LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Oswego, IL
![Photo of Matthew Graden, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f80cde50-f350-4f68-8c93-175af9677f36/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Elise Pullen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f00bc76-c8e1-4e1e-bac5-ee77ccc8b44c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I love working with many different populations. My therapy style is more directive; I ask questions, gently challenge (when necessary), and offer feedback. While my preferred clients are the elderly, those experiencing grief and loss, and those with Borderline Personality Disorder, I also treat many mood disorders as well as provide couples and family therapy. I have also treated domestic violence victims, people with severe and chronic mental illness, and people struggling with daily stress or life transitions. I'm also a lesbian, so familiar with and accepting of queer populations, and I am a fat-positive provider.
I love working with many different populations. My therapy style is more directive; I ask questions, gently challenge (when necessary), and offer feedback. While my preferred clients are the elderly, those experiencing grief and loss, and those with Borderline Personality Disorder, I also treat many mood disorders as well as provide couples and family therapy. I have also treated domestic violence victims, people with severe and chronic mental illness, and people struggling with daily stress or life transitions. I'm also a lesbian, so familiar with and accepting of queer populations, and I am a fat-positive provider.
![Photo of Blake Mathews, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/defe9c3e-1d85-4add-b85b-112386079d05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Blake Mathews, LCSW, provides a safe and welcoming space for clients to achieve the goals that are most important to them. He is open to discussing challenging topics without judgment and is always empathetic to client needs. Blake earned an undergraduate degree from University of Illinois and an MSW from Loyola University Chicago. He has extensive experience working with individuals with autism and other intellectual disabilities, and is also skilled at treating the LGBTQ population and all teens and adults struggling with depression, trauma, family conflicts, and more.
Blake Mathews, LCSW, provides a safe and welcoming space for clients to achieve the goals that are most important to them. He is open to discussing challenging topics without judgment and is always empathetic to client needs. Blake earned an undergraduate degree from University of Illinois and an MSW from Loyola University Chicago. He has extensive experience working with individuals with autism and other intellectual disabilities, and is also skilled at treating the LGBTQ population and all teens and adults struggling with depression, trauma, family conflicts, and more.
![Photo of Roseann Murray, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0079b1e3-8a8b-42f3-a2cc-6eff3744d410/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roseann Murray, LCPC, CADC, engages with an empathic, non-judgmental approach to make clients feel at ease during therapy sessions. She believes that building a strong and collaborative therapist-client relationship is essential to the therapeutic process. Roseann earned both a BA and an MA from Lewis University. She is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) and has experience counseling for various issues including mood disorders, anger management, relationship difficulties, college-related stressors, parenting issues, infertility, teen-LGBT issues, and substance abuse/DUI problems.
Roseann Murray, LCPC, CADC, engages with an empathic, non-judgmental approach to make clients feel at ease during therapy sessions. She believes that building a strong and collaborative therapist-client relationship is essential to the therapeutic process. Roseann earned both a BA and an MA from Lewis University. She is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) and has experience counseling for various issues including mood disorders, anger management, relationship difficulties, college-related stressors, parenting issues, infertility, teen-LGBT issues, and substance abuse/DUI problems.
![Photo of Danielle Zimmerman- Perinatal And Trauma Therapist, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bab3873-47d3-4b5b-9a94-a11551783af0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Zimmerman- Perinatal And Trauma Therapist
Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
Areas of specialty include treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders; working with mothers and fathers who are struggling with adjustment to parenthood, infertility, perinatal loss, birth trauma, NICU experiences, medical complications related to pregnancy and child birth. In addition, working with college students and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, difficult life transitions, LGBTQ, Understanding Identity Struggles, Social Anxiety, Trauma, OCD, Self-Worth/Self Esteem, and Building Healthier Relationships. Also offering individual coaching, consultation and supervision for other providers.
Areas of specialty include treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders; working with mothers and fathers who are struggling with adjustment to parenthood, infertility, perinatal loss, birth trauma, NICU experiences, medical complications related to pregnancy and child birth. In addition, working with college students and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, difficult life transitions, LGBTQ, Understanding Identity Struggles, Social Anxiety, Trauma, OCD, Self-Worth/Self Esteem, and Building Healthier Relationships. Also offering individual coaching, consultation and supervision for other providers.
