Accepting New Clients! Do you find yourself carrying an emotional weight that seems to get heavier each day without really understanding what it is, or why? The tremendous emotional impact of the environmental and societal events over the last couple of years has been staggering. The rollercoaster of emotions that come with the grief of losing what was seen as normal and dependable, can make you feel like your world has been turned upside down.
Suicide Prevention Services of America
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
We are here because we’ve been there. Suicide Prevention Services of America is a non-profit dedicated to helping people along the continuum of care of suicide. We have been helping individuals in our community for over 25 years. Our mission is to open minds, save lives, and restore hope through prevention, intervention, and prevention services through education, advocacy, and collaboration in the community. SPSA is made up of a passionate and compassionate team of mental health professionals, many of whom have had suicide impact their lives. We assist people at any stage of their mental health treatment through individual therapy.
We are here because we’ve been there. Suicide Prevention Services of America is a non-profit dedicated to helping people along the continuum of care of suicide. We have been helping individuals in our community for over 25 years. Our mission is to open minds, save lives, and restore hope through prevention, intervention, and prevention services through education, advocacy, and collaboration in the community. SPSA is made up of a passionate and compassionate team of mental health professionals, many of whom have had suicide impact their lives. We assist people at any stage of their mental health treatment through individual therapy.
Adam L Chunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
Do you feel overwhelmed by persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or fear? Are you struggling with behaviors that seem to control your life? Do you find yourself questioning who you are and where you belong? If you're reading this, chances are you're looking for support on your journey, and I'm here to offer you a safe space for exploration, healing, and growth. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming emotions, healing from past traumas, or clarity on your life's purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you on your path to wellness.
Do you feel overwhelmed by persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or fear? Are you struggling with behaviors that seem to control your life? Do you find yourself questioning who you are and where you belong? If you're reading this, chances are you're looking for support on your journey, and I'm here to offer you a safe space for exploration, healing, and growth. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming emotions, healing from past traumas, or clarity on your life's purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you on your path to wellness.
Daniel Michaels
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
Hello! I’m Daniel Michaels, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My practice is rooted in a passion for offering targeted, effective strategies for managing ADHD, while also providing comprehensive mental health services. My background in including inpatient care, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). This diverse experience has not only deepened my understanding of ADHD but also enhanced my ability to address a wide spectrum of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more.
Hello! I’m Daniel Michaels, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My practice is rooted in a passion for offering targeted, effective strategies for managing ADHD, while also providing comprehensive mental health services. My background in including inpatient care, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). This diverse experience has not only deepened my understanding of ADHD but also enhanced my ability to address a wide spectrum of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more.
More Therapists Nearby
Brian Rzepczynski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DHS, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505 (Online Only)
An LGBT-safe office!.
If you're looking for a therapist who is well-trained in relationships and sex, and you want to take your love-life to the next level, then look no further! I work with individuals and couples, single or partnered, on relationship issues and sexual concerns. I help men and women of all sexual orientations learn how to establish and maintain long-term, healthy, fulfilling, and thriving relationships. Whether you're looking for dating coaching, relationship enrichment, or healing a troubled partnership, my mission is to help you achieve the type of relationship you've always wanted!
An LGBT-safe office!.
If you're looking for a therapist who is well-trained in relationships and sex, and you want to take your love-life to the next level, then look no further! I work with individuals and couples, single or partnered, on relationship issues and sexual concerns. I help men and women of all sexual orientations learn how to establish and maintain long-term, healthy, fulfilling, and thriving relationships. Whether you're looking for dating coaching, relationship enrichment, or healing a troubled partnership, my mission is to help you achieve the type of relationship you've always wanted!
Robin Zazove
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60506 (Online Only)
I also have a passion for working with those who take care of others, such as family caregivers, healthcare workers, first responders, teachers, other therapists, as well as the LGBTQ+ community.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
I also have a passion for working with those who take care of others, such as family caregivers, healthcare workers, first responders, teachers, other therapists, as well as the LGBTQ+ community.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
See more therapy options for North Aurora
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for North Aurora
- Aurora
- Batavia
- Elburn
- Geneva
- Montgomery
- Naperville
- Oswego
- Saint Charles
- Sugar Grove
- Warrenville
- West Chicago
- Winfield
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.