LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in West Chicago, IL
Jacqueline Chaidez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chicago, IL 60185
I also enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Are you struggling with mood, substance, or relational issues that feel overwhelming? Do you have a difficult time accessing your feelings? Whether it’s through traditional talk therapy or the use of art therapy, I am here to help you move through your barriers and make changes in your life! As a therapist I am genuine, authentic, and compassionate. I practice unconditional positive regard for my clients and radical empathy. I am passionate about providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to explore and work through the challenges that bring them to therapy.
I also enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Are you struggling with mood, substance, or relational issues that feel overwhelming? Do you have a difficult time accessing your feelings? Whether it’s through traditional talk therapy or the use of art therapy, I am here to help you move through your barriers and make changes in your life! As a therapist I am genuine, authentic, and compassionate. I practice unconditional positive regard for my clients and radical empathy. I am passionate about providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to explore and work through the challenges that bring them to therapy.
Taylor Hammes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Chicago, IL 60185
Are you or someone in your family dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or stress? I work with ages 7 and up to help them handle these issues. My goal is to support my clients as they go through tough times and heal from trauma and other life stressors. With my background in trauma-informed care, I can help in many areas of life, whether it's guiding children through key developmental stages or helping adults manage their stress. I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community where I provide a safe and empowering environment.
Are you or someone in your family dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or stress? I work with ages 7 and up to help them handle these issues. My goal is to support my clients as they go through tough times and heal from trauma and other life stressors. With my background in trauma-informed care, I can help in many areas of life, whether it's guiding children through key developmental stages or helping adults manage their stress. I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community where I provide a safe and empowering environment.
I work with teens, emerging adults, & adults in their 20's I support people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, impulsive behaviors, school refusal, transitions to adulthood, self-confidence, self-esteem, conflict in relationships, LGBTQ+ and/or BIPOC identity issues and concerns.
It takes courage to realize when we are struggling and suffering and when life is not what we want it to be. Sometimes we know exactly what's making life difficult and causing us to feel anxious, depressed, stressed, or angry, but we have no idea how to deal with those feelings or what to do about our pain and distress. If you're ready and want to reduce your anxiety and depression, and stress, understand yourself more deeply and improve your relationships, I encourage you to try counseling. You don't have to be silent or alone with it all any longer. You deserve to ease your suffering, feel better, grow, heal, & embrace who you are
I work with teens, emerging adults, & adults in their 20's I support people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, impulsive behaviors, school refusal, transitions to adulthood, self-confidence, self-esteem, conflict in relationships, LGBTQ+ and/or BIPOC identity issues and concerns.
It takes courage to realize when we are struggling and suffering and when life is not what we want it to be. Sometimes we know exactly what's making life difficult and causing us to feel anxious, depressed, stressed, or angry, but we have no idea how to deal with those feelings or what to do about our pain and distress. If you're ready and want to reduce your anxiety and depression, and stress, understand yourself more deeply and improve your relationships, I encourage you to try counseling. You don't have to be silent or alone with it all any longer. You deserve to ease your suffering, feel better, grow, heal, & embrace who you are
Shannon Dudzienski is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 4 years of experience. She received her Associate of Arts from then College of DuPage, and then transferred to Northern Illinois University to obtain her Bachelor in Psychology, followed by her Master in Social Work. Shannon believes in a strength-based and client-centered approach. She provides support, validation, a welcoming environment, and meets clients where they are at. Her treatment philosophy includes using interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and play therapy.
Shannon Dudzienski is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 4 years of experience. She received her Associate of Arts from then College of DuPage, and then transferred to Northern Illinois University to obtain her Bachelor in Psychology, followed by her Master in Social Work. Shannon believes in a strength-based and client-centered approach. She provides support, validation, a welcoming environment, and meets clients where they are at. Her treatment philosophy includes using interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and play therapy.
Steph Key is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Steph's approach is person centered with an emphasis on mindfulness, play, and community care from a trauma informed perspective. They utilize CBT, narrative, mindfulness, DBT, and play therapy. Steph is currently working on developing a combination of play and narrative therapeutic models for adults through creativity and creative writing. They firmly believe that clients are the experts, and they are students on a journey together.