![Photo of Christine Caputo, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41878c45-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jay Metztli Alvarez, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96b808aa-47db-44be-8cc5-1a096808d807/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in LGBTQ+ populations, in intersectional identities including BIPOC individuals.
The clients I see are from the ages of 8 years through young adulthood. I am passionate about working with BIPOC individuals and LGBTQ+ individuals. I have worked with a diverse number of issues like mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and conduct issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and dual diagnosis.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ populations, in intersectional identities including BIPOC individuals.
The clients I see are from the ages of 8 years through young adulthood. I am passionate about working with BIPOC individuals and LGBTQ+ individuals. I have worked with a diverse number of issues like mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and conduct issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and dual diagnosis.
![Photo of Melissa Murillo, MSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ea0661d-a3a9-4726-ab8d-3a302f1f78be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa provides support to those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, relationship issues, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Melissa Murillo is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Illinois. Melissa attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, receiving her Bachelors of Social Work (BSW) and Masters of Social Worker (MSW) with a specialization in clinical mental health. Additionally, Melissa is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional(CDVP) and a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP).
Melissa provides support to those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, relationship issues, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Melissa Murillo is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Illinois. Melissa attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, receiving her Bachelors of Social Work (BSW) and Masters of Social Worker (MSW) with a specialization in clinical mental health. Additionally, Melissa is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional(CDVP) and a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP).
![Photo of Julia Bauer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfb28846-0ae1-43c1-b2ba-8b91863f9d43/1/320x400.png)
Are you navigating the complexities of conception, fertility treatments, pregnancy, or the postpartum period? Or perhaps you're facing challenges related to LGBTQ issues, women’s health, life transitions, grief, trauma, or young adulthood? You don’t have to face these struggles alone, and I’m here to help. I’m Julia Bauer, a licensed clinical social worker and certified holistic doula with over a decade of experience in social work. My practice is dedicated to supporting individuals and families through various stages and challenges.
Are you navigating the complexities of conception, fertility treatments, pregnancy, or the postpartum period? Or perhaps you're facing challenges related to LGBTQ issues, women’s health, life transitions, grief, trauma, or young adulthood? You don’t have to face these struggles alone, and I’m here to help. I’m Julia Bauer, a licensed clinical social worker and certified holistic doula with over a decade of experience in social work. My practice is dedicated to supporting individuals and families through various stages and challenges.
![Photo of Raul Arambula, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d189e23-9330-4e49-95a9-9befa5f88fca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Raul S. Arambula, MSW, LCSW, is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. Armed with a Master’s of Social Work from Southern Illinois University, Raul specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to guide individuals through challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, coping skills, and self-esteem. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Raul possesses a profound understanding of the Latinx community and diverse cultures. This enables him to establish meaningful connections and provide culturally sensitive therapy.
Raul S. Arambula, MSW, LCSW, is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. Armed with a Master’s of Social Work from Southern Illinois University, Raul specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to guide individuals through challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, coping skills, and self-esteem. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Raul possesses a profound understanding of the Latinx community and diverse cultures. This enables him to establish meaningful connections and provide culturally sensitive therapy.
![Photo of Joseph Bynum, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d2d086f-e547-4c80-9e0a-8cbd21d290c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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![Photo of Lynette Terrell, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/244633d0-3c54-4088-a2c6-013b20d07683/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jeannine Pacetti, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/191288b5-b112-40c3-8d4d-3249e132121a/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Meghan Peters, LSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eb59a6c-c904-4816-a199-52c404f2d7fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Rachel Kistler, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a985f7c3-121b-4ea4-a221-df66ae4bf1d6/1/320x400.png)
Rachel is a Licensed Social Worker with over 4 years of experience in the social work field and 1 year of experience in the clinical field specializing in depression, anxiety, gender identity issues, child behavioral issues, and life transitions. Rachel treats patients between the ages of 11 and 90 utilizing strength-based cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and solution-focused therapy to treat her clients. Rachel has a copious amount of experience counseling children, families, couples, and adolescents in a therapeutic setting.
