Transgender Therapists in Skokie, IL

Photo of Ethan Elliot Stark, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Ethan Elliot Stark
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
The world can be a frightening, difficult place, and we all need a safe place where we can feel seen, valued, and appreciated for who we are. My practice is primarily informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a client centered base. I believe that a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of all change. I work with a wide range of clients from diverse backgrounds and with diverse presenting concerns.
The world can be a frightening, difficult place, and we all need a safe place where we can feel seen, valued, and appreciated for who we are. My practice is primarily informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a client centered base. I believe that a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of all change. I work with a wide range of clients from diverse backgrounds and with diverse presenting concerns.
(847) 440-3905 View (847) 440-3905
Photo of Rachael S. Sytsma-Ramos, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachael S. Sytsma-Ramos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
As a therapist, I work well with individuals and families who are curious about themselves, our work together, and the possibilities for a healthier future. Clients often find that I am a warm, patient, curious, humorous, kind, and supportive person on their journey toward self-improvement. I am passionate about my work with clients who are LGBTQ* and I love working with gender expansive youth and adults.
As a therapist, I work well with individuals and families who are curious about themselves, our work together, and the possibilities for a healthier future. Clients often find that I am a warm, patient, curious, humorous, kind, and supportive person on their journey toward self-improvement. I am passionate about my work with clients who are LGBTQ* and I love working with gender expansive youth and adults.
(224) 808-4664 View (224) 808-4664
Photo of Kennedy Shenberg, LCPC, MS, MSW, Counselor
Kennedy Shenberg
Counselor, LCPC, MS, MSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
I specialize in treatment of trauma, and working with children, adolescents, alternative lifestyles, LGBTQ, and have Jungian dream analysis training. I prefer open ended and free flowing approaches that will include multiple modalities in sessions such as movement, games and artistic expressions. I would describe my therapeutic approach as open, using humor, as I recognize therapy sessions should not solely focus on negative feelings. My clinical orientation is eclectic and I can fluidly merge multiple approaches such as behavioral, cognitive, relational, psychodynamic and Maslow theory.
I specialize in treatment of trauma, and working with children, adolescents, alternative lifestyles, LGBTQ, and have Jungian dream analysis training. I prefer open ended and free flowing approaches that will include multiple modalities in sessions such as movement, games and artistic expressions. I would describe my therapeutic approach as open, using humor, as I recognize therapy sessions should not solely focus on negative feelings. My clinical orientation is eclectic and I can fluidly merge multiple approaches such as behavioral, cognitive, relational, psychodynamic and Maslow theory.
(773) 435-9890 View (773) 435-9890
Photo of Linda S Grossman, PhD, Psychologist
Linda S Grossman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
Sometime we all feel unhappy, stressed, confused, or "stuck." Talking to an empathic and experienced therapist may be your first step toward developing new insights about positive change. My therapeutic approach is to encourage you to talk about your concerns openly in a confidential and safe environment where you will not be judged. A major benefit of therapy is to provide you with a second point-of-view on your personal material--a perspective other than your own. This process provides you with new ways to think about your choices and behaviors, and frees you to achieve your goals.
Sometime we all feel unhappy, stressed, confused, or "stuck." Talking to an empathic and experienced therapist may be your first step toward developing new insights about positive change. My therapeutic approach is to encourage you to talk about your concerns openly in a confidential and safe environment where you will not be judged. A major benefit of therapy is to provide you with a second point-of-view on your personal material--a perspective other than your own. This process provides you with new ways to think about your choices and behaviors, and frees you to achieve your goals.
(847) 859-9094 View (847) 859-9094
Photo of Kari Holman, LCPC, NCC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Kari Holman
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
Accepting New Clients - I firmly believe in individualized, custom care for each of my clients. Just as “one size fits all” clothing never really fits anybody there is no “no size fits all” therapy in my practice. If you are going to put your time and trust in me then the least I can do is provide customized, evidence-based care. I honor the belief that each client is an expert on him, her, or themselves. My clients are equal partners in their care. In addition to this, clients also seem to enjoy my laid-back and caring approach.
Accepting New Clients - I firmly believe in individualized, custom care for each of my clients. Just as “one size fits all” clothing never really fits anybody there is no “no size fits all” therapy in my practice. If you are going to put your time and trust in me then the least I can do is provide customized, evidence-based care. I honor the belief that each client is an expert on him, her, or themselves. My clients are equal partners in their care. In addition to this, clients also seem to enjoy my laid-back and caring approach.