Steph Key is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Steph's approach is person centered with an emphasis on mindfulness, play, and community care from a trauma informed perspective. They utilize CBT, narrative, mindfulness, DBT, and play therapy. Steph is currently working on developing a combination of play and narrative therapeutic models for adults through creativity and creative writing. They firmly believe that clients are the experts, and they are students on a journey together.
Kristen A. Jacobs is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2009. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Kristen creates a safe and supportive space for the client, in which she utilizes individualized, strength-based treatment approaches and evidence-based modalities with a concentration on education, validation, acceptance, self-efficacy, and symptom management.
Kristen A. Jacobs is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2009. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Kristen creates a safe and supportive space for the client, in which she utilizes individualized, strength-based treatment approaches and evidence-based modalities with a concentration on education, validation, acceptance, self-efficacy, and symptom management.
Linda K Cunningham is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been in the mental health field since 2003. Linda’s focus in therapy is on individuality. You are unique and the therapeutic process should absolutely celebrate that uniqueness. Well-being isn’t only about decreasing existing struggles; it should also build on your current strengths and develop new ones to help create the future you desire.
Linda K Cunningham is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been in the mental health field since 2003. Linda’s focus in therapy is on individuality. You are unique and the therapeutic process should absolutely celebrate that uniqueness. Well-being isn’t only about decreasing existing struggles; it should also build on your current strengths and develop new ones to help create the future you desire.
Ellie Mental Health Naperville
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
West Chicago, IL 60185
Are you feeling like your best self? Are you struggling to get out of bed in the morning because you didn't sleep at all or all you want to do is sleep? Have you been thinking about going to a therapist but life just always seems to get in the way? Do you convince yourself that other people "deserve" therapy but not you? Does your child/adolescent struggle with social skills, executive functioning skills and/or coping skills?
Are you feeling like your best self? Are you struggling to get out of bed in the morning because you didn't sleep at all or all you want to do is sleep? Have you been thinking about going to a therapist but life just always seems to get in the way? Do you convince yourself that other people "deserve" therapy but not you? Does your child/adolescent struggle with social skills, executive functioning skills and/or coping skills?
Hi! I’m a licensed therapist with over 6 years of experience helping individuals with issues such as anxiety, depression, women's issues, relationship issues, addiction, ADHD, stress, and more. I draw from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dance/Movement Therapy, and the Gottman Method. If you’re feeling stuck in the same patterns that keep you from living your most meaningful life and reaching your goals, or your current strategies aren’t helping you to achieve your bigger goals, I can help.
Hi! I’m a licensed therapist with over 6 years of experience helping individuals with issues such as anxiety, depression, women's issues, relationship issues, addiction, ADHD, stress, and more. I draw from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dance/Movement Therapy, and the Gottman Method. If you’re feeling stuck in the same patterns that keep you from living your most meaningful life and reaching your goals, or your current strategies aren’t helping you to achieve your bigger goals, I can help.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with experience providing assessment and therapy services to children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with a wide range of difficulties including ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger management, mood swings, self-injury, grief, low self-esteem, academic under achievement, and parent and child conflict and communication problems, as well as issues related with stressful life transitions and trauma. In addition to a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology, I have a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a rich history of working with kids, teenagers, and young adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with experience providing assessment and therapy services to children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with a wide range of difficulties including ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger management, mood swings, self-injury, grief, low self-esteem, academic under achievement, and parent and child conflict and communication problems, as well as issues related with stressful life transitions and trauma. In addition to a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology, I have a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a rich history of working with kids, teenagers, and young adults.
Dr. Peter Zammuto is a Psychologist in Illinois. Dr. Zammuto tailors care to assist clients in meeting their personal goals through systematic and evidencebased approaches. He uses CognitiveBehavioral techniques and Operant learning theory, within an integrated Family Systems context, to provide support for children, adolescents, and families across a spectrum of ages and presenting concerns. Dr. Zammuto provides appropriate accommodations to sessions to meet the developmental level and needs of each client, to maximize retention and engagement of session content.