Rachel is a Licensed Social Worker with over 4 years of experience in the social work field and 1 year of experience in the clinical field specializing in depression, anxiety, gender identity issues, child behavioral issues, and life transitions. Rachel treats patients between the ages of 11 and 90 utilizing strength-based cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and solution-focused therapy to treat her clients. Rachel has a copious amount of experience counseling children, families, couples, and adolescents in a therapeutic setting.
![Photo of Sakina Crosby, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52560962-3767-4fe2-a8dc-825c881784f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sakina Crosby is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience in the mental health field. Sakina has experience working with adolescents and adults. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, grief, domestic abuse, self-injury, and mood disorders. Sakina utilizes a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness-based therapy. Sakina views every client as an individual and strives to meet clients where they are.
Sakina Crosby is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience in the mental health field. Sakina has experience working with adolescents and adults. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, grief, domestic abuse, self-injury, and mood disorders. Sakina utilizes a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness-based therapy. Sakina views every client as an individual and strives to meet clients where they are.
![Photo of Jared Elwart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d52a86e-30d4-4089-8d8e-6ff8fe28d65a/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist, I am interested in the words that people use to describe their experience — the words that have taken hold of us and told how us to feel, how to think, and so on. I am also interested in the themes that have emerged in someone’s life, the little mistakes they make and don’t understand, and their dreams (or nightmares).
As a therapist, I am interested in the words that people use to describe their experience — the words that have taken hold of us and told how us to feel, how to think, and so on. I am also interested in the themes that have emerged in someone’s life, the little mistakes they make and don’t understand, and their dreams (or nightmares).
![Photo of Shelby Phillips, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/368cb8fd-d027-44a9-9d44-b360ed14d4d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shelby is a Licensed Social Worker, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago with a degree in Psychology. Then went on to obtain her Masters of Social Work at Aurora University with a focus in Addictions. Shelby believes in the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness as the backdrop for her clinical approach. Shelby focuses on the clients thoughts and feelings in relation to how they interact in relationships and with the world at large.
Shelby is a Licensed Social Worker, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago with a degree in Psychology. Then went on to obtain her Masters of Social Work at Aurora University with a focus in Addictions. Shelby believes in the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness as the backdrop for her clinical approach. Shelby focuses on the clients thoughts and feelings in relation to how they interact in relationships and with the world at large.
![Photo of Courtney M DeCarlo, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af96df69-ef59-4730-8dad-00bdda3e28a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Oswego/Plainfield Wellness we understand that psychological struggles can feel so isolating, yet are experienced by everyone at various points in our lives. We want to partner with you to create a treatment plan that encompasses the very idea of wellness--in all of the facets of your life that matter most to you. The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce your suffering, so that you can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life. We are happy to answer any of your questions to help decide if our practice could be beneficial to you.
At Oswego/Plainfield Wellness we understand that psychological struggles can feel so isolating, yet are experienced by everyone at various points in our lives. We want to partner with you to create a treatment plan that encompasses the very idea of wellness--in all of the facets of your life that matter most to you. The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce your suffering, so that you can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life. We are happy to answer any of your questions to help decide if our practice could be beneficial to you.
![Photo of Katie Kemmerling (She Her), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cc30bec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy is about growth, expansion, and evolution, in addition to healing from painful experiences. Seeking support through psychotherapy as a strength. My aim and purpose as your therapist is to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic alliance meant to empower, foster self-compassion, and promote and motivate change. My enthusiastic and relaxed style encourages clients to address concerns with freedom and non judgement.
Psychotherapy is about growth, expansion, and evolution, in addition to healing from painful experiences. Seeking support through psychotherapy as a strength. My aim and purpose as your therapist is to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic alliance meant to empower, foster self-compassion, and promote and motivate change. My enthusiastic and relaxed style encourages clients to address concerns with freedom and non judgement.
See more therapy options for Oswego
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Oswego
- Aurora
- Batavia
- Bolingbrook
- Elburn
- Geneva
- Montgomery
- Naperville
- North Aurora
- 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.