(224) 505-4934 View (224) 505-4934
Photo of Pascale Piron - Emerge Psychology Group, PsyD, MA, Counselor
Emerge Psychology Group
Counselor, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60076
Teens, adolescents, adults, and couples ... As strength and performance-based clinicians, we welcome clients across the lifespan. We work to form authentic therapeutic relationships and are transparent in our work with you. As relational practitioners, we help you create safe and satisfying relationships with others that are necessary for psychological wellness. We use the therapeutic relationship as a model to create healthier relationships with yourself and others.
Teens, adolescents, adults, and couples ... As strength and performance-based clinicians, we welcome clients across the lifespan. We work to form authentic therapeutic relationships and are transparent in our work with you. As relational practitioners, we help you create safe and satisfying relationships with others that are necessary for psychological wellness. We use the therapeutic relationship as a model to create healthier relationships with yourself and others.
(872) 250-4249 View (872) 250-4249
Photo of Jordan A Dobrowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan A Dobrowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076  (Online Only)
Jordan is LGBTQ-affirming and has experience working with individuals from a variety of cultural and spiritual backgrounds. Her clinical interests include individual, partner, and family therapy; treatment-resistant depression; sexual and gender identity development; trauma recovery; relief from codependency; immigration; and chronic illness resilience. Utilizing a biopsychosocial-spiritual approach to therapy, Jordan invites clients to show-up and be seen as their full selves, worthy and capable of care.
Jordan is LGBTQ-affirming and has experience working with individuals from a variety of cultural and spiritual backgrounds. Her clinical interests include individual, partner, and family therapy; treatment-resistant depression; sexual and gender identity development; trauma recovery; relief from codependency; immigration; and chronic illness resilience. Utilizing a biopsychosocial-spiritual approach to therapy, Jordan invites clients to show-up and be seen as their full selves, worthy and capable of care.
(773) 694-1460 View (773) 694-1460
Photo of Daniel Kanofsky, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Kanofsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076  (Online Only)
Sometimes, people are overwhelmed by the thought of changing feelings, behaviors, and patterns that may have long histories or that have resisted previous efforts. I firmly believe therapy offers solid reasons to have hope, as one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is the time and space for healing and growth. It also offers a valuable way of understanding the dynamics of change, wherein small, gradual strides assume their genuine and crucial importance. Additionally, setbacks are recognized as a natural and manageable part of the change process rather than a denial of it.
Sometimes, people are overwhelmed by the thought of changing feelings, behaviors, and patterns that may have long histories or that have resisted previous efforts. I firmly believe therapy offers solid reasons to have hope, as one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is the time and space for healing and growth. It also offers a valuable way of understanding the dynamics of change, wherein small, gradual strides assume their genuine and crucial importance. Additionally, setbacks are recognized as a natural and manageable part of the change process rather than a denial of it.
(224) 655-6332 View (224) 655-6332
Photo of Joan F Hakimi, PsyD, Psychologist
Joan F Hakimi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
At times in our lives we all have experiences that leave us feeling anxious, depressed, sad, grieving, stressed, worried, uncertain, vulnerable, fearful, frustrated, angry, confused, at a loss. An experienced therapist can help deal with the current issues causing the distress, as well as explore the life experiences that may be contributing to one's current emotional struggles. I work with adults who want to change patterns of thinking, acting, and feeling that contribute to dissatisfaction in daily life. Some of those issues include: Relationships; Grief and Loss; Mood Disorders; Trauma; Parenting; Life Transitions; Self-Esteem.
At times in our lives we all have experiences that leave us feeling anxious, depressed, sad, grieving, stressed, worried, uncertain, vulnerable, fearful, frustrated, angry, confused, at a loss. An experienced therapist can help deal with the current issues causing the distress, as well as explore the life experiences that may be contributing to one's current emotional struggles. I work with adults who want to change patterns of thinking, acting, and feeling that contribute to dissatisfaction in daily life. Some of those issues include: Relationships; Grief and Loss; Mood Disorders; Trauma; Parenting; Life Transitions; Self-Esteem.
(847) 423-6650 View (847) 423-6650
Photo of Angela Lawson, PhD, Psychologist
Angela Lawson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
Do you feel like you just can't catch a break or that life keeps throwing you curveballs? Are you struggling to cope with infertility, pregnancy loss or health concerns? Do you work in a high stress job that limits your ability to balance work and life? Are you unhappy in your relationship or because you do not yet have the partner you long for? The difficulties of life can weigh us down and limit our ability to live our lives to the fullest. It may feel like you are barely surviving when you want to be thriving. Although it may seem impossible, we will work to help you navigate life's roadblocks and carve a path to happiness.