Dr. Peter Zammuto is a Psychologist in Illinois. Dr. Zammuto tailors care to assist clients in meeting their personal goals through systematic and evidencebased approaches. He uses CognitiveBehavioral techniques and Operant learning theory, within an integrated Family Systems context, to provide support for children, adolescents, and families across a spectrum of ages and presenting concerns. Dr. Zammuto provides appropriate accommodations to sessions to meet the developmental level and needs of each client, to maximize retention and engagement of session content.
I strive to provide each patient with an individualized care that is evidence based and delivered with respect, compassion and education. My goal is to work with you as a partner to be able to achieve your goals. I enjoy working with with high risk adolescents who may be diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention and executive functioning deficits, as well as Panic disorder, and or trauma. I also specialize in treating young women with peripartum mood disorders, GLBTQ youth, and families going through divorce. https://www.dryolandao.com/Appointments.en.html or https://doxy.me/dryolandao
I strive to provide each patient with an individualized care that is evidence based and delivered with respect, compassion and education. My goal is to work with you as a partner to be able to achieve your goals. I enjoy working with with high risk adolescents who may be diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention and executive functioning deficits, as well as Panic disorder, and or trauma. I also specialize in treating young women with peripartum mood disorders, GLBTQ youth, and families going through divorce. https://www.dryolandao.com/Appointments.en.html or https://doxy.me/dryolandao
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and pressured from all your roles and responsibilities and feel close to the edge of burnout, I can help. I work with parents and women of all ages who are stressed, anxious, struggle with feeling emotionally shut down or numb, and aren't taking care of or making time for themselves. Together, we can find strategies and solutions to help alleviate your anxiety and overwhelm, work challenges, and parenting stressors, as well as any transitions you are experiencing. If you are ready for a change and want and need your life to improve, I'd be honored to help you create new ways of living.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and pressured from all your roles and responsibilities and feel close to the edge of burnout, I can help. I work with parents and women of all ages who are stressed, anxious, struggle with feeling emotionally shut down or numb, and aren't taking care of or making time for themselves. Together, we can find strategies and solutions to help alleviate your anxiety and overwhelm, work challenges, and parenting stressors, as well as any transitions you are experiencing. If you are ready for a change and want and need your life to improve, I'd be honored to help you create new ways of living.
Thelma Razo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chicago, IL 60185
As an experienced bicultural therapist, I understand how our life experiences shape how we approach life and cope with life transitions.
Life can leave us feeling lost, damaged, and disconnected from our selves. You may be fed up with feeling confused in everyday situations or isolated from friends who can’t understand. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without your insecurities getting in the way. You’re ready to find meaning. Most of all, you’re ready to love yourself again & to face your future with a sense of purpose and hope.
As an experienced bicultural therapist, I understand how our life experiences shape how we approach life and cope with life transitions.
Life can leave us feeling lost, damaged, and disconnected from our selves. You may be fed up with feeling confused in everyday situations or isolated from friends who can’t understand. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without your insecurities getting in the way. You’re ready to find meaning. Most of all, you’re ready to love yourself again & to face your future with a sense of purpose and hope.
Anna Coyne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Chicago, IL 60185 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families especially being there for them when life gets complicated. Unfortunately, many people learn to avoid all conflicts in their relationships and life stressors. This can lead to resentment and other mental health issues, which can cause more frequent and long-term problems. As a therapist, I’ve worked with many individuals, couples and families struggling with trauma, high conflict, divorce, and infidelity. Additionally, I enjoy working with clients who struggle with anxiety, OCD, and other issues.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families especially being there for them when life gets complicated. Unfortunately, many people learn to avoid all conflicts in their relationships and life stressors. This can lead to resentment and other mental health issues, which can cause more frequent and long-term problems. As a therapist, I’ve worked with many individuals, couples and families struggling with trauma, high conflict, divorce, and infidelity. Additionally, I enjoy working with clients who struggle with anxiety, OCD, and other issues.
