LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Pingree Grove, IL
![Photo of Rachel Sullivan, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c45a61-f2f2-4105-b612-eb09e65a89b8/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in trauma, complex trauma, LGBTQ+, anxiety, mood disorders and families.
Trying to heal and work through trauma can be overwhelming and difficult to begin. Going through major life transitions can cause unwanted stress. Asking for help can be hard, but taking that step shows strength and resilience. My goal is to help you feel empowered, validated, and supported along your healing journey.
I specialize in trauma, complex trauma, LGBTQ+, anxiety, mood disorders and families.
Trying to heal and work through trauma can be overwhelming and difficult to begin. Going through major life transitions can cause unwanted stress. Asking for help can be hard, but taking that step shows strength and resilience. My goal is to help you feel empowered, validated, and supported along your healing journey.
![Photo of Betsy Gilpin, LCPC, CCTP-II](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84734715-a9aa-47b0-b4ad-abd66bb77eb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Betsy Gilpin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pingree Grove, IL 60140
Since the relationship you have with your therapist is so vital to your success in therapy, I take time to get to know you, understand your struggles and validate your experiences. I tailor my sessions to meet each client's individual needs, and I work from a sex positive, neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ affirming framework. You don't have to struggle alone, healing from past trauma, limiting beliefs, and negative patterns is possible. I can help you get off the negative cycle, so you can feel less stressed, more confident and have a deeper connection with yourself and others.
Since the relationship you have with your therapist is so vital to your success in therapy, I take time to get to know you, understand your struggles and validate your experiences. I tailor my sessions to meet each client's individual needs, and I work from a sex positive, neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ affirming framework. You don't have to struggle alone, healing from past trauma, limiting beliefs, and negative patterns is possible. I can help you get off the negative cycle, so you can feel less stressed, more confident and have a deeper connection with yourself and others.
![Photo of Ellen Young, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ddda7d5-0203-4886-b1c1-02c991ce8df6/1/320x400.jpeg)
You deserve a safe space where you can openly explore the emotional and reactive issues that are weighing on you. I offer that space with sensitivity, empathy, and understanding. This is crucial for delving into the profound depths of your unique inner world and fostering enhanced self-awareness, which can then serve as your compass for navigating your outer world.
You deserve a safe space where you can openly explore the emotional and reactive issues that are weighing on you. I offer that space with sensitivity, empathy, and understanding. This is crucial for delving into the profound depths of your unique inner world and fostering enhanced self-awareness, which can then serve as your compass for navigating your outer world.
![Photo of Nina Gallivan, MSW, CADC, PCGC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e89df6d2-68fb-4b6b-9bfe-072f3e0ebb3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
First and foremost, I commend you for taking the most difficult step in therapy- seeing its value and starting the process. The process can be uncomfortable, and I am here to help you make the process as easy as possible. Right from the beginning, it is going to be important to establish a good relationship in which you feel comfortable opening up and allowing me to get to know you. I do this mainly by asking questions, listening, and putting much care into understanding who you are and what you are saying.
First and foremost, I commend you for taking the most difficult step in therapy- seeing its value and starting the process. The process can be uncomfortable, and I am here to help you make the process as easy as possible. Right from the beginning, it is going to be important to establish a good relationship in which you feel comfortable opening up and allowing me to get to know you. I do this mainly by asking questions, listening, and putting much care into understanding who you are and what you are saying.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Haven James Winter, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6589c08d-071c-4b2b-aa4e-10430aced902/2/320x400.jpeg)
While I enjoy working with many individuals, my passion is the LGBTQIA2+ community (particularly transgender folks) providing a positive and affirming environment to explore identities and develop a strong sense of self. My approach is to help clients identify and utilize strengths while encouraging continued growth. I focus on assisting clients in setting attainable goals, improving communication, and learning skills to manage symptoms and decrease behaviors that may be harmful. I believe that identifying negative beliefs and patterns of behavior that prevent someone from being where they want to be is an essential part of therapy.
While I enjoy working with many individuals, my passion is the LGBTQIA2+ community (particularly transgender folks) providing a positive and affirming environment to explore identities and develop a strong sense of self. My approach is to help clients identify and utilize strengths while encouraging continued growth. I focus on assisting clients in setting attainable goals, improving communication, and learning skills to manage symptoms and decrease behaviors that may be harmful. I believe that identifying negative beliefs and patterns of behavior that prevent someone from being where they want to be is an essential part of therapy.