Do you feel like you just can't catch a break or that life keeps throwing you curveballs? Are you struggling to cope with infertility, pregnancy loss or health concerns? Do you work in a high stress job that limits your ability to balance work and life? Are you unhappy in your relationship or because you do not yet have the partner you long for? The difficulties of life can weigh us down and limit our ability to live our lives to the fullest. It may feel like you are barely surviving when you want to be thriving. Although it may seem impossible, we will work to help you navigate life's roadblocks and carve a path to happiness.
(847) 665-1761 View (847) 665-1761
Photo of Julie Portnoy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Portnoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
From the moment a teenager or young adult becomes my client, I am dedicated to providing expert, optimal care as well as empathy and accessibility. As a psychotherapist and an advocate, my collaboration with additional health providers, psychiatrists and school administrators and educators is often pivotal to my clients' success.
From the moment a teenager or young adult becomes my client, I am dedicated to providing expert, optimal care as well as empathy and accessibility. As a psychotherapist and an advocate, my collaboration with additional health providers, psychiatrists and school administrators and educators is often pivotal to my clients' success.
(312) 219-9290 View (312) 219-9290
Photo of Dr. Myron Krys Florence, PhD, MDiv, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Myron Krys Florence
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with your sexuality and spirituality? Wrestling with your identity or self-esteem? Relationship or singleness woes? Hello, I am Myron Krys (short for Krystopher). I believe therapy is a journey toward connecting to your True Self. This means interrogating life-limiting-beliefs and reframing false narratives. Coming from a strength-based approach, I believe you already have the necessary tools inside of you to thrive. Our work together will be to excavate those hidden gems, dust them off, and let them shine.
Are you grappling with your sexuality and spirituality? Wrestling with your identity or self-esteem? Relationship or singleness woes? Hello, I am Myron Krys (short for Krystopher). I believe therapy is a journey toward connecting to your True Self. This means interrogating life-limiting-beliefs and reframing false narratives. Coming from a strength-based approach, I believe you already have the necessary tools inside of you to thrive. Our work together will be to excavate those hidden gems, dust them off, and let them shine.
(224) 263-1157 View (224) 263-1157
Photo of Mark Pletcher, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Mark Pletcher
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
People often search for a therapist when they feel like they've tried everything and it's just not working well enough. It can be hard to see a situation clearly when you've been immersed in it for so long. I help people to take a step back, so they can see things more objectively. Through psychotherapy, people can find internal strength and resources they didn't know were there. They can then start to see new perspectives, both of themselves and their situations, and can begin to make changes.
People often search for a therapist when they feel like they've tried everything and it's just not working well enough. It can be hard to see a situation clearly when you've been immersed in it for so long. I help people to take a step back, so they can see things more objectively. Through psychotherapy, people can find internal strength and resources they didn't know were there. They can then start to see new perspectives, both of themselves and their situations, and can begin to make changes.
(847) 629-0487 View (847) 629-0487
Photo of Marcy D Wilroy, LCSW, CADC, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcy D Wilroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, DSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
We all have challenges in our lives. Sometimes these challenges can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of worry and anxiety. At other times, these challenges can lead to depression and despair. I am here to listen. I am here to support you. I am here to give you the tools that you need to make needed changes. Together, we can explore possibilities and find the motivation for change that you have inside of you.
We all have challenges in our lives. Sometimes these challenges can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of worry and anxiety. At other times, these challenges can lead to depression and despair. I am here to listen. I am here to support you. I am here to give you the tools that you need to make needed changes. Together, we can explore possibilities and find the motivation for change that you have inside of you.
(224) 250-2891 View (224) 250-2891
Diane Selinger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
I am a clinical psychologist working with children, adolescents and adults for more than thirty years. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to help facilitate emotional growth and to help people address the significant areas of their lives that are not going well. I believe that a collaborative relationship is most important for a successful therapeutic experience. I help people explore their emotional life in order to achieve more vital, satisfying and productive relationships with others, as well as with their own self. I try to help everyone according to their unique needs and strengths.
I am a clinical psychologist working with children, adolescents and adults for more than thirty years. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to help facilitate emotional growth and to help people address the significant areas of their lives that are not going well. I believe that a collaborative relationship is most important for a successful therapeutic experience. I help people explore their emotional life in order to achieve more vital, satisfying and productive relationships with others, as well as with their own self. I try to help everyone according to their unique needs and strengths.