Ashley Fincher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chicago, IL 60185
Trauma and addiction often go hand in hand, as unresolved pain can drive us to seek comfort in harmful ways. Healing begins when we confront that pain with understanding and learn healthier ways to manage it. When starting to seek a a new therapist we have to recognize that recovery and healing is more than just overcoming it, it's about finding the empowerment in your journey. Many of my clients seek connection and guidance to heal from trauma, addiction, and relationship issues.
Trauma and addiction often go hand in hand, as unresolved pain can drive us to seek comfort in harmful ways. Healing begins when we confront that pain with understanding and learn healthier ways to manage it. When starting to seek a a new therapist we have to recognize that recovery and healing is more than just overcoming it, it's about finding the empowerment in your journey. Many of my clients seek connection and guidance to heal from trauma, addiction, and relationship issues.
Trauma can bring about changes that are beyond your control, but healing empowers you to make the changes you choose. Starting therapy with a new therapist can be especially challenging when you have experienced trauma. I am passionate about helping individuals of all ages navigate trauma, dissociative issues, ADHD, and more. Many of my clients seek my support after trying multiple therapists or doctors who couldn't quite identify the core issues, or because they didn't feel a meaningful connection with them. Additionally, they seek connection and guidance to heal from trauma, which is central to my therapeutic approach.
Trauma can bring about changes that are beyond your control, but healing empowers you to make the changes you choose. Starting therapy with a new therapist can be especially challenging when you have experienced trauma. I am passionate about helping individuals of all ages navigate trauma, dissociative issues, ADHD, and more. Many of my clients seek my support after trying multiple therapists or doctors who couldn't quite identify the core issues, or because they didn't feel a meaningful connection with them. Additionally, they seek connection and guidance to heal from trauma, which is central to my therapeutic approach.
Healing takes courage, and I believe that we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it. This is a stance I take when working with clients who have trauma, addiction, gambling, or other mental health struggles. I work with teens and adults, who are seeking a supportive and understanding environment where they can be authentic and vulnerable. Their goals include overcoming past traumas, breaking free from addictive behaviors, managing codependent tendencies, and addressing unresolved issues.
Healing takes courage, and I believe that we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it. This is a stance I take when working with clients who have trauma, addiction, gambling, or other mental health struggles. I work with teens and adults, who are seeking a supportive and understanding environment where they can be authentic and vulnerable. Their goals include overcoming past traumas, breaking free from addictive behaviors, managing codependent tendencies, and addressing unresolved issues.
Inez Martinez-Sierra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Chicago, IL 60185
Inez Martinez-Sierra is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of experience in therapeutic support. She graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 and due to her diverse work history, can integrate various techniques and modalities to fit your goal. Her experience consists of working in community not-for-profits with pregnant teens and teen moms, court-mandated therapy for individuals with sexual offenses, at-home therapy services with the DCFS foster care system, and structured crisis PHP/IOP settings.
Inez Martinez-Sierra is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of experience in therapeutic support. She graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 and due to her diverse work history, can integrate various techniques and modalities to fit your goal. Her experience consists of working in community not-for-profits with pregnant teens and teen moms, court-mandated therapy for individuals with sexual offenses, at-home therapy services with the DCFS foster care system, and structured crisis PHP/IOP settings.
Dr. Loren Williams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Chicago, IL 60185 (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed by things that have happened to you? You're not alone—many people feel this way after experiencing trauma. I'm experienced therapist who helps individuals and couples deal with trauma, domestic violence, and grief. My goal is to offer a caring and supportive space where you can safely explore your feelings and start to heal. Whether you want to rebuild your life after trauma, break free from domestic violence, or find comfort during a time of deep grief.
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed by things that have happened to you? You're not alone—many people feel this way after experiencing trauma. I'm experienced therapist who helps individuals and couples deal with trauma, domestic violence, and grief. My goal is to offer a caring and supportive space where you can safely explore your feelings and start to heal. Whether you want to rebuild your life after trauma, break free from domestic violence, or find comfort during a time of deep grief.
See more therapy options for West Chicago
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for West Chicago
- Aurora
- Bartlett
- Batavia
- Bloomingdale
- Carol Stream
- Geneva
- Glen Ellyn
- Glendale Heights
- Hanover Park
- Warrenville
- Wheaton
- 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.