![Photo of Elisa Woodruff, PhD, LCPC, NPT-C, EMDR-II, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ca99943-d083-4f59-90eb-acc4b87eb533/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and am Certified in Neuropsychotherapy. My clinical interests include traumatic/adverse experiences, attention/motivation, anxiety/depression, LGBTQIA+ identity development, gender identity/expression, mind/body wellness and brain health, medical issues, developmental transitions (i.e., leaving home, retiring), career and vocation, and spiritual/values development. I honor and celebrate your past experiences, cultural identities, and personal preferences and will create a counseling approach that is unique to you and which can adapt to the content/context of each individual session.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and am Certified in Neuropsychotherapy. My clinical interests include traumatic/adverse experiences, attention/motivation, anxiety/depression, LGBTQIA+ identity development, gender identity/expression, mind/body wellness and brain health, medical issues, developmental transitions (i.e., leaving home, retiring), career and vocation, and spiritual/values development. I honor and celebrate your past experiences, cultural identities, and personal preferences and will create a counseling approach that is unique to you and which can adapt to the content/context of each individual session.
![Photo of Cheryl Renee Runion, MA, LCPC, LSOE, LSOTP, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54829ee0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My expertise is working with military vets & their families, trauma survivors, mood disorders, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ, sexual problematic behaviors & personality disorders.
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
My expertise is working with military vets & their families, trauma survivors, mood disorders, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ, sexual problematic behaviors & personality disorders.
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
![Photo of Kara Jean Murren - In Bloom Therapy, LLC with Kara Murren, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc2c9d56-ecbb-46dc-a753-1e1a47ffed3c/3/320x400.jpeg)
In Bloom Therapy, LLC with Kara Murren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142
With extensive training and experience, I address a wide spectrum of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, special education needs, and concerns specific to the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome to In Bloom Therapy, where I believe wholeheartedly in the transformative power of healing and personal growth. Life presents us with various challenges and transitions, whether it's navigating change, processing loss, repairing relationships, or seeking deeper self-understanding. My aim is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and pursue your goals with confidence. In my private practice, I specialize in supporting adolescents, adults, and parents through life's complexities, helping them find balance amidst the challenges they face.
With extensive training and experience, I address a wide spectrum of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, special education needs, and concerns specific to the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome to In Bloom Therapy, where I believe wholeheartedly in the transformative power of healing and personal growth. Life presents us with various challenges and transitions, whether it's navigating change, processing loss, repairing relationships, or seeking deeper self-understanding. My aim is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and pursue your goals with confidence. In my private practice, I specialize in supporting adolescents, adults, and parents through life's complexities, helping them find balance amidst the challenges they face.
![Photo of Megan Noren, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff9b87be-bd3b-48e4-9185-ccf9b65dfb4e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily work with clients 18+ and treat depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, and concerns related to LGBTQIA identities.
It is a privilege to witness the growth and healing that transpires throughout the therapeutic process. It requires a great deal of strength to seek support and explore vulnerable, often painful internal experiences. My goal is to provide you with a compassionate, supportive space that allows you to examine how life experiences often times take root in the way we feel about ourselves and the way we interact with those around us. In order to facilitate this process, I utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches with a primary emphasis on Emotion Focused Therapy.
I primarily work with clients 18+ and treat depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, and concerns related to LGBTQIA identities.
It is a privilege to witness the growth and healing that transpires throughout the therapeutic process. It requires a great deal of strength to seek support and explore vulnerable, often painful internal experiences. My goal is to provide you with a compassionate, supportive space that allows you to examine how life experiences often times take root in the way we feel about ourselves and the way we interact with those around us. In order to facilitate this process, I utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches with a primary emphasis on Emotion Focused Therapy.
![Photo of Katie Higgins, MA, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c411b360-8323-462e-b7c1-bae3ed5ae96e/2/320x400.png)
I'm a perinatal mental health certified, LGBTQIA+ ally who works with adults to break down the patterns governed by worry and intrusive thoughts and reconnect you with empowerment.
At best, your uninvited thoughts are uncomfortable. At worst, they totally disturb you and make you question yourself. You worry constantly and your brain is always getting you to follow its rule book, never relaxing, always avoiding. You would never call yourself perfect, but yet you strive for perfection in every move you make. To prevent your biggest fears, you do things that logically you know don’t even make sense, but you can’t stop because the risk feels too big. Everyday, you wish anxiety had less of a hold on you and you could just enjoy the moment.
I'm a perinatal mental health certified, LGBTQIA+ ally who works with adults to break down the patterns governed by worry and intrusive thoughts and reconnect you with empowerment.
At best, your uninvited thoughts are uncomfortable. At worst, they totally disturb you and make you question yourself. You worry constantly and your brain is always getting you to follow its rule book, never relaxing, always avoiding. You would never call yourself perfect, but yet you strive for perfection in every move you make. To prevent your biggest fears, you do things that logically you know don’t even make sense, but you can’t stop because the risk feels too big. Everyday, you wish anxiety had less of a hold on you and you could just enjoy the moment.
![Photo of Gale Lee Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b6801f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with angry people, individuals with transgender and sexual orientation issues, and older adults dealing with loss.
My job, as I see it, is not to fix you, but to help you fix yourself. To do that, I help you find the tools you already have and remind you that - on some deep level - you already know how to use them. My approach is cognitive, because I believe the way we think about our lives helps create them.
I have worked with angry people, individuals with transgender and sexual orientation issues, and older adults dealing with loss.
My job, as I see it, is not to fix you, but to help you fix yourself. To do that, I help you find the tools you already have and remind you that - on some deep level - you already know how to use them. My approach is cognitive, because I believe the way we think about our lives helps create them.
![Photo of Simona Stanila, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68bf9646-2098-4bca-b0b2-f40efea6db46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Education and Training: Mrs. Simona Stanila received her Bachelor's Degree in Education, Literature and Languages from the University of Bucharest, Romania and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MACL) from Argosy University, Schaumburg, Illinois. She is currently working towards her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D. ) at Argosy University, Chicago, Illinois. During her Practicum for her Master's Degree, Mrs. Simona Stanila worked at the Streamwood Behavioral Health Center in Illinois as a part of the Advanced Crisis Therapy (ACT) unit.
Education and Training: Mrs. Simona Stanila received her Bachelor's Degree in Education, Literature and Languages from the University of Bucharest, Romania and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MACL) from Argosy University, Schaumburg, Illinois. She is currently working towards her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D. ) at Argosy University, Chicago, Illinois. During her Practicum for her Master's Degree, Mrs. Simona Stanila worked at the Streamwood Behavioral Health Center in Illinois as a part of the Advanced Crisis Therapy (ACT) unit.
![Photo of McKenna Noyes, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a31a37e4-242a-4b59-89e2-41804aa9931d/2/320x400.png)
McKenna Noyes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Reaching out for help in our most vulnerable moments can be overwhelming and scary. Sometimes our self talk convinces us that we should figure it out on our own, or that our problems aren’t as bad as they could be - and we find ourselves hesitant to make that next step. I will meet your bravery and vulnerability with compassion, curiosity, feeling, and a bit of humor. I want to center what matters to you, develop skills and abilities, and help you rediscover a fullness in being alive and in your body. My areas of experience include working with individuals of the LBGTQ+, and navigating barriers to receiving gender affirming care.
Reaching out for help in our most vulnerable moments can be overwhelming and scary. Sometimes our self talk convinces us that we should figure it out on our own, or that our problems aren’t as bad as they could be - and we find ourselves hesitant to make that next step. I will meet your bravery and vulnerability with compassion, curiosity, feeling, and a bit of humor. I want to center what matters to you, develop skills and abilities, and help you rediscover a fullness in being alive and in your body. My areas of experience include working with individuals of the LBGTQ+, and navigating barriers to receiving gender affirming care.
![Photo of Liz Garcia, PhD, PSYPACT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a3bfdc0-b2d7-44cf-b270-8220b7d8f6ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 20 years of experience working with adults who are presenting with various life concerns including depression, challenging transitions, difficulty understanding and expressing emotions, infertility, parenthood, and relationship concerns. I enjoy working with all adults and have extensive experience with college students and helping them navigate all that comes with college life. I also have experience working with caregivers of children and young adults who identify as neurodiverse or have special needs as I understand the stress, exhaustion, love, and rewards that are abundant in these families.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adults who are presenting with various life concerns including depression, challenging transitions, difficulty understanding and expressing emotions, infertility, parenthood, and relationship concerns. I enjoy working with all adults and have extensive experience with college students and helping them navigate all that comes with college life. I also have experience working with caregivers of children and young adults who identify as neurodiverse or have special needs as I understand the stress, exhaustion, love, and rewards that are abundant in these families.
![Photo of Claire Benton - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Rockford, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38a14a41-4f9d-4fb0-bbc2-67167cc7a9c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Rockford 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 - Rockford 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.
![Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Elgin, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e55e2445-993a-4b03-bb19-af80689f85cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Elgin 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 - Elgin 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.
![Photo of Cathryn Perfetti - EPP Advisory Group (Cathryn Perfetti PHD, LCPC), PhD, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d957e0f1-59bf-428e-a140-042dda23d146/3/320x400.jpeg)
EPP Advisory Group (Cathryn Perfetti PHD, LCPC)
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
EMPOWERMENT. PURPOSE. PEACE. My ideal client is one that is at least 15 years of age that is ready to make changes in their life in order to maximize their quality of life, personal enjoyment, and find peace. I am here to help you discover your true self and embrace your "New Normal". The utilization of various assessments allows you and I to partner in the development of a customized treatment plan. I am now offering a telehealth/online option using encrypted video conferencing.
EMPOWERMENT. PURPOSE. PEACE. My ideal client is one that is at least 15 years of age that is ready to make changes in their life in order to maximize their quality of life, personal enjoyment, and find peace. I am here to help you discover your true self and embrace your "New Normal". The utilization of various assessments allows you and I to partner in the development of a customized treatment plan. I am now offering a telehealth/online option using encrypted video conferencing.
![Photo of Robert Narciso, LCPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dba0954f-c08e-4a10-baa6-59eb8c6b191c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Narciso
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hampshire, IL 60140
Do you feel lost, disconnected, or out of touch from yourself or the energy you once had? It’s been a rough year that has impacted people’s relationships, careers, and motivation. Are you feeling empowered or anxious as we move towards “normal” life?
Do you feel lost, disconnected, or out of touch from yourself or the energy you once had? It’s been a rough year that has impacted people’s relationships, careers, and motivation. Are you feeling empowered or anxious as we move towards “normal” life?
![Photo of Dr. Bill Bautista, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/079a3bfb-1505-4ba5-a5b9-e94d7ddf6b7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Dr. Bill Bautista; a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish/English) licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. My education and experiences are based on formal schooling in Mexico and United States. I have worked in private practice since 2012 specializing in therapeutic work with children, adolescents, adults and multigenerational families. In my practice, I draw from past experience working with diverse clients in hospitals, clinics, non-for-profits, police, schools, college and university settings. I apply various therapeutic models & tailor sessions to the specific needs of clients.
I am Dr. Bill Bautista; a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish/English) licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. My education and experiences are based on formal schooling in Mexico and United States. I have worked in private practice since 2012 specializing in therapeutic work with children, adolescents, adults and multigenerational families. In my practice, I draw from past experience working with diverse clients in hospitals, clinics, non-for-profits, police, schools, college and university settings. I apply various therapeutic models & tailor sessions to the specific needs of clients.
![Photo of Melia Carter, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d70b2452-bca5-4fa8-8813-02f1a0c2e934/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melia is a dedicated Professional Social Worker specializing in neurodiversity-affirming therapy. In her private practice, Melia works collaboratively with clients to explore their strengths, preferences, and goals, while also addressing any challenges they may face in navigating a neurotypical world. Melia has experience working with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, situational mutism, behavioral concerns, and parenting concerns. She provides a safe space for individuals to explore their identities, develop coping strategies, and cultivate self-acceptance and resilience.
Melia is a dedicated Professional Social Worker specializing in neurodiversity-affirming therapy. In her private practice, Melia works collaboratively with clients to explore their strengths, preferences, and goals, while also addressing any challenges they may face in navigating a neurotypical world. Melia has experience working with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, situational mutism, behavioral concerns, and parenting concerns. She provides a safe space for individuals to explore their identities, develop coping strategies, and cultivate self-acceptance and resilience.
See more therapy options for Pingree Grove
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Pingree Grove
- Algonquin
- Carpentersville
- Cortland
- Elgin
- Genoa
- Hampshire
- Huntley
- Lake In The Hills
- Saint Charles
- South Elgin
- Sycamore
- West Dundee
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.