(847) 951-6851 View (847) 951-6851
Photo of Ali Buckman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ali Buckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
My first goal in the therapeutic process is to create a trusting, safe and collaborative relationship. Through active exploration, it is my hope that you will uncover insight into thoughts, emotions and behavior that will empower and support you in transforming your life. I recognize the difficulty of developing and maintaining a sense of self that reflects a value of inner worth rather than outer societal or familial ideals and expectations. My intention is for you to become the person you really are and from that place, make choices leading you towards a greater sense of wholeness, peace and well-being.
My first goal in the therapeutic process is to create a trusting, safe and collaborative relationship. Through active exploration, it is my hope that you will uncover insight into thoughts, emotions and behavior that will empower and support you in transforming your life. I recognize the difficulty of developing and maintaining a sense of self that reflects a value of inner worth rather than outer societal or familial ideals and expectations. My intention is for you to become the person you really are and from that place, make choices leading you towards a greater sense of wholeness, peace and well-being.
(847) 920-7414 View (847) 920-7414
Photo of Holly Pearlman-Online Therapy, LCPC, LPCC, Counselor
Holly Pearlman-Online Therapy
Counselor, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people heal from traumatic and experiences, to include: family conflicts, adults abused as children, narcissistic abuse, parental alienation and parents financially caring for adult children. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes so you can move forward in life. Stress, anxiety, and depression are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful experiences. I am a trauma therapist specializing in somatic psychology that has found success in using a mind/body approach to psychotherapy.
I specialize in helping people heal from traumatic and experiences, to include: family conflicts, adults abused as children, narcissistic abuse, parental alienation and parents financially caring for adult children. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes so you can move forward in life. Stress, anxiety, and depression are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful experiences. I am a trauma therapist specializing in somatic psychology that has found success in using a mind/body approach to psychotherapy.
(847) 423-6494 View (847) 423-6494
Photo of Meg Shanahan, LSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Shanahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working collaboratively with my clients on their unique mental health goals. As a clinical social worker at a community mental health agency, I have experience working with folks struggling with their relationship with substances, complex trauma backgrounds, and more. I am committed to meeting my clients where they are at and working together to help overcome life's challenges. I embrace my queer identity, and I enjoy working with folks who identify as LGBTQIA+ and are looking for a clinician who is aware of the specific challenges and intersectional issues we face within our community.
I am passionate about working collaboratively with my clients on their unique mental health goals. As a clinical social worker at a community mental health agency, I have experience working with folks struggling with their relationship with substances, complex trauma backgrounds, and more. I am committed to meeting my clients where they are at and working together to help overcome life's challenges. I embrace my queer identity, and I enjoy working with folks who identify as LGBTQIA+ and are looking for a clinician who is aware of the specific challenges and intersectional issues we face within our community.
(224) 218-5089 View (224) 218-5089
Photo of Jena Catania, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jena Catania
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership, and find the relational aspect of therapy to be an integral piece in making strides towards meeting the clients needs and goals. Confronting the difficulties and pain in life is often challenging and uncomfortable—as such I strive to create a safe space for my clients to process authentically. I know each client is unique and work to meet the client where they are, with empathy, humor, support, challenge, and encouragement throughout our journey together. I offer services for clients ages 12+, and have experience working with a wide range of clients and in various settings.
I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership, and find the relational aspect of therapy to be an integral piece in making strides towards meeting the clients needs and goals. Confronting the difficulties and pain in life is often challenging and uncomfortable—as such I strive to create a safe space for my clients to process authentically. I know each client is unique and work to meet the client where they are, with empathy, humor, support, challenge, and encouragement throughout our journey together. I offer services for clients ages 12+, and have experience working with a wide range of clients and in various settings.
(224) 204-0968 View (224) 204-0968
Photo of Laura Andrea Santos, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Andrea Santos
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual, Puerto Rican, therapist with a passion for serving LGBTQ+ individuals and relationships, as well as immigrant populations. I believe that therapy often reflects the complexity inherent in life and it brings me joy to learn about and with my clients as we move through that complexity together. I enjoy working with people from different contexts and backgrounds. My clients bring stories of discovering themselves and their place in the world.
I am a bilingual, Puerto Rican, therapist with a passion for serving LGBTQ+ individuals and relationships, as well as immigrant populations. I believe that therapy often reflects the complexity inherent in life and it brings me joy to learn about and with my clients as we move through that complexity together. I enjoy working with people from different contexts and backgrounds. My clients bring stories of discovering themselves and their place in the world.
(847) 393-9205 x105 View (847) 393-9205 x105
1
